Function vs. Sentiment
No, a man wouldn’t melt in bliss if you gaze into his eyes, stare into the skies, and name a star after him. I bet he wouldn’t even give that decorative knickknack a second look. Men give gifts as an economic exchange. So instead of coming up with a bath filled with rose petals, think more in the lines of function. Get something he could hold on to and use. Maybe you can get him a new golf club or fishing rod, depending on his interests and hobbies.
Listen to what he wants
Unlike women, where listening to hints are usually enough to give you an idea of the perfect gift, men can be more subtle. In fact, instead of dropping hints, he could just come right out and say what he wants. This is easier for you. So, instead of dreaming up a lovely surprise, just get what we wants as this can be ideal.
Remember to always pay attention to what he wants. There’s no use buying an item because you want it, or because you think it’s what he would want. It’s a gift for him after all, not for you.
Focus on his interests and hobbies
In looking for a functional present for man, make sure that it involves something he truly enjoys, as a hobby or interest. You, of all people, should know what he’s really into, so focus on that.
If he’s the sports enthusiast, then you could get him tickets to a sporting event, or a sports memorabilia such as an item with his favorite team logo. If he’s into collecting something, buy him a present that will add to his collection, like a new coin he’s been after perhaps. If he’s the businessman type, you can get him a new briefcase or a new gadget such as a laptop or PDA. If he’s the music buff, you can get him a new instrument, free guitar lessons, tickets to his favorite band’s concert, new headphones, or an iPod. If he loves watching movies, you can get him a portable DVD player, a surround sound system, or a couple of CDs and DVDs. Adventurous-type? No problem. Get him new sports gear and equipment, plane tickets to some far away place, gadgets like GPS or the latest metal detector.
Avoid giving generic “token” gifts
Giving generic “token” gifts like socks, underwear or tie will give your man the impression of “low cost and low effort”. It wouldn’t seem as if you put much thought into it. It is also less personal and creative. It shouldn’t be a type of gift you can give to anyone. Make it special and personalized to fit your man’s interests.
Go homemade or do-it-yourself
Men like it if they feel special too. A thoughtful gift will make
him feel supported, loved, and cared for. You can whip him up a
batch of his favorite cookies and put it in a basket. You can also
paint a picture of something he likes, and etc. Be creative and
unique. Through this, your man can truly say that there’s no other
gift like his.
A few Suggestions:
Circuit City
Office Depot
Best Buy
Apple
Golf
Lowes
Home Depot
Office Max
Marriott
Nascar
Dell
Tickets (vacation)