Fathers prefer experiences to traditional gifts
Traditional Father's Day gifts, such as watches, belts, wallets, hampers, perfumes and grooming kits, remain popular.
However, a number of fathers say what they value most are experiences that allow them to spend quality time with their loved ones and create lasting memories.
Interviews conducted by The Mirror in Accra last Tuesday and Wednesday with fathers from different backgrounds revealed a preference for meaningful experiences such as family outings, special meals, weekend getaways and simple moments of togetherness over material presents.
For gift and curated experiences vendors, Father's Day demands offerings such as lunch and dinner packages to travel, getaways, picnics, live band entertainment, private chef services and even brewery tours, which continue to grow as families seek unique ways to celebrate their.
Quality time
In an interview with 56-year-old proprietor and father of three, Mr Nicholas Asante, spending time with his family is all he wants this Father's Day.
"Some of us fathers do not even realise when Father’s Day is approaching. But I’ll always choose spending time at a joint with them over just plain gifts. Sometimes, it’s the thought that counts, so I’ll take everything they give me,” he said.
Similarly, a teacher and father of four, Mr Samuel Adjei, said he would choose quality family time over material gifts any day.
"The gifts are good, but sometimes, nice trips are good too. I love those and it leaves deeper memories," he said.
A retired educationist, Mr Ebenezer Owusu, said some of his happy moments were not linked to gifts but to family activities.
"I still remember the three-day family trip we took to Ada some six years ago and another time to a Jazz concert in Ghana. The experiences are better, but we all know they are not cheap, so sometimes we have to bear with the children. For me, even a simple Father’s Day card is enough,” he added.
He noted that being together with the whole extended family is a nice way to celebrate Father’s Day.
Traditional gifts
Although many fathers expressed a preference for experiences, some admitted that traditional gifts still had their place.
IT Consultant, Mr Richard Ofori, said he is always grateful for whatever he received adding that most gifts he received were even from his workers and his wife.
“My first child, a girl, is just two years old, so right now, I only receive gifts from friends and family,” he added.
Similarly, commercial driver, Mr Joseph Mensah, said practical gifts such as shoes, clothing and accessories are always useful.
Beyond family outings and relaxation, some fathers highlighted the importance of appreciation. They said they simply wanted their efforts and sacrifices to be recognised by their loved ones.
For Mr Kofi Yeboah, appreciation could be expressed in many ways.
"It does not have to be expensive. A simple thank-you message, a card or a conversation where your children tell you how much they appreciate you can mean a lot," he said.
Other fathers agreed that genuine expressions of gratitude often left a stronger impression than expensive gifts.
Vendors cash in
Some Vendors the Mirror spoke to said sales were steady but not overwhelming.
Mr Nick Ntirikwa, a sales representative at Home of Quality Slippers, noted that his company had received orders on their GH¢500 package, which included leather sandals, a T-shirt, cufflinks, perfume and a gift card.
“In my five years doing this, people pair the gifts with the experience so their fathers and father figures can receive both,” he added.
Another personalised gift vendor, Ms Josephine Klutsey of Gifters Gift Shop, said a lot of orders had come in for their cheaper package of GH¢250, which included a watch, bracelet, wallet and gift bag.
She noted that sometimes adding a gift to a dinner party or something made it even more special.
A travel consultant, Mr Daniel Owusu of Timely Travels, said he had also received bookings for some Kenya and South Africa trips he curates.
