I don't know what it is about guys, but they seem to be notoriously difficult to buy gifts for. So in an attempt to remedy this problem, I'm going to list as many ideas as possible, sort of a brainstorming of creative possibilities. Use this list to inspire you, personalizing to your unique hubby.
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Helpful Ideas
Buy a small notebook to record his preferences and interests. What is his favorite color? What are his hobbies? Does he have a favorite football team? Would he appreciate a homemade gift? Does he like personalized items? Monograms? Also write out his clothing sizes and any kind of information that you think you might need (like he's missing a 3/4" wrench).
Listen to what he talks about for clues to what he might like. For example if he likes a particular Ansel Adams photo, look for a calendar with work from AA or perhaps a coffee table book with loads of his pictures.
Look at how he spends his free time. What interests or activities is he involved in? Then look for items that will compliment his interests and likes.
Consider item gifts (a basketball), activity gifts (tickets to a game), and service gifts (coupon to do his least favorite chore).
Remember to give him something that he likes, rather than something that you want him to like.
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Gift Ideas
Reading
a book that he has mentioned wanting
a book by his favorite author
books or magazines about his favorite interests
membership in a book or reading club
a gift certificate to his favorite bookstore (you can do this online too)
bookplates
a bookmark
bookends
Car Stuff
jumper cables
"Fix-it-Flat" (the big one with the hose)
latex gloves or towelettes with cleaner in them
a small tool kit for the trunk
a new tape or CD
a cup holder that really works
a pouch for important car papers
a flashlight
a first aid kit
a seat pad
hand lotion, kleenex and other travel toiletries
Clothes
socks
a tie
mittens/gloves
a hat
sunglasses
fun print boxers (have you seen the Sponge Bob boxers?)
new shoe laces for his tennis shoes
shoe polish or shoe care kit
belt or suspenders
Cooking/Grilling
an apron
mitts or hot pads
cooking or grilling tools
a chef's hat
recipe books/magazines
Food & Entertaining
throw him a surprise party
bake up a batch of his favorite cookies
fix his favorite meal (or give him a coupon good for his favorite meal)
create a gift basket of fun or exotic foods
Games
a new game
books/magazines on his favorite game
game equipment (like a new chess set)
computer game software
Gardening
gardening tools
gardening tool organizer/container
a hose reel
a garden journal (a small notebook in which you record garden activity)
gardening books/magazines
garden/landscape design software
Hobby related gifts - for an existing hobby or perhaps to start a new one
books/magazines on the hobby of choice
hobby materials (like coin sleeves for the coin collector)
Jewelry
rings
tietacks
cuff links
fun pins
a watch
Just for Fun
a kite or other childhood toy
his favorite candy
Personal Items
any item that he tends to run out of (be sure to get his favorite style or brand)
a new wallet
"manly" stationary/notes, include some stamps
a journal with a great looking pen
framed photos
camera
film
Relaxing time
an arm chair caddy for the tv remote
new earphones for his sound system
a tape or CD of his favorite artist
an afghan/throw for his favorite napping spot
a pillow for the same spot
Sports
a cushion for bleachers
books/magazines
tickets to a game
coupon good for munchies and drinks during the Superbowl
Work or Desk
a briefcase
a business card holder or container
desk organizers
a calendar
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Copyright © 2001-2005 Lori J. Byerly
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