Mrs Bee's Emporium: Perfect Presents for Lovely Ladies

‘Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping.’ Bo Derek

Even though Christmas is still a couple of months away, chances are that you’re already thinking about what presents to buy. We all want to get it right and delight the ladies in our lives, so most of us ask what’s on their Christmas wish list. However, you probably have at least one woman who, no matter how many times you ask, has no idea what they want, or at least refuse to say. We know how frustrating that is.

When this happens, it’s all too easy to opt for the obvious girly gifts, such as chocolates, toiletries, scarves, or vouchers. But, the truth is, you would probably prefer to get them something they really love, even if they didn’t know (or wouldn’t say) that they wanted it. This might seem impossible but, believe it or not, with some groundwork, you might just achieve it.

Don’t make assumptions

Ok, this is a big one, so it’s coming first. Do not assume that a woman must be into something just because she happens to be female, or has reached a certain age in her life. Gifting anti-ageing products, lavender soap, or everyday items that happen to be pink (hammer anyone?), is a sure way to disappoint, or even offend.

Equally, don’t assume that because Auntie May likes something, her twin Auntie June will do too. And, unless specifically asked for, anything relating to housework or DIY is really not a good idea if you want them to keep talking to you. So, with that being understood, let’s move on.

Find your inner Sherlock

Start looking for clues. What could you look for? Here are some ideas:

Material girl

What does your recipient like to wear? Perhaps they’re never seen without a stylish scarf, or a piece of statement jewellery. Maybe their wardrobe is stuffed with clothes with butterfly or cat prints. Get thinking about what you’ve seen them wearing, and how you could complement it.

Looking good

Ok, so we know we said that toiletries are a bit of cop-out gift, but if their bathroom is full of a particular brand of toiletries or cosmetics, then they’re a good choice, especially if they’re more of a luxury brand. Many of us ladies are loyal to a brand that suits our skin or hair, and the cost of looking good can soon add up. Many toiletry brands produce gift sets for Christmas, which can be an affordable and attractive option that will delight.

It all adds up

Do they collect something? Maybe they love penguins, Postman Pat, or Terry Pratchett (all genuine collections we’ve come across). Perhaps it’s a particular make of pottery or ornaments. Alternatively, charm bracelets have become very popular with women now. While you might need to check what items they already own, finding a special addition for their collection will be much appreciated.

Keeping busy

Hobbies are often an integral part of people’s lives, and bring a great deal of happiness. Is there something that would enhance their enjoyment of their pastime but that they haven’t bought for themselves? Has there been a recent development in their area of interest that they might not yet own? Again, we know that we said vouchers were an easy get-out but one for a supplier or retailer of items related to their hobby shows that you have taken the time to think about what they like. Many women feel guilty about buying things for themselves, so buying this kind of voucher helps them to justify to themselves buying something they want, rather than feeling that they should spend it on their family or house. We even sell vouchers for Mrs Bee's Emporium!

A culinary treat

Perhaps there’s a particular food or drink that they love. A specialist coffee, luxury chocolates, a bottle of good quality wine, or a subscription for a regular delivery of something they love - for example cheese - are all possibilities. However, many people who have a penchant for a food or drink are often very particular about what they like and what they don’t like, and you may need to undertake a bit more detective work to make sure you get it right.

A big deal

Significant life events are another possibility. These might include a special birthday or anniversary, or an addition to the family. Alternatively, sadly, it might be the loss of someone special. Perhaps they achieved something they thought they never would, such as graduating from university or running a marathon. A personalised gift commemorating these events would help create an enduring memory, and demonstrate the time and thought you invested. Mrs Bee’s creates a whole range of personalised gifts, from cushions and mugs, through to teddies made from favourite baby clothes.

How you gonna have a dream come true?

Is there something they have always wanted to do? Ok, you probably can’t afford to pay for a holiday to Australia, but perhaps they’ve mentioned that they’d love to do a wine tasting, or drive a supercar. Experience days are an affordable way to make their dream come true.

Enlist some help

Sometimes you can’t do the detective work yourself, especially if you live some distance away. If this is the case, enlist the help of someone closer to them. Share the above list with them, and get them playing private investigator on your behalf. It might just help them out too!

Still not sure what to get? Why not ask the community over in the Organising Christmas Facebook Group? They have the low down on where the bargains are, and are great at making suggestions for gift ideas for people who are difficult to buy for. It's a bit like having a whole host of personal shoppers at your finger tips! Click here for the group (you will need a Facebook account)

Want to make sure your other half picks you something nice? Message us with a list of what you'd like from Mrs Bee's Emporium and his email address and we'll drop him some hints...

Enjoy Bonfire Night!