If you must shop with a man, obey these rules
As a rule I never go shopping with Hubby unless it is to help him pick out new clothes. He has a strong allergic reaction to department stores, which means he only buys clothes every 18 months. And you thought I was frugal!
But if you are the type to drag, I mean take, your male significant other on a shopping trip, here are tips to keep him happy, courtesy of Frugal Dad. The advice may just keep you both in good holiday cheer, though some of the tips beg the question - is it worth it?
1. "Do not take him to a store that you know he does not like. There are only a few places I absolutely refuse to go. One is Bath and Body Works. You can smell the place from the mall parking lot! And once inside I can almost guarantee the onset of a blinding headache or an asthma attack from the aromatic collection of fruity lotions.
2. "Give us a list of items and turn us loose. Men, by nature, are...
...hunter/gatherers. Give me a list of items you want me to bring back and challenge me by saying something like, "Oh nevermind, you'll never find it" and then turn me loose! Be forewarned, I may bring back the wrong brand, size or color, so if you want specifics, say so!
3. "Avoid crowded stores. I know this rule is hard to follow during the Christmas season as throngs of mega consumers are out and about shopping for loved ones. However, most guys are claustrophobic. And the idea of being packed like sardines in a crowded Victoria Secret store while you search a table of unmentionables ranks pretty high on our list of uncomfortable situations. If you must enter such a place, find one with a comfy bench outside and tell us to park it.
4. "Plan your trip to the mall around male-friendly stores. Always keep your eyes peeled for diversions. If you need to stop by the Hallmark store you better look for a male-friendly place to send us while you sneak in a few card purchases to get this year's $14 dancing, singing snowman. I highly recommend GNC Nutrition, Radio Shack, or any store with those playable video game demos on display. Warning: Move quickly, if you take longer than the time to play one quarter of Madden Football '09 on the XBox 360 I might venture into Hallmark and scuttle your entire plan.
5. "Do not take guys shopping on an empty stomach. Luring us to the store in exchange for the promise of food is a smart plan. If you can swing it, a pre-game meal involving steak will provide energy to get us through. And a post-game dessert over coffee is a nice reward for good behavior.
6. "Do not ask for input on non-practical gifts. Seriously, we do not really care which figurine you send to Aunt Gertrude this year. To the male shopper figurines equal dust collectors. However, if you are trying to decide between an iPod or a Zune we will gladly share our opinions.
7. "At least once during the trip, buy something because it is cheaper, or higher quality. Your frugality will impress us. Turn-ons include calculating the unit price, using a coupon, asking the salesperson for a discount, and comparing manufacturer warranties."
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About The Bargain Hunter
Daily News staff writer Julia Scott loves to find bargains on everything from groceries to Gucci. Her tips will help keep your hard earned cash where it belongs - in your pocket.
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These rules work for children, too.
Don't take the guy, just take his money. YOu'll have more fun!