Men have a reputation for being difficult to shop for, which means that finding them that perfect birthday gift can be a struggle. There is added pressure when that guy you are buying a gift for is your boyfriend. Whether you have been dating for years or this is your first birthday together, partners want to do what they can to ensure their boyfriend gets a gift they are sure to love.

In this article, we help with:

Finding the Perfect Gift

When it comes to finding that perfect gift, there are a few things you can do to help know what gift to get your boyfriend. One of the first things you can do when finding that perfect gift is to listen to your boyfriend. Has he been giving hints about the things he wants? Sometimes the suggestions are dropped during a casual conversation. If your boyfriend brings something up over and over again, chances are he is trying to ensure you hear what it is he wants.

When it comes to listening for hints, your boyfriend may start dropping them as early as three to four weeks before his birthday. Regardless, listen to what he is saying, you never know if it’s his way of trying to get you to buy him something he really wants.

Talking It Out

Have you hit a bit of a roadblock? Why not talk it out with his friends, your friends, and maybe family? Sometimes seeking another is opinion can help determine whether or not the gift you want to get is a good idea. Depending on your relationship with his friends, you could also ask them for ideas and suggestions. Maybe your boyfriend has spoken about something he really wants. You may be lucky, and his friends are going to share with you some potential gift ideas.

On top of talking it out with his friends and yours, sometimes seeking the opinion of family members is good too. They can tell you if the gift you are going to get is a good idea or a little too much.

Planning the Perfect Gift

It is understandable that if this is your first birthday with your boyfriend, you want to make it a special one; however, there are a few things that you should consider to ensure a smooth birthday for your boyfriend.

Budget

When it comes to buying a gift for your boyfriend, set a budget for yourself. Just because the new iPhone has come out and your boyfriend keeps talking about how he wants a new phone, does not mean you should go out and buy it for him. Be realistic with what you can afford and what you want your gift to say.

Research

Now that you have consulted with friends and family, it is time for you to do your own little research because while his friends and family may know him, you know him on another level. Look back at all the time you two have spent together and try to find a gift that is symbolic of that. Maybe you both enjoy going to the movies or having date nights at new restaurants, why not be creative and create a date night experience voucher that he can redeem with you?

Taking the time to research gift ideas never hurts. Take time to see what the internet has in terms of ideas to get your boyfriend.

Time together

As you are doing your research, consider the amount of time you two have been dating. If this is your first birthday together, what you gift him would be different than if you have been dating for years. Gifts for first time birthday are going to vary from gifts where you have been celebrating many birthdays together. The time together can dictate whether or not you are going to go with a sentimental gift or a practical one. Typically, if this is your first birthday together, the partner gives a sentimental gift. After many years together, then the gifts go from sentimental to practical.

Gift Ideas for Inspiration

Still, looking for ideas?

Here are some popular gifts that any boyfriend would appreciate:

  • Long-distance touch bracelets for both of you
  • Travel book
  • A nice watch
  • Expensive perfume (know what scents he likes)
  • Personalized mug
  • Tickets to his favorite sport

No one knows your boyfriend better than you, so remember when you seek advice from friends and family, take the information and recommendations with a grain of salt. Sometimes, the opinions and the gift ideas from friends and family are coming from a bias that may not always be apparent. Stick to your instinct and trust that you know your boyfriend.

Giving Your Gift

The day has finally arrived, and it’s time to give your boyfriend his gift. Regardless of what you buy him, it can be exhilarating; however, make sure to keep it a surprise. The last thing you want is to accidentally let it slip that you bought him passes to his favorite sports team to someone who then ruins the surprise. Hold it in so that you can enjoy seeing his reaction to your gift.

When wrapping the gift, whether it is a gift card or an actual object, take the time to wrap it nicely. They are going to appreciate the thought. On top of taking the time to wrap up the gift, consider adding a simple note or card with the gift too. They may not show it, but they are going to appreciate the personal touch of a letter or card.

Finding that perfect birthday gift is never easy, and it can become even stressful when you have to find the ideal gift for that special someone in your life. Don’t stress when it comes to buying their gift, because chances are they are going to appreciate whatever it is you get them. It is never about the amount of money spent or the brand name items, it is about the thought and effort that went to remembering them on their special day.