Since I sell at a lot of artisan markets, I’ve participated in a sneaky technique to help men find that perfect gift for their special someone. Here’s the lowdown.
First step; keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming artisan markets. The whole point is you need to attend the market with your significant other, so chose a date that works for both of you. It is possible to pull this off on your own, but if you can enlist some help from a friend, it will probably go more smoothly.
If you have her friend’s number – text in advance and alert them to fact that they will be basically be playing “wing man” in this subterfuge. Then casually suggest that she invite one of her good friends along. Say something like “Hey, you know who would love this kind of thing? (Insert name here)”. Your lady with think that is very thoughtful of you (bonus point!).
Now is the time for you to PAY ATTENTION. Most people will want to do a round of all the tables first before making any decisions on purchases. Pay attention to what she oooohs over the most. Does she pick it up? Does she try it on? Does her friend tell her it looks amazing on her? Most importantly – does she come back to it more than once?
Here’s where the sneaky part comes in. She will probably be humming and hawing over whether to purchase it or not. She will probably walk away and think about it. If there is a risk that she might impulsively buy the object herself, make the sneaky suggestion that she should probably think it over. Suggest taking a break, grab a coffee.
It’s your GO time! Hang back as the ladies walk away and tell the artisan to put the object aside and that you will be back as soon as possible. Or even step behind her as she’s trying to decide and catch the person’s eye who is selling the object. Mouth something like “can you put that aside?” while making some kind of gesture that you will return for it.
Do not feel shy about doing this – I’ve had this happen many times so I have no problem setting something aside for you. I’ve even had someone drop their credit card on the table as they walked away and whisper “wrap that up!” Did I then use his credit card to charge thousands of dollars in an elaborate scam? Of course not! That would be unprofessional, oh, and against the law.
Now all you have to do is excuse yourself (bathroom break?), return to the table to pay and pick up the gift you now know she will love.
Part of the fun can be seeing how disappointed she is if she comes back to buy the piece herself! OK – slightly fiendish, but think about how thrilled she will be when she opens the gift and discovers it didn’t “get away” after all!
And the bonus in all of this is that she will LOVE how much trouble you went to get her the perfect gift.
Christi York, Jewellery Designer and Guest Blogger
Portobello West’s Holiday Market happens on Saturday November 29 and Sunday November 30 from 11am-5pm at the Creekside Community Centre in the Athlete’s Village, admission $2. Listen to local musicians, bring a purse for Dress for Success, and shop a silent auction supporting Atira. The first 30 shoppers each day will receive a free swag bag!