Gift cards are not always a bad idea when it comes to holiday gift-giving. In fact, it may be preferred as opposed to receiving something you’ll eventually re-gift or never end up using. As popular as it is to give gift cards, there is a wrong way and a right way to go about this type of holiday giving.
Keep reading for tips on how to give gift cards with class and style.
When Gift Cards are the Best Holiday Gift Option
Gift cards work best when given under the right circumstances. For example, you probably wouldn’t give your child a gift card for Christmas. You should already know them and what they want well enough that a more personalized gift would be better received.
However, the following scenarios are good fits when it comes to giving a gift card.
- From a student to their teacher or coach
- As part of a holiday game (e.g. white elephant)
- As a courtesy for someone you don’t know very well
- For someone who is extremely picky and difficult to shop for
- Co-workers you don’t know very well
- Young children you are not related to
- Distant relatives
Usually, gift cards work best when you have zero idea of what the other person really likes, or there’s something specific for which you know they would love a gift card.
For example, if you don’t have any idea, you could give someone a Visa, Amazon, or iTunes gift card. However, if you know someone who loves Mexican food, giving them a The Original Grande gift card would be a great idea. But, we know it’s extremely difficult to find someone who doesn’t like Mexican food, so a The Original Grande gift card may be the perfect choice for anyone.
Gift Card Etiquette Tips
Now, let’s avoid being tacky and follow these easy-to-do gift card etiquette tips. Your recipient will be grateful you did.
Tip #1 — Write something thoughtful
Don’t just throw a gift card in an envelope and hand it over. Try to put some effort into the accompanying message. Something short and sweet or a touch of humor can really make the card more than just a piece of plastic. Say something that shows you care and appreciate the person you are giving the gift to.
Tip #2 — Don’t make the person wonder about the amount of money on the card
It’s not polite to make the recipient have to call the number on the back of their card or go to the website and fill in all the information to retrieve the amount they have to spend on the gift card they receive from you. Don’t forget to write the amount on the envelope or wherever it indicates on your card.
Tip #3 — Don’t be Cheap in the Amount; Keep it Appropriate
A five-dollar gift card is a bit cheap, especially with higher prices these days. It is always better to err on the side of generosity than appear cheap and tacky in your giving. Good gift card etiquette is to give at least $15 to $20 and higher amounts if you know the person well.
However, never go into debt if you can’t afford a decent gift card amount. You have to determine the value and the store based on the person or occasion, which varies greatly.
With the holidays approaching, it’s better to get organized on what gifts are left to buy and which gift cards suit the occasion. Either way, make sure you are thoughtful and sincere with your presentation and messaging on anything you give this year. It can make all the difference!
The Original Grande Has the Mexican Food You Crave
Need your Mexican food fix after shopping for gift cards? We understand. It’s why we offer a menu filled with yummy options for all ages. Don’t forget to get the toppings you need to satisfy your taste buds. Fuel your inner fiesta by experiencing any of our delicious Mexican food varieties. We offer all types of tacos, burritos, sanchos, enchiladas, and mucho more!
Visit a location near you and see why people are saying “Viva Grande!” after visiting The Original Grande.
