comparison

Promise gift vs gift card

Both are instant and convenient. The difference is what you are really giving — money to spend, or moments you will make happen together.

Promise gift

Gift card

What they receive

Promise gift

Personal promises you write — dinners, days out, time together

Gift card

A balance or code to spend at a shop or brand

How personal it feels

Promise gift

Very — your words, your plans, your relationship

Gift card

Often generic — the same voucher anyone could send

What makes it memorable

Promise gift

Anticipation of future moments you promised

Gift card

Flexibility to buy what they want

Delivery

Promise gift

Instant secure link — text, WhatsApp, or email

Gift card

Usually instant code or email voucher

Recipient experience

Promise gift

Animated envelope opening into a keepsake booklet

Gift card

Checkout screen or printed code

App or account needed

Promise gift

No — opens on any phone

Gift card

Usually no, but depends on the retailer

Last-minute option

Promise gift

Yes — create and send in minutes

Gift card

Yes

Typical cost

Promise gift

From £1.75 for one promise

Gift card

Often £10–£100+ depending on amount

Choose a promise gift when…

  • You want the gift to feel unmistakably from you
  • You are giving time, plans, or experiences — not shopping credit
  • A voucher would feel impersonal for this relationship
  • You want a beautiful opening moment, not just a code
Create a promise gift

Choose a gift card when…

  • They explicitly asked for money toward something
  • You genuinely do not know their taste and they prefer to choose
  • Flexibility matters more than a personal gesture

Still torn? Open the demo envelope to see what a promise gift feels like, or browse gift ideas by occasion.

Common questions