Christmas Shopping as a Man

Before I even start with the article, I'm going to point out that I put "Christmas" shopping in the title. That's because I'm a Christian and not the most politically correct person you'll ever meet. I didn't do it to offend anyone, but I'm not going to change it to "holiday" shopping just so people don't get offended, either. If you're offended, don't read it. You can substitute whatever holiday you celebrate this time of year for "Christmas" if you'd like, the shopping guidelines will be pretty much the same.

Now that I've got that out of the way, let's get down to the nitty gritty. If you're like me, you put off your Christmas shopping until the very last possible moment. In fact, there have been many years when I do my shopping on Christmas Eve. Terrible plan! I like to go to the mall to do my shopping (prior to the beauty of Internet shopping) because everything is in one place. PERFECT! One stop shopping! I'm not a huge fan of crowds, and if you've ever been out on Christmas Eve, apparently we're not the only ones to put off shopping until it's damn near too late.

For Other Men

So, what to buy? If you're buying for a friend, chances are you're like-minded individuals, or you at least know what he likes. Basically, get him something YOU would like to get. Tools, a hat or shirt of his favorite sports team, a good movie. Avoid the dumb shit that no one wants to get. Ties, sweaters, the things you get from your girlfriend or wife or mom or grandma that when you open it, you smile and say thank you, while thinking in the back of your mind, "Salvation Army, here we come." Buying for your Dad can be a little trickier. Being that he's from a different generation, if he's like my dad, pretty much the same stuff. Tools, sports memorabilia, things like that. But, he'd like a nice tie, too.

For a Woman

Here is the biggest dilemma of Christmas shopping for a man. What the hell do you buy your girlfriend/wife? Number 1 rule? NO CLOTHES!! Not unless you are 100% CERTAIN of the size and that it's something that she would like. 100% CERTAIN! If it's too big, she's too fat, if it's too small, she needs to lose weight. Lose, lose situation. Just avoid it. If you want to get her clothes, opt out and get a gift card. That way SHE can pick out whatever she wants. And if you really want to be a gentleman about it, TAKE her shopping the day after Christmas, or at least shortly thereafter, and suffer through the shopping with her. It will show her that you really care! Things to think about: lotions, bath salts/bubble bath, slippers, jewelry, again, most Christmas shopping comes down to how well you know the other person. Is there something you can remember she said she wished she had or wanted? Get it. For a wife, new cookware is appropriate, not so much for a girlfriend.

For the Kids

This might be even easier than shopping for another man, because kids will tell you (and tell you often) EXACTLY what they want for Christmas. As they get older, the gifts get more and more expensive, as anyone with kids around 10 or older will tell you. You don't necessarily have to get them exactly what they ask for, but that gives you a good guideline of what they want this year. Whatever toy is the best advertised on Nickelodeon or Disney Channel, or what their friends have.

One of the most important rules, have a budget, and keep track of what you've spent. The dollar signs can add up quick as you're throwing items into your cart or stacking them up in your hands. Just be careful with what you spend. It's easy to go overboard. I enjoy Christmas. I truly enjoy the giving more than the receiving. I love seeing my kids faces on Christmas morning when they see all the presents under the tree, and as they open each gift. I take pride in my gift buying ability, I believe it shows that I'm in tune with the ones I love. It really is the holiday for giving.


Merry Christmas (and Happy Holidays) and a Happy New Year to you and yours!

-Jason

Time to Man Up!