Instagram isn’t just about posting photos and videos! The direct messaging (DM) feature lets you connect with friends and followers, and one neat trick is adding a bit of surprise with “gift messages“. These messages pop open with a cute animation, making them perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just sending some good vibes.
How to Send a Gift Message on Instagram
- Fire Up the DMs: Open the Instagram app and tap the little paper airplane icon (top right corner). This takes you to your direct messages.
- Choose Your Chat: Either start a new conversation with someone or open an existing chat thread where you want to send the gift message.
- Start Typing: Begin composing your message like you usually would – a simple “Happy Birthday!” or a longer greeting works just fine.
- Find the Magic Button: Before hitting send, look for the little magnifying glass icon on the left side of the text box. Tap that!
- Gift Time: You’ll see several colorful options for jazzing up your message. The one you want is the icon with a wrapped present on it. Tap the “Gift” icon.
- Send with Flair: Your message will now be wrapped like a gift! Hit send, and your friend will have to tap to unwrap your special greeting.
If you tap the “Gift” icon multiple times, you can cycle through different wrapping paper and ribbon styles for an extra bit of personalization. You can even use the gift effect for sending photos or videos in your DMs! Gift messages are a lighthearted way to brighten someone’s day on Instagram. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
