Remember when Christmas meant unlimited presents from the Sears catalog? When it meant decorating the tree with dangerously large (and hot) lights? The whole season brimmed with magic, and in the midst of that joy were carefully-picked presents for our loved ones—with nary a gift card in sight.
It seemed tacky, all those years ago, to gift a simple gift card to someone's favorite store. There was no thought involved. It was something you got from a coworker or a relative you rarely saw. If anything, gift cards indicated which people you weren't close with. Well, like so many things of the past, that isn't the case anymore! The tides have shifted, and the humble gift card quickly became a revered choice among even those closest to us. This holiday season, you might not want to forget about it.
Why They’re a Good Choice
What seemed impersonal 20 years ago is actually a pretty thoughtful gesture nowadays. With the rising cost of, well, everything, having a few bucks to spend at your favorite shop is a load off. It’s especially useful during the holiday season.
Depending on the store, gift cards also provide plenty of flexibility. Take Indigo, for example. Sure, you could splurge on a fancy agenda...or you could buy yourself a monogrammed mug. Get the latest installment in your favorite book series! Gift cards give people control to spend that cash however they like.
There’s also the added bonus of a guaranteed smile. If you know the recipient likes a certain store, you bet they’ll love a little spending money there. Gift cards thankfully don't expire anymore, so even if life gets in the way, they can also treat themselves whenever they want to. The more you think about it, the more it becomes the ultimate gift.
Not Everyone is Impressed
Even in today's world, it's a gamble knowing which people will appreciate the gift and which won't. Some still hang onto the idea that gift cards are "lazy" or "thoughtless," and even if they don't say it out loud, their expression gives them away. But why do so many recipients still feel that way?
A lot of it boils down to the expectation to shop. Great, now they have a gift card, and they have to drag themselves to a crowded store and decide what to grab. There's also the risk of hidden fees (like with prepaid Visas), or the risk of theft. Some people hate that there isn't any 'sentimentality.' But more often than not, they'll likely just forget they have it.
You play a big role in things, too. Did you get them a gift card to somewhere generic, or did you spring for a specific store? Anyone can buy a Starbucks gift card, but unless you know they love gingerbread lattes, it's obvious when you scramble for a last-minute option. And, to be fair, you'd be pretty bummed too.
Put Some Oomph Into Your Present
Yes, gift card holders are cute, but you can still jazz up your plastic a little! Don't just slap that card into someone's hand; stick it in a Christmas card and write a heartfelt note. That small gesture gives much more meaning to your gift. It also lets them know you made a purposeful choice because you know they enjoy certain places—what's better than feeling seen during the holidays?
It's important to put some thought into it as well. Sure, you can get a coffee card, but where exactly does your recipient frequent? Pay attention to the little things. If you can't pick up any details, you can always select generic, but beloved, spots like Amazon, Walmart, or Trader Joe's. (Normally, we would have suggested Costco, but you never know who's a member and who isn't.)
Keep an eye out for any lifestyle changes, too! If they just moved, gift cards to IKEA or Home Depot might be in order. If they just had a baby, consider Target or Pottery Barn. Make sure you mark your reasons down in the card so they know you were thinking about them!
Don’t Count Out the Little Guy
It's time to do away with the idea that gift cards are lazy. They're a great way to stay within budget and gift someone the freedom of shopping in their favorite stores. It also comes with a hidden pro: there's less clutter! You aren't giving someone a handmade knickknack or a massive gift basket filled with goodies they're allergic to—just some cold, hard cash.
With a little pizzazz, you also make it a heck of a lot more personal. Small notes, inside jokes, and sweet holiday wishes add that special touch that people crave during the holidays. Some gift card holders are also on the funny side, so you can easily let your personality shine through, too.
However you gift one this season, fight that little voice that urges you to do more. Remember: you didn't have to get anything at all, and it's kind of crazy to turn up your nose at a free shopping spree!
