Countdown to Christmas: The Boyfriend

Dispelling the myth that men are easy to buy for, Deacon aims to bring you this handy gift guide for the man in your life. Yes, it's easy to buy a gift that a man will enjoy - they rarely fret about gifts like females. But is it easy to buy a thoughtful gift? Not so much.

Whether you've been together just a few months or are preparing to celebrate several years of marriage, these gifts will hopefully warm the very cockles of his heart.

We've generally been told that men like things they can play with, and of course, that means that power tools, golf/fishing/camping/hunting/tennis paraphernalia and even meat are appropriate gifts, but they can and should be purchased in moderation. Leave these mass purchases to his mother (or a side item as part of a larger gift) and while you're at it, eschew the new sweater. It's boring.

Depending on his preferences, how long you've been dating, and your budget, you'll enjoy these selections of fun finds as a standalone present or part of a larger gift.

New Love (Zero to Six Months)
I don't care if you're filthy rich - spending too much money before the six month mark will scare the $*P! out of any self-respecting male. The idea with these presents is to show that you have picked up on and listened to the things that he's interested in.

A tee time at his favorite golf course and new package of his choice of golf balls, perhaps even customized with his initials, ($34.99 at Red Envelope.com) would be a good option.





Not a golfer? No problem. It would be perfectly acceptable to cook him a swank dinner (he'll love anything from the Barefoot Contessa cookbooks, we guarantee) and serve his favorite beverage and present him with something small. What about Whiskey Rocks ($20) for his choice Bourbon or Scotch?






Young Love (Six Months to 1 1/2 Years)

We'd consider this the ideal time to purchase an "experience" gift. You're relatively cemented in your relationship, but haven't quite lost the luster just yet. Keep the spice coming by offering up a weekend away for the two of you (skiing at Wintergreen or a cozy stay at The Homestead?), a series of cooking classes, or even something just for him and his boys - a Cast n' Blast weekend of skeet shooting and fishing, perhaps?






If the aforementioned is a bit out of budget, plan an excursion to the local shooting range or fishing hole (Annapolis has great day rentals, as does St. Michaels). Offer up the gift in a thoughtful card and small "teaser" present - a great fleece from R.E.I. to wear while on the excursion, or a selection of the latest must-have lures from BassPro, perhaps?

Even if you're a high-heels and pearls kind of gal, he'll appreciate your efforts to experience his manly pursuits. Plus, what's fresher than catching your own dinner?


Look for Part II tomorrow, where we cover gifts for the longer-term relationships.