|
Hi Ngaire!
I got the idea to offer a 'gift certificate' from a post here on the forum as well... Wasn't able to find boxes as nice as I'd seen posted here, but I did find some 'Treasure Boxes' with greeting card tops at the local Hallmark store. I've adapted these to serve as presentation boxes for a portrait gift certificate by removing the greeting card and substituting it with something appropriate to the occasion of the gift. (PaintShop Pro, an inkjet printer, and card stock from Staples came in handy here.) Similarly, I customize the text of the gift certificate card itself.
The gift certificate that I've used is more of a notification to the gift recipient and does NOT specify a dollar amount, although I guess it could specify portrait size or something along those lines. I will provide the gift certificate only when I have a signed contract and deposit in hand... (although the terms of that contract... size/dimensions of the portrait, etc. may be 'soft' until the actual photo shoot, and image selection). The flexibility of offering a gift certificate can turn an inquiry with conditions into a signed contract. (For example, if they want a portrait for a special occasion and you can't accomodate with your schedule, or they want the gift to be a surprise, but you need the subject's cooperation for a photo shoot.) It did for me in the example I've shown!
Haven't yet done an auction certificate, but am planning to offer something at a local charity auction event this Spring. Haven't figured out yet whether it's better to offer a specific amount off, or a percentage discount? I think in any case for an auction, what's being offered (and any limitations, time to redeem or otherwise) should be very clear on the face of the certificate to avoid issues down the road... I'll be following this thread with interest to hear what people who've been there/done that have to say!
Shown below are the exterior and interior of the gift box as well of the (folded) gift certificate card. The 'Treasure Box' , 'To:', 'From:' and '...because memories are timeless treasures of the heart' text on the inside lid of the box were glued on, but seemed reasonably appropriate to the portrait concept, so I just went with it...
|