When I shop for men, I don’t like to dilly dally. I’m not interested in wandering the aisles, distracted by the latest trends or impulse buys. Fittingly, I look at the task much like a man would, with unapologetic purpose. I tackle each objective with a clear mission in mind. For Father’s Day, that means skipping the big-box stores that offer a little bit of everything and heading straight to specialty shops. Over the years, I’ve developed a handful of go-to spots where I can always find something for the men in my life.
It seems obvious, but a book store is a superb place to source a Father’s Day gift. If you have an idea already in mind, great, but if not, the employees are happy to recommend something for you. When I asked for a Father’s Day gift rec recently, Octavia Books had several suggestions. First, the non-fiction book, “Neptune’s Fortune” by Julian Sancton. It tells the true story of a Spanish galleon that sunk off the coast of Colombia carrying billions in gold and silver, and one man’s journey to find it. As for fiction, Octavia recommended “John of John” by Douglas Stuart. It’s described as a “beautifully crafted novel following a young man returning to his Hebridean island home, a portrait of a close-knit community and a fraying family, of a father’s expectations and a son’s desires. Lastly, for both a decorative and informative read, my pic is “Henry Howard: Louisiana’s Architect” by Robert S. Brantley and Victor McGee. It examines the career of the architect, Henry Howard (with pictures) and his contributions to the landscape of the South.
Another great under the radar specialty shop for a Father’s Day gift is Seasoned. This unassuming gem of a shop is focused on cookware and barware with a strong bias for nostalgia. Most of the items are antique, making them not only unique, but exceptionally well made. You might find a set of vintage martini glasses or an old-fashioned eggbeater that brings back memories of summers spent with your grandmother. You just never know. The shop offers so many possibilities to find something special for the home that may even spark conversations with Dad about “the good old days.”
Nola Boards is also in my shopping rotation. Contrary to the name, they have a lot more than cutting boards (although they do them beautifully). The store is primarily a culinary gift store, including everything from locally sourced honey, custom cutting boards and cocktail shakers. Great for a dad who loves to entertain. I never leave without something quality that will work for someone on my list.
Last but not least, a stop at Really Really Nice Wines is always a winning Father’s Day move. As with a bookstore, it’s all about the recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or know very little about the subject, a knowledgeable staff member can help you find the perfect bottle. The team at Really Really Nice Wines shared a range of Father’s Day picks with me spanning different price points. Their most affordable recommendation is the Celine & Laurent Tripoz Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Nature, a sparkling wine that brings plenty of celebratory charm. For a mid-range option, they suggest the 2019 Clos du Jaugueyron Margaux, a classic Bordeaux with elegance and depth. At the top end is the impressive 2015 Paolo Bea “Cerrete” Sagrantino di Montefalco, a bold and memorable bottle sure to make an impression.
In the end, most dads don’t ask for or need much. But it sure feels nice to give them something useful that they would never buy for themselves.
The Bibliophile
John of John by Douglas Stuart, Neptune’s Fortune by Julian Sancton, Henry Howard: Louisiana’s Architect by Robert S. Brantley and Victor McGee
The Oenophile
Celine & Laurent Tripoz Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Nature, Really Really Nice Wines (SPARKLING), 2019 Clos du Jaugueyron Margaux (RED, Bourdeaux) , Really Really Nice Wines , 2015 Paolo Bea “Cerrete” Sagrantino di Montefalco (SAGRANTINO), In store only, Really Really Nice Wines
The Host
18″ Live Edge Walnut Magnetic Knife Holder, Nola Boards, Crawfish Bottle Opener, Perlis, Martini Glass, Judy , Oh Cher Sample Tray, Nola Boards, Embossed Crystal Cocktail Shaker, Nola Baords
Sale & Event Picks:
Ongoing: Extra 20% off Sale, Angelique
All June: 25% OFF EMSCULPT NEO, EMSELLA,EMFACE, & EXOMIND, Bopp SKin
Through 6/6: 40% off Select Items, Ballin’s
6/6 (5pm-8pm): Exhibition Opening, Ferrara Showman Gallery
6/15-6/21, Up to 70% Off Storewide Sale, Maisonette
