It’s a difficult time of year for men, and it’s a common fact that most men dread the thought of Christmas shopping for gifts for the significant other in their life. What do you buy them? What do they like? These are just two of the many questions that will be rattling around men’s’ brains as they frantically scour the high street in their quest for the perfect gift.
Firstly, it pays to pay attention in the run up to Christmas, and it is likely that she will be dropping huge hints about what she wants.. DVDs of her favourite TV show or film; the latest fragrance, or a sparkler ring could all be subject to having heavy hints dropped.
Alternatively, or in addition think about her interests; is she taking a night class? If she is learning Italian you could surprise her with a romantic weekend in Rome.
Notice what kind of chocolate she devours, is she a dark or milk chocolate girl? Does she religiously read a particular monthly magazine? Perhaps she’d appreciate a year’s subscription.
Turn detective by checking out her perfume bottles – see if any are nearly empty and if you’re sure she’d love a new bottle, then you’ve taken care of at least one gift. Also, look at her skincare products – does she favor a particular brand? Most best-selling make up brands offer luxury Christmas gift sets – with more than one third of British women having at least one item from No7 in their makeup collection.
No7 products such as the ‘Cosmetic case’ and ‘Colour organiser collections’ could be winning gifts! When looking through her perfume and makeup, also study her bookshelf to see if she enjoys a particular theme or author – maybe they’ve written a new bestseller?
Christmas is a time for giving what people want, not what they might need and for most women, it’s a cert they would want to have something they wanted, not something they needed. This is especially true of items that are ‘useful’ around the house – which rules out such things as irons, washing machines and vacuum cleaners! Think about the kind of gifts she receives from her best friend; a voucher for a day of pampering at a spa or something indulgent, such as her favourite fragrance’s shower gel and body moisturizing cream.
If you’re really stuck then seeking the advice of her best friend is always a sure winner. Best friends know everything and she will be able to reel off ideas that will cover the next few birthdays and Christmases! She may even be happy to help you pick out some classy underwear that won’t be amongst the 40% of lingerie that is returned once Christmas is over, or some pretty jewelery that she knows your lady will love. You may have to bribe the best friend to keep quiet though!
If all else fails, ask a shop assistant. They will ask the right questions to get an idea of your loved one’s preferences and will be able to suggest some suitable gifts.
Also, remember to give yourself plenty of time. Leaving it until the last minute will not only cause extra stress, but you may find out your ideal gift has already sold out! It will also leave you plenty of time for that Christmas drink in the pub when you’re finished!
Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
