Wedding anniversaries serve as a time to remember your special day and the years spent together as a married couple. From traditional to modern and unique, there are many presents that you can give each other. Following are some ideas to help you get started as you search for the perfect wedding anniversary gift.

Traditional Gifts You may have seen the chart that lists gifts traditionally given for each year. This usually begins with paper for the first year, cotton for the second year, leather for the third, and so on. Milestone anniversaries call for special gifts. Listed below are some examples:

• 10th – Tin, aluminum
• 15th – Crystal
• 20th – China
• 25th – Silver
• 30th – Pearl
• 35th – Jade
• 40th – Ruby
• 45th – Sapphire
• 50th – Gold

Some charts may vary, but these tend to be the basic suggestions listed for wedding anniversary gifts. If you follow this traditional method, it may help you generate ideas for presents each year. You might consider discussing which chart to follow with your spouse. This way, you will both be in agreement on ideas for wedding anniversary gifts.
Modern Gifts In addition to the traditional gifts, there are many modern options to consider. Some modern anniversary charts list gifts that are similar to traditional gifts, but in a different order. Instead of tin on the 10th anniversary, a modern gift suggestion is diamond jewelry. Modern gift charts often include practical gifts, such as appliances for the fourth anniversary and new furniture for the 29th. You may choose to follow these gift charts or come up with your own ideas.

Take a Getaway In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find time to spend together as a couple. If this is the case, consider getting away together for a weekend. You can even go to a hotel or bed-and-breakfast in your city. Have someone watch the kids and enjoy precious time together as a couple. If you have more time or a larger budget, you might think about flying somewhere for a long weekend. Go to the town or place where you met, spend a romantic weekend together in wine country, or do some hiking in the Rockies. The trip will be worthwhile and refreshing. It will also be remembered for years to come.

Unique Gifts If you still are looking for something else to give your husband or wife, there are more possibilities. You can take a formal picture of the two of you or your entire family. Plan an extended vacation if you have the resources. Take a cruise with couples who are celebrating a similar anniversary.

These ideas for wedding anniversary gifts are just a few of your many options. Ask your spouse well in advance about gift exchanges. Decide if you both want to follow a chart or come up with your own ideas. Whatever you do, let your loved one know how much you care and how much you appreciate the years you have spent together.