How to Add Gift Messages to Your Shopify Store in 2025

In today's competitive ecommerce landscape, offering gift messaging isn't just a nice-to-have feature—it's a revenue-driving necessity. Studies show that 68% of online shoppers are more likely to complete a purchase when they can include a personalized gift message, and stores with gift messaging features see an average 23% increase in conversion rates during peak gifting seasons.

Whether you're preparing for the holidays, Valentine's Day, or simply want to capture the year-round gifting market, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about adding gift messages to your Shopify store.

Why Gift Messaging Matters for Your Shopify Store

Before diving into the how-to, let's understand why gift messaging has become essential for modern ecommerce success:

1. Capture Two Customers With Every Sale

When someone sends a gift through your store, you're not just gaining one customer—you're potentially gaining two. The gift recipient experiences your brand, your packaging, and your products firsthand. With the right follow-up strategy, they can become a customer themselves.

2. Increase Average Order Value

Gift givers typically spend more than regular customers. They're often less price-sensitive and more focused on finding the perfect gift. Add-on services like gift wrapping and premium packaging can further boost your AOV by $5-15 per order.

3. Create Memorable Unboxing Experiences

A personalized gift message transforms a standard delivery into an emotional moment. This creates powerful brand associations and increases the likelihood of social sharing and word-of-mouth referrals.

Option 1: Using Shopify's Built-in Cart Notes

Shopify offers a basic cart notes feature that can be repurposed for gift messages. Here's how to enable it:

1. Access your theme editor: Go to Online Store → Themes → Customize
2. Navigate to cart settings: Click on the cart page or cart drawer
3. Enable cart notes: Look for "Enable cart note" or "Show note field"
4. Customize the label: Change "Order notes" to "Gift message (optional)"

Option 2: Installing a Dedicated Gift Messaging App

For a professional gift messaging experience, a dedicated app like WithGiftedprovides comprehensive features that cart notes simply can't match:

Step 1: Install the App

1. Visit the WithGifted app listing on the Shopify App Store
2. Click "Add app" to begin the installation
3. Authorize the necessary permissions
4. Complete the onboarding setup wizard

Step 2: Configure Your Gift Messaging Options

After installation, customize the experience to match your brand:

• Set character limits for gift messages
• Create message templates for common occasions
• Design your gift message card appearance
• Configure gift wrapping options and pricing
• Set up automated gift receipt emails

Step 3: Enable Price Hiding for Gifts

One of the most requested features for gift purchases is the ability to hide prices from recipients. This prevents awkward moments and maintains the surprise element:

• Automatically exclude prices from packing slips
• Send gift receipts without dollar amounts
• Create gift-specific invoices for givers only

Best Practices for Gift Messaging Success

Make It Visible

Don't hide your gift messaging option. Feature it prominently on product pages and in your cart. Consider adding a "Sending as a gift?" checkbox that reveals additional options.

Offer Message Templates

Some customers struggle with what to write. Provide occasion-specific templates they can customize:

• "Happy Birthday! Hope this brings you joy!"
• "Congratulations on your special day!"
• "Thinking of you and sending love!"
• "Thank you for being amazing!"

Test the Experience

Place a test gift order to experience the full journey from both the giver's and recipient's perspective. Check that:

• The message displays correctly on the printed note
• Prices are hidden where appropriate
• Emails are formatted correctly for both parties
• The unboxing experience meets your standards

Measuring Gift Messaging ROI

Track these metrics to understand the impact of your gift messaging feature:

Getting Started Today

Adding gift messaging to your Shopify store is one of the highest-ROI improvements you can make, especially if you sell products in giftable categories like:

• Jewelry and accessories
• Home décor and housewares
• Food and beverages
• Beauty and wellness
• Baby and kids products
• Pet products

The best time to implement gift messaging is before your next peak season. Don't wait until the holiday rush to scramble—set up your gift messaging infrastructure now and reap the benefits when it matters most.