Creative Gift Cards: Thinking Outside the Mall

Gift cards have become the most popular holiday gifts. They certainly make gift giving easier, as there is no more guessing about the right size or color, and you can avoid giving something that just gets put away at the back of a closet. Of course there are some downsides to gift cards. Sometimes choosing the right gift card can be tricky. In other cases, giving a gift card just seems too impersonal. At other times gift cards to stores seem impractical, especially when you don't think the person needs anything, or he/she hates to shop. Here are some ideas to move beyond the mall.

Shows/Events:

Is there someone on your list who loves going to the theater, the movies or to local concerts? Consider giving a gift certificate to one of those venues. It may be a little more personal, and the recipient can choose the particular event and date. Who doesn't like a free night out to a favorite event?

Activities:

Think about activities or hobbies the recipient enjoys. For example, an avid golfer might enjoy a gift certificate for a round of golf at his/her favorite course.

Restaurants:

Most people would enjoy receiving a gift certificate for a meal at his/her favorite restaurant. Find out if there's a restaurant in the area the recipient has wanted to try. Some people won't treat themselves to a meal, but they would be happy to receive a gift card to the restaurant.

Pampering:

Many people could use a way to distress after the holidays. Receiving a gift certificate to a day spa for a treatment of the recipient's choice is a perfect way to unwind. Once again, many people may hesitate to treat themselves to a massage or a day of pampering, but would love to take advantage of these opportunities.

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