by Karen Chaffee

Created on: November 26, 2009

There are two lines of thought regarding whether or not gift cards are a good gift option. Some think them to be very impersonal, a sign that no thought or time has been put into the gift, while others think they are the perfect solution to a number of gift-giving dilemmas. In reality, most people do indeed love receiving gift cards, or at best, they don't hate it. Let's take a look at the ins and out of giving gift cards, and then you be the one to decide: are you for them, or against them?

-When Not To Give A Gift Card

Young children prefer receiving a gift "in the flesh," so to speak. The act of unwrapping and having immediate access to a gift appeals to them. They live in the present moment and do not care to wait until they can go to the store and choose their own gift.

Once your children are grown, in most circumstances, they appreciate the fact that you know them well enough to pick out the right gift for them, rather than giving them a gift card.

The same holds true when it comes to spouses and sweethearts, especially at anniversary time. The gift should be personal, a sign that you know your partner, and one that can be enjoyed in the present moment.

Those people who have trouble getting out and about are also more likely to prefer receiving an actual gift item as opposed to a gift card. To them, a gift card means they have to find a way to the store or ask someone else to do the running for them.

-When Gift Cards Are A Good Gift Option

There are many times, though, when a gift card is the best option, when it makes perfect sense to give that rather than anything else. Think of how hard it is to buy a gift for someone you do not know very well or for someone who has everything. What better way to go than to give them a gift card? It says, "I'm thinking of you," but frees you from worrying about choosing what to give them that they'll actually use or enjoy. The gift card expresses your sentiment while allowing the recipient to choose something they will truly love. So when in doubt, by all means, give a gift card every time.

A gift card also makes perfect sense when you're sending it to someone through the mail. It's cheaper and less likely to get lost than a package or large box.

For newly married couples, or for baby gifts, again, gift cards make perfect sense. They allow the recipient to choose a thing they do not already have or something they most need.

Perhaps surprisingly, gift cards are a good gift option for tweens and teens. These age groups can be some of the hardest to shop for. It's often difficult to know which trend is the latest thing, since they shift so rapidly. And while you may be unsure, tweens and teens know exactly which piece of fashion or which electronic item or DVD they want. An added plus, this is an age when receiving the equivalent of money or an opportunity to go shopping is more than welcomed.

-In Conclusion

Given the above information, you can see when gift cards are not a good option and then again, when are the perfect option. Happy gift giving, whatever the occasion.

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