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 For some, a gift card says “impersonal” or “generic.” But in today’s economy the idea of giving a gift that can be used how and when the recipient chooses, might just make sense. After all, very few gift cards end up in the Goodwill box come spring.
We are here to tell you that gift cards needn’t be boring, as there are a host of options for would-be gift card givers beyond the ubiquitous Starbucks card. (Not that we mind having a free latté in our back pocket). Here is a short list of some local faves for people on your shopping list.
The Music Lover
There’s no need to choose a show or concert date thanks to gift cards for the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and Ticketmaster.
The Gardener
Give the green thumb on your list a chance to spend hours meandering through the greenhouse at Shelmerdine with a gift card that can be used for holiday décor or spring seeding.
The Movie Buff
Yes, all of the large theatre chains offer gift cards, but think outside the big box to more unique venues like IMAX, or Cinematheque, which offers $25 or $50 cards, or a 10-pass.
The Urban Ecologist
She can choose fresh produce or organic lipstick at Vita Health, fizzy handmade bath bombs at LUSH or a mango time smoothie and eggs Benny with house-cured salmon at Fresh Café.
The Sports Fan
Let them decide when they want to see a game, and where they want to sit, with a gift card from the Manitoba Moose or Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The Yogi
Moksha Yoga offers refillable gift cards in any denomination, which can be used for classes or merchandise at either of Moksha’s two Winnipeg locations.
The Student
The starving student on your list might appreciate a gift card for a grocery chain or the U of M bookstore. (Of course they probably wouldn’t balk at an iTunes or MLCC gift card either.)
The New Parents
Gift cards at baby-centric stores like A Child’s Place or Lux for Sprouts allow new parents a chance to purchase the endless things they need, or cute things they want, without breaking their suddenly strained bank account. A gift card for a special splurge, like brunch at the Fort Garry Hotel or a couple’s massage, are also winning gifts, as long as you provide the babysitting.
Other ideas:
Most restaurants, bookstores and spas now offer gift cards, which allow recipients to treat themselves to something special whenever they need it.
A CHARITABLE IDEA
If you are more wont to make a donation, rather than purchase a gift for those on your list, you might consider giving a charity gift card from CanadaHelps.org. This national organization allows recipients to choose the charity or non-profit organization they want to support. Donations are made online by entering the gift card number and then choosing from a list of thousands of Canadian charities. Not only does this make the donation experience more personal, but allows for those living in other areas of the country to choose a charity that is meaningful to them. Among the hundreds of Winnipeg organizations signed up are Rossbrook House, the Winnipeg Boys and Girls Club and Winnipeg’s Contemporary Dancers. |
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