It’s been said gift giving originated with the Romans; they gave gifts of evergreen branches and then later cakes and honey to signify sweetness and prosperity in the New Year. Today, gifts have progressed far past tree branches and sweets, and with so many different occasions to consider as well. And to add more madness in the gift giving customs, you also have to consider the various people and the level of closeness of those you have to buy gifts for.

While gift giving can be a chore for most, it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve ever wondered what to get your mother-in-law for Mother’s Day, your grandpa on Christmas, or your cousin’s kid on his Christening; you’re not alone. Read on to get various gift giving tips for (almost) every occasion.

photo by saquan


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The other night a girl friend of mine called complaining her boyfriend said he’d call at 9:30pm, but it’s half past 10 and he hadn’t called yet. A co-worker reports to me that her brother always forgets Mother’s Day, and he put his name on the present she bought. These are two very classic examples of behaviors that some guys do that drive women up the wall—not calling when they say they’ll call (according to Michelle K.) and forgetfulness (according to Jenny K.).

Every woman has different tolerance levels for obnoxiousness, cockiness and all things that drive them outright crazy! I asked roughly two dozen girls, “What are things that guys do that drive you nuts.” You may be surprised by some of the 15 things that made the list.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to bash on guys. Some of the thoughts and gripes are specific to the individual woman and are not meant to stereotype men (or women, for that matter).

15 Things that Guys Do that Drive Women Nuts

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Let’s face it, it’s scientifically proven that women are more perceptive than men, thus the term “woman’s intuition” was coined—that gut feeling or that (suspicious) hunch. Moreover, women have an innate ability to pick up and decipher non-verbal cues and in addition, have an eye for detail. Having said that, it’s no wonder that women can usually sense when men are dishonest, insincere and moody, while men can’t pick up on such. Women know more than they let out about men’s behaviors, actions and quirks. Here are 10 things women know about men…some things men probably didn’t know women knew.

10 Things Women Know About Men

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As a woman, I often wonder why we bother asking our male counterparts for their opinion on certain topics. Our views too often greatly differ; I mean, duh, men are from Mars and women are from Venus!

One of top things women shouldn’t ask men is “Do these jeans make me look fat?” (Am I right, guys?!) In case you guys get asked, here are 6 responses that hopefully won’t result in the evil eye or silent treatment.

Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?
photography by Lex in the City

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Since the dawn of mankind, men and women have boggled their minds trying to understand one another. Moreover, men have struggled to figure out what it takes to make the women in their lives happy.

Honestly guys, while women can be very complex, most don’t require much to keep them happy. I asked both single and attached women alike, “What does it take to keep you happy in a relationship?” In no particular order, here’s how they answered in the form of ten helpful tips.

How to Keep the Woman in Your Life Happy
photography by kalandrakas

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valentines day
photography by ButterflySha

For years, Valentine’s Day has been associated with lovers exchanging cards, candy and flowers. Just behind Christmas, Valentine’s Day is the second largest card-sending holiday, and without a doubt the largest flower-giving holiday. Why not be more original this year and give your sweetie something less predictable and traditional?

Disclaimer: These gift ideas are really not your typical Valentine’s Day gifts; they err on the side of creativity and personalization. If you know your girl is more traditional, then by all means go for the flowers, candy, perfume, lingerie and other sexy items.

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We all remember the basics our mothers taught us about table manners–no elbows on the dinner table and don’t talk with your mouth full. But ever wonder which fork to use for your salad or how to signal a waiter at a fancy restaurant? Read on and learn the basic table manner tips that will be sure to impress your date, girlfriend/wife’s parents, employers or whomever you dine with.
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