By Jefferson Bryant
I will let you in on a little secret about shopping for men—the key is to get him something he can use or something he wouldn’t normally spend the money on for himself. It does not have to be extravagant or expensive, but if it is something that he will use, then he will appreciate and remember the gift.
To help you find that something special (and useful), we have compiled a selection of gifts and experiences that any man (and possibly quite a few women!) would love to receive. We have some Stillwater-centric experiences that can be had for most budgets, along with several gifts you can purchase locally.
Refillable growler from Iron Monk
For the beer lover, Stillwater’s Iron Monk beer is a great choice. Not only can you visit the brewery and sample the offerings with a flight of beers, but you can also take it home in a growler. Set your man up with a tour of the brewery and make sure he has a new 64 oz growler to bring home whatever exclusive microbrew they have on tap.
Steak at Ranchers Club
For the discerning palate, a meal at the Rancher’s Club in OSU’s Atherton Hotel is the perfect start for a romantic evening. The finest meats are prepared with care and precision at the Rancher’s Club, making it the best place in Stillwater for fine dining. After dinner, have cocktails in the elegant State Room, then complete the evening with a stay at the Atherton for a romantic evening getaway.
Range time at Camo Corner
With two separate ranges for handguns and rifles, Camo Corner in Orlando, OK (about 15 minutes from Stillwater on Highway 51) is the perfect place to go shooting with your significant other. For $10, you can spend a few hours sending lead downrange. They offer frequent visitor passes, and have a shop with supplies, gunsmithing, and a nice selection of government surplus too. They have classes too.
For the gearhead in your life, the Hallett Racing Circuit has a great road course just 30 minutes from Stillwater. Not only are there regular races and events, but six times a year, HRC offers High Speed Touring. Bring your own vehicle (no trucks or SUVs), and drive on the track. If you don’t have a suitable vehicle, or just want a chance to drive an exotic car like a Lamborghini or Ferrari, then wait until September for the annual XtremeXperience. This event offers rides with trained race drivers, as well as drives where you get to take the wheel. Hallett also has a Racing School. Visit hallettracing.net for more information.
Grilling Accessories
Upgrade your man’s grill gear and he will remember it every time he uses it to sear delicious meats and vegetables. Not sure what accessory he needs? Every griller needs an instant-read electric thermometer, grilling gloves, and good quality stainless steel tongs and spatulas. Skip the kit and buy good quality tools (or even a new grill!) from Kinnunen, he will appreciate that you took the time to look for the tools he needs.
Electric Pressure Cooker
It is no secret that I enjoy cooking, and for the man in your life who loves to slice and dice his way through a carrot or potato, an electric pressure cooker is an amazing gift. I have had mine since Christmas (thank you, sweet wife), and I am absolutely in love with it. I use it nearly every day, and can make things I never thought of cooking in a pressure cooker. Locally, you can pick up a Fagor America Lux LCD 8 quart model from Murphy’s Department store in downtown Stillwater.
Beard and Mustache Accessories
A man’s facial hair is often an expression of his Id, be it wild and unkempt, or clean and trimmed with exacting precision. Regardless of whether you actually like facial hair, show him that you appreciate him with beard oil and mustache wax from EVERYMAN located in downtown Stillwater. From clothing to coffee, as well as barbering services, there is something for every man at, well, EVERYMAN.
Hand-painted drink cup by Kyle Ambrose
Whether he likes coffee, tea, soda, or water, let him know you still remember his name after all these years with a custom hand-painted RTIC (or bring your own) mug. A master pinstripe artist, Kyle Ambrose has over 10 years of experience in creating hot rod-style art. Kyle pinstripes other items too—cars, tool boxes, helmets, and even handbags, you name it, he can probably stripe it. Contact Kyle via his facebook business page or Instagram as @kacarsandstripes.
Whatever you find for your significant other this Valentine’s day, think of what he enjoys and make it from the heart.
