How to Buy a Last-Minute Father's Day Gift

If you're stuck for a Father's Day gift and you don't have a lot of time to get one, resist the temptation to pick up a tie your dad won't wear or a gag gift he'll never use. With only a little effort, you can get Dad something he'll love - even at the last minute.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Gift Ribbons
• Ribbons
• Tissue Paper
• Men's Clothing (general)
• Father's Day Greeting Cards
• Gift Bags
• Gift Bows
• Wrapping Paper
• Gourmet Foods
• Red Or White Wine
• Mens' Watches
• Gift Certificates
• Sporting-event Tickets

1. Try to be thoughtful, even though you're pressed for time to come up with something. Desperation seldom produces meaningful gifts.
2. Think food or drink. Pick up a bottle of wine, a gift basket of Dad's favorite foods or a gourmet treat that he seldom buys for himself. (Getting Mom's input might be good on this one.)
3. Go online. You'll have a plethora of stores at your fingertips and can pay for overnight or even same-day delivery in a pinch. Here the options are almost limitless: sporting goods, clothes, wine, gourmet foods, watches and jewelry, books, movies, etc.
4. Think of a last-minute activity you can do with your dad. Take him to a ball game, out for a round of golf, out to dinner, to a museum or for a scenic airplane or hot-air balloon ride.
5. Consider his hobbies. If he loves tending his rose garden, pick up a unique rosebush at a nursery; if he likes to cook, buy a cookbook; if he plays golf, wrap up a dozen of his favorite balls; if he bowls, how about a new bowling bag?
6. Mow his lawn, wash his car or boat, clean his golf clubs or haul away all that junk he's been meaning to take to the dump. Anything that will make Dad's life easier will be a hit.
7. Take him shopping. Let him pick out something he really wants, then pay for it and take him to lunch.
8. Pay Dad a surprise visit. If you don't live nearby (or even if you do), this could be the best gift you can give him.

Tips & Warnings

• Restaurants are usually jammed on Father's Day. Be sure to make a reservation.
• Avoid buying cologne or aftershave unless you know which brand he wears. He may not be anxious to try a new fragrance - especially if he doesn't like it.
• If you buy something online, make sure it can be easily exchanged or returned in case it doesn't fit or your dad doesn't like it.
• Dads sometimes seem impossible to buy for. Remember that a thoughtful gift from the heart is often more meaningful than a grand gesture.
• Your dad probably doesn't need any more mugs, hats with funny sayings or "World's Greatest Dad" T-shirts.