As I mentioned earlier in the month, I think a lot of couples “celebrate” their anniversary by simply buying a quick gift and calling it good. But I want to challenge that. I believe that anniversaries are so very important! There are much better anniversary gifts to give silly things that take no though or effort.

So below are some things that your spouse might really want for your anniversary! These are anniversary gifts that you can’t find at a grocery store last minute and most of them won’t break the bank either!

Out of the Box Anniversary Gifts

ONE || To Feel Important

You guys, it doesn’t take much to make your spouse feel important, but it goes a long way. Get them a special gift that fits them perfectly. Think of their favorite color, favorite candy, favorite drink, and even their favorite fandoms and characters. Bonus points if it represents something only you know about them. Again, it could be something as simple as a candy bar and soda or just a Funko Pop of their favorite character. Or even just a cute sticker that reminds you of them! Pearson got me a sticker that says “Death before Decaf” the other day and I loved it! (because I don’t do decaf coffee)

Or get them something that you know they’ve been wanting. Or something they mentioned in passing. This takes some effort on your part. You need to pay attention to little things they say throughout the year and then remember it, but it’s so worth it!

TWO || To Be Romanced

Very few of us are just naturally romantic, right? Well, you can certainly be romantic for one night on your anniversary!

You could cook a special dinner. Maybe fix your spouse’s favorite meal or make something you haven’t had in a while, or something that’s a bit more difficult than you usually do. Then light some candles and use the fine china. Just make it special.

Also, give them a back scratch or a foot massage. Without expectations.(Though if it does lead to something more, that’s great too). What a great anniversary gift!

Related: 3 Resources that Actually Strengthen Intimacy in your Marriage

THREE || To Spend Time With You

No, quality time is not high on everyone’s love language list. I get that. But it’s still important and I think it’s the first love language to go when life gets busy. So do the work ahead of time and set up child care. And make sure to have a back up plan for child care. Make sure all other obligations are take care of. Then write down the time you’re going to spend together in your calendar IN PEN.

Then, enjoy some uninterrupted quality time and conversation together. Even if you never leave the house. Turn off all screens and just enjoy each other’s company. Here are some ideas for what to talk about. You could also use this time to have a couple’s check-in.

FOUR || To Feel Appreciated and Respected

Who doesn’t love feeling appreciated and respected. We all need this and yet it’s so easy to forget to show our appreciation and respect for someone you see every day. Again, it doesn’t have to be much!

One idea that I love and I used this year is to give your spouse a card but write 10 things you appreciate about him/her on the inside! It’s so simple and doesn’t cost much, but it goes a long way! You could also find some way to serve them by doing a chore that they usually do, or getting their car washed or fill up the tank.

A great way to help them feel respected is to try to go the whole day without complaining, nagging, or being too negative. You really make a point to listen to them without interrupting and not to point out any flaws all day. This may seem tough, and of course if something is really bothering you, you should bring it up. But does it have to be on your anniversary? Let’s try to keep this day special and positive!

Related: 20 Ways to Show Respect to Your Husband

FIVE || A Unique Experience

This one could be extravagant and expensive. Like if you take a trip over seas. But it doesn’t have to be. You could even travel somewhere close to home one a budget. Or have a stay-cation in your own town. The point is to create a unique experience and make memories.

In fact, this experience doesn’t even have to be travel related. I just want you to think outside the “gift” box. Try something new! Maybe play a sport together. Or take a class together. Or simply pull out your favorite board game that you haven’t played in ages.

Related: Take a #MarriageMoon for your next Anniversary

In Conclusion

I guess all I’m trying to say is put in some effort. You spouse should be the most important person in your life. Try to show that at least on your anniversary! These anniversary gifts can help.

What’s your favorite way to celebrate your anniversary?
Thanks for reading!