By RJ Bardsley
Well, it’s June again and we all know what that means – time to go shopping for that guy who’s either always asking to borrow the car or always lending you the car. That’s right – it’s Dads and Grads Season. This year for D&G Season, we’ve put together a quick list of things you should consider when shopping for your Dad or Grad. OK, so this is a little bit of a different take on a gift guide – we’re not going to tell you what to buy (we don’t have any advertisers yet, and so that won’t really make much difference to us anyway). Instead, we’re going to suggest five things that you may want to keep in mind when shopping for that special someone.
Top Five Things to Consider for Dad’s Gift:
1 – Consider his Style. Your dad/hubby probably doesn’t care all that much about fashion. Yes – this is a broad generality, but they call them “generalities” because they’re generally true. Now I’m sure there are some dads out there that really do cut a swath when they enter 29 Newbury or have brunch in Chelsea, but odds are it’s not your dad or husband. If you are going to buy him clothes, don’t buy him something you think is cute or fashionable – buy him something that aligns with his sense of style. Take the time to go through his closet and observe the colors, patterns and cuts that he likes, then make your decision.
2 – No New Hobbies. Your dad / hubby is a grown man. He’s spent a lifetime cultivating the hobbies and past times that he likes. Just because you buy him a new bowling ball doesn’t mean he’s going to start bowling. If you’re going to buy hobbyist gear, buy him something that matches up with the stuff he already does. Want another quick tip – focus on items that need frequent replacement: gloves for gardeners or landscaping enthusiasts; wrenches or sockets for mechanics (yes, they do need frequent replacement – unless your dad is a Virgo); brushes or paper for painter dads; etc.
3 – There is No Team in Fathers Day. Your dad spends his whole life thinking team – odds are that almost everything he does is for the rest of the family. Unless you’re planning a trip together, think of gifts that are all about him. Giving a father’s day gift that the whole family can use is not really giving a father’s day gift.
4 – You Don’t Have to Think Big. Father’s Day is a Hallmark holiday – let’s be clear about that. It was invented to sell cards. But, that doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea. It’s an excellent idea – taking a day to step back and appreciate that man that made you possible is a really special thing. The main idea here is to give him something that lets him know you’re a fan. It doesn’t have to be a big gift, so take that pressure off of yourself. It can be something small, something fun and just a little something to let him know how much he means to you. All that said, don’t be a total cheapskate – the tiny booze bottles from the airplane don’t count as a gift.
5 – Say I Love You With Time. Here’s the really big deal about Father’s Day – spend the day with your dad. It doesn’t matter what you get him, just spend time with him (unless you really don’t get along, then a phone call will probably be OK). Seriously – go over to your parent’s house and give whatever gift you’ve gotten to him in person; take time out of your life and just chill with the pops. That’s what it’s really all about.
Top Five Things to Consider for Grad’s Gifts:
1 – Give Money
2 – Give Money
3 – Give Money
4 – Give Money
5 – Give Money. If money is not available, give travel. Airplane vouchers are a close second to cash.
Wonderful blog – and #5 is what it is all about – for those of you who are fortunate enough to still have your Dad – enjoy each and every single second you can, don’t take one moment for granted….you will never know how much you will miss him when he is gone!!!!
when I first heard the song “Cat’s in the Craddle,” it always stuck in my head, RJ – and you touched upon what it is to keep in real. Good one. You are on a roll Hank!
You’re right on with this blog Rj. I love it. Time is free, but worth millions when spent with a Dad.