Who doesn’t love getting gifts? Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or a random act of kindness—gifts make us happy. Now imagine your customers feeling that joy every time they shop with you. That’s the power of an awesome ecommerce gift strategy. And guess what? You can build one that boosts your sales all year long.
This isn’t rocket science. Just some smart moves, great timing, and a little creativity. Ready to turn shopping into gifting magic? Let’s walk through it together.
Why a Gift Strategy Matters
People like buying gifts. It’s thoughtful. It’s generous. It means they care.
So, if your store makes it easy and fun to buy gifts, people will keep coming back. Not just in December. But in February, July… every month of the year.
Here’s why you’ll love having a gift strategy:
- It increases sales during slow seasons.
- It makes shopping easier for your customers.
- It sets you apart from boring competitors.
Now, let’s dive into how to build yours!
1. Know Your Gift-Giving Occasions
Sure, there’s Christmas. And Valentine’s Day. But there’s a whole calendar of reasons people buy gifts.
Think about:
- Mother’s Day and Father’s Day
- Graduations
- Anniversaries
- Baby showers
- Housewarmings
- “Just because” moments
Make a list of the top ones for your audience. Then, plan themed promotions around them. Be ready a few weeks early—so shoppers aren’t stressed.
2. Create Gift Collections
This is a big one. People don’t always know what to buy. Help them out!
Make gift collections that are easy to browse. Try categories like:
- Gifts Under $25
- Gifts for Her
- Birthday Gifts
- Unique Gifts for Dad
Suddenly, you’re a gift expert. Not just a store.
3. Offer Gift Wrapping
It might seem small. But it’s a game changer.
Many shoppers want convenience. If they can check a box for gift wrapping, they’ll LOVE it. Bonus points if you let them add a personal note.
Offer several styles for holidays or occasions. Add photos so they know what to expect.
You can add a small fee. But don’t overcharge. Make it feel like extra value.
4. Sell Digital Gift Cards
This one’s a no-brainer. Especially for last-minute shoppers.
Gift cards mean:
- No guessing sizes or preferences
- Instant delivery
- Your brand stays top of mind
Make your gift cards look beautiful. Add an option to pick the delivery date. People love that.
5. Add a “Send as a Gift” Feature
Online shoppers want hassle-free options. Let them send anything as a gift right from your product page.
Make this feature simple. Add steps like:
- Check “Send as a Gift”
- Enter recipient’s details
- Write a note (optional)
- Choose wrapping (optional)
If you use Shopify, BigCommerce, or WooCommerce—there are plugins for this. Use them.
6. Personalized Recommendations
Here’s how to shine: Show shoppers what their friend or family member would love.
You can use tools that recommend items based on browsing history or occasion tags.
Example:
Someone searches “gift for dog lovers.” You show them mugs, dog toys, matching tees, and more. Easy win.
7. Add Gifting to Your Email & SMS
If you send emails or texts (and you should!), include gift-focused campaigns.
Try things like:
- “Gift Ideas for Dad – Just in Time for Father’s Day!”
- “Last-Minute Gifts That Ship Fast”
- “5 Perfect Gifts Under $50”
Make your subject lines fun. Add emojis. Countdown timers. Urgency sells.
8. Don’t Forget the First-Time Gifter
Lots of new customers find your store when they’re shopping for someone else. Make that experience GREAT.
What to do?
- Offer a first-time discount
- Send a thank-you note with their purchase
- Invite them to join your email list
That one-time gifter might love your products too. Turn them into a fan!
9. Use Customer Reviews & Photos
Shoppers trust shoppers. They want to know: Did other people love gifting this?
Encourage reviews that talk about gifting. Even better if customers upload a picture of the item wrapped or being unboxed!
Add those to your product pages to inspire confidence. And conversions.
10. Think Beyond the Holidays
The key to year-round sales? Don’t wait for Christmas!
Plan monthly “mini gifting moments.” For example:
- February: Galentine’s Day
- March: Teacher appreciation
- May: Graduation season
- August: Back-to-college kits
Be creative. Make your store the go-to for surprising someone any time of year.
Bonus Ideas That Boost Gifting Sales
- Add a gift reminder calendar feature for customers
- Create seasonal gift guides on your blog
- Run social media contests like “Nominate a Friend to Win a Gift Card”
All these ideas help make gifting feel fun, personal, and effortless.
Start Small, Grow Fast
Feeling inspired? Good. You don’t have to do everything at once.
Pick 2 or 3 strategies to start. Like gift wrapping, collections, and digital cards. Watch what works. Then add more from there.
Remember: People want easy. They want useful. They want to make someone smile without stressing for hours.
That’s what your ecommerce gift strategy delivers. And when you get it right? You’re not just selling stuff. You’re delivering joy. All. Year. Long.
Which strategy will you try first?