As I was scanning the internet, I caught a frivolous article with cliche’ quotes by one of Hugh Hefner’s new squeezes about what to buy a woman for Christmas.
Surprisingly, the article was very helpful. Embedded in the story was a quote from a consumer researcher on the four major categories that WOMEN want… not what you want them to have… but what SHE wants. Big difference. Here’s what Marshall Cohen, chief analyst at consumer and retail market research information company NPD Group, lists as the big favorite categories among women:
1) “The number-one emotionally attached gifts are jewelry as number one,
2) …chocolate as number two and
3) … apparel as number 3.
4) … Number 4 is coffee. Women love coffee.”
As for me, I can agree completely on the categories and the order presented. Here’s how my wife and daughters sort out on my list:
Laura– Laura never chooses “jewelry” as her number one choice… but then nothing makes her happier. The more she protests… the closer to the mark I am.
Oh yes, Kristin bought her a Prada bag, too.
Kristin — Yep, Jewelry is a biggie… but you have to add apparel. She has an account with ‘Coach’ for a reason.
Kristin has bought all of her expensive things… although I bought her a nice pair of diamond earrings for her graduation from West point… she earned it!
Karen — Chocolate proves she’s daddy’s girl… but apparel is a close second. Kristin bought her this year’s Prada bag.
Karla —- Chocolate and apparel. I don’t know where video games and computers fall… but she’s into these as well.
Well, I hope my little tour has given you some ideas… or at least a perspective on the question for the ages… “what do women really want?”
I can’t say that I have figured it out… all I can say is that for the time being… I look for a smile… and then I know I am okay until… the next occasion.
Good hunting!
Roger Freberg