While I'm not a supporter of gift cards as a default gift, sometimes, it's the perfect choice.

Give gift cards to:

• Teachers. They don't want another "World's Best Teacher" mug or a plaque or bath salts or cheap chocolate. They would like a gift card to an office supply store, a craft store, or a bookstore so that they won't have to spend their own money on things they need for the classroom. (Or, a good bottle of wine. Most teachers I know like wine!)
• People who work for or with you. Gift cards allow you to recognize the holiday while maintaining a professional distance.
• Folks on fixed incomes. When people have limited disposable income, they often have to give up favorite pastimes. Gift cards for favorite restaurants or related to hobbies (movies, crafts, etc.)allow them to rediscover things they enjoy!
• People who live far away, especially when shipping would be a problem. Let's face it. It's easier to mail a gift card than a vase.
• People who are trying to tame the clutter in their home. Unless you are 100% sure that you are giving them something they need, a gift card (particularly for an experience like the movies or a restaurant or something adventurous) is a gift they can enjoy without adding to the clutter.