Tips for Wrapping an E-gift, Certificate, or Gift Card

You have run out of options... and decided to go with gift cards or e gifts this year. Not such a bad idea after all. Most adolescents actually prefer gifts cards and e gifts to actual presents (because we, as parents and adults are just not hip enough to know what it is they want). E-gifts and gift cards are also much easier and less expensive to mail or transport.

However, that plain white envelope can be so boring and not at all a surprise.

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- match it

Did you get your sister that certificate for a manicure or pedicure or both? Wrap the certificate in tissue paper with a small bottle of nail polish attached. Did you renew a magazine subscription for your aunt? Wrap the renewal notice in a copy of the magazine.

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- pop and stance

Roll up the certificate and place inside a deflated balloon and then blow the balloon up. The certificate will be visible inside but the recipient will have to pop the balloon to read it!

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- ornaments are not just for trees anymore... the first use anyway

Adorn the gift card with an ornament or two. (Several places offer discounted deals on buy one, get one free).

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- book it

Present the certificate, e- gift, or gift card in a book posing as a book mark. The book can be a clue as to the second part of the present... a gift card to a home improvement store might make a great bookmark in a do it yourself book manual.

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- nesting dolls are fun

How many of you have ever started with a huge box and worked you way down to a small one where the actual gift was? I know we probably complained about it... but do it again. The recipient might enjoy it... the anticipation and excitement can be worth it.

Tips for wrapping a gift certificate, e-gift, or gift card- treasure hunt

This is my personal favorite. Leave clues to the whereabouts of the gift. Enjoy watching the face of the recipient as they decipher each clue leading to the next... all to end up back at the tree... where lo and be hold there awaits a white envelope on the tree with his or her name on it written in bold letters.

Place the e- gift, certificate, or gift card inside.