The Best Gifts For Men, According to The Finest
February 12 | 4 minute read
Words by Kerri Gordon
I’ve developed my skills, sure, but I’m certainly no expert when it comes to what a man wants – especially come Valentine’s Day, when the pressure’s on to deliver a grand and loving gesture. So I asked a few friends – model and potter Guy Vadas (aka @pottery.boy), Collingwood Football Club players Brayden Maynard and Isaac Quaynor, and one half of MALIN+GOETZ, the brilliant Andrew Goetz – for help.
Andrew says make it come from the heart
Valentine’s Day is… A made-up holiday that people take too seriously. You shouldn’t need a holiday to tell someone ‘I love you’. But perhaps it’s a good reminder.
On February 14th, I’ll be… We don’t like to compete with all the crowds on Valentine’s Day, so I cook a nice meal and we enjoy a quiet night at home. So nice!
The secret to gifting for men is… The perfect gift is always something from the heart.
My gifting ick is… Ick weiße nicht? So going with the pun… "I don’t know" in German.
On my wishlist…
Obviously biased, but what could be more wonderful than our new Otto Supercandle! Definitely lasts longer than a dozen roses.
Brayden says don't overthink it
Valentine’s Day is… A day to celebrate the people who mean the most to me! It’s a cute day on the calendar, filled with love.
On February 14th, I’ll be… Taking Ashlee (my girlfriend of almost a decade!) out for a nice dinner and surprising her with a small gift. We try to always celebrate each other like it’s Valentine’s Day, so it’ll be another fun date night (with a great bottle of red!)
The secret to gifting for men is… There’s no secret! Less is more. You don’t need to overthink it—what matters most is the thought and intention behind your gift.
My gifting ick is… Gift Cards! Men (me….) often end up stashing them away and forgetting about them. It's one of the gifts that doesn’t ever get the love it deserves!
On my wishlist…
Maison Crivelli Oud Maracujá Extrait de Parfum. Smelling good is crucial, it’s a part of getting dressed every day.
Tsu Lange Yor TLY 5755 Candle. Your environment sets your mood, and walking into a room with this burning is like receiving a hug (I also just finished burning the last inch of wax in mine)!
Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Advanced Firming Daily Treatment. I might be on my 10th tube of this, it keeps my skin looking fresh!
MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen. If there’s one thing Ashlee has taught me in our time together, it’s sunscreen, sunscreen and more sunscreen.
Guy says ditch the roses
Valentine’s Day is… a day to celebrate our love, just to cherish what it’s like to be in love or to love someone.
On February 14th, I’ll be… I’m a dinner and hand-picked flowers kind of guy, so I think that will be the plan. Probably some wild poppies off the side of the highway and a steak and roast potatoes night.
The secret to gifting for men is… I’m big into self-care—anything that will help me recharge, rewind, etcetera is a BIG yes. And lots of quality time.
My gifting ick is… ROSES, any colour. Not for me.
On my wishlist…
Tsu Lange Yor Sassafras Candle.
Uni Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner.
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème Riche.
Isaac says fragrance, obviously
Valentine’s Day is… Just another day really, one day it’ll be a special day for me.
On February 14th, I’ll be… Away in Ocean Grove with my four best mates!
The secret to gifting for men is… Be observant and be a good listener!
My gifting ick is… I feel like chocolates are a little boring if I’m honest. People can be more adventurous!
On my wishlist… All fragrances, obviously.
Le Labo Santal, Santal 26 Candle and Santal 33 Body Lotion for sure.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum.
