I’m terrible at figuring out gifts for men, so why I ever said I would post this is beyond me. I am really hoping all of you will leave brilliant comments of gift ideas for men. Because you all have brilliant ideas, right? Oh good, I knew I could count on you.
- Games
Most men love strategy games. I mentioned a few in my Gifts of Games post like Risk, Settlers of Catan and Manhattan. If you’re looking for a game you can play with your strategy game lovin’ guy, I really think you’ll both like Manhattan. I like it a lot, even more than Settlers of Catan, which I like quite a bit too. Another fun strategy game is what we affectionately call “the bean game”. It’s really called Bohnanza, but you “plant beans” and “trade beans” and it’s quite fun. It’s just cards and it’s not complicated (but it is strategic) and it’s inexpensive. I love uncomplicated games. I know we’re talking about what MEN like, but hey, if you’re wanting to get him a game you’ll like too, Manhattan and Bohnanza score high on my list.
- Books
Books are great if the man on your list is a reading kind of guy. My husband is usually reading three or four books at once. His latest favorite is 48 Days to the Work You Love by Dan Miller. Together, we’ve been reading Saving Your Marriage Before it Startsby Les and Leslie Parrott. Our marriage started 16 years ago, but we are still enjoying this book. We’ve heard great recommendations for UnCommon: Finding Your Path to Significance, by Tony Dungy.
- Clothes
Men usually don’t buy their own clothes, so this is what I usually resort to buying when I can’t think of anything else. Original, I know.
- Music
Hopefully you know the kind of music the man you’re purchasing for likes. If not, iTunes Gift Cards are great!
- Coupons
You’re only limited to your imagination on this one. You can give a “Pie of the Month” coupon book, a “Romantic Dinner” coupon book, a “Favorite Meals” coupon book, “Favorite Desserts” coupon book…whatever the man you’re giving the coupon book to would enjoy.
- Tools
If you’re really lucky, he’ll want/need a tool that actually fits under the tree and costs less than your wedding ring. Unfortunately, he probably already has a hammer.
- Camping Gear, Sports Gear, Hunting Gear, Fishing Gear
Or whatever gear he’s into. And doesn’t already have.
And that, my friends, is about all my brain could come up with. What are your ideas for gifts for men? Anything. Anything at all. Bring on the ideas!
I have learned during my last 13 stocking stuffing years that filling stockings with junk is a waste of money and toy box space. There are all kinds of little things on the ends of store aisles that are touted as “Great Stocking Stuffers”, but they’re made of junk. The kids will play with them for a total of two minutes before they get lost under the couch cushions.
