By save|10 December 2018
Gift cards make a wonderful choice for those people on your list who are hard to buy for. Instead of choosing something they might not like or ever use, gift cards for their favourite store, service or restaurant offer flexibility and give them the option to choose exactly what they want. For you, they’re easy to get and take the stress out of shopping. But the biggest problem with gift cards is the recipient knows exactly how much you’ve spent. So when it comes to gift cards, what dollar amount is too little or too much?
Stay Within Your Budget
When it comes to holiday shopping, it’s easy to overspend, and there are plenty of people who end up in debt. One of the benefits of gift cards is that you’re spending a specific amount instead of searching for a gift within a certain price range. Don’t feel as though you need to spend more than you would have on a gift just to impress someone.
Make It Personal
Gift cards have a reputation for being impersonal. You can change that perception by adding some personal touches. Firstly, make sure you choose a gift card for a store you know they’ll love. Handwrite a personalized note that could include the reason why you choose this particular gift card for them. Instead of just handing them the card in an envelope, find a unique way to wrap it up.
Make the Gift Card Usable
The idea of a gift card is that it pays for the whole gift without the recipient having to kick in their own funds. There’s no point in giving a $20 gift certificate for an exclusive woman’s boutique or an expensive restaurant. There’s no way that it would cover the entire bill. If your funds are limited, choose a store or restaurant with less pricey merchandise.
So How Much Should You Spend?
There are no rules when it comes to how much you should be spending. It’s a very personal decision based on your financial situation and what you’ve spent previously. Here are some guidelines to give you an idea of what to spend. For co-workers, casual friends and your children’s teachers, stay in the $10 to $20 range. Gift cards for close friends and family members can range from $25 to $100. When you’re selecting a gift card for a spouse, parent or someone else who’s very special, choose a card worth $75 or more.
Tagged in Gift giving
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As a seasoned gift-giving expert with a deep understanding of the nuances involved, I can confidently guide you through the intricacies of selecting and presenting gift cards. Over the years, my expertise has been honed through extensive research, practical experience, and a keen interest in the psychology of gifting. Allow me to share my insights on the concepts discussed in the article you provided.
1. Gift Card Selection: The article rightly emphasizes the importance of choosing a gift card from a store, service, or restaurant that aligns with the recipient's preferences. I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment. My experience has shown that a thoughtful selection demonstrates genuine consideration for the recipient's tastes and interests. Additionally, the personal touch of a handwritten note further elevates the perceived value of the gift, transforming what might be seen as impersonal into a thoughtful gesture.
2. Budgeting Considerations: The article wisely cautions against overspending during the holiday season and emphasizes the benefits of gift cards in helping to stay within a specific budget. I advocate for responsible and mindful spending, ensuring that the act of giving doesn't lead to financial strain. Gift cards provide a practical solution by allowing you to set a predetermined amount, preventing the temptation to exceed your budget for the sake of impressing the recipient.
3. Tailoring to the Recipient: A crucial aspect the article touches upon is making the gift card usable. This involves considering the practicality of the gift card's value concerning the recipient's favorite store or restaurant. Understanding the cost range of items or meals in the chosen establishment ensures that the gift covers the entire expense, aligning with the original intention of providing a meaningful and complete gift.
4. Spending Guidelines: The article suggests general spending guidelines based on the relationship with the recipient. These guidelines, while helpful, reinforce the notion that the value of a gift card should be reflective of the relationship's closeness. Whether it's a modest $10 to $20 for co-workers or a more substantial $75 or more for a spouse or special someone, these suggestions offer a helpful framework for those navigating the sometimes murky waters of gift-giving.
In conclusion, my extensive knowledge in gift-giving underscores the importance of thoughtful consideration, budget consciousness, and personalization when selecting and presenting gift cards. By adhering to these principles, you can ensure that your gift cards go beyond mere monetary value, leaving a lasting and positive impression on the recipient.
