My last post talked about how gift cards can be the perfect gift giving solution. They can definitely be personal and bring a lot of joy to the recipient. Gift cards can fit into anyone's gift giving budget too. They're like little keys that unlock a world of possibilities. Step one: you've decided to give a gift card. Great choice! But how do you make it more than just a piece of plastic? Fear not, dear reader, for we have some tips and tricks to help you give the gift of gift cards like a pro. Let's maximize the WOW when the gift is opened!
Personalize it, Baby!
Don't just hand over a generic gift card like it's no big deal. Take a few extra minutes to personalize it. Write a heartfelt note, stick it in a fancy envelope or gift card holder like the ones I made below, or add a little trinket to jazz it up. The recipient will appreciate the effort, and you'll look like a gift-giving superstar.
Get Creative with the Presentation
Who says gift cards have to be boring? Get creative with how you present the gift card. Hide it in a box of chocolates, tape it to a helium balloon, or tuck it into a bouquet of flowers. The element of surprise will make the gift even more exciting.
Perhaps your recipient is a wine aficionado. What better way to present a gift card to a local winery or the LCBO Vintages section than to attach it to a bottle of wine? It can be his or her favourite! Of course, this could have easily been a bottle of really good shampoo and a gift card for her favourite hair salon. The possibilities are endless.
Think Outside the Box
So the service/experience you want to gift doesn't have gift card or you couldn't get one in time, or you don't know where the recipient would like to go? Fear not... make it yourself or have a crafty friend make it for you. You gift the card now and pay for it later when your recipient wants to use it.
Start with a fancy card if you like
There is a pocket on the inside for your gift card envelope
If you don't have a gift card, make one and write out the details. This one was for my husband for a future date night on me. The "where" was up to him.
Make it a Game
Turn the gift card into a fun game or scavenger hunt. Leave clues around the house leading to the ultimate prize – the gift card! It adds an element of excitement and makes the gift-giving experience unforgettable.
Wrap it Up with a Bow
Don't just hand over the gift card in its original packaging. Take the time to wrap it up nicely. My favourite is to add LOTS of weight to the package and add things that make noise when the package is shaken. Yes, I have a houseful of "gift guessers". Use kraft wrapping paper, add some ribbon to re-use next year or some cotton bakers twine to keep things Earth-friendly or stick it in a cute gift bag. Presentation is key, and a beautifully wrapped gift card shows you put thought into the gift.
So there you have it, folks! Giving gift cards doesn't have to be boring or impersonal. With a little creativity and effort, you can turn a simple gift card into a memorable and thoughtful present. Happy gifting!