Every holiday season, we see it happen more and more. The art of gift giving has become lost in a period of hustle and bustle. This year, however, we hope to turn the “labor” of gift giving from a nagging last minute errand that typically yields a tawdry gift card into an easier than thought process. A process in which the modern gentleman’s essence is presented to loved ones in a manner that will not be lost in the craze of the holiday season.
Last year, we saw gifts of all types and sorts. Heard stories of “Can you believe he got her that” and rumors of “She got cash!?” The holiday season can be a source of unwanted stress and headaches, and the pressure many feel have caused the shine and luster to be dulled away off the meaning of what the holidays’ are truly about. Not getting the greatest bargain or sale, not about a checklist that is checked once at the last minute, but about an expression of love and appreciation for those nearest to each of us.
Far be-it from us to claim or accuse a group of individuals from fitting in to this stigma, but clearly men have fallen far short of the standards of what we may call “gentlemanly.” So how can it be
remedied? Perhaps a little insight into how the modern gentleman should approach the holiday season is required.
We cannot begin without mentioning how important it becomes to consider the little things. Whether or you realize it or not, there are most likely subtle hints being dropped within every conversation, each trip to a village shop together or even a raise of the eyebrow at a random advertisement. Rather than dismiss the clues being left before you, key in on even the smallest of things. After all, they may lead to the largest gift of the season. A sweater she saw in the window of a shop, a necklace in a catalog or even a mention of a book a friend has read.
We also recommend you be proactive. There is no reward for those who wait until the last minute. Now this does not mean that the shopping season need kick off in June, but the sooner it is done, the better for your stress level and for your loved one. Also, let us not forget the impact early shopping and planning can have on your wallet. Last minute gift buying can not only result in undue stress, but unnecessary and panicked spending.
Get crafty and use the resources available to you. There has never been a time more-so than today, where the world can literally be at your fingertips. We do not necessarily mean using Amazon or eBay, but rather use the social media sources available to get creative. A gift can be a wonderful thing to open and share, but a hand-made, personalized gift is even far more impressive and memorable. Nothing could be more personal or more romantic than something that cannot be bought. A photo album made of memorable moments shared together through the year; romantic dinners made for the couple exclusively or even a gift-a-day countdown to the holiday.
Lastly, consider the time. In other words, share in the moment. Do not dismiss the importance of the season. It is important to get the gifts, to shop and be ready to entertain family and friends and decorate, but remember the moments with each other while doing everything during the season. While the holiday is just that, one day, the holiday season is a collection of memories and moments that can be the difference between a present under a tree, and a gift of the season from a perfect gentleman.

Think smart: Christmas surprise for the other half
by Jim Raynor - The Modern Gentleman