Ask Engadget: How can I make a gift card feel more personal?

Gifts are simply reminders that someone was thinking about you. This is where the joy of present-giving begins, and it’s one reason handing someone a gift card or digital code feels so crappy. It doesn’t take a ton of time or thought to pick an Amazon card off the rack at QT, after all. However, online gaming, shopping and social realities are here to stay, and some of the best presents nowadays are completely digital.

In this case, refer back to the heart of gift-giving. Spend some time writing a thoughtful note (maybe even on nice paper, in the receiver’s favorite ink), spend an hour building something cute out of craft supplies, bake their favorite dessert or simply spend time with your loved one before handing them the digital goods. Demonstrate your appreciation of this person with the most valuable currency out there: time.

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