Shop Localista: The Guys Gift Guide to Maplewood

Okay, with all the 'Girls Night Out' hoopla, I thought Maplewood males could use a little attention this week. The fact that my husband's b-day and Father's Day are both nipping at my heels should also prompt a bit of male-oriented browsing, too, I guess.

On some levels, my guy's fairly easy to shop for, being the Scottish/Cuban sort—and by that I mean his preferences in drink and tobacco. Basically, I could just hit Maplewood Wine & Liquor and call it quits for most occasions. Problem is our children are getting old enough to know that Daddy shouldn't really enjoy such gifts as much as he does—Darn meddling kids!

While key chains sporting bottle openers might also send a bit of a mixed message, the hilarious engraved options at Bee & Thistle are pretty hard to resist. There are a bunch that are sure to elicit a good guffaws, but my favorite reads '"Panic, chaos, disorder…my work here is done!" ($8) which sort of sums up most weekends in our household, I'm afraid.

Carrying on with the rebel vibe, 3R Living also has a great collection of reclaimed vinyl records that give retro rocker edge to coasters, bowls and more. The round mirror ($148), framed with famed albums from the past is also a sure-fire hit, as are the biker cool key chains and Bike Chain Desk Pendulum clock ($88). For high tech guys, the solar powered knapsack with interior charging stations for high-tech gadgets is a bright idea, though not for the light of wallet ($250). I also thought the mounted cardboard "game" heads—in a variety of animals choices ($52)—were perfect for jazzing up any wall.

Sunglasses are always hip and handy, particularly if you lose them as often as certain husbands I know. Maplewood Village Opticial has just moved to a spiffy new space and is offering some celebratory sales worth looking into. They've got a substantial selection of men's sunglasses sure to flatter any handsome face on your gift list. In addition to 'new location' discounts, they're also offering our SECRET SALE CODE of the week! Just mention code PATCH/VILLAGE OPTICAL to take 5% off your total purchase from Friday, June 11 through Friday, June 18.

NEXT WEEK: Off the beaten track finds for Father's Day!

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