The Secret to Getting Great Gifts Every Time

Getting the perfect gift doesn’t have to be left to chance. With a little playful planning, you can guide your partner toward thoughtful presents that hit all the right notes. Whether it’s a Christmas surprise, a holiday delight, or an everyday celebration, there’s an art to subtly dropping hints—and we’re about to turn you into a master. Here’s how to ensure that every gift from him isn’t just good, but great.

Start with Stories and Shared Moments

Gifts that carry meaning tend to leave lasting memories. Casually mention that scarf you spotted while traveling together last year, or how much you miss the spa treatments you enjoyed during a past vacation. Men respond well to specific moments—so make your story part of the conversation. Create the mental connection between the experience and the gift without being too obvious, and he’ll feel like he thought of it himself.

Pro Tip: Mentioning experiences opens the door for gift cards to your favorite stores—always a win! Explore luxury gift card options from Nordstrom or spa packages at Spafinder.

Practical Clues He Can’t Miss

Let’s be real—sometimes men need a little extra guidance. Drop practical hints like bookmarking the exact items you love. Even better? Send him a text while browsing online, casually saying, “Oh, I saw this gorgeous bag on Tory Burch, and it’s so me!” Include that link, of course.

Other ideas:

• Leave tabs open on his computer: If he stumbles upon that curated jewelry collection from Blue Nile, you’re already halfway there.

• Use Pinterest boards: Share a board filled with holiday and everyday wish-list items—he’ll have no excuses!

The Sneaky “Friend Mention” Method

Men trust third-party opinions, especially from friends. Casually say, “Oh, my friend Sarah’s husband got her the most beautiful bracelet from Pandora for Christmas!” This builds excitement while planting the perfect idea in his mind. Watch as he tries to outdo Sarah’s husband—it’s all part of the fun.

Playful Yet Direct Hints

Sometimes subtlety is overrated. A well-timed playful comment, like, “Wow, I could really use a Dyson Supersonic hair dryer right about now,” sends the message loud and clear. Bonus points if you add humor: “It’s either that or I’ll start rocking the ‘windblown’ look every day.”

Or leave him love notes with quirky messages: “If you love me, you’ll find me that candle set from Anthropologie 😉.” These lighthearted nudges make gift-getting fun for both of you.

Connect the Gift to an Emotion

The best gifts aren’t just things—they’re emotions wrapped in pretty packages. Men want to make you happy, so share how specific gifts would bring joy. Mention that wearing that beautiful watch from Fossil will remind you of him every time you check the time. Or, let him know that snuggling under a weighted blanket from Brooklinen will feel like a hug from him, even when he’s not there.

Hot Tip: Gifts like personalized jewelry or framed photos are always a hit—they tell a story and create emotional moments. Find customizable options at Etsy to make it even more special.

Build Anticipation: Countdown Clues

Create excitement with a playful countdown leading up to the occasion. Drop daily hints about your dream gift without giving it all away: “Can’t wait to see what kind of surprise this holiday season holds!” or “I’ve been thinking about that leather bag from Coach all year. Wonder if Santa knows…?” Building anticipation makes the gift an experience in itself—and leaves him eager to see your reaction.

Use Gentle Guidance Through Humor

Men appreciate a bit of humor when it comes to gift-giving. Send him a funny meme about bad gift ideas (“If you ever get me a vacuum, make sure it’s a Dyson!”). Playfully steer him in the right direction by letting him know what not to buy. It’s all about making the experience enjoyable for both of you—and a little teasing goes a long way.

Three Gifts to Steer Him Toward

1. Jewelry: Whether it’s a necklace from Pandora or a custom charm bracelet from Etsy, jewelry always makes a meaningful gift.

2. Luxury Accessories: Handbags from Tory Burch or timepieces from Fossil offer a blend of elegance and practicality.

3. Self-Care Essentials: Treat yourself with indulgent bath products from L’Occitane or cozy blankets from Brooklinen.

Make the Gift Part of a Shared Memory

Inspire him to think beyond the object—how can the gift create a memory? Suggest gifts that can be experienced together. A cozy throw blanket from Brooklinen becomes the backdrop for a movie night. A spa package from Spafinder could be a perfect way to unwind as a couple.

Actionable Idea: Make an event out of receiving the gift—plan a dinner date to reveal it or unwrap presents under twinkling lights. Transforming the gift exchange into a shared experience deepens the emotional impact.

Finish Strong: Create the Perfect Moment for Giving

The way a gift is given can be as memorable as the gift itself. Encourage your partner to wrap the present with care—like using beautiful packaging from Anthropologie. Suggest a sentimental moment for the exchange, like under the mistletoe or by the fireplace during Christmas. These little touches make the gift-giving moment unforgettable.

This holiday season (or any occasion), let’s make sure your partner gets it right—and has a little fun doing it. With these playful, practical strategies, he’ll know exactly what to get without feeling pressured, and you’ll get the gift of your dreams every time.