One of my family members who shall remain nameless (OK, it's my husband) always buys himself everything he needs, even right around the holidays. My brother, on the other hand, also lives by the "treat yourself" motto and if he wants a new video game, a new pair of kicks or a hot new book, he just buys them himself. And I'm sure I'm not alone in always needing a couple of gifts for people I just don't know well enough to choose something personal; whether it's the office White Elephant exchange, secret Santa gift or a get-together at a friend-of-a-friend's house that calls for a hostess offering. When confronted with these sticky gift-giving situations, sometimes a gift card is the best option.

Don't clutch your pearls just yet – the best gift cards are anything but a cop-out. We love these choices because they let the recipient pick out their own present (perfect for that shopaholic in your life) and may even help your friends and loved ones discover a new favorite retailer. Grab a pretty card, write a thoughtful message inside (one of these Christmas quotes, perhaps?) and add one of these great gift cards. Holiday exchange: solved.