Gift Cards
From Giftypedia
[edit] Should I give a Gift Card?
It depends on the occasion and how the gift card is given. They are very similar to giving money and in some cases giving a gift card can be considered giving an impersonal gift.
You can get a gift card for almost anything. From movies to restaurants and clothing to travel. Gift cards make it easy to get a gift for someone if you are struggling in choosing a gift. That is why they are sometimes seen as impersonal gifts. They can give the impression that you didn't put much thought or effort in buying the gift, like you just "grabbed" a gift card at the checkout.
To make the giving a gift card more personal, choose one from a store that the recipient likes or from a store the recipient would normally not shop at out of practicality or budget, but they would like to. This will show that you put some thought and effort into the gift to find something that was well suited for them.
However, we are not saying that gift cards can't be a good gift idea for some occasions or recipients. For example, when giving gifts to large groups of people like co-workers, business associates, or teachers, a gift card would be an appropriate gift. You may not have a personal relationship with the recipients and don't know their interest. Another would be as a gift to a child or a teenager. With a child, this could be a fun gift for them and at the same time help them to learn more about money. With teenagers, it is hard to stay up on the latest on what's "in" and "not in" and they generally like to have the freedom of picking out their own gift. For the college bound student, gift cards are always put to good use and well appreciated.
When giving a gift card considering the way you give the gift card. The wrapping also gives an impression of the gift. Consider alternative wrapping than just an envelope. Many stores now have gift tins, stuffed animals, and gift boxes just for gift cards. Giftypedia's Giving Money also has some creative wrapping ideas when giving a gift card.
There are also some downfalls of gift cards. Be sure to research the conditions of the gift card and the recipients interest so that you can make an informed decision on the type of gift card and if it would be the best gift idea.
