Some people get it every year. They’re organized: They treat their loved one to a champagne-laden meal, expensive flowers, and poetry that makes Keats sound like Pat Butcher. However, for the rest of us, anniversaries should come with a health warning. They are a day in each couple’s calendar in which the risk of low-flying objects is multiplied by ten. A day when you realize you should have listened more carefully to the not-so-subtle clues that have been dropped over the past two weeks. And a day when a celebration of love quickly degenerates into an attack of icy stars and silent treatment. Sounds familiar? Then read our basic list of do’s and don’ts.
Back
Think about it a bit. Times are tough out there. So obviously you shouldn’t have to go break the bank with gifts. But just think about it for a bit. Make a list of anniversary gift ideas and follow your hunch. The time you’ve taken to get it right won’t go unnoticed.
Personalize it. A surefire way to get your significant other’s attention is with a personalized anniversary gift. It’s a popular thing these days and doesn’t really add anything to the cost of what you’re buying. There are plenty of possibilities, too, from personalized wine, champagne and chocolates, to personalized calendars and mugs. You could even buy an original newspaper from your wedding day.
Failing that, buy a card or return to the location of your first appointment. Buying a card will only cost you a few pounds. And at least it will show that you haven’t forgotten. The other option is to go back to the place where you met or had your first date. It’s a simple gesture, but also properly romantic. Unless, of course, you put down McDonald’s after a heavy night.
Follow these simple ‘two’ and you can’t go far wrong. Top it off with an anniversary gift and you’ll definitely be in the good books. But remember, it’s also about the finer details. Guys, put on a shirt. Turn off Sky Sports. Girls, don’t take years choosing what to wear. And don’t ask if you look good. Little things go a long way!
not to do
The local BP garage. Ideal for gasoline, energy drinks and newspapers. And, as a result, the last refuge for forgotten anniversary gifts. Every day, men from across the country make a last-minute rush to the concrete esplanade hoping to pick some inevitably wilted flowers, finished off with a bag of Wine Gums to share. Don’t do it chap.
High street vouchers. Yes, yes, we know, they are the practical option. Sure. Your other half can go to the city whenever he wants and enjoy something that he will definitely like. And in you, no less. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Anniversary gifts require more thought. You can’t just take the easy route: the voucher route.
Chicken to go served in a bucket. If you’re watching pennies and opt for an anniversary takeout, at least make it a good one. Any form of kebab, burger or chicken in a trough just won’t cut it. Romantic they are not. Pick something where you can at least open a bottle of red and light a few candles without looking goofy.
Do any of these ring a bell? Well not yet. No more excuses! With wedding anniversary gifts available online, your upcoming anniversary can be resolved at lunchtime, from your desk and, friends, quite possibly while eating that sarnie you bought in the same BP garage this morning.