The list begins with simple themes, such as cotton and paper. As the anniversaries build, the recommendations progress in value to items such as china and precious metals. Use the ideas below to spark your own interpretation of the list.
For example, personalized stationery is a classic option for the first-year anniversary gift theme of paper. For a twist, consider a new PDA or smart phone (the modern equivalents of personalized stationery), a coffee-table book featuring your spouse's favorite artist, paper plates taped onto a new patio set, or gift certificates or concert tickets for an evening out.
At the fourth anniversary, the traditional anniversary gift list prescribes fruit or flowers. Red roses are always lovely. But for something different, try blooming plants or fruit trees for the garden, or a surprise getaway to a vineyard or flower festival.
If a theme seems particularly challenging, try focusing on color. For example, ivory (14th anniversary) could materialize as formal dining linens, towels, designer clothing or a handbag.
As the traditional anniversary gift themes progress to higher-end materials, serving platters, decorative items and jewelry make excellent choices, as do more inventive ideas. For example, for the 20th anniversary (china), give a Chinese objet d'art, arrange a Chinese banquet for the two of you and friends, or -- for true extravagance -- take a second honeymoon to the Great Wall.
Employ your knowledge of your spouse's interests and personality to impart intimacy to the traditional anniversary gift themes. Gift.com's GiftFinder can help you pull it all together to find the right present -- whether it's for your 5th anniversary or your 50th. Find creative yet traditional anniversary gift ideas.
HOT GIFTS:
