For people who are close to me, I try to pick out just the right gift. I like to put some thought into it. I think gift certificates work well for grab bags, people you aren't particularly close to, or that one really difficult to buy for person. Even then, I try to get a gift certificate that I think they will really enjoy.
Yes, if I really couldn't decide on what's to give, I would rather give a gift certificate and not a specific gift. I also think that this is way better than giving a cash. At least, with this, I have the idea of what and where he would spend that gift certificate. Unlike with cash, if I give it, I would be left completely clueless.
Well, once I gave my mother a box of gift cards and she totally loved it, because she loved to shop. So, I think even gift cards can be specific if you know the person that you are giving them to. I may have also bought another gift for her that year, but she really enjoyed opening each envelope to see where she would be planning to go every other day.
I agree with you Zyni. But I do prefer to give an actual gift than a voucher or certificate because I feel that sometimes a certificate or voucher can feel thoughtless and effortless. But, having said that there is no point gifting someone who is difficult to buy for or you aren't close to. But I enjoy gifting so I would drop little hints, ask them what they like or ask them to accompany me on a shopping trip and see what they are in to.
I never give gift certificates unless it's easier because of mailing something instead. I think they are good if a person likes that store and has something they want to buy, but I prefer to buy something personal. I hear stories of people having gift certificates and trying to think what they need to buy and often it takes up more time trying to find something they like, so I would rather take someone out for a meal or take them shopping!
I don't have a habit of giving gift certificates as gifts, I think they are too impersonal. I prefer choosing a present, and if the person does not like it or it doesn't fit they can go ahead and exchange it. I only ever gave a gift certificate once beside the person specifically asked for one!
I always do my best to pick out specific gifts. Firstly, in many cases I can find a unique and appropriate gift much cheaper than I can purchase a gift card for. Secondly I feel like unless you just have no idea what to get someone that gift cards are super impersonal and show a lack of care and effort in my opinion. When it comes to gift giving I feel like it really is the thought that you put into it that counts.
I don't mind giving out gift cards or gift certificates, and I don't think the recipients mind either. They are almost as good as money and if you pick t the right store for the right person then it would show that you at least know the person well enough and spent some effort in finding which one to give. I don't rely on it too much though as I still think finding specific gifts is better.
That's different though, and it's really a cool idea for someone who loves to shop. I bet your mom had a blast! I would also give such a gift to someone who lives far away, since otherwise shipping could cost more than the gift itself. I'd still try to choose a specific store or restaurant that I know for sure the person would like.
