Whether it’s for my brother, my dad or my 85-year-old granddad, I hate shopping for men. They say they don’t want anything, but complain when you take that literally – you can’t win.
And as if family isn’t bad enough, boyfriends are even worse: “Yeah, just get me anything you want, I don’t care,” he says. But I’m sure if on Christmas morning I handed him a parcel containing those Topshop boots I’d been drooling over, he’d be less than impressed.
If you’re like me then don’t worry, I’ve compiled a short list of products that have helped me through a few Christmas present woes.
For the technology addict:
You can never have too many phone cases, laptop cases, or tablet cases, which is why these gifts from Bubblegum stuff are the perfect treat for your man. They come in all sizes and styles, with various patterns from vintage record players to old radios.
Boombox laptop/tablet cases £17.95
For the party animal:
This Ted Baker hip flask is great for people of all ages, your granddad can take it to golf, your boyfriend can take it to any upcoming parties, and your dad can take it to the weekend football.
Ted Baker hip flask, at cuckooland.com, £39.95
For the film fanatic:
Everyone loves a good film, and Anchorman has become a cult classic. If movies are your mans cup of tea, this 50Fifty mug is the perfect stocking filler.
Anchorman mug, 50Fifty Gifts, £6
For the sports enthusiast:
A lot of men love sports. It seems to be an unspoken rule that girls can always be dropped if the local pub is showing the footy, or in my dad’s case, nothing is more important than a good game of golf. So rather than whinge about the fact I always seem to come second, I play up to it. These novelty golf balls from gettingpersonal.co.uk are enough to light up any Tiger Woods wannabe’s Christmas morning.
Novelty golf balls, gettingpersonal.co.uk, £9.99
For the cooking savvy lad:
Whether it’s your way of making him cook the Christmas dinner this year or your other half loves to BBQ over the summer and his burnt numerous holes in his T-shirts, this novelty apron is fun but definitely serves a purpose.
Cave man apron, Bubblegum, £15.95