You go online to Swellr and buy a gift certificate for a local store, say a restaurant, boutique or grocery store.

FORBES: Buying local helps schools thrive

You cant expect forgiveness from a miffed spouse with a certificate from the local warehouse store.

FORBES: Soothing angry spouses

At some sites, the giver chooses the store where the gift certificate will be used.

CNN: Shoppers, computer