Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Without him, you would not have known how to change a flat tire, nor the difference between a socket wrench and a ratchet wrench. His insights on sports led you to your favorite team. He's always been there with a helping hand and now with the approach of Father's Day on Sunday, June 19th, take the time to give back to him. What's the best way to do that?
Sharon Schweitzer, an international etiquette expert, author and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide, says if you haven't already done so, you should start making plan today. Spoil the amazing man who has guided you through your life.
Sharon's tips:
• Plan a Memory: Father's Day is a time to set aside everything else and devote the day to your dear dad. If you are not a golfer but your dad is, take some time to share his favorite pastime. Go on a hike, a tour, or to lunch at his favorite restaurant. Celebrate everything your dad has taught you, and also create something new and memorable with him on this very special day.
• Share the Day: Sometimes we need to share Father's Day with Dad and also brothers, uncles, godfathers, grandfathers, stepfathers and others. Host a celebration for your loved ones for maximum time with your favorite people. Mother's Day is famous for brunch. On Father's Day, host a BBQ, cookout or inclusive celebration.
• Remember Father Figures: For some, Father's Day is difficult as fathers have passed or may have been absent. Consider using this time as an opportunity to show appreciation for the male mentors in your life. A father figure is more than biological, and can be a role model, leader or inspirational man who helped shape your world.
• Share Your Time & Express Gratitude: A national survey of the average American's major life regrets highlighted that one of the biggest regrets is not spending more time with parents. Use this day to express how much your father has meant to you over the years. Communicate your gratitude, care and love during this time with him.
• Gift-Giving: Gifts for dads can range greatly depending on your father's interests. Consider the three P's to guide your gift giving: Practical, Personalized, and Perfect.
Practical Gifts: Is he practical? Go for the gift that won't get tossed in a closet or re-gifted. Talk to your dad about his needs or communicate with family members. Contribute toward a group gift he will truly love, for example: Business and casual clothing, restaurant gift certificates to his favorite place and hobby accessories (paints and art supplies, how-to books).
Personalized Gifts: Go the extra mile to highlight his name or favorite team. For example: An engraved Watch, a personalized beer glass or flask, and sports team wine stoppers.
Perfect Gifts: Find the gift that quintessentially represents your dad or his future goals. Where does he want to go? What's on his list? A perfect gift for your father: New sports equipment like a golf club, fishing rod, or tennis racket; a fly-fishing or deep-sea trip he wants; or concert tickets to his favorite band.
Regardless of the country or culture, the love of fathers crosses international borders. As Father’s Day approaches, for the U.S., Mexico, and a few other countries, remember to share your appreciation of your dad on his special day.
Sharon Schweitzer, J.D., is a cross-cultural consultant, an international protocol expert and the founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. She is accredited in intercultural management, is a regular on-air contributor and has been quoted by BBC Capital, Investor’s Business Daily, Fortune, Inc., The New York Times, The Vancouver Sun, The Bangkok Post and numerous other media. She is the best-selling, international award-winning author of "Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide," which was named to the Best Books of 2015 by Kirkus Reviews.