Men Hate Shopping! Here's the Answer!

I'm a chick who knows how to shop for a guy, and I prepared this for you dudes.

When a man is forced into a shopping mall he will get all freaked out. Women become invigorated and love the thrill of the hunt. Men on the other hand would rather walk in with a specific store list, map, and the nearest escape route (preferably to a bar). They feel like they've been kicked in the huevos. It's just too much to look through so much stuff.

At this point men, just chill out and grab a cup of organic Fair Trade coffee and read on!

Ladies, if you want something, write it down on a list, and stick the list in his wallet. Keep it simple! Write the price range, and best store to purchase the item at. You must make sure he knows where the list is and keep it updated! Make it easy on your dude. Tell him your special colors and dress size.

Make the list guys!, but, I know you're guys, so here's some guidelines. Listen up here dudes! Don't buy us ladies gift cards! Clothing is another shopping boner. Unless your lady tells you exactly what clothing (and size) to buy, don't go there! If you buy clothing too small she'll feel fat, too big she'll think you think she's fat.

My favorite gift is a flower arrangement with a love letter attached. An extravagant meal at a fine restaurant will get you major brownie points. If you think through your dinner plans and after meal activities, you will find a very affectionate woman on your hands.

Another one of my favorite gifts is a spa treatment, but if you can't afford a day at the spa then you can always buy her some scented bath salts, romantic candles and a high quality bath robe. A high end bath robe can be expensive so it's best to shop around.

None of these ideas sound good to you? Think sweet! Chocolate and gourmet coffee are your friend. Nearly any woman will melt at the mention of gourmet chocolate and coffee. For a twist you may want to consider Fair Trade chocolates and Fair Trade coffee. If she is a coffee lover consider purchasing her a coffee of the month membership from an online coffee retailer. Coffee clubs are great way to sample through lots of different coffees. One stipulation, do not get any version of canned coffee or "store bought" chocolate. The chocolate must be in a box, or don't bother.

Another option is an expensive pen and leather bound planner or journal. No one likes to be without a pen, or be stuck with one that only works intermittently. Even more frustrating is to hunt for a pen, then find one that doesn’t work. If you want to get a really nice pen look for a Montblanc. If you opt for a journal over a planner get one that has plenty of pages, but not so big that she can't hold it.

If your lady is into growing things then by all means, a nice potted plant is not out of the question. Flowers like African Violets, and miniature roses both bloom year around and require minimal upkeep. Every time she looks at the plant she will think of you!

If you really want to make things easy on yourself, why don't you just ask your girl what she wants? We all know what we want. Don't let the sky be the limit. Make sure you let her know your budget. I've already given you a good guideline to get you started on your gift buying. Women want to be pampered and adored. We want gifts that reflect our style, and not yours. If all else fails, then a framed picture of the two of you will be enough to get you through this holiday.

If you want an easy out you should to check out some of the gourmet gift baskets at Nectar of Life Coffee. They've got excellent Fair Trade organic coffee and chocolate!