[Disclaimer: This includes sample text for a certificate and is not meant to be complete for every type of business. We are not responsible for omissions or subsequent actions as a result of using this guide.]
After reviewing thousands of gift certificates given to fundraising events, we've seen that the best-composed gift certificates have ALL these elements:
1) Logo/branding (i.e. XYZ Brewing Company and logo), even better if other photos or product pictures.
2) Descriptive Certificate Title (i.e. Tour and Tasting Certificate for Four)
3) Description that includes:
- Company information (assume the reader knows nothing about you)
- Testimonial or other social proof, such as reviews (used with permission) or ratings from trusted sites
- Clear description of what is included, and quantity
(For example: Take a peek inside one of the state's most award-winning breweries, located in beautiful downtown Anycity, VT. We've been honored with multiple medals at the ABC Craft Beer Competition every year since opening in 2010. Enjoy a personal 45-minute tour for four and learn a secret or two about how XYZ Brewing's favorite beers are made. Best of all, you'll finish off sharing two complimentary sampling flights of our delicious brews.)
4) Contact Information (address, phone number, email, and/or website address-- whatever is needed to redeem certificate, schedule appointment, or have questions answered)
5) Expiration Date (to encourage use in a timely manner)
6) Unique Certificate Number or Event Name (for tracking purposes)
7) Terms and Conditions (be clear about any limitations or restrictions to avoid disappointment. For example, one flight per couple, tours available hourly Thursday through Sunday between 11am and 8pm. Must be reserved at least 7 days in advance, please present this certificate upon arrival, etc.) See common gift certificate terms and conditions here.)