Shopping for men can be a challenge. There are all sorts of accessories, jewelry, and clothing items that are appropriate for women, but men seem to have long ago settled for money clips, which they almost never use, and ties. Of course, you could always spring for another coffee mug. It gets kind of boring for both the giver and receiver. There's never anything special or imaginative about the presents - and they hardly send the message of love that a spouse would like to give to his or her husband. So, what's a spouse to do? 

The answer is to think outside the gift box. Here are some ideas for romantic gifts for him: 

1. A Memory

Material items are nice, but an experience can stay with a person for a lifetime. If you can figure out a way to make a special memory with your spouse, then that's a gift. You could surprise him with a vacation or a unique date, such as a hot air balloon ride or a day trip to a site he always wanted to visit, such as a battle ground, museum, or natural wonder. There are concerts and shows and all sorts of activities that will bond you tighter and leave a lasting impression. 

2. Reflections of the Past

Once you make all those beautiful memories, you'll want to dwell on them. Offering up a handmade scrapbook or video or blowing up a favorite photo and framing it are great ways to savor the captured moments. There are many personalized photo gifts - phone and table covers, pillows, and mugs - that accomplish this and are functional at the same time. Besides, this kind of gift shows just how meaningful the memories you're making together are to you.  

3. An Ego Boost

This is not as obvious as the other gift suggestions might be. But men, just like women, can use a compliment every now and then. Rather than just say the words, "You're so handsome," or "I love you," turn the expressions into a gift. For example, all over the Internet, you will find decks of cards strung together and repurposed as books with each featuring a reason one person loves another. You could write a poem or love letter but give it more importance by framing it or making it part of a larger piece of art. While the presentation should be creative to elevate your words, sharing what you love about your man is the real gift. 

4. A Personalized Something or Other

Modern consumers want everything customized and companies are obliging. You can find everything from pens to tennis shoes that are made to order. They can feature colors of your choosing. You can add your name or a catch phrase or important date. Monograms are popular, too, and can be featured on bathrobes, towels, and briefcases. Purchasing or making something that was made just for him demonstrates that you find him unique and want him to stand out.  

5. You In a Bow

Let's face it, most men like sex and feel they aren't getting enough of it. Sure, birthday sex has been a part of marriage for eons. Just doing the deed hardly seems like enough of a gift. Frankly, you should be having sex with your spouse more than once a year. Make it special sex. Indulge in a fantasy, role-play, or simply offer yourself up wearing nothing but a bow (and high heels maybe). Don't forget that men appreciate romance, too. So, light candles, have aphrodisiacs on hand, and put your all into it. C'mon, you know what to do.