Tips for Giving a Dating Anniversary Gift

Dating is exciting and a lot of fun, but when it comes to finding the perfect gift for your partner on your dating anniversaries you might feel left in the dark. Men and women enjoy different types of gifts to commemorate significant dates and milestones in their relationships. When the time comes to pick the perfect gift, keep the following dating anniversary guide handy to add a personal touch without going under or overboard.

1st Month Anniversary

The first month of an anniversary is an exciting time; the butterflies in your stomach and the feeling that you can't get enough of your partner. Your relationship has blossomed from just dating or a friendship into something more meaningful. The date should be acknowledged with a small gift or an outing, but keep it simple to avoid making each other uncomfortable. Try to keep the occasion light and humorous. The following items are suggestions for your first month anniversary. They show thoughtfulness and recognize your special occasion without taking it to the next level:

Gifts:

• Candy & Sweets: time tested and thoughtful
• Keychain of a favorite sports team, college, or interest
• Baked goods - cookies or brownies baked just the way she likes them
• Small, funny, cuddly, stuffed animal that will remind him or her of you
• A small gift accompanied by a sweet personalized card that will make them smile

3rd Month

By the third month, your relationship may be a bit more serious; however you should still focus on buying gifts that reinforce the relationship in a light and fun way. At this stage, a gift is more to say, "I'm glad we are together," rather than to confess undying love. A good gift for the three month anniversary should show that you are listening, and that you care. The following are a few ideas that are thoughtful, fun, and do not pressure the recipient into something more serious:

Gifts:

• Concert tickets to a local venue where you can enjoy the show together
• CD with a few favorite songs that the two of you connect with
• DVD of movie from first date

6th Month

After a couple has been together for six months the relationship is usually more serious and as a result the gifts should be more personal and intimate. Get creative with your gift - now that you have spent so much time with your partner, there's an opportunity to give a fantastic, thoughtful gift that they'll always remember. Sixth month gifts should show that you are observant and aware of their likes and dislikes. Here are some good suggestions.

Gifts:

• A new perfume or cologne that suits their taste. Hint: don't get one that they already have, save those types of replenishing gifts for when you're married.
• Shop online for a watch that would compliment his great style
• Earrings, necklace, or bracelet that would make her eyes dazzle
• Homemade dinner for two, or take them out to their favorite (or fancy) restaurant. Be sure to take the camera to document your special day.

1 Year

The first year anniversary is a big deal and your gift should be given a lot more thought and consideration. Gifts at the one year mark may be as extravagant as you'd like and can be anything you feel comfortable giving at this stage. If you're comfortable taking it to the next level at this stage, then it is completely appropriate. You should really be looking for something exciting that matches the vigor and passion of your relationship. Here are a few gift ideas that will show your partner that you have cherished the time you have spent together, and that you will continue to do so.

Gifts:

• Romantic getaway for a weekend, enjoy each others company
• Memorabilia from the first date, or a scrap book from the first year together
• Turn a photograph or video into a piece of art
• Give an experience gift, like passes to an event or a personalized tour pertaining to something your partner is passionate about.

2-3 Years

At the two and three year marks, relationships are getting more serious. As a result, the gifts given on the two/three year dating anniversary should reflect the time and devotion that has been given to the relationship and to celebrate how much you mean to each other. Think about a gift that will bring the two of you together. Show that you've developed a deeper bond and chemistry. A gift that spices things up a little is definitely in the cards.

Gifts:

• Intimate apparel / clothing is a great way to spice things up
• An intimate game that can be played by the both of you is another spark
• An extended trip to a city you've always wanted to visit
• Any gift will do if accompanied by a hand written love letter or poem

4-5 Years

Don't you think it's about time? After four or five years together, if you haven't decided this is the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, then you should probably move on. At this point, you need to show that you are in it for the long run.

Gifts:

• Engagement Ring

After individuals have been in a relationship for a certain period of time they become more comfortable with one another and the pressure of gift giving on dating anniversaries lessens. The need to recognize the date is still there, but as time goes on, thoughtfulness and creativity in gift giving will always be most important. For couples who truly care for each other, it is no cliche… it is always "the though that counts".