When you buy someone a gift as personal as a guitar it is advisable to have them with you. Or at least know exactly what model the person wants. A guitar is a very personal thing.

I realize that the surprise part is fun. But who enjoys the surprise more you or the person you are buying for?

Let's say for example you buy your husband a new PRS guitar (most presents were PRS guitars in  2001, & 2002 & 2003).  (See Xmas Guitars)
Did you know they come in 3 different neck sizes?
Did you know they come with 30 different color options?
Did you know they come with several different inlay patterns?
For example a woman might like the dove inlays on a guitar, A man might think they were gay looking. (I know I do).......

Lets say for example your boyfriend is very on top of things, he knows exactly what model he wants. He specifies the inlays and neck size etc.

More often than not he may have wanted this guitar for several years. He may have decided on it back in June.

Think about this for a second.

What about new models etc etc.  Most of them are released for the Xmas buying season. He might not be up on them.

1. Many salesman will take advantage of someone's well meaning wife or mother. They won't give them as good a deal or use the opportunity to dump a piece of dead merchandise.  The big chain stores put those items on special commission rate for the Christmas season.  My mom got ripped off when she bought me my first guitar.

2. Your husband will probably immediately realize that you got taken. He might be hard pressed to say something to you because it was a gift.  The absolute worst part is the person who actually gets the gift has to suffer in silence, because he simply doesn't want to hurt your feelings.

3. Prices drop right after Christmas, sometimes drastically.  The gift certificate can go a lot farther on after Christmas prices.