You’re a big girl now. You know that Santa ain’t real and no one can read your mind. Besides, how is someone supposed to give you what you want when

you don’t even know what that is?! Here's a great place to start. Take out a piece of paper (or your smartphone) and jot down 5-10 things that you’d like

to have this year. Make sure it’s reasonably priced and also list the items in the order of priority (i.e., importance). Having a list can help you to clearly convey what

you want. It can also remind you of what to pick up once the sales are on if you don’t get everything on the list. See...we're already thinking ahead!

One way to approach the topic with some subtly is to suggest a theme. Like “Baby, let’s focus on being more romantic in our presents this year” or “Didn’t we

say we were going to work out together more often?” If you put a theme into his head, that will help him to focus and not be all over the

place. It ups your chances of getting something you really want (and can truly use) rather than opening up the box and thinking to yourself “Where did he get this idea

from?”

(Peep their feet) 

Another approach is to mention a category. If you’re sick of getting lingerie (which is oftentimes for him more than you anyway) or he doesn’t seem to

get the jewelry thing right (unless you specifically point it out), this is how you can avoid putting on a fake smile at Christmas due to your disappointment. “Honey, how

do you feel about us getting each other some shoes?” or “Why don’t we go to more concerts this year?” can also steer him in the right direction without making

him feel like you’re telling him what to do.

Hints sometimes work. They’re much more effective if you’re not the one dropping them, though. Go with one of his friends instead (your girlfriends may be too pushy or obvious).

Guy friends can be really underestimated when it comes to their approach and influence in this area. It’s nothing from them to be like “So, what are you getting your

girl?” and when your man says something crazy, his friend can come back with “That’s corny, man. How about…?” (See what we mean?)

You know what they say. You have not because you ask not. If you don’t mind just putting it right on out there, ask your man for what you want.

Just make sure you’re not demanding. Talk about it while watching a Christmas movie on the couch or put the list under his cup of coffee on his nightstand in

the morning. Start the list off with “Some of the things I’d really like this year. You?” and see how he responds. If he’s in tune, you’ll end up with

at least one or two of the things your heart desires. Or, he’ll be in the ballpark and maybe even get you something better! Yay!