5 Ways to Make Gift Cards Have a Personal Touch

Yes, gift cards are very popular today, but are they really appreciated when given as gifts?

They are easy to buy, easy to send and they give the recipient freedom to choose what they want. However, they can feel impersonal sometimes. Have you ever received a gift card and thought “Hm, this feels a bit last minute?” Well that’s the  common downside, but gift cards don’t have to feel that way.

With a few tweaks, you can make a gift card go from basic to thoughtful and memorable. In other words, you can make it feel like a real gift, not just a quick option or last resort.

In this article, you’ll discover different ways to add a personal touch when giving a gift card. This will help your gift stand out and feel more meaningful.

Why Add a Personal Touch to a Gift Card?

There are various reasons why you should consider adding a personal touch to gift cards before giving them out.

First, it helps your gift card stand out. During celebrations like birthdays or holidays, people often receive many gifts.  Without something extra, your gift may get lost in the crowd.

Secondly, it shows that you care. Sending a gift card can feel like a quick decision. On the other hand, adding something extra shows that you were intentional with.

Also, it makes the gifts more memorable. People tend to remember how we made them feel, not just what it was. A small detail, like a message or a story, can’t make a big difference.

Finally, it builds connection. When you personalise a gift card, you turn it into a shared moment with the recipient, rather than just a transaction.

5 Ways to Add Your Personal Touch to Gift Cards

You can personalise a gift card by:

1. Adding a thoughtful message
2. Adding WHY you chose the gift card
3. Packaging it creatively
4. Combining it with another small gesture
5. Highlighting the gift card’s versatility

1. Add a Thoughtful Message

The simplest way to make a gift card feel personal is add a message.

For a physical gift card, a good way to go is to add handwritten notes. It does not have to be a long one. You can just stand down a few sincere words. Then put your notes in an envelope or even attach it to the card directly.

On the other hand, if you’re sending an e-gift card, you can add a text when sending the code. It could be kind wishes, a prayer, or even a simple reminder of your relationship.

In both cases the goal is deceived. You are adding your voice to the gifts. Instead of just receiving the gift card, the person also gets a personal message from you. You’ve killed two birds with one stone.

2. Add the “Why” (The Story) Behind the Gift

Another way to add your touch to a gift card is to explain why you chose that specific gift card. This is telling the story behind the gift.

This makes the gift card feel intentional. It shows that she paid attention to the person’s interests.

For example:

• “ You mentioned you wanted to watch more shows and have been having trouble subscribing. So, I got you this Netflix gift card. ”
• “ I know you’ve been shopping on Amazon lately, so this should help.”
• “ Since your favourite pastime is gaming on steam, I got you this Steam gift card.”

3. Package it Creatively

Presentation can also play an important role in how a gift is perceived.

For physical, gifts you can:

• Place the card in a decorated envelope
• Use a small gift box
• Add ribbons, stickers or wrapping paper
• Put it inside a pouch or even hide it in a small item

These small details create excitement. The person you give the gift card enjoys the process of opening the gifts, not just using it.

For e-gift cards, you can also be creative. Instead of only sending the code, you can include:

• A short video
• A funny meme or GIF
• A voice note
• A themed image or design

Imagine you’re giving a streaming service gift card, you could send it with a clip or a reference from a popular show. This will add personality and make the experience more engaging.

4. Combine the Gift Card with Another Gesture/Gift

Another way you can add your personal touch to a gift card is to pair it with something small.

The extra item you are adding should match the theme of the gift card.

For example:

• A coffee shop gift card plus a mug
• A bookstore gift card plus a bookmark
• A gaming gift card plus a gaming accessory

For e-gift cards, the “extra” can be digital. For example, you could send a music playlist in addition to a Spotify gift card.

Overall, this is a single gift into a full experience.

5. Highlight the Versatility of the Gift Card

Finally, help the recipient understand how much value the gift card holds.

Sometimes, people do not realise all the ways they can use a gift card. As a result, they may not fully enjoy it.

You can solve this by pointing out different uses.

For example:

• “You can use this Amazon gift card to buy anything on Amazon including books, electronics and everyday items. Just pick what you like.”
• “This eBay gift card can help you find unique or rare products”
• “You can use this Visa gift card almost anywhere. It’s basically money in your hands.”

This makes the gift feel more flexible and valuable. It’s also shows that you thought about our would use it, not just what to give.

Conclusion

Gift cards are simple, but they do not have to feel impersonal. With a little effort, you can turn them into meaningful gifts.

When you add a thoughtful message, explain your choice package the card creatively, include a small extra,  or highlight the gift card’s value, you make the gifting experience more personal.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about the gift but the thought behind it. When you take time to personalise your gift, you show care, attention and intention. This is what people remember the most.