Hosting a Gift Card Shower? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!

A gift card shower is a modern twist on the traditional celebration, offering hosts and guests an easier, more flexible way to give and receive gifts.  

Whether for a baby shower, wedding, or any special occasion, gift cards allow recipients to choose exactly what they need while making the gift-giving process more convenient for everyone involved.  

This article aims to delve deeper into various aspects related to gift card showers, such as: 

• What is a Gift Card Shower  

• How to Host a Gift Card Shower  

• Where to Buy eGift Cards  

Did it pique your interest? Let’s get straight into it.  

What is a Gift Card Shower? 

A gift card shower is a modern twist on the traditional baby or wedding shower. In this tradition, the honoree receives gift cards instead of physical gifts. This trend has emerged as a practical solution for both guests and recipients.  

In the past, guests might have struggled to find the “perfect” gift, often resulting in duplicates or unwanted items.  

With a gift card shower, recipients can choose exactly what they need: diapers for their newborn, home appliances, or even a spa day to unwind after the big event. 

But what truly sets a gift card shower apart is its ability to cater to today’s digital age. Many people prefer to receive eGift cards, which are eco-friendly, convenient, can be used immediately, and some gift cards may work internationally.  

These electronic gift cards can be sent via email, making them perfect for virtual events, which have become more common in recent years due to increasing globalization and health considerations. 

Benefits of Hosting a Gift Card Shower 

Hosting a gift card shower is a practical and thoughtful option for various reasons. It simplifies gift-giving and receiving, reduces waste, and allows for greater flexibility.

  Here are some key reasons why you might want to consider hosting one: 

1. Convenience for Guests 

Gone are the days when guests had to visit multiple stores, browse through gift registries, or worry about buying something the recipient may already own.  

With a gift card shower, guests can easily purchase an eGift card online, personalize it with a message, and send it directly to the recipient’s email.

This is incredibly convenient for out-of-town guests who cannot attend in person. 

Moreover, eGift cards eliminate the hassle of wrapping gifts or transporting them to the venue. Guests can relax, knowing their contribution will be appreciated and used by the honoree exactly as intended. 

2. Flexibility for the Recipient 

Receiving gift cards opens up a world of options for the recipient. For instance, a new mother may prefer to buy baby essentials like diapers or a stroller, but after seeing what she receives from other guests, she might decide to buy something else entirely.

The gift card allows her to purchase exactly what she needs when she needs it. 

Similarly, if the shower is for a newlywed couple, gift cards can help them furnish their new home, plan a honeymoon, or even pay for experiences like a romantic dinner.  

The versatility of gift cards ensures that the recipient will use them best. 

3. Perfect for Virtual or Hybrid Showers 

In the post-COVID era, Virtual and hybrid showers have become increasingly common, with more people living in different cities, states, and countries.

Gift card showers are particularly well-suited for these events, as eGift cards can be sent to the recipient regardless of location.  

Guests can participate in the celebration from the comfort of their homes and still give meaningful gifts without worrying about shipping costs or delays. 

4. Eco-Friendly and Minimal Waste 

Hosting a gift card shower is also a more sustainable option. Physical gifts often come with a lot of packaging, wrapping paper, and plastic, ultimately contributing to waste.  

In contrast, eGift cards are entirely digital and do not waste packaging. This is a small but impactful step towards reducing environmental impact. 

5. Encourages Thoughtful Gifting 

Gift cards sometimes have a reputation for impersonality, but they don’t have to be. With a gift card shower, guests can choose a card from a store they know the honoree loves or select a card that fits the occasion, such as a baby store for a baby shower or a home goods store for a wedding shower.  

Pairing the card with a thoughtful message adds a personal touch, ensuring the gift feels meaningful. 

How to Host a Gift Card Shower? 

Planning a gift card shower doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little organization and creativity, you can host a memorable event that honors the recipient while keeping things accessible for the guests.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan the perfect gift card shower. 

1. Choose a Theme 

Every successful shower starts with a theme. The theme will set the tone for the decorations, invitations, and activities.  

You might choose something cute and whimsical for a baby shower, like “A Star is Born” or “Oh Baby!”

You could opt for something elegant and romantic for a wedding shower, like “Love is in the Air” or “To Have and To Hold.” 

If the event is hosted virtually, you can still create a theme by asking guests to dress according to the theme or incorporating digital backgrounds matching the vibe.

A well-chosen theme helps unify the event and makes it feel more cohesive. 

2. Ideas for Gift Card Shower Themes: 

Here are a few ideas for gift card shower themes:  

• Baby Shower: “Books and Babies,” where guests give gift cards to bookstores or baby-related retailers. Learn to ask for a gift card for baby shower. 

• Wedding Shower: “Building Our Home,” where guests give gift cards to home improvement stores, furniture stores, or even restaurants for a post-wedding date night. 

• General Celebration: “Around the World,” where gift cards to travel agencies, airlines, or online travel services like Airbnb are encouraged. 

3. Set the Time, Date, and Venue 

Once you’ve chosen the theme, the next step is to set the time and date for the shower. Make sure the date works for the honoree and that it is convenient for most guests.  

Most showers are held a month or two before the main event (e.g., the baby’s due date or the wedding day). 

The venue will depend on whether the event is being held in person or virtually. If you’re hosting an in-person event, pick a venue that’s easily accessible to all guests and large enough to accommodate everyone.  

However, platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams are excellent choices for virtual events.  

Be sure to send out instructions on how to use the platform for those who may not be familiar with it. 

4. Create the Guest List 

The guest list is one of the most important parts of planning any shower. Start by making a list of the honoree’s closest friends and family.  

If the shower is being hosted virtually, you may be able to include more guests since there’s no need to worry about space or travel limitations. 

Be mindful of the balance for hybrid events; some guests attend in person, and others join virtually.  

You want to ensure that virtual attendees feel as included as those physically present. Consider setting up a screen where virtual guests can see and interact with the in-person group. 

5. Send Invitations 

Once the date, time, and guest list are set, it’s time to send out the invitations. If you’re hosting an in-person shower, traditional paper invitations work well. For virtual events, e-invites are the way to go.  

Please include all the essential details, such as the theme, dress code (if applicable), and information about the gift card shower. 

Let guests know where to purchase gift cards is also a good idea. You could include a link to Send Credit or other recommended retailers, where they can easily buy and send gift cards. 

6. Organize Fun Activities 

A shower wouldn’t be complete without fun activities and games to entertain guests. The type of activities you choose will depend on whether the event is in-person or virtual. 

Consider classic games like “Guess the Baby’s Arrival Date” for in-person showers or “How Well Do You Know the Couple?” Virtual showers can include online games like trivia, charades, or a virtual scavenger hunt. These games can be personalized to fit the theme of the event. 

For a gift card shower, you could even create a game around the theme of gift cards. For example, you could have guests guess how much was spent on various gift cards or play a “What’s on My Registry” round where guests guess what items the honoree has purchased with their gift cards. 

7. Plan the Food and Drinks 

The food and drinks will significantly set the mood if you’re hosting an in-person event. Finger foods, appetizers, and themed desserts are always popular options for showers.  

You can also consider catering or creating a potluck-style event where guests bring a dish related to the theme. 

For virtual showers, you could send out a recipe in advance and ask guests to prepare the same dish or drink so that everyone feels connected through the shared experience of eating or drinking the same thing.  

Some hosts even arrange meal or snack deliveries for each guest, ensuring everyone enjoys the same treats during the event. 

8. Collect Gift Cards in a Creative Way 

Since the event’s primary focus is gift cards, think of a fun and creative way to “collect” them. 

 For virtual showers, this could be as simple as asking guests to send their gift cards to the honoree’s email address, but you could also create a digital “gift card tree” where each guest’s contribution is represented on screen. 

For in-person events, you could decorate a gift card box or basket and have guests drop their cards in it as they arrive.  

Another idea is to create a display that shows off the different stores or services represented by the gift cards, adding a personal touch to the presentation. 

Thank You Notes and Follow-Up Post-Gift Card Shower 

After the shower, the honoree must follow up with personalized thank-you notes. Here’s how to make sure every guest feels appreciated: 

1. Personalized Thank You Notes 

While eGift cards are convenient, it’s essential to maintain the personal touch that makes any gift meaningful. After the event, the honoree should send personalized thank-you notes to each guest.  

In the note, mention the specific gift card and how it will be used. For example, if someone gave a gift card to a baby store, the honoree could say they plan to use it for baby essentials like diapers or a crib. 

For virtual showers, e-cards or emails work well for thank you, but handwritten notes are always appreciated if you want to go the extra mile. 

2. Share Photos with Guests 

Whether the event was in person or virtual, share photos or screenshots with the guests after the shower.  

For in-person events, you can share candid shots from the celebration, while for virtual events, screenshots of the party can create fun memories for everyone.  

Sharing these moments helps guests feel more connected to the event and reminds them of the special occasion. 

Where to Buy eGift Cards? 

Now that you’re ready to host a gift card shower, you might wonder where to find the best eGift cards.  

One of the most convenient options is Send Credit, a trusted platform that offers various eGift cards from popular retailers, restaurants, and services. 

How to Buy eGift Cards from Send Credit: 

How to Buy eGift Cards from Send Credit 

• Head over to the Send Credit website and browse their selection of eGift cards. 

• Select a card from various retailers or services, including baby stores, home goods, travel, and dining options. 

• After choosing the card, enter the recipient’s email address. 

• Finalize the purchase by entering your payment details. The eGift card will be instantly sent to the recipient’s inbox. 

Why Send Credit? 

Here’s why you should choose to send credit over other options: 

• Send Credit prioritizes the security of your transactions, ensuring that your payment information is kept safe. 

• eGift cards are delivered immediately, making them the perfect last-minute gift or option for virtual events. 

• Send Credit allows you to purchase eGift cards for people worldwide, making it easy to celebrate with loved ones no matter where they are. 

Conclusion 

Hosting a gift card shower is a modern, thoughtful way to celebrate life’s significant milestones. By focusing on eGift cards, you offer the honoree flexibility, reduce waste, and make the event convenient for in-person and virtual guests.  

With careful planning, a fun theme, and creative activities, your gift card shower will surely be a hit. Send Credit offers a secure and convenient platform for purchasing eGift cards, making gifting easy.