Friday, November 17, 2006

Gift Cards: Cop Out or Not?

I guess it's my Ms. Manners mother who has influenced me to think that gift certificates and the like do not make particularly good gifts. They are impersonal, cause the recipient to then have to go out and get something for themselves, show exactly how much you spent, and don't require much thought. I tend to agree with this line of reasoning. She also likes to wrap presents and awe the public with her skills. A gift card doesn't really allow for wrapping so much.

However, I think that they serve a purpose in some instances.

If you know that your friend is an avid reader, but you are not so savvy in the literary arts, a gift certificate from Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble or Borders is suitable (OK, yes, I admit it, I'm talking about myself here!). Or if you feel that your friend is in dire need of new shoes, but don't really know what style or size she would be happiest with, a gift card from DSW would be a semi-thoughtful gesture. Which leads me to my next point...

Sign up to become a DSW Rewards Member TODAY because starting this Sunday, November 19, if you buy a $50 gift card, you get a $10 bonus card redeemable between January 14 - February 3. What could be better? Buy a gift for someone else and get a gift for yourself!

Remember, you can only make others happy if YOU are happy.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Or, sometimes a gift card can provide an opportunity to give a luxury item to someone you know is too practical to spend the money on themselves. Example: I love Origins products but cannot bring myself to buy a $30 bottle of shampoo or $10 bar of soap; however, when G.S. gives me an Origins gift card I thoroughly enjoy treating myself. Mrs Magoo

Anonymous said...

I don't usually do gift cards unless I have zero clue what to get someone. I love getting creative and really thinking about the person when I shop for them.