With Father’s Day coming up this Sunday, you’ve probably been thinking about what to give the dads and granddads in your life. Kudos to you if your gifts are already wrapped and ready, but if you’re still searching for the perfect idea, here are a few of my go-to favorites. And no, the children you gave him do not qualify as a gift but nice try!
Dads love to brag on their families as much as us mommas do so you absolutely can’t go wrong with photos. My family has been known to stage quite a few DIY photo shoots for special occasions… or just because we were feeling creative. The kids and I always have a blast coming up with ideas for the pictures and they think it’s a treat to play with all the props and say “cheese” for the camera.
Bonus tip: if you’re able to do pictures throughout the year, the photos make GREAT calendars that you can use for holiday gifts for grandparents!
But back to the current occasion…here are a couple great examples of Father’s Day pics for inspiration.
Add a masculine frame from Restoration Hardware or West Elm and you’re all set!
This idea takes a little more advanced planning but what a great way to showcase the generations of dads in your family. Multiple gifts in one for the win!
Experiential gifts have become so important in our family because of the memories and quality time with each other that is hard to come by these days. These experiences don’t have to be elaborate, although they absolutely can be if you’re up for it. Just think of fun outings or adventures that you would enjoy and then put your mommy powers to work planning one with a special Father’s Day twist.
One of my husband’s all time favorite surprises was when the kids and I packed a lunch (and the mini golf club set for entertainment purposes) and treated him to a picnic at the greenway on his office campus. He loved having lunch with us, it gave him a break from his busy day and he was able to proudly show off his family to his coworkers. Such a simple idea but he was on cloud nine all week and still to this day brings up how much it meant to him.
Last but not least, take inventory of his closet and go shopping! As much as we ladies love our fashion, dads want to look sharp when they leave the house too. Even if they won’t willingly admit it or go shopping for themselves. The kids and I chose shopping this year because he needed some new professional gear. Now he’ll leave for work with a little extra pep in his step sporting this new watch from Nautica and these dress shirts from Brooks Brothers. We even picked up a new travel duffle for his upcoming business trips. Shhhh… don’t tell him!
Tanger Outlets has some fantastic deals for dads this week so if you opt for retail gift giving, now is the time to shop. You may even save enough to be able to score some new things for yourself and the kids. After all, you’ll need them for the photos you plan to take!
Whether you choose homemade gifts or gifts from dad’s favorite store, make the planning and preparations an event for your family. My oldest loves to help pick out gifts and has become quite the semi-pro ribbon tying assistant. Bringing the kids into the process not only makes them feel special and involved but makes it extra meaningful for dad as well.
Enjoy the time with your families this weekend and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!
What are some of your favorite gift ideas? Comment and share them with us on Facebook and Instagram using #TangerMom.