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Shopping for the Shopping Impaired: A Guide for Men

Photo by Tamell SimonsMen may need a little help with their shopping this Christmas.

There are some people who are impossible to shop for, and then there are people who find it impossible to shop. And those who find themselves in that latter categories tend to be men with a significant other at home.While it would be easy for me, as a woman, to tell you men out there exactly what to buy, where to buy it and how much it will cost, that would really defeat the purpose of you finding a thoughtful gift that the love of your life would really enjoy. Instead, here in this listing of categories, hopefully, you will find some direction and inspiration to purchase the perfect gift. And remember, if you have trouble, always ask a sales assistant they can point you in the direction of the latest items.The Kitchen GourmetShe is not only a whiz in the kitchen, but she loves to be there whether creating gourmet dinners or baking the most delightful desserts. She is the ultimate kitchen gourmet.Women who love to be in the kitchen tend to be equally excited by kitchen gadgets that will make their tasks easier. Look into the bigger budget items, like standing mixers, full size mixers and convection ovens, available at places like Gorhams, Masters and Gibbon’s.Also consider smaller, higher end items, like top quality knives or kitchen utensils and gadgets International Imports has an excellent selection.Finally, consider gourmet spices and seasonings, from places like Miles Market and Brown & Co, a fine bottle of wine or bubbly from Wine.bm, or exquisite gourmet chocolates from The Gourmet Boutique.The Ultimate Green ThumbShe likes to spend as much time outside as she can, digging in the garden, planting flowers or vegetables. And when she can’t be outside, she enjoys filling her home with the outdoors in the form of potted plants and cut flowers. She is the ultimate green thumb.Women who love gardening often find themselves needing some of the same products over and over again, like plant food and fertilizers, as well as new tools and gloves, as these things tend to eventually run out or wear out. Gardeners also enjoy potted plants, decorative pots and garden decorations and accessories, like water bulbs, ceramics lawn ornaments and even kneeling pads. Some of the best places in Bermuda to purchase include Aberfeldy Nurseries, Animal and Garden House, Sousa’s and Bermuda Plant Nursery.When their work is done, they often like to sit out and enjoy nature, so outdoor furniture, lights, candles and even acrylic picnic ware are great choices, such as is available at Island Trading.For a touch of the outside in, you may also want to look into gifts from the Visitors Centre at the Botanical Gardens, floral stationery from Pulp & Circumstance, or Portmeirion dishes from Bluck’s featuring flora and fauna.The Busy ProfessionalShe works hard all day at a top job, and then works all night to take care of her family. She is constantly on the go, with little time for herself. She is a working woman. She is the busy professional.If there is one thing a working woman, especially a working mom, wants more than anything, its a little time to herself, so that she can refocus her strength and energy on the many tasks at hand. What better gift can you give that hard working lady in your life than a spa getaway. Whether it is just a massage or facial, or a whole day of relaxing, a gift certificate to her favourite spa will always be welcome. If she’s so busy that she doesn’t usually get to go to one, consider some of Bermuda’s top spas Strands, Inner Sanctum, La Serena or Willow Stream.Nice working wear, whether in the form of suits and skirts, or nice shoes, are always a necessity as well. Gift certificates to local clothing stores, like AS Cooper, Gibbon’s, Max Mara, Perry Footwear or Trends will always be welcome.Finally, consider a few items that will help her get through her day, like coffee and restaurant gift certificates, a fashionable lunch tote from Brown & Co, a coffee flask from People’s Pharmacy, or even a stylish handbag or briefcase from the Harbourmaster. Or, consider arranging a cleaner, even if it is just a once off, or promise her a quiet night out with just the two of you.The Glamour GirlShe knows exactly what she wants and always gets. She looks perfect, ready for photos, even when she’s fresh out of bed. She spends lots of time pouring over fashion magazines and blogs, and getting her hair and nails done. She is a glamour girl.As most glamour girls know exactly what they want, they can be pretty hard to shop for, especially if you have a hard time keeping up with the latest styles on the catwalk. If you’re in the mood for clothes and shoes, it’s often best to leave it up to the professional shopper with gift certificates to her favourite stores and boutiques. Just ask her she’ll be more than happy to tell you where she gets her fashions from!Glamour girls also spend a lot of time staying in style, so again, gift certificates go a long way, especially if they are from her favourite stylist or nail salon.Also, glamour girls tend to love to take pictures of themselves, of their friends, and of their loved ones. Consider a purse-sized camera in a pretty colour or a selection of photo frames and albums, such as those available at P-Tech.Finally, if you trust yourself, pick out some bling in the form of fine jewellery from Crisson Jewellers, ER Aubery, Sovereign, Walker Christopher or Swiss Timing.The Global WarriorShe wants to save the world nothing less will ever do. She loves animals, nature, and the world around her. She wants to make a difference in the lives of people around her. She wants to stop global warming and feed the children. She has more passion for causes than there are hours in the day. She is the global warrior.One of the best things you can give to the woman who is on a global mission is to give to others make charitable donations in her name to her favourite local and global causes. Just be sure to give her a card or a photo with a note about the donation and the amount you gave.If you must put something wrapped under the tree, look for environmentally friendly products or items purchased from local artists or charities, as they will seem like double gifts.