Finding the Right Valentine’s Gift… For Him
It’s that time of year again, Valentine’s Day. A holiday to shower your special someone with love. Although most men may not care about the holiday they are usually the ones expected to go all out for it. Now we all know the romantic expectations are set high, and men are often completely the ones who’s gifts are the ones to suffer in the mix of it all. This isn’t exactly breaking news, but I’ve decided that for today’s post I’d like to focus on the gifts that are usually marketed for men, but that most really don’t want.
Many men in relationships rarely receive the desired Valentines gifts that’s really for them. Shopping for men can be tricky, especially on a holiday like this one. The stuffed bears, chocolate or jewellery advertisements aren’t really marketed as gifts for the average guy. They’ll often receive something their girlfriend or wife thinks is cute or a popular cologne that’s all the rage unintentionally miss the mark with them. Unfortunately, most retailers do little to sway that notion. So, rather than fall into this trap and give you a list of gift ideas that the man in your life will love, I’ve put together a list of items to avoid because most guys are not vying for these gifts. So, let’s break down some of the usual gifts and hopefully you’ll have a better idea of what to get for that special guy in your life.
Sexy Board Game or Date Night Suggestions
The concept sounds like a great idea. There’s nothing wrong with spicing things up in the bedroom and trying something new, but as a gift for him… maybe not. This wouldn’t be at the top of most guys gift list. To most men a gift like this gift could be viewed as a subtle suggestion that there may be room for improvements in the bedroom. I’m telling you save your money and the pending frustration trying to decipher what he thinks of the gift. He hates it, it’s going to the back of the closet never to be played and ultimately will be donated to your local second-hand shop.
Artisanal or Valentine Themed Alcohol
This one isn’t it. I’ve heard many complaints and annoyances from guys who received a speciality package of artisanal beer and liquors that may be pink or Valentine’s themed. “You saw a 6 pack of pink beer and knew your man had to have it,” You tried it! I think most guys would be cool with a bottle of top shelf Rum, Whiskey or Wine. For men, there’s really no need to dress it up, add pink or red food colouring or a sparkly packaging.
Couple’s DIY Craft Projects
Let me be clear, this is not the average guys’ first choice gift. There’s nothing wrong with a couple’s DIY project, like the 2 clay hands or the couples photo collage, but as a gift for him it kind of a let-down. That said, if you’re with someone who’s an artist or really into art I think this is a great gift! It’s providing him an outlet to further explore his artistic side. So maybe tread lightly with this idea
“Cute” Clothing
I don’t know any guy who’s geeked up to wear some heart-shaped boxers, socks, t-shirt, or pajamas. They are great for the day and a quick photo opp. I think this may be the most offensive gift idea because it truly highlights how little this holiday has to do with him. If you’re not trying to start a fight than please avoid this gift option.
A Food Subscription
Now, I don’t get this one. Maybe if you’re with a foodie who likes to try new things, cool. Go for it. But this gift was never for me. But if you disagree on this one, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section.
Custom Condoms
Why?! I don’t get it. I’ve seen advertisements for monogrammed, designer (yes, you read that right) and novelty condoms and again I ask why? This seems more of a gag gift than anything else. A gift like this feels so off the mark and most guys would be dumbfounded with what reaction they would be expected to give. Nothing about this feels thoughtful, but if you think it’s a good idea consider it like a stocking stuffer as an extra add on to your other gift.
A Love Journal or Self-Help Books
Now, if your man does journal, then this gift may be a genius. However, if he’s never even kept a daily planner, I don’t think it’ll get the desired response. A lot of these journals include daily task and activities to be done, some men may take this gift as a sign of trouble in the relationship. This is a gift that would really require you to know the type of man you’re with.
Hopefully, eliminating this horrible gift ideas has clearly a brighter path and options for you to find the right gift for the man in your life. So, to anyone reading this I hope these fails have prompted you re-evaluate your gift for the special guy in your life. As always let’s keep the conversation going in the comments. Have you ever given any of these suggested gifts? What was the outcome? What are your thought on Valentine’s Day for men? Let’s get into it.