15 Unique Ways to Give a Gift Card: Don’t Be Boring
Doing some last-minute shopping? Not sure what to get? Gift cards can be a lifesaver, but they can also feel impersonal if not done right. While gift cards are convenient, they often come across as a last-ditch effort or lack of thought.
Luckily, with a little creativity, you can turn even the simplest gift card into a thoughtful and memorable present.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 unique ways to give a gift card that will make your recipient feel truly appreciated.
Why It’s Important to Personalize Gift Cards
Gift cards offer flexibility and convenience, but without personalization, they can feel generic. That’s why it’s essential to add a personal touch when giving a gift card, making it more thoughtful and intentional.
Personalization elevates the gift, turning it from a convenient option into something that carries meaning.
By putting effort into how you present the gift card, it feels less like an afterthought and shows that you still took the time to make the gesture special. If you’re looking for unique ways to give a gift card, you’ve come to the right place.
15 Unique Ways to Give a Gift Card To Keep It Fun
Let’s dive right into our list of the most unique ways to give a gift card so you don’t offend your recipient with a basic gift.
1. Hide It in a Puzzle
One of the most unique ways to give a gift card is to hide it inside a puzzle.
This way, the recipient has to solve the puzzle to access their gift card. It adds an element of surprise and excitement to an otherwise simple gift.
2. Multiple Boxes or Layers
You’ve probably seen this one before. A box inside a box, over and over again. Or layers of wrapping paper.
This is one of those unique ways to give a gift card that builds anticipation as the recipient unwraps each layer to finally get to the card.
The joy of watching them playfully struggle will make the experience all the more fun and memorable for both of you (just make sure you actually include the card in there).
3. Present It in a Customized Box
Create or purchase a personalized gift box to place the card inside. Decorate the box with their name, favorite colors, or images of things they enjoy. The box can also serve as a practical item for future use or be kept as a meaningful keepsake.
4. Tuck It Into a Balloon
Blow up a balloon with the gift card inside, and give it to the recipient to pop.
You could also tie it to a string, attach a little message, and let it float as a playful surprise. Just imagine the excitement when they realize there’s a gift card inside!
5. Use a Themed Gift Bag
For example, if you’re giving a coffee shop gift card, place it inside a gift bag with some coffee beans, a mug, or flavored syrups.
For a spa gift card, consider bath salts, candles, and a fluffy towel. This makes the gift more cohesive and thoughtful.
6. Make a Scavenger Hunt
Why not turn gift-giving into an adventure?
Set up a scavenger hunt with clues that eventually lead the recipient to the gift card. This is a fun and unique way to give a gift card that adds excitement and interaction to the experience.
7. Incorporate It Into a DIY Craft
If you’re crafty, incorporate the gift card into a homemade creation. For example, create a mini scrapbook, with the gift card hidden among the pages, or knit a small pouch to hold the card. It’s a unique way to combine a homemade touch with a store-bought gift.
For more DIY gift inspirations, check out our curated list here.
8. Create a Themed Basket
One of the most popular unique ways to give a gift card is to create a themed gift basket.
If the card is for a restaurant, include things like utensils, sauces, or napkins to create a dining-at-home experience. A bookstore gift card could be paired with a cozy blanket and tea for the perfect reading nook.
9. Hide It Inside a Book
For the book lovers in your life, one unique way to give a gift card is to hide it inside a book (not a picture of it, like shown below).
You can place it between the pages or tape it to the inside cover with a handwritten note. It’s a perfect combination of a thoughtful item and a practical gift card.
10. Turn It Into a Message in a Bottle
Place the gift card inside a clear bottle and fill it with decorative elements like sand, seashells, or colorful beads.
Seal the bottle with a cork and present it as a fun “message in a bottle.” This presentation adds a touch of whimsy and mystery to your gift.
11. Frame It
Who says a gift card can’t be displayed? Place the card inside a decorative frame, and wrap it up as a special keepsake. The frame can later be reused for a photo, making this a two-in-one gift.
12. Disguise It as Something Else
One of the most unique ways to give a gift card is by disguising it as something else. Wrap the gift card in an unusual item, like a stuffed animal or a kitchen item like a frying pan.
The recipient will be surprised when they discover that their seemingly mundane gift actually holds a hidden treasure.
13. Attach It to a Larger Gift
If you’re already giving a larger gift, attach the gift card to the outside as a bonus surprise. For example, if you’re gifting a new jacket, you can hide the gift card in one of the pockets.
14. Incorporate It Into a Video Message
One of the more digital but unique ways to give a gift card is by pairing it with a personalized video message. Record yourself explaining why you chose the gift card and what it means to you.
It adds a personal touch that’s sure to be appreciated, especially if you’re sending a digital gift card.
15. Present It in a Fun Envelope or Card
Get creative with the envelope or card you use to give the gift card. Make a pop-up card, use an origami envelope, or decorate it with hand-drawn designs. It’s a simple way to add a personal touch that shows you went the extra mile.
By adding personal touches and exploring these unique ways to give a gift card, you’ll ensure that your gift feels thoughtful and fun.
Toasty Choice Card: Unique Yet So Simple
Enter the Toasty Choice Card, which takes the hassle out of gift-giving while still offering a personal touch.
With Toasty, you can let the recipient choose their preferred brand from hundreds of options.
Plus, the card can be fully customized with a personal message and design. It’s perfect for bulk orders, ensuring that everyone on your list gets something they’ll truly enjoy.
What’s Unique About Toasty?
The Toasty Choice Card allows recipients to pick their ideal gift, from popular retailers like Amazon and Starbucks to versatile Visa gift cards.
You can send it to multiple people at once, personalize each card with a message or design, and avoid the generic nature of traditional gift cards.
Key Benefits of Toasty:
- Customizable designs and messages.
- Recipients can choose their preferred brand.
- Easy bulk sending for large teams.
- No fees or hidden charges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the most unique way to give a gift card?
There are many unique ways to give a gift card, from creative packaging to incorporating the gift card into a scavenger hunt. But the key is to make the experience of receiving the gift card fun and memorable.
How do I make a gift card feel more Special?
By exploring unique ways to give a gift card, you can make it feel much more personal and thoughtful. For example, you can pair it with a small physical gift, like a handwritten note or a fun trinket.
Toasty even offers gift cards that can be fully customized, adding a personal touch that recipients will appreciate.
What makes Toasty’s Choice Card different from other gift cards?
The Toasty Choice Card allows recipients to choose from hundreds of brands, instead of limiting them to a single vendor (boring).
You can customize each card with a personal message and design, making it feel thoughtful while still offering flexibility.
Can I use Toasty for bulk gift cards?
When sending to a large team, it can be difficult to come up with unique ways to give a gift card to each person.
That’s where platforms like Toasty come in. With Toasty’s Choice Card, recipients can choose their preferred gift card instead of you having to guess, making the process both unique and efficient.