Creative Ways to Give Gift Cards

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 maximise the WOW when the gift is opened!

Personalise it, Baby!

Don't just hand over a generic gift card like it's no big deal. Take a few extra minutes to personalise it:

• Write a heartfelt note
• Stick it in a fancy envelope or gift card holder like the ones I made below
• Add a little trinket to jazz it up
• Pair it with a beautiful handmade Christmas or holiday card for extra thoughtfulness

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
• Tuck it into a bouquet of flowers
• Attach it to a bottle of wine for a wine lover (or their favourite shampoo for a salon gift card!)

The element of surprise will make the gift even more exciting.

Example: 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 their favourite wine? The possibilities are endless.

Think Outside the Box

What if the service or experience you want to gift doesn't have a 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

DIY Gift Card Example: 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!
• Create a puzzle they need to solve to reveal the location
• Hide it in an unexpected place with hints to guide them

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 trick: 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"!

Wrapping ideas:

• Use kraft wrapping paper
• Add ribbon to re-use next year
• Use cotton bakers twine to keep things Earth-friendly
• Stick it in a cute gift bag

Presentation is key, and a beautifully wrapped gift card shows you put thought into the gift.

Final Thoughts

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!