I have given gift certificates in the past. I want to make a distiction between Gift Certificates and Gift Cards. Gift cards are basically credit cards for a particular company. I have come to believe that gift cards are not a great idea. Especially now that you can buy them at the grocery store for every conceivable company.
They really are a solution to the "obligation" gift. It really shows that you don't know the recepient very well. They often force people to stores that the don't like or force people to act by a certain date.
They have become the gift of choice for companies giving perks. I earn points on the credit card that I can redeam for gift cards. I get $100 of merchandise but the Credit card company bought it at a discount. They pay $90 or $95 and the merchant still makes money.
I really think intention is important in gift giving. If you have a lot invested in the person then you need to invest a little time in thier gift.
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2008-10-10 05:44 pm (UTC)I want to make a distiction between Gift Certificates and Gift Cards. Gift cards are basically credit cards for a particular company. I have come to believe that gift cards are not a great idea. Especially now that you can buy them at the grocery store for every conceivable company.
They really are a solution to the "obligation" gift. It really shows that you don't know the recepient very well. They often force people to stores that the don't like or force people to act by a certain date.
They have become the gift of choice for companies giving perks. I earn points on the credit card that I can redeam for gift cards. I get $100 of merchandise but the Credit card company bought it at a discount. They pay $90 or $95 and the merchant still makes money.
I really think intention is important in gift giving. If you have a lot invested in the person then you need to invest a little time in thier gift.