For Guaranteed Satisfaction, Try a Downers Grove Gift Card

Face it.  Your best gift-giving intention have the potential of being a dreadful flop unless the recipient has the exact same taste as you. An unlikely scenario.

So why not let the people you're buying for pick out their own great gifts for the holidays to guarantee satisfaction? Downers Grove-area businesses and organizations have made it easy and fun for people to receive what they'll truly love through gift cards. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Downers Grove Downtown Management

Give the gift of downtown Downers Grove. This truly inspired gift card permits the recipient to shop, eat, drink, smoke, read, get pampered—virtually whatever they'd like.  The all encompassing gift certificate, available in $10 increments, can be used at any downtown merchant (with the exception, due to corporate policies, of Caribou and Starbucks).

 The appeal of the gift certificates has even crossed state lines. "We've had calls from people in Minnesota that want to buy a gift for a relative living in Downers Grove," said Linda Kunze, executive director of Downers Grove Downtown Management.

The gift certificates, which are available year round and do not expire, are particularly popular right now. "It helps the worry about picking out the perfect gift and eliminates the need to drive around looking for presents," Kunze said.  The downtown is a treasure trove of possible gifts, with something for virtually everyone, she added. For further information, a list of locations to pick up gift cards, or to order online, visit www.downtowndg.org.

2. Downers Grove Park District

Give the gift of a round of golf, gym passes, or some great culinary classes. Downers Grove Park District offers gift cards which can be used for participation in any of the great programs or activities that it offers. The gift cards are available in any denomination and do not expire.

"They're pretty popular," said Brandi Nice, public information supervisor for the Park District. From now through December 22, the Park District is running a holiday gift card special. For every gift card purchase totaling $50, you will also receive your choice of a five-visit open gym pass, $15 off of a party package or $15 off of an indoor facility rental.  For further information visit www.dgparks.org.

3. Classic Cinemas Reel Money

There is no destination in Downers Grove that is as beloved, unique and entertaining as the Tivoli Theatre. The beautifully renovated historic theater features not-quite–first run movies at the bargain admission price of $4 ($2.50 extra for 3-D films). Even the popcorn and beverages are reasonably priced. Tivoli's Classic Cinemas Reel Money gift cards, which are available for $10 to $100, can be used like cash for movies and snacks. The cards can be used at any Classic Cinema throughout the Chicago area, but really, why would you go anywhere else?

4. Joy of Spa Constantine Holiday Special Promotions

After all of the hustle and bustle of preparing for the holidays, the gift of pampering is sure to please. Gift certificates at Spa Constantine can be personalized and e-mailed or printed directly from your computer. A current holiday promotion includes a 45-minute Swedish massage, 30-minute body scrub, microdermabrasion, La Europa facial, manicure and pedicure.  The package, which is valued at $423, is offered for the holidays for $229. Spa Constantine has countless other packages and services. For further information or to order a gift certificate, visit www.spaconstantine.com.

5. Dinners by Design

A lot of people enjoy actual cooking, but don't like the prep work leading up to it.  This fun concept in meal planning and preparation has gift certificates available in any denomination.  Dinners by Design offers the ability to prepare fresh, healthy delicious meals in their kithen. The staff does all of the shopping, chopping and set-up; you go in and assemble meals to bring home to cook and serve.  Dinners by Design also has an option whereby you can have prepared meals delivered to your home. For further information visit www.dinnersbydesign.com.