Hey, I’m a guy. Therefore, I have this habit of putting things, (wallet, keys, phone, business card case, pocketknife, etc.) down, somewhere, there, or was it there? Out on the town, I have reached for the phone, only to be reminded it is safely charging in a kitchen outlet!
I have looked at valets in stores from time to time, but never really liked what I saw. Besides, a “valet” just seemed, well, not quite “guyish.” When I was offered a chance to check out some great Father’s Day gifts from the fine folks at Red Envelope I figured the time was here to get organized with some class!
Amazing was the first reaction I had just from opening the outer box. Nested inside was a pristine, red gift box. The box was tied closed with a soft, cream-colored fabric ribbon hand-tied into a nice bow. A red envelope (hmmm) with a card for the recipient completes the package. Carefully packed inside with tissue paper was the carton for the item itself. Inside that was a gray fabric-like bag that at last reveals to you… a gift.
Perhaps gift isn’t the right word. Life-changer seems like hyperbole, yet is much closer to the truth. The shape and size are perfect for the dresser-top or credenza in the home or work office (maybe you need two!). The finish on the solid wood piece is Wenge. A quick internet search tells me the color is that of a dark, tropical hardwood. The nickle-finished hardware set this piece off as a piece for a man who likes classy, well-made items. The quality of the valet is on a par with many pieces of furniture I have seen.
The charging compartments are perfectly sized for phones, mp3 players, or anything short of a netbook! Love the leather in the top tray and accenting the covered compartment. The drawer is solid and secure with a soft interior for cufflinks ,rings, watches, etc.
This is a great addition to any man’s bedroom or office. High-end and thoughtfully designed. Sleek and classy yes, but as the commercial says, “I’m worth it.” And so is your man.
RedEnvelope.com offers many Father’s Day gifts, including the Deluxe Valet reviewed here.
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, who was not compensated for the review beyond the complementary product received for the purpose of the review.
Rick Vandermeulen is a parent of two boys living in upstate NY. He may be contacted at www.AllWaysTourAndTravel.com, or find him on Twitter: @allwaystt