Nothing at all wrong with getting your own gift ahead of time. Gotta make sure they don't run out. Now that would be a x-mas tragity if I ever heard of one.
Now as far as the wifes gift, I too agree that it should be shinny and sparkly.
That said you better buy her the cooler cart that is built with the coleman stainless cooler. Wouldn't want her to settle for some plastic piece of junk!!!!! LOL
Good Luck.