The Guys' Place

If you're searching for the perfect Christmas present for that special lady in your life, there are some very definite things to do and to not do in order to impress. The number one mistake guys make is thinking that women want something you consider useful for Christmas. While you may be perfectly happy with a tool set, women definitely aren't impressed with things to work with. Forget blenders, irons and the such. If it's something she really needs, she expects you to get it for her throughout the course of the year or she'll get it for herself. Those types of necessary items aren't considered special or particularly gift-ish by most women.

Instead of utilitarian type items, focus on luxury type items that pamper and show her how special you think she is. A bottle of her favorite perfume is sure to please, but make sure you get it right and don't just pick up any old fragrance. If you're in doubt, ask her best friend, sister or mother to be sure before you head out the mall and risk spending good money on something she won't wear. Plus, in her mind, buying the wrong fragrance sends her the message that you don't pay attention to what she likes. Big mistake. 

Clothing can be very tricky and isn't really advisable as a gift choice. It can be done, but you have to be extremely careful. Do not, under any circumstances, buy her anything in the wrong size. Whether too big or too small she'll think you're calling her fat by getting anything other than the perfect fit. Either do some stealthy reconnaissance to find out the proper sizes or fall back on the best friend, sister or mother. It would be a better idea to even take them along on the shopping trip because there are very few guys that could pick out an article of clothing that would please their mate. Also, keep in mind that is for her, not you. Skimpy lingerie may be a fantasy of yours, but most of it is actually uncomfortable and she'll see through your selfish pervy trick. 

Gift certificates are for people you don't well enough to buy for. One of these under the tree will probably leave her colder than the winter snow. There are a few exceptions. If your lady is an avid reader, but you don't feel comfortable picking out a specific title for her, she might appreciate a gift certificate to her favorite bookstore. Just be sure that's not her only gift. Women like something that shows you put some thought into it. When buying for a woman, the old adage that it's the thought that counts is definitely true. Show her you put time and effort into picking out the gift and you'll stay out of the doghouse.

Do some research. You may not have a lot of time to spend in the malls and your significant other's favorite boutiques, but you can do a little web surfing for the perfect gift. You'll often even save some money by buying online. The only drawback is that this not a good option for procrastinators. You need to start early and make sure you order in time to have the items shipped before Christmas. A great new site with lots of different gift ideas is Coffman's. It features lots of different departments like health and beauty, home decor, sporting goods and more, so you can find something to suit just about anyone on your holiday shopping list, including that special lady. 

The main things to remember when shopping for a female are that they want to see that you put some time, effort and thought into the selection of the gift. It's not so much about how much money you spend as it is about how much time you spend. Give her something that shows that you know her and know what she likes, what her interests are. And don't skimp on the giftwrap. Women appreciate beautifully wrapped gifts. That doesn't mean you should cop out and have the department store wrap them so they're perfect. Knowing that you took the time to wrap the gift yourself will mean nearly as much to her as what's inside. If you keep these tips in mind, you might just wind up with a kiss under the mistletoe this year. Happy holidays.