Ask Style: Have Any Guy Gift Ideas for Every Stage of a Relationship?

I've just started dating a man, and I'm stumped about what to get him for his birthdat. I don't want to scare him off with a grand gesture, but I want to show that I care.
—Tracy, via the Ask Style inbox

Dating: If you're still testing the waters, going gift overboard is a rookie mistake. As much as I'm sure he'd love a surround sound stereo system, expensive gifts can be a huge red flag when you're only casually dating. Since the holidays are the perfect time to over-indulge, why not bake him a sweet treat? It'll show you care, but that you're not looking to buy your way into his heart. Remember, girl, the name of the game is to keep it low key. 

In a Relationship: If Facebook says it's official, you've got to live up to the label. You're exclusive and it's all about building memories together. Tickets to a concert, a surprise weekend getaway or seats at sporting event are all great ideas. Not to mention you get to benefit from all these gifts too! Just no Ice Capades or Celine Dion concerts—promise? If you'd rather give him a tangible testament of your love, get him a gift that shows some serious thought. If you had an amazing time vacationing in Rome, get him a framed vintage map of the city. Is he loves a cold pint, consider buying him a home beer brewing kit.

Committed/Married: Let's just say it's not a good thing when he unwraps a pair of socks for the third year in a row and has to try really hard to feign glee. At this point, gift giving may have gotten a little tired. You know him, he knows you, blah, blah, blah. It's time to spice it up, baby! Surprise him with a present where he'll be challenged to try something new. Was he obsessed with model airplanes as a kid? Flying lessons! Self-proclaimed foodie? Cooking classes! Enabling him to grow as a person will breathe new life into the relationship and give him a sense of adventure and accomplishment. And guess who gets to take all the credit? Y-O-U.

For more guy-approved gifts head over to our For Him Holiday Gift Guide!

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