There was a time not too long ago when gift cards were called “gift certificates”. These acted in the same way as the present gift cards, except they were in paper form much like a certificate, only a smaller version. The problem with these gift certificates you were at the mercy of that store’s policy. You had to use the entire certificate amount in full in one purchase, which meant you either went over the designated dollar amount out of pocket or if you were under the amount you did not receive a credit or change back. If you were lucky, a store might give you the amount that was left over on the gift certificate.
Now gift cards can be used many times without worries of overspending too much or losing out on under-spending. Instead of an oversized piece of paper that doesn’t fit very well in a wallet you have gift cards the exact size of a standard credit card. They are convenient for gift giving since many retailers are selling and utilizing them. If you are wondering what gift cards you could get for women this Christmas, here are six great ideas that are not of the usual sort such as clothing, shoes, or jewelry stores,. Four of them will be centered on pampering her and the other two will be taking care of her car. You may not think to get gift cards for these particular ideas, but once you read up on the features and benefits they will sound like something she could use. Here are six Christmas gift card ideas for women to definitely check out.
1.) Massage – Massage Envy
Their website is a wealth of information that both informs and prepares you for a first time visit to a massage therapy clinic. They are located in almost all 50 states and just about all the major cities. Click on the Locations button to find a clinic nearest you. Right on their homepage is the “gift of relaxation”, their gift cards you can purchase directly. They offer a variety of massages that can fit your budget and the benefits of having a massage are indeed priceless, especially for a Christmas gift.
2.) Whole Foods Market (Natural & Organic Foods)
Here is another informative website that enlightens the consumer on the benefits of natural and organic foods. Yes, it may be a bit more expensive than the traditional grocery store, but this is a place that sells gift cards too. If she loves to cook, then she’ll love getting a gift card to buy the freshest produce, meats, and other items that can’t be beat. They are located across the country. Check out the Stores link on the homepage for the one closet to your area. This is the one and the same Whole Foods featured on the reality TV show “Top Chef”.
3.) Champs Sports (Women Sportswear)
Conveniently located in shopping malls throughout the U.S. here is a sporting goods store that has a Women’s department featuring running/walking shoes, clothing, accessories, equipment, and fan gear. If she likes to work out, jog, play tennis, or be a fan of her sports team she will love this store and their gift cards for Christmas. Go to the Store Locator to find out where a Champs Sports is at your local mall.
4.) Dollar Store – Dollar Tree
These can be a lot of fun shopping in, because everything is literally a dollar. Dollar Tree store finally offers gift cards that are truly convenient to use, especially when buying a lot of items, which is easy to do. Their website offers information on store locations. Here you can get just about everything under the sun that you’d find at drug and superstores. This really is the perfect Christmas gift card.
5.) Jiffy Lube (Oil Change)
This may seem high irregular, but it is important to maintain your car. What better way than with the Jiffy Lube Gift Card that is ideal for cars and their owners during the holiday season. One of the great benefits they offer is their convenient weekend hours, even on Sundays (at certain locations). You can find a Jiffy Lube just about anywhere. When your car needs to be maintained for an oil change every few months it will save you a great deal of money in the long run on costly car repairs.
6.) Advance Auto Parts (Auto cleaning supplies, accessories, etc)
While we’re on the topic of cars, another unique gift card idea would be to buy accessories she would need for her car such as a car cover, floor mats, GPS, cleaning supplies for the interior and exterior, and an auto shade for the front window. You can find this auto parts store in most parts of the country, however, they are growing so more stores may be opening up soon. This is an outstanding one-stop-shop for your car’s needs at Christmas.
Did you know gift cards are the most-wanted gift by women? In so doing it’s a given she is going to love whatever gift card you get her. This list comprised of a massage, organic supermarket, sporting goods store in the mall, dollar store, car repair shop for an oil change, and an auto parts store. Granted, it’s not a typical, everyday, run of the mill Christmas gift card ideas list for women either.
SOURCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page