2013 Em for Marvelous Gift Guide: Gents

This year’s first two gift guide installments offered up many lovely things (and many I’d love to give and get), but I think I’m most proud of today’s. I’ve never done a gift guide for the gents before, largely because I think men are more difficult to shop for, in general, and also because I think the best gifts for men tend to be more specific (whereas, in general, a lot of gals would be pleased with a lot of the same things). I probably won’t be able to come up with this many male gift ideas for another five years, so enjoy! :)

A. Clean bottle ($10) | There probably should be a “brought to you by Shark Tank” disclaimer on this post. The Clean bottle was an ST discovery, and I think it’s brilliant — a water bottle that’s super easy to clean because it unscrews on both ends!
B. Wrought iron fire pit ($40) | We bought my brother in law a fire pit last year, and I must say, it was one of my more genius gift ideas. S’mores for all!
C. Light n’ go bonfire log ($10) | We also got Cormac this nifty log thing — it’s like a self-contained bonfire!
D. Flavored chili salts ($12) | These salts (flavored with different chilis) are perfect for the gent who loves to cook!
E. A Walk in the Woods ($8) | I would recommend Bill Bryson books to anyone, even those who don’t consider themselves readers. He’s laugh out loud funny and smart; A Walk in the Woods is one of our favorites.
F. Junior travel bag ($54) | Handsome dopp kit made from genuine Pendleton wool.
G. Red chambray tie ($16) | We bought John this tie a few weeks ago, and we both love it! It can be dressed up or dressed down, and is always casually cool.
H. Gosling freaker ($10) | Yep, you have Shark Tank to thank for this one, too. It’s a koozie (handmade in the US!) that fits any bottle! You have to check out this episode — the founder is a little nutty. Beep bop!
I. Sunglasses case ($12.50) | A manly (and safe) home for your gent’s specs.
J. Salsa Collection Gift Box ($36) | Cherry Republic is an awesome small business in Michigan (I wrote about them here and here). John is a salsa fiend, and highly recommends this sample box!
K. Nest thermostat ($250) | This one is more of a major gift, but it’s a good one! The Nest thermostat learns your habits and automatically adjusts your thermostat accordingly, plus you can control it from your smart phone. John’s wanted one for years!
L. White Whale mixers ($13.50) | Made from exotic juices and garden-fresh herbs in Durham, NC!
M. Tell The Ones I Love by the Steep Canyon Rangers ($15) | Have a bluegrass lover in your life? This CD is one of our favorites.
N. Leather dopp kit ($78) | Handsome and embroidered. I love the custom-stained antique caramel color!
O. Bezl iPhone case ($20) | I have my friend Will to thank for this last one, which just might be the most minimal case ever invented. Watch the video — it’s pretty neat.

Whew! I hope that gives you a few good ideas for the gents in your life! I’d love for you to share other suggestions in the comments — I’m always on the hunt for tried and true options!