Do you give gifts (along with the fee) regularly, Occassionaly, or infrequently??

And when you give a gift, the amount should not matter right?
...Just as long as its not something stupid like $5 giftcard to Target...But for the ones here who do not have Bill Gates money or even O.J. Simpson money...Whats a good amount for a gift?? $50?? $75? $100?

Its different with you though...I think some of the ladies find that being with you is a gift in itself since your like...The Michael Jordan of the Hobby.

I try to bring something tangible like chocolates, flowers, a card, not just an envelope for the donation, candles or a bottle of wine. Some girls list the things they like to receive as gifts over and above the donation. Gift cards to Victoria's is a winner for most any girl. Check with your girl she may be looking for something in particular.

Except for once (sorry Karina, it was too last minute), I have brought a little gift for the girl.  All of them I had spoken to ahead of time or had good sites that gave me information on their personality and preferences.  So it was a simple matter of picking out something I thought they would like.  They have all been unique, personal gifts.  I also like to give them a cool little thank you card.  Yeah, sometimes they have two girls kissing on the front--hey I did say personal, right?

I tend to avoid the classic gift of roses, chocolate etc.  There are a few reasons for this.  First, I think they get those alot and I like to try and be a little different.  Second, it could get a little obvious if several guys show up a day with the same sort of 'date gifts' for the same girl.  Third, if they are travelers it will be hard to take things like flowers anywhere.  

Also chocolates and other sweets may be bad for a girl who's work depends upon her appearance.  So if I do go with a classic choice, I try to do things that I think they would appreciate and find handy for work...something like a spa certificate or something from Victoria Secret's.  

I generally would not recommend for guys to pick out clothes unless you know the lady's exact dimensions.  Most guys have a very warped concept of lady's sizes and what really looks good on a woman.  Nothing personal there, just my experience from the straight guys who ask me advice on how to outfit their gfs.  

On a first visit I would suggest bringing just a little token gift, maybe even just a card.  After you see her, I bet you'll have a much better idea of what to bring next time.

Edited to add:  Regarding dollar "tip."  Yeah that's common especially with agency girls.  Heard anywhere from $20 to $100 with $40-50 being avg for a $300 girl.

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I don't think the ladies ever expect anything.  My experience has been they are delighted if you are thoughtful enough to get a gift--especially on a first visit--but it seems to be the exception and not the rule.  I've heard time and time again they're happy if their visitor's nice and if they are, happy if they save the dollars to afford multiple visits.

Perhaps this is different for the really high-end girls.  I don't know.

I guess I am the enlightened one.  I always assumed a little gift was sort of the norm.  Usually I put an xtra 50 with the gift.  It is always very much appreciated and the next time it usually shown and given back with extra goodies

If I see a provider, and I had such a positive experience with them that I want to return, I will probably bring a little extra something on my 2nd visit.  Generally, it's the variety of girls that keeps us going.  However, occasionally I will have the pleasure of meeting a true sweetheart.  And putting a little thought into making her day special, on my next visit, makes both of us feel pretty good.

I don't think the amount you spend matters.  Just the thought you put into it, and letting her know you think she's someone special.

I usually bring a gift on a subsequent visit. That way I can get a personal sense of what a lady might like.

Its true...all of the girls I've found through TER never seem to expect more.

One time, in my very first time, long before I knew about TER, one girl did ask for a tip and I just kind of gave her a befundled look like WTF, the session was horrible and they expect to be rewarded, HA!

I've settled on going to a Tiffany & Co. Jewlery store and getting a Gift card, two for an amount of $50.

Good question. I have given "tips" of anywhere from $20 to $200. I also have given "gifts", like perfume, clothes, gift cards.

I gave one touring provider who had made a stop in Baltimore who told me in a conversation that she had been in the city for a couple days and would like to know more about it a book of the history of Baltimore City, as well as a CD of music by the BSO (she had told me she was into that kind of music over the phone), a Ravens jersey and of course flowers and a stuffed animal. She made sure that the three (which turned into 6) hours I spent with her was amazing and the extras cost me a grand total of $187.

One of my ATF's Ive spoiled a bit I guess, with stuff like a lap top computer, digital camera, camcorder and so on, but she has payed me back for my kindness many times over.

There are no rules, just don't be cheap. $50 is fine, remember most the ladies shouldn't be expecting a tip or gift and will be greatful to you for your kindness.

B-Pop

When I see someone charging $$.5, i usually just include $$$ and be done with it..Not one ever said thanks or anything for the extra, so I sort of wonder if it was a waste to include it.

When I pay $$$, i just generally figure for that price, it's enough unless they're truly spectacular..!

just my 2 cents..

--jb

A tip is ANOTHER, AFAIAC.  I have said here before that I feel tipping is supposed to be something to supplement the income of some individual in a low paying position close to minimum wage (like cabbie, waiter or waitress, shop employee, hotel employee, or such).  It helps to enable them to have a more liveable income.

 In "THE business", the gals make hourly (and even annual if they desire) incomes that are greater than most hobbyists.  Gals in this business make higher hourly incomes than I EVER made.  It seems obsurd to me to TIP such an individual, even though they are providing such an intimate personal service.  My current hobbying budget is anywhere from one-third to one-half of my take home retirement check for the month!  I currently have a VERY limited part time consulting business from which I obtain an hourly income which would be considered quite respectable by most of society.  However, it is only equal to what an agency gal gets in THIS business!  So why in the world should I or anyone else be tipping a provider?  For the record, I have never tipped a GFE provider.  

 MP's are somewhat different.  As long as I can remember, base MP prices have been about $ or less!  There tipping a provider has just been considered part of the gig, since most of the base price went to the MP.

 This having been said, a gift is another matter.  One gives a gift out of caring, and for exceptional circumstances.  I have given gifts to VERY special providers.  It may be something as simple as a carry out lunch or a pizza and coke.  After all, the gals are busy and often don't have time to stop to obtain such things.  Usually I'll discuss something like that with them first.  For local providers, there is nothing wrong with roses.  Tasteful jewelry isn't bad.  I have always thought that gift certificates were not personal enough, however I suppose something like Victoria's might be okay (I haven't done it yet though).

 In general, I'm with jeep.  For pure hobbying I feel that the gal is well compensated and just showing up presentable, punctual, pleasant, and ready to play is enough.

 For a "regular" (who is really anything else BUT), other factors come into play.  For one gal I see, we often work it out ahead of time.  She may bring a home-made meal, and I bring the beverage, music and dessert.  If the gal is VERY sweet, special and reasonable, I often bring nice little goodies (especially to extended sessions).  I won't mention names, but you know who you ARE!...


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This one I agree with!  I ALWAYS remember who gave me what and make sure I show him in the next booking just how much I thought of his generosity!

...other than those hefty "tips" you talked about, I'm pretty much with you on those gifts.  I especially like those Ravens Jerseys and the BSO CD.  Nice style, there!  

 I remember when Sofia put on a jersey of mine (damn Travis Taylor no less).  Glad that bum is gone now, but SHE liked it then!  See'in that awesome booty shakin' out from underneath (when she flashed it), there was just NO doubt where THAT jersey was goin'.  Oh my, I could use some oxygen right now!

You are REALLY startin' to get to me sweetie!

Infrequently, mostly because I think gifts should be genuine. You have to know her a little bit before you can give her something meaningful and I think you should do it as a genuine offer of appreciation. And the price doesn't matter. You give her something she will appreciate and that you can afford. When you start presorting gift amounts you might as well just leave a tip like she's your waitress.

Bomp, sometimes a gal will ask me for my astro solar sign, and tell me hers.  Then, the birthdates come out.  From there, it doesn't take "rocket science" to figure out the birthstone.  Of course, some ladies don't like their birthstones.  BTW they call astrology a "pseudo science", but I have found it uncanny how often it seems to be "right on" between partners.

 Rule of thumb, if she's special pay attention to the details.  Most gals have pierced ears.  Many wear tactful necklaces, or bracelets.  Pay attention to the things she says both in session and on the website.  It is very possible to come up with the right gift and still surprise her.

 Ya' know what's really nice?  When she gives YOU a nice gift!  Makes ya' feel like a million bucks!  Now, THAT'S a special gal!!!

...wine, chocolate, or both. I figure it's a gift -- if they don't like it, they can toss it.

I just know he is the type of guy that throws in a Bracelet from Tiffanys or a 500.00 gift certificate to Saks.. Who are you kidding Joe ? You are so full of Baloney ! *wink*... Just teasing you..

What you said about the 50 is so very sweet of you, and I am sure any girl is thrilled with it to find that surprise.

If they are coming to you, quite possibly they had to pay a driver if they use one ( We hate paying drivers but its a must..) So really getting our full rate after that tip is pleasingly wonderful

Perhaps , she was so nervous about going to see JoeBaloney she went and had a manicure and went and bought some new lingerie.. Invested in JoeBaloney.. again.. to find an extra 50.. we get very excited..

Hell, living in Buffalo.. If they leave extra money, I always want to run down the street and tell them they read the rate page wrong. I can't run that fast though.. LOL

-- Modified on 5/14/2005 5:40:55 PM

I find that something a bit more personal than cash is always appreciated.  A nice box of chocolates (this does not mean Hersheys Box of Gold) such as Godiva is nice.  Or, maybe something from a shop like Body Works or Evelynn & Crabtree.  If you really know the woman, then perhaps some nice perfume or "intimate ware" is also a good choice.

I love gifts that reflect real thought. liek anything from my wishlist or maybe a book by an author I mentioned I liked. Price doesn't really matter.

To tell the truth I seldom tip...but I do enjoy picking up a little something special, especially if I know the provider and have a sense of what she might like. A bottle of good wine..box of Godivas..something from Victorias or Bath & Body.  One of my faves is a coffee snob so I like to bring her a pound of hard to get, rather expensive coffee.  Hard to explain, it simply enhances the entire experience for me and I like to think it is appreciated by the lady. Hey..how about this for a switch...a couple years ago I was in dallas and had an appt with a provider I had never seen before..happened to be on Valentines Day...She showed up at my hotel..dressed like we were going clubbing and brought a box of chocolates  and a rose for me! What a night that was!   I think part of this hobby I love is the anticipation of the encounter..taking time for a little thoughtful shopping adds to the thrill!!  But thats just me.

Essentially every time.

Initially something "generic" like flowers.  Or something I noticed she seemed to like from her web site or her posts.

On repeat visits, something I have learned that she likes.  I try to slip something into the conversation that might give me a clue.  Sometimes I cheat and drop an e-mail to another provider I know she is friends with, or a guy who has reviewed her.

The price is not the issue at all, it's personalizing it and showing that you listened to her the last time.

I've given a gift almost everytime. The first couple times, it was flowers then I realized a guy carring flowers draws too much attention. Since then I've given a bottle of wine or some small trinket. Nothing that cost over 50 but took a bit of searching on the internet to find. Having a gift wrapped or in a gift bag is a great icebreaker when seeing a lady for the first time.

Ciara, I'm a little curious how I was 'lying' about this.  I've never had anyone do an outcall, I go there.  And I've wasted the .5 several times with service that really wasn't even worth the rate charged.  And I should probabably have saved it til afterwards if it was deemed worth tossing it in.  But I've learned.  Besides that, there aren't a whole lot of $$.5 left anyway.  And like several others wrote, anyone charging $$$ for an hour probably built their tips in anyway!  

And I also agree a gift is different.  If you have some affection for a specific person and want to bring her a personal gift, that's just a sweet gesture.  

I'm still curious how I lied.  And I am pretty sure I'd never throw a Tiffany's anything at a provider unless I was planning to propose..!

--jb

Its a standard practice for me to send out a thank you note to someone I have seen, whether or not they gave a gift of course.  I would think everyone does!  I can't be getting to you, you have not heard my voice yet

I do like those gifts that keep on giving... I can't eat candy as it goes to my ass.  You may like that but when I wiggle into those jeans in the dressing room with all those mean bitches staring at me... its not enjoyable.  I no longer like flowers as I had recently had a room full of flowers in a hotel from one client.  In comes the client, then we waited 15 mins for his surprise to arrive, meantime I was horny, (if you know what I mean.) I was to see that evening another client. I had to explain this as I felt who would want to see me now this way?  Men have ego's     I was not expecting an overwhelming amount, he just went overboard. What I do like is if someone tells me they have donated to some org of their likeing but thats not going to be our first conversation when he gets threw my door as I have other plans.

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I always try to bring a gift, not a tip.

I try to take the time and fine a nice Thank you card for the lady, not just an envelope.  Amazing the reaction you get just to that.  Then I think you should always bring a flower, chocolate, candle, just something small and a little sentimental to show you were thinking of them.

Would do this with any date, in the hobby or not.

I almost always bring a gift  - wine, chocolates, piece of lingerie, lunch, etc. About a tip - I will round up the fee depending on what denominations I have in my pocket. If the lady is providing a "special" I may give her the full payment if the service was very good. I NEVER go to providers whose web-sites say "tips appreciated but not required" - that sounds like they are expecting tips and I feel they will not treat me right the next time if I do not leave a tip.

I often send thank you notes to providers after a session.  If they respond back in kind telling me they had a good time, or if they thank me for my gift, I see them again.  If not - I move on. Girls who would like repeats - please take note!!

nds good to me - please pm me with info on web site, etc. - I'd like to hook up with you

-- Modified on 5/15/2005 10:14:20 AM

I agree with your post, STP. I regularly bring gifts similar to those you mention. I like gift-shopping. It's fun, IMHO, but apparently not many other guys (in general) agree. Apparently I'm not the only hobbyist who likes to bring a gift, though. Actually, I enjoy shopping for a gift a lot more than buying myself "stuff".

To answer the original question about cost, I usually spend about $15-30 for gifts for "new" ladies, and a little more for some of my favorites, maybe up to about $50, although there are no hard and fast rules.

I keep an eye out for potential gifts when I travel, and try to select something that most ladies in general would like, unless I'm getting it for a regular/favorite. In that case, I usually know what she likes in particular, since I've asked!

I apply this same approach to my "civvy" life relationships with women as well. (I'm single, you know.)

One pet peeve: women (any women) who say they like "anything" when I'm talking with them. Kinds of reminds me of a "mom" answer: "Oh, you can get me 'anything' for mothers' day, I'm sure I'll love it, etc, etc"!!

As for tipping, each to his own, but when I did it a few times at the start of my hobbying adventures last year, it seemed a little weird to me. During a session, I'm not the least interested in financial matters--the "donation" is merely an envelope to me at that time--and tipping just brings it to the forefront again. BTW, I always use some sort of greeting card, not just an "empty" envelope.

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-- Modified on 5/15/2005 10:41:31 AM

Soft, I DO feel I have heard your "voice" in here (at least your mental one).  Believe me I wouldn't mind hearing the verbal one either...~"}

 Chocolates go to the ole tush, huh?  Yeah, I know; life can be such a bitch.  Too bad because chocolate (particularly dark chocolate--like in less sugar but more fat) is said to be quite an aphrodesiac for women.  Apparently you don't really need ONE...;}].  As for the flowers, I may bring a half dozen or so to try to remotely match the lady's beauty.  I would NEVER be so presumptious as to try to FILL YOUR ROOM with them, though.  Oh how GOSH!

 Men have EGO's??  I never knew THAT..~~ ROTFL  You must be talking about some OTHER man...~~;}

Yes THX, but what if they toss 'em at YOU?? lol

Well OKI, that would be several steps up from the gag gift I just gave my "sweetheart".  Myself being a permanent devotee to "The Dark Side", I got her a pack each of M&M's Darth Mix Plain and Peanut chocolates.  Hey, they're damn hard to find (only a few places have 'em and they keep selling out)...  The gift might not have been all that classy, but what I had to go through to find "it" was worth "hazardous duty pay"...  BTW, I first made sure she wasn't allergic to nuts.  Especially not MINE...

Aaahh STP, so you had a lady bring YOU a gift as well huh?  As I said, it just puts ya' on top of the world.  She's GOT me after THAT, as her loyal SLAVE!

Horny, I like your idea.  Seems to make a lot of sense.  After all, if they can't bother to answer back like you said, then how can THEY be worth the future BOTHER??

...but it is seldom my gift.

Count yourself LUCKY...

Travis Taylor??? Whats wrong with you? lol...should have said Butterfingers on the back of his jersey, not Taylor.

I have a rather large Ravens jersey collection (also Terps), with the likes of Ray Lewis 4 of them (of course), Michael McCrary, Peter Boulware, Vinny Testaverde, Jamal Lewis, , Ed Reed, Tony Banks (yeah I know), Todd Heap and even a Matt Stover one. I just had Dan Cody and Derrick Mason jerseys made. they make great nighties for the ladies staying over also.

For gifts I usually just give Ray Lewis jeresys out, not many people want a Matt Stover jersey, lol

B-Pop

I've given some gifts...a stuffed animal, candle set, crystal, etc, but haven't given chocolates because they're fattening and how many flowers can a girl use anyway?

Lately I've kind of gotten away from gifts other than money, around $50 seems right. With the money, they can put it to whatever use they prefer.

Maybe I should reconsider on repeat visits once I know what a lady likes.

I almost always bring a gift in the form of candy, jewelry (bracelets, neck chains, pins etc. something inexpensive but tasteful), wine, CD's, books. Money is always appreciated but these other gifts show a little more personal touch. They're more likely to make her remember you. If she's an independent with her own web site there's often a wish list or some other indication that will allow you to show that you've given some thought as to what will please her.

Yep, tragic as it seems, I miss that girl. I had seen her many times and never given her a gift plus fee. However, last year when I saw her on my birthday, which SHE remembered, she brought a card, and home made chocolate chips cookies. I remember all the flavors so well (not just the cookies either).

Tagically, she was killed in an auto accident (passenger)and likely was with a client don't know. Now I wish I had given her several gifts in retrospect. Guess I'm just a pig though?

Interesting question though. I think, when I find a new ATF, she will get gifts. Until then, for first timers and single dates, there are no tips. I don't work at minimum wage or I could not hobby. But please, I can't come close to what some of the ladies make. Do the math. I know they have bills too. But, we do need to think of the economy of scale here. Anyway, I will still be looking for that ATF and then go shopping.