Father’s Day Gift Ideas from Favorite Online Boutiques

One Heck of a Find: Peyton Manning-Signed Revolution Broncos Helmet from The Autograph Source

Herlocher’s Mustard Adds Zest to Any Party

Ugh. Shopping for men. I grew up with five brothers and a father and have had a fair amount of boyfriends and one husband. And shopping for men hasn’t become any easier. Well, maybe a little. But still, they always pose more of a challenge than women—at least for me. You give a woman just about anything and she’s thrilled. (It’s the thought that counts, right?) Men seem to look something over this way and that, give a little smile of appreciation and then you’re left wondering if they really liked what you gave them. In all fairness, I think it has more to do with men’s display of enthusiasm vs. women’s. So in the end, I’ve concluded that I do just as well in the gift-giving department as anyone else and what mattters most is that I aim to please. (Although the day I produce that Ferrari, I’m sure I’ll truly be thrilled with the response.)

Just because they’re guys, don’t think that cards and gifts don’t mean much to them. And since most of our fathers live a distance from us, I’ve come up with a selection of online shopping ideas that you can send to them to let them know that they’re tops on your list.

If you’re looking for something truly unique and meaningful and you have the budget to match, check out The Autograph Source. This Aspen-based shop and online boutique sources investment-quality historic documents and sports, music and movie memorabilia from all over the world. Imagine giving your dad a Willie Mays signed baseball or how about the Rolling Stones original lyrics (with Jagger handwritten corrections) of Tie You Up? O.K., the latter might be more for the husband that you think is a terrific dad, but you get the idea. There’s something for every collector in every price range at The Autograph Source. Type in Bonjour into the comments section to receive a 10% discount.

Classic Alpine Hats from Alpen Schatz

Alpen Schatz, my alltime favorite purveyor of finely made European goods, based here in Telluride, Colorado, sells alpine hats—the real deal from Germany—that look dashing on men of all ages. These breathable and water-resistant, wool felt hats have been worn for centuries in the Alps by jaunty fellows concerned with both form and function. They’re typically adorned with either a feather or a gamsbart, accessories that also may be pinned on to an already well-worn hat in your father’s collection.

Superior-Quality Dog Accessories from Alpen Schatz

Fun and Natural Dog Toys from Purrfect Play

Man’s best friend is his dog, right? And what a great father’s day it would be if you offered a handsome collar to his best buddy. Alpen Schatz imports fabulous dog collars, leashes and leads from Europe. So fine, in fact, that Alpen Schatz recently set up a booth (by invitation only) for the second year in a row at the Westminster Dog Show in New York. Type in Bonjour upon check out for all Alpen Schatz online purchases to receive your special 10% discount.

Purrfect Play, my favorite purveyor of cat toys, also offers terrific dog toys made of natural fibers. They sell wool balls, soft “bones” and a crate of chew and tug toys that will allow dad to play with his pup for hours. Type in promo code Bonjour here as well to receive your 10% discount.

So what else does dad like to do? You guessed it, grill. Make the whole grilling experience more savory with a round up of rubs from JJ’s Pantry including Creole, Lemon Kick, Jamaican Jerk, Hickory BBQ, Sweet & Spicy and Mesquite. These and other all-natural products from JJ’s Pantry are made from Arizona-grown fruits, veggies, herbs and nuts. Reference Bonjour at check out and choose Shipping Option 4, to receive free shipping.

Savory Rubs for Grilling from JJ’s Pantry

I love having good mustard as an accompaniment to grilled meats. Herlocher’s “sweet and rough” dipping mustard is one of the most flavorful I’ve found. It’s so good, in fact, that you could almost eat it with a spoon. It goes well with everything from pretzels to carrot sticks to brats. For added fun, order a 4-pack emblazoned with your dad’s favorite college team such as Purdue or Pittsburgh. Type in promo code Bonjour to receive a 10% discount.

Sweets. Don’t let a guy fool you—most of them also enjoy a little treat, especially as they get older it seems. Many like it in the form of ice cream and/or cookies. Turn to Telluride Truffle for the most delicious Chocolate Truffle Sauce and Perfect Cookies you can imagine. All he needs to add is a couple of scoops of vanilla ice cream and voilà, he has a supreme dessert.  Type in promo code Bonjour in the Redeem Coupon box to receive your 10% discount on online orders only.

Telluride Truffle’s Perfect Topping

Telluride Truffle’s Perfect Cookies

And if your dad’s sweet tooth calls more for candy, offer him the most delectable from Ruth’s Toffee, a hometown confectioner just outside of Telluride, Colorado. Her crunchy almond confection is to die for! Mention Bonjour Colorado to Ruth to receive a 10% discount.

Ruth’s Toffee

Well, I guess that wraps it up for the dudes. At least now, in any event. No matter what you do, tell that special father in your life how much he means to you, how much you care. The days are just clicking by and no one is around forever.

Happy Father’s Day to all!