You Can't Go Wrong With a Thoughtful Gift Card

Looking for a present that offers the recipient some freedom and flexibility, but conveys a little more thought and premeditation than an envelope stuffed with cash? If so, a gift certificate or a gift card may be just the thing. Here are a few ideas for those seeking gift-card inspiration.

Her favorite spa. Whether your recipient is a high-maintenance girly-girl or an outdoorsy type who hates makeup, she’ll love a spa gift certificate that will allow her to choose from an array of beauty treatments or relaxation-boosting massages.

His favorite music. What do you get for the guy who has everything? You can’t go wrong with an iTunes gift card. Apple’s flagship mp3 store offers full episodes of your favorite TV shows, blockbuster movies, top 40 pop hits, so-obscure-it-hurts indie bands, and absolutely everything in between.

Everyone loves to eat. Do a little detective work and find out where your recipient loves to go out to eat. Even the smallest local establishments are usually happy to arrange for the purchase of a gift certificate.

If all else fails, go to Amazon.com. This modern-day version of the bazaar offers everything under the sun and then some. The emailable version of the Amazon gift certificate is an excellent last-minute gift idea, as well.