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Let's face it: shopping for the men in your life can sometimes feel like an impossible mission. Whether it's your partner, a family member or a good mate, finding the perfect gifts for him that go beyond the usual socks, tie or gadget can be a real challenge. You want something unique, thoughtful and, most importantly, something he'll actually use and enjoy.
The secret? Forget the ‘stuff’ and think about giving him an experience. People often cherish the memories made and the new skills learned far more than a material object that might end up gathering dust. This is where experience gifts shine, offering a chance to tap into his hobbies, creative side or even inspire a new passion.
Keen to find out more? We've broken down some amazing men gift ideas, including many fantastic options for every personality type.
For the man who’s happiest in the kitchen
If his weekends revolve around a perfect cup of coffee, mastering a new recipe or shaking up a killer cocktail, then a culinary experience is the way to his heart (and yours!).
The coffee connoisseur
Is he looking to perfect his pour-over? Gift him a barista and coffee art class. He'll learn everything from bean selection and brewing methods to the delicate art of pouring latte designs. This is a practical skill that will elevate his morning routine forever.
The home chef
Why get a new apron when you can sign him up for a cooking class? We offer a huge variety of cooking courses, from making fresh pasta and perfect dumplings to mastering the art of a great BBQ or even sourdough baking. A cooking class is not just a gift for him; it's a gift for everyone he cooks for!
The cocktail king
If he fancies himself a mixologist, a cocktail making workshop is a guaranteed gift for him. He’ll learn to shake, stir and muddle professional-grade drinks, putting a new spin on classics like a perfect martini or a spicy margarita. Look for classes that also pair mixology with a fun activity, like a cocktail and dumpling making class for a truly memorable night out. For the spirit enthusiast, a gin making masterclass or a distillery tour and tasting offers a sophisticated deep dive into his favourite tipple.
For the man who loves to get hands-on
Some guys just love the satisfaction of working with their hands, creating something tangible and mastering a traditional craft. These gifts for him are perfect for the man who loves to tinker, build and DIY.
The modern craftsman
For the man who appreciates function and form, a knife making workshop is an incredible, bucket-list-worthy gift. He’ll spend the day forging a high-quality, functional piece he can use with pride. Similarly, a DIY blacksmithing class offers a chance to work with fire and metal, shaping a bottle opener or fire poker to take home. If you think Dad would be interested, check out our metalwork classes across Australia.
The woodworker
A woodworking class for beginners is an excellent gift for men wanting to start a rewarding hobby. He'll get hands-on experience crafting a small DIY project like a stool or coffee table, gaining confidence and skills that can lead to bigger home projects down the line.
The artistic engineer
For a truly unique experience that’s a mix of fire and finesse, a glassblowing class is an unforgettable gift for men. He'll learn to work with molten glass, creating stunning pieces of art with precision and skill. It’s an exhilarating and creative challenge that’s far from the everyday grind.
For the man who needs to unwind
We all need a break from the screen and the hustle. These gifts offer a chance for him to switch off, focus and tap into a quieter, more artistic side.
The creative soul
An acrylic painting class or a fun neon paint and sip workshop is a fantastic way for him to unwind and express himself without pressure. It’s relaxed, fun and he gets to walk away with his own masterpiece. For something a little more textured, a tufting workshop for beginners offers a unique and meditative experience where he can design and create his own custom rug to lay his feet on at home.
The grounded guy
For a soothing, screen-free activity, consider a hand building pottery class (moulding by hand) or wheel throwing taster class (using a pottery wheel). Working with clay is incredibly therapeutic, providing a calming and meditative environment. He’ll get his hands messy and find peace in moulding and shaping something beautiful. Another great mindful option is a terrarium making workshop, where he can build and decorate his own miniature succulent garden, bringing a piece of peaceful nature indoors. A great gift for plant lovers!
The sentimental keeper
If he loves items with meaning, a jewellery making class to make a silver ring is a deeply romantic and thoughtful gift for your boyfriend or husband. He'll literally forge a piece of wearable art, creating a tangible symbol of your relationship or a personal memento. For something unique and profound, a beginner's Kintsugi workshop teaches the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, helping him celebrate life’s imperfections and find beauty in the broken.
For the man who is a curious observer
Does he always have his phone out or is he the “attention to detail” type? Then, he might like these gifts for men that help him explore the world around him.
The digital artist
A smartphone photography course is an immensely practical and useful gift. He already has the gear and this class will teach him the technical and artistic skills to take professional-quality photos and videos. Who knows, this one-off class might just set up a legitimate hobby!
The lifelong learner
If he's into niche, intellectual hobbies, look for a bonsai class or a beekeeping class. These are great gifts for him to help encourage focus, patience and a deep appreciation for nature.
Searching for a present for a guy who has it all? Check out these 11 gifts for guys who have everything.
Why an experience gift is the best gift
In a world filled with more things than we need, an experience is a refreshing change. They tick all the boxes:
- Memorable: He'll remember the process of making his first silver ring or the smell of wood in the workshop long after the day is over.
- Skill building: He gains a new skill, which is a massive confidence booster.
- Quality time: Many of these are perfect to do together, turning the gift into a shared memory—the ultimate bonding experience.
So, the next time you're stuck for a gift, choose an experience that caters to his unique interests, and you'll be giving him something much more valuable: a moment, a memory or a lifelong hobby. Happy gifting!
