On Valentine’s Day, gift ideas for women are a no-brainer. Standbys like roses, a romantic dinner or jewelry usually do the trick. The tougher question is what to get for the man in your life. We spoke with Lisa Gaché, owner of Beverly Hills Manners, in search of some creative V-Day gifts for dudes.
The gift that keeps on giving.
“Magazine subscriptions make a nice gift for the man who has a particular passion or interest, whether it be cigars and wine or golf and luxury living,” Gaché says. Or order him a subscription to a general lifestyle mag that caters to his sensibility. He’ll enjoy looking forward to the new issues each month. If you really want to splurge, you can get him an e-reader and a digital magazine series.
DVD-Day
“If your man is a film or television buff, a limited edition purchase or series set wrapped in a red ribbon may make for the perfect gift,” Gaché suggests. “Add a jar of popcorn kernels, some truffle salt and enjoy a snack while watching a show in the privacy of your own home.”
Spruce him up.
Wallets, scarves, belts, gloves, watches, and the like, make great gifts because they are often pricey and therefore not something guys will splurge on for themselves.Adds Gaché: “You can tell a great deal about a man by his accessories. A quality wallet, belt, watch or shoes will dress up any outfit and exudes class and taste.”
Just the ticket.
If he’s had his eye on something—whether a sports, music or theatre event—now is a great opportunity to surprise him with a pair of tickets. “Treat him to something that will broaden his horizons,” Gaché suggests.
The Great Outdoors.
This one takes a little forethought and planning, but the payoff is sweet: Plan an outdoor hike to a romantic waterfall or scenic mountaintop. “Pack a small picnic of tantalizing foods to awaken his taste buds,” Gaché says. “A split of wine with a wedge of hard cheese, crusty bread, sweet grapes and dark chocolate will serve to heighten the mood.”
Pride and groom.
Men deserve some pampering too, so pick out some luxe products that he’d never buy for himself. “Nothing is more attractive than a well-groomed man,” Gaché says. “This doesn’t mean he has to be clean shaven, but a manageable amount of scruff or just the right scent of cologne is very appealing.”
Now that you’re armed with these ideas, there are no more excuses. Go forth and spoil the man in your life.