Holiday Gift Card Etiquette

November 19th, 2024

Is a Gift Card a Good Gift?

Whether you’re planning for a gift exchange, family gathering or work party, you’re gifting for a variety of people with a range of interests, styles or even favorite colors. For every occasion, gift cards are a perfect option. Why? There are many reasons that giving Gift Cards for Christmas or any holiday makes for an ideal gift for everyone, but here are a few key ones:

Versatility

Vanilla® Visa® Gift Cards are versatile. They may be used in the U.S. and District of Columbia everywhere Visa debit card is accepted.

Flexibility

When you give a gift card, you give the recipient the gift of choice. This allows them to select their favorite clothes, top restaurants or fun-filled experiences.

Customizability

With a variety of styles or even a custom gift card design, you can make a gift card a thoughtful gift with just the right message or a festive look they’ll love.

Need ideas for giving Visa Gift Cards at Christmas? Here are some of the people who are great recipients this season:

Teachers: Keep it fun and festive with the Happy Dots Holidays Gift Card.

Neighbors: Spread joy with the Magical Holiday Gift Card,

Coworkers: Send a classic wish with the Blue Botanical Gift Card.

Kids: Delightful options include the Happy Dog Gift Card.

Hard-to-buy-for friends: Wrap up possibilities with the Magical Snow Globe Gift Card.

Loved ones at a distance: Deliver a virtual hug with the Snowy Love You eGift Card.

Cash vs. Gift Cards

Imagine opening a holiday card to find a festive gift card with a thoughtful image or even a custom design. A smile comes to mind. Then consider peeking in the same card and finding cash. While both offer the recipient the ability to choose their gift, hand-picking a Visa® Gift Card adds a personal touch they won’t forget.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gift Card?

While it’s clearly important to stay in your budget, you do want to give a meaningful amount. Consider the cost of an item or at the store and use that as a guide for a minimum gift card amount. The same goes for restaurant gift card etiquette — an ideal amount covers the cost of an average meal plus tip. Additionally, you may spend more on close friends or family than casual acquaintances, a larger group of coworkers or your children’s teachers.

Tips for Giving Gift Cards for Christmas and the Holidays

Wondering how to give gift cards as presents?. With festive themes, multi-brand categories or even custom designs, there’s truly something for everyone at Vanilla Gift. Keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts as you choose the perfect gift cards for everyone on your list.

Do include a receipt. When wondering, do you give receipts with gift cards? The answer is yes, it’s recommended you give them proof of purchase to be kept with their gift card in the case of any questions. If the card is lost, the recipient will need to call 1-833-322-6760 and provide the Gift Card Number and other identifying information to receive a replacement.
Do plan ahead when ordering physical gift cards. Be sure to allow time to receive your gift card in the mail if you want to enclose plastic gifts cards in your holiday cards or in person. If sending one to the recipient, consider the ordering window before the holiday. Have questions about delivery or ordering Visa Gift Cards? Check out our Gift Card FAQs.

DON’T

Don’t make them guess. When giving a gift card as a gift on special occasions, be sure to write the amount on the gift card.
Don’t skip the wrapping. While holiday gift cards have a fun design, be sure to wrap your gift card creatively to add a touch of wonder to your gift. Short on time? We offer a variety of gift card boxes that add a special touch to your gift.
Don’t stress last-minute gifting. Running late? You can send Visa eGift cards quickly with a thoughtful message. Take a moment to determine what to write on a gift card for your recipient, and soon their gift will be on the way. If you’re looking to create a personalized gift this holiday season and need it quickly, Vanilla Visa offers Custom eGift Cards. You can tailor make a gift card featuring a photo and send it to loved ones via email!

With a world of joyful options, perfect for anyone on your list, it’s no wonder that gift cards are a popular present during the holidays. It’s a clear answer if you are facing the question, are gift cards bad gifts? From freedom of choice to flexibility and customization, there are many reasons to give them, and with these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to deliver a gift that will brighten any occasion.

Custom Gift Cards FAQ

Can I choose the amount on a custom Visa Gift Card or eGift Card?
A: Yes, the custom Gift Cards and custom eGift Cards are available in the same denominations as the Visa Gift Card designs on the Vanilla Gift site, between $10 - $500.

How long will it take to receive my custom Visa Gift Card or eGift Card?
A: Shipping time for physical custom cards will depend on the shipping method chosen.

USPS – $1.95 per card, with cap of $5.95,

Orders $200 or more are shipped via FedEx

FedEx Expedited: 3-4 Business Days - $10.95
FedEx Rush: 2-3 Business Days - $17.95

Most eGift Card orders are delivered within 5 minutes but can take up to 24 hours.

Are Visa Custom Gift Cards or eGift Cards reusable?
A: No, Vanilla Visa Custom Gift Cards and Custom eGift Cards cannot be reloaded. If you want to give multiple custom-made gift cards of the same design, consider ordering more than one at a time.

Do I need to activate my custom Visa Gift Card or eGift Card?
A: Yes, the customer must activate their physical custom gift cards at balance.VanillaGift.com or by calling the toll-free phone number on the back of the Physical Gift Card (1-833-322-6760). Customer will need to provide the Gift Card Number, Valid Through Date, and Security Code located on the back of your gift card.

Vanilla Visa eGift Cards do not need to be activated prior to first use. They are activated upon purchase and shipped to the recipient’s email ready to use.

Where can custom Visa Gift Cards or eGift Cards be used?
A: Visa Gift Cards can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted within the United States and the District of Columbia. Visa Gift Cards may not be used for recurring billing or at ATMs.