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40 Stylish Gifts for Modern Men
Houzz Gift Guide 2010: What to Buy for the Guy Who Has (Almost) Everything
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta... More »
For this gift guide, we thought outside the man-cave stereotype to bring you ideas for the sophisticated, modern gentleman with an eye for detail. Then we threw in goodies for all sides of his personality: a bit of fraternity/men's club member, a dash of Darth Vader, a little surfer dude, a dollop of science nerd, a tablespoon of sports fanatic, a hint of handyman, a pinch of outdoorsy guy...you get the picture. We have a little something for every man.
We'd love your best idea for gifts for guys, too. Add a link to the perfect gift for men in the comments section below and tell us why you think he'll love it.
We'd love your best idea for gifts for guys, too. Add a link to the perfect gift for men in the comments section below and tell us why you think he'll love it.
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What modernist can't resist a piece of Eames? This set of hooks also comes in an array of bright colors, but I love this more masculine version. It will only be in production for a few months, so grab it while you can!
Welded steel frame with black powder coat; solid walnut balls
H 14.75" W 19.75" D 6.5"
$249.00
Welded steel frame with black powder coat; solid walnut balls
H 14.75" W 19.75" D 6.5"
$249.00
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I don't want to make a vast generalization about men, but about 90% of those I know could use one of these sleek magazine racks as an alternative to a stack of magazines on the back of the commode.
Stainless steel Overall
3.51" H x 13.65" W x 13.65" D
$94.71
Stainless steel Overall
3.51" H x 13.65" W x 13.65" D
$94.71
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These simple cardboard speakers are beautiful in their simplicity. They can add big tunes to your workspace without all any unsightly stereo clutter.
Can be plugged them into your personal stereo's headphone jack
Made of cardboard and electronic components
Size : 3.1 x 3.3 x 3.1"
Maximum input power 2W
$38.00
Can be plugged them into your personal stereo's headphone jack
Made of cardboard and electronic components
Size : 3.1 x 3.3 x 3.1"
Maximum input power 2W
$38.00
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| Obviously, choosing a photograph for someone is very personal, but the selection at nytstore.com has endless possibilities. They even have a section called Fifty Photographs where five of today's top interior designers have curated ten of their own favorite shots. I'm going to link you to the one shown above, but be sure to shop around for the perfect image for your loved one once you land in the store.
Exhibition Quality Fine Art Print Printed On Archival Paper Your Choice Of Frame And Mat 11" x 14" Unframed - $199.00 (there are larger sizes and framing options available) |
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| Houzz Contributor and blogger at Simple Classic Living Jonathan Baker says "This thoughtful book of simple rules, classic quotes and endearing illustrations is a perfect addition to any classic man's library. A sort of modern day gentleman guide for the attention-span generation, it's unique color, size and entertaining tidbits make it perfect to display in nearly any room in the house. Put it out and watch your guests delightfully lose themselves for a minute or two. And then ask where you got it."
$11.99 |
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You don't have to be a geology buff to appreciate these stunning quartz coasters. Each is unique and so interesting that you may NOT want anyone to cover it up with a martini glass!
made of polished agate
each is unique
each varies in size, shape & color
$18.00 each
made of polished agate
each is unique
each varies in size, shape & color
$18.00 each
by Ralph Lauren
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This classic red and black throw adds color and warmth to a bedroom or den. Help your favorite guy keep warm when the pre-programmable thermostat is stuck on some energy-saving temperature.
Finished with a 4" rolled fringe.
54" x 72"
80% alpaca, 15% wool, 5% nylon. Dry clean. Imported.
$150.00
Finished with a 4" rolled fringe.
54" x 72"
80% alpaca, 15% wool, 5% nylon. Dry clean. Imported.
$150.00
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How far MP3 speakers have come! This sleek and stylish vintage modern radio is a beautiful and functional object.
Wood with hand-rubbed finish.
AroundSound® technology provides a clean, consistent surround-sound effect.
Portable audio ready: Plugs into an iPod® or any portable audio device or MP3 player.
AM/FM radio with analog tuner, orange LED tuning indicator and 5:1 ratio tuning dial.
Includes auxiliary input and output.
Headphone jack.
External antenna.
3" studio driver.
7.5"w x 5.75"d x 5.25"h.
$99
Wood with hand-rubbed finish.
AroundSound® technology provides a clean, consistent surround-sound effect.
Portable audio ready: Plugs into an iPod® or any portable audio device or MP3 player.
AM/FM radio with analog tuner, orange LED tuning indicator and 5:1 ratio tuning dial.
Includes auxiliary input and output.
Headphone jack.
External antenna.
3" studio driver.
7.5"w x 5.75"d x 5.25"h.
$99
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by UncommonGoods
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| For the die-hard Scotch fans: These "rocks" don't melt, so they keep things cool AND "neat", i.e. they will cool a drink without watering it down.
Soapstone Cubes will chill but will not scratch the glass $19.50 for a set of 9 |
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Houzz Contributor and blogger at Simple Classic Living Jonathan Baker says "Anyone can buy a highbrow wine opener or unique barware, but this kind of understated intentionality is bound to have a memorable impact on party guests. So whether you’re hosting in-the-know mixology heads or just regular ol’ drinkers who never knew ice could be presented in such a tasteful way … this is how a cocktail should be served."
Tray makes six oversized cubes
$9.95
Tray makes six oversized cubes
$9.95
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You really cannot beat the look of a classic globe in a study or library. What's so great about this one is that the graphics are stunning, and you can choose from a black or ivory globe, as well as from a variety of bases and even add a stand if necessary.
Diameter: 7" Base: 4.25" x 0.5"
3-leg stand: 4.75" x 6"
$39.90
Diameter: 7" Base: 4.25" x 0.5"
3-leg stand: 4.75" x 6"
$39.90
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This is the original Swiss Army knife. Whether your man is a survivalist or bottled beer drinker, the only place this will not come in handy is at airport security.
Contains a large stainless-steel blade, two screwdrivers, can and bottle openers, wire stripper and reamer
The slim, aluminum-oxide case is textured for no-slip grip
4-1/2" long
$38.00
Contains a large stainless-steel blade, two screwdrivers, can and bottle openers, wire stripper and reamer
The slim, aluminum-oxide case is textured for no-slip grip
4-1/2" long
$38.00
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No tote bag in the history of tote bags is as indestructible as a tote from Bean's. This camouflage version is perfectly on trend with current military chic style for both men and women, and can be used around the home to store magazines, logs, or anything else.
1,200-denier polyester stands up to rugged use
Water-resistant, thermoplastic interior coating keeps gear dry
Large: 3¾"H x 16"W x 8¼"D.
Large $24.00 (also comes in Medium and Extra Large)
1,200-denier polyester stands up to rugged use
Water-resistant, thermoplastic interior coating keeps gear dry
Large: 3¾"H x 16"W x 8¼"D.
Large $24.00 (also comes in Medium and Extra Large)
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Nothing beats flannel sheets on a cold winter night. The ticking stripe pattern is a classic that will never go out of style (it's really fun to play around with the little mix and match tool at llbean.com too!).
100% Cotton
Prices vary depending on size and item.
100% Cotton
Prices vary depending on size and item.
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Sometimes dudes want to be stylish hosts without looking like they've tried too hard. These candleholders are made from recycled beer bottles. Tealights are not included, so grab a big bag of them at IKEA to go with it.
Dimensions: 11H x 2.75D.
Color: antiqued mercury
$20.99
Dimensions: 11H x 2.75D.
Color: antiqued mercury
$20.99
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Nerd Alert? No Way! What guy wouldn't want this hilarious Darth Vader Alarm Clock? It's funny to wake up to, or to use as a conversation piece in the den – this clock may just make him want to go over to the dark side. Use the force!
Plugs in or requires a 9 volt battery, not included
6.75"w, 7"d, 7"h
$42.00
Plugs in or requires a 9 volt battery, not included
6.75"w, 7"d, 7"h
$42.00
by Williams-Sonoma
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I'll admit, making Millennium Falcon-shaped sandwiches is really kind of ridiculous, but the old-school lunchbox these cutters come in is A-W-E-S-O-M-E! Any Star Wars fan will love this, trust me!
Millennium Falcon Sandwich cutters: 4 1/4” x 3 1/2”.
Tie Starfighter Sandwich cutters: 4 1/2” x 3 3/4”.
Vintage style tin: 7 3/4" x 2 3/4" x 6 1/2" high.
$19.95
Millennium Falcon Sandwich cutters: 4 1/4” x 3 1/2”.
Tie Starfighter Sandwich cutters: 4 1/2” x 3 3/4”.
Vintage style tin: 7 3/4" x 2 3/4" x 6 1/2" high.
$19.95
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In beautiful wood grain this toolbox is more fit to serve as a stylish and unexpected organizer in the office. Luckily, it also comes in classic orange and a camo print in the metal versions, just in case your giftee wants to bang it up with actual tools!
Metal
Size - 19" L x 6.5" H x 6" D
$60.00
Metal
Size - 19" L x 6.5" H x 6" D
$60.00
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I am ashamed to admit how many times I've attempted to hang something with nails and screws held precariously in my mouth. Help your man avoid a tetanus shot update with this handy magnetic wristband!
Velcro strap can accommodate even the thickest of wrists. Available in Periwinkle Blue, Grey, Orange, Pink, and Black (not shown).
Magnetic area is 3 inches x 4 inches square; 3/4 of an inch deep.
$18.95
Velcro strap can accommodate even the thickest of wrists. Available in Periwinkle Blue, Grey, Orange, Pink, and Black (not shown).
Magnetic area is 3 inches x 4 inches square; 3/4 of an inch deep.
$18.95
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by Design Public
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| This little piggy bank serves as a place to corral loose change and as a distinctive little sculpture on a desktop, tablescape or bookshelf.
Resin and marble. Cork stopper. 10.0 H x 5.25 W x 18.0 L $95.00 |
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Really, a refined gentlemen should always have the equipment, if not the skills, for a game of backgammon and chess in his bag of tricks. This beautiful set is one that will move with him wherever he winds up for the rest of his life.
Contains every piece for a game of chess or backgammon including pieces, dice, dice cups and a reversible chess/checkerboard lid.
Also includes a deck of cards and cribbage
Leather case
12"L X 12"W X 2"H
$70.00
Contains every piece for a game of chess or backgammon including pieces, dice, dice cups and a reversible chess/checkerboard lid.
Also includes a deck of cards and cribbage
Leather case
12"L X 12"W X 2"H
$70.00
by Tonic Home
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Obviously, this giftee is very specific - a metal skull does not necessarily go over well with everyone. But Cousin Itt, your goth friend, or Simon and Alex from Real Housewives of NYC would love it, and it's certainly a conversation starter!
Dimension: 8.5" high x 5" deep x 5.25" wide
Price:$125.00
Dimension: 8.5" high x 5" deep x 5.25" wide
Price:$125.00
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We've never gotten more negative comments in an ideabook than the one once published on taxidermy, so I'm definitely sticking with ironic faux animal heads from now on! This modern white non-hunting trophy is a way to give a wink to more traditional libraries and dens without upsetting animal lovers.
Resin
17.75"h
$98.00
Resin
17.75"h
$98.00
by PLANTATION
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These Atlas bookends are not shrugging. These Greek Gods are great for adding interest to a bookshelf arrangement.
Made of cast iron with a silver finish.
Color: silver
Size: H: 8.25'' D: 7" W: 2"
$123.25
Made of cast iron with a silver finish.
Color: silver
Size: H: 8.25'' D: 7" W: 2"
$123.25
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As a teenager, Jeff Divine started taking pictures of surfers in the 1960s, and his best shots are collected here. This is a great coffee table book for anyone who appreciates surfing and the sea. Oh, and the seventies!
$40.00
$40.00
by The Conran Shop
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This sweet little Maserati model will have him catchinging himself rolling it across the desk and making "ZOOM ZOOM" noises. It is also the perfect piece for a masculine, David Hicksian tablescape.
Made from recycled aluminum
Hand cast and polished. Includes a checkered flag.
$95.00
Made from recycled aluminum
Hand cast and polished. Includes a checkered flag.
$95.00
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This library embosser is a great way to personalize a gift for a bibliophile. If you know someone who keeps installing more shelves for books and who makes you sign away your firstborn when you borrow a book, this is the perfect present for him!
Up to 18 characters/spaces
Embosser plate size is 1.625"Dia.
$26.00
Up to 18 characters/spaces
Embosser plate size is 1.625"Dia.
$26.00
by Fred Flare
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As time goes by, fewer of us actually remember having a turntable that resembled this one (only instead of an iPod connection, it had a slot for 8-track tapes).
Can plug in an external device like an
iPod, MP3 player, and CD Unit.
Can also record all your vinyl for immediate playback via an SD or USB media
Can play all 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm records as well as
all 7", 10", & 12" records.
12”x11”x3”
$129.00
Can plug in an external device like an
iPod, MP3 player, and CD Unit.
Can also record all your vinyl for immediate playback via an SD or USB media
Can play all 33 1/3, 45 and 78 rpm records as well as
all 7", 10", & 12" records.
12”x11”x3”
$129.00
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Enough with searching for a box of matches in vain, burnt fingers, and the tacky plastic extended lighters. This sleek stainless universal lighter has a hook so that your giftee will always be able to find it when the grill, gas fireplace, or candles need a light.
Stainless steel
H 11" W .75"
$19.00 (on sale as we go to press; subject to change)
Stainless steel
H 11" W .75"
$19.00 (on sale as we go to press; subject to change)
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by Crate&Barrel
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| Sleek. Modern. Hammered Stainless Steel. The Savoy Bar Accessories were made for modernists. If your favorite dude is still serving ice from an old cooler, do him a big favor and pick up this ice bucket for him.
Polished stainless steel Foodsafe Dishwasher-safe $24.95 |
by Ralph Lauren
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Conjuring up men's gifts brings up images of trying to convert one from frat house style to some Albert Hadley-esque library, complete with pipe smoke, distressed leather club chairs, and shades of brown alcohol in fancy decanters. If this manly den sounds like something your favorite man would aspire to have, get him started with this Ralph Lauren leaded crystal decanter.
Etched barrel silhouette with coordinating faceted stopper.
Sweeping neck with graceful turned-out lip.
Capacity: 28 oz. 8" tall. Imported.
This item is 24% lead crystal.
$120.00
Etched barrel silhouette with coordinating faceted stopper.
Sweeping neck with graceful turned-out lip.
Capacity: 28 oz. 8" tall. Imported.
This item is 24% lead crystal.
$120.00
by Home Depot
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You know how he is: The Grillmaster. He fusses over the campfire, the grill, the Big Green Egg, and doesn't let anyone else within ten feet of it. He's a know-it-all and isn't listening when you give him barbeque-related advice. This kind of guy will never have enough BBQ accoutrements; you may as well gift him the THIRTY piece BBQ Tool Set!
Solid stainless steel tools: steak house knives, 4-in-1 spatula, fork, tongs, basting brush, knife, skewers, corn holders, grill brush and replaceable heads
Aluminum carry case
Lifetime warranty
$69.00
Solid stainless steel tools: steak house knives, 4-in-1 spatula, fork, tongs, basting brush, knife, skewers, corn holders, grill brush and replaceable heads
Aluminum carry case
Lifetime warranty
$69.00
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This beautiful Thomas O'Brien wastebasket looks like it cost one hundred bucks, but it's really more like twenty. The bamboo wood and clean lines make it perfect for a clean-lined, organized home office or zen, spa-like bathroom.
Carbonized Bamboo
Dimensions not listed on Target.com
$19.99.
Carbonized Bamboo
Dimensions not listed on Target.com
$19.99.
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We are NOT trying to stereotype and say that all men love baseball and beer, but lots of them do, and you know who they are. What's so special about this opener is that it is made of reclaimed wood from bats that broke while being used during Major League ballgames. Each one is authenticated and has a hologram numeral that identifies the bat's game.
$85.00
$85.00
by smithgear.com
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It's happened. Let me be the first to delcare that this phone is SO out that it's back in. Great for the giftee who has fond memories of the eighties and a sense of irony. If say, this person thoroughly enjoyed "Hot Tub Time Machine", this phone is for him. Oh, by the way, this is a new phone based on the old design, it is NOT refurbished.
Touch Tone dial
Genuine Bell Ringer
Ringer volume control
Volume Control Dial inside Handset
Hearing aid compatible
9' Handset Cord
Made with Pride in the USA
5 Year manufacturer's warranty
$49.95
Touch Tone dial
Genuine Bell Ringer
Ringer volume control
Volume Control Dial inside Handset
Hearing aid compatible
9' Handset Cord
Made with Pride in the USA
5 Year manufacturer's warranty
$49.95
by Jonathan Adler
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There's something about a classic Jaguar that is positively shagadelic! I love that Jonathan Adler has memorialized one...on a pillow...in...needlepoint?!?! Why not?
handmade 100% wool needlepoint
velvet backed
12" x 16"
down stuffer included
$165.00
handmade 100% wool needlepoint
velvet backed
12" x 16"
down stuffer included
$165.00
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Call me old fashioned, but there's something fun about looking out the window at a great looking thermostat instead of your Smartphone to find out the temperature. The classic style and numerals on this thermometer make it a great choice.
Solid brass and convex glass
Shiny, clean, brass finish which will acquire a nice patina of a soft brown color, with age
Height 4-3/4" x Length 1-1/4" x Width 6-1/4" (4-1/4" diameter dial)
$36.95
Solid brass and convex glass
Shiny, clean, brass finish which will acquire a nice patina of a soft brown color, with age
Height 4-3/4" x Length 1-1/4" x Width 6-1/4" (4-1/4" diameter dial)
$36.95
by Brookstone
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Thanks to Houzz user and very dapper Atlanta gentleman jefland for introducing me to valet trays! This leather valet tray is the best way to corral those items that men tend to casually toss on top of dressers and nightstands. It even packs flat for travel so that he can keep everything together in one spot. Choose up to three letters for a monogram to personalize the gift.
Sides prevent valuables from rolling off the tray. Hand-crafted genuine top-grain Nappa leather
Monogram up to three initials.
7 7/8"l x 7 7/8"w x 2/16"h.
$45.00
Sides prevent valuables from rolling off the tray. Hand-crafted genuine top-grain Nappa leather
Monogram up to three initials.
7 7/8"l x 7 7/8"w x 2/16"h.
$45.00
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You know the guy whose entire home is lit by the ugly ceiling lights that came with the place, and maybe some ugly torchiere fire hazard lamp from the mid-nineties? That guy needs this classic task lamp which is perfect for a desk, workshop, side table or nightstand.
Iron with polished nickel finish.
Adjustable arm locks at two angles.
Head has tension swivel to direct light where it’s needed most.
Protective pad at bottom of base protects from scratching surfaces.
7"diam. x 33"h.
60W bulb (not included)
$59.00
Iron with polished nickel finish.
Adjustable arm locks at two angles.
Head has tension swivel to direct light where it’s needed most.
Protective pad at bottom of base protects from scratching surfaces.
7"diam. x 33"h.
60W bulb (not included)
$59.00
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Thanks to Houzz Contributor and creator of Design in a Bag Rebekah Zaveloff for recommending Bike Snob. She says, "my husband reads the blog and it's hilarious!"
Hardcover
$11.53
Also in the Houzz Gift Guide:
40 great gifts for dining and entertaining
40 must-haves for the kitchen
Hardcover
$11.53
Also in the Houzz Gift Guide:
40 great gifts for dining and entertaining
40 must-haves for the kitchen
Ideabook updated on Feb. 4, 2011.
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Quick electric charcoal lighter:
http://www.looftlighter.com/
Instant read thermometer for perfect steaks:
http://www.thermoworks.com/products/thermapen/splashproof_thermapen.html?gclid=CNvHyZP_2qUCFVBe2godH3td4g
Alex, that thermometer rocks, thanks for sharing!
Leo, great! You can credit your fellow Houzz user jefland for the valet tray idea!
http://www.rctoys.com/rc-toys-and-parts/EF-MASH-RTF/RC-HELICOPTERS.html
http://gifts.redenvelope.com/gifts/beer-holster-30002961?viewpos=2&trackingpgroup=RFMFT&ref=REDorganicmsfbrand_red+envelope
crosley has a vintage looking songwriter cd recorder that will record all those vinyl records onto cds-
there are a few sources that still have the x-box kinect (which has had hints dropped around here lol)-
a weber q portable gas grill to take along to parks and tailgating parties-
an oster electric wine opener--(if you can find one!)
and
any non-clothing item emblazoned with his team's logo (always safe!)
So i put together a little list of gift ideas I think a typical bloke might like. Take a look at:
http://poisiraisk.blogspot.com/2010/12/some-presents-gifts-ideas-for-modern.html
and since this is a design website, in addition to being a talented writer, walker also happens to be an incredibly stylish guy.
for a slightly higher price range, i'd also recommend the new "highly affordable" Herman Miller SAYL office chair for your favorite techy guy :)
Cirone, where did you find the brackets? Sounds cool!
Libby, that's so cool to know. I need to check out the website if it's still around.
Thanks Posiraisk, I see a few home-decor related items there that would be great to add (maybe that's why it seemed so "girly" - these are all items for the home ;) )
I just crossed someone off of my gift list with two of your great suggestions. Fantastic and stress free. Guys are so hard to shop for. Whew, now to get through the others.
Cirone, I am stealing both of your ideas for my Workspace Gift Guide (with credit given to you, of course!)
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/query/Houzz%20Gift%20Guide%202010
Hope that helps you with your list :)
Becky