Friendships, Home Entertaining, Lifestyle

2018: Fran’s list of Gifts for Men

Putting thought into gifts for men takes a little effort, but it’s so very rewarding.

I admit it. I can get pretty particular sometimes. I still hand-write letters and thank you notes to friends and family. Yep. On paper! I admit my handwriting has gotten a bit sloppy over the years (I spend a lot of time on a keyboard) but I make the effort. And, I still read a paper newspaper and real books. Oh, I’m not a tech hermit by any means. After all, I write this blog, right? And I’m pretty engaged on social media (check out Instagram and the latest video about this post). I also love streaming video – so nice not to look at commercials. And I email, text, watch Vines. You know, the usual.

What I love about newspapers and books is the tactile experience of reading – touching the paper. I can pause, make notes, reflect about the story. Sure, the same can be said about digital copies but, you can’t hold the pages in your hands. And that’s the important part of the experience for me. Real-world paper gives me a real-world connection with the author. So, when I read a newspaper or book, it feels more personal.

I’m just as particular about giving gift cards. As hard as it can be to buy gifts for some friends, a gift card just doesn’t feel like a “real” present. Where’s the effort? Where’s the feeling of thinking about someone and being inspired to get a gift that fits the friendship and the person?

We all need a little help now and then for ideas. I can understand that. That’s why I take notes when a friend mentions something they love – on my phone – see? – tech can be very helpful! I spend the whole year thinking about my guy friends; about the things that would really make their eyes pop or at least make them smile. And, you can’t get that with a gift card. Not really.

Here’s my 2018 list – Gifts for Men:

Clase Azul Tequila. Maybe you’re thinking, what? Seriously, great tequila is a delicacy that a lot of my male friends really enjoy. And each bottle is a unique work of art. This year, I picked Clase Azul. To be perfectly honest, it’s become one of my favorite sipping tequilas so I make sure I always have a bottle in my bar at home too.

Wine Opener from L’Atelier Du Vin. Everyone needs a good one. And, for those who love wine, invariably you’ll have one or two that are either broken or not great. Get a good one from L’Atelier Du Vin for your friend so he’ll always be able to properly open the bottle of wine you brought to his party.

The Art of Shaving. My dad used to shave with a straight razor. Then everyone went to electric shavers because they were easier. And for a while, hand razors (with 3 or 5 blades) became the thing. Now, some guys are going back to ‘old school’ shaving. The Art of Shaving has them all. But if you really want to open some eyes, get him a straight razor kit, complete with shaving cream and a badger hair brush all in a cool travel kit!

Beanie & Scarf from Bloomingdale’s. If you live in cold weather, then what could be better than a cool beanie and scarf set from “Bloomies”? Even if you live in sunny Cali, there are enough cool days where a gift like this will warm the heart. Seriously – they’re so soft and warm – touch them to make sure they’re as soft as you want! The beanies and scarves, I mean.

Bang & Olufsen Wireless Headphones. This is one of those, “oh yeah,” gifts for the special guy. Of course, who doesn’t appreciate audio gear from B&O? But how about the Beoplay E8 – a truly great set of wireless Bluetooth headphones! Perfect for a power workout or a stroll around the neighborhood.

S’Well Water Bottle. Help him bring his own water to the gym and stay hydrated wherever he goes. And, look fashionable to boot! They have so many styles and treatments to choose from. I personally love the wood look – very masculine!

Sandro Travel Toiletry Bag. All men can use a new one. What’s not to like about one from Sandro of Paris? This one is so very stylish and roomy – it will fit everything he needs for a trip and it’s made from a durable “pique” nylon with leather details.

Okay, maybe I make this look a bit easy. But, the point is to put thought into your gifts – always think about what your friends would use and love to receive. Trust me, it will put a smile on your face when you see the look on theirs when they open your present.

COMPLETE YOUR TABLE

Friendships, Home Entertaining, Lifestyle

2018: Fran’s list of Gifts for Men

Putting thought into gifts for men takes a little effort, but it’s so very rewarding.

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