Buying Gift Cards and Making Them Work
Looking for gift cards? Make sure you get the right one!
Many people don't like the idea of giving gift cards. They think of them as 'cop-out' gifts, impersonal -- good for group goodbyes but not for close friends or important occasions.
But here's the thing: think about receiving a great gift card. Don't you love the excuse to buy yourself something incredible, and wouldn't you rather have that than another coffee mug, no matter how personalized?
That said, many people these days buy gift cards for gifts, whether it's for your parents' anniversary or an end of year teacher gift. Even kids love gift cards. And here are some tips to make them far more personal and appreciated than ever before.
1. Consider the recipient.
If you're worried that gift cards aren't personal, make them that way by considering the recipient's personality and tastes. If they're a big reader, get them a card from a bookstore. If they love a specific coffee shop, head there. If they're a health nut, try a local organic food store. Tailoring the location is a great way to personalize your gift card.
2. Consider the occasion.
If you're giving a gift for an anniversary, a restaurant gift card will let the happy couple head out for a night on the town (especially if it comes with an offer of babysitting!). If you're shopping for a new college student, they may prefer a gift card from their university bookstore. Be creative and think about what fits the situation.
3. Let distance guide you.
If you're shopping for someone in town, gift cards from local shops and restaurants are fine. But if you're shopping for someone out of town, it's hard to know what places they have easy access to. That's when an online gift card is perfect. There are literally thousands of online gift cards, so you'll have no trouble finding something great -- and you'll save on shipping the gift, too!
4. If all else fails, give money.
If you can't decide on a gift and don't just want to shove a twenty into a card, consider gift credit cards. These function exactly like gift cards but you can use them anywhere they accept credit cards. It's a bit more fun than sending cash but the recipient can use it exactly the same way.
These days, gift cards are entirely acceptable gifts. Don't be afraid to use them, and hopefully you'll get some excellent gift cards in return!