Ideas for a DIY Anniversary that Will Sweep Her off Her Feet
By Roxana Oliver
If you’re not already thinking about what you’re going to do for your anniversary, it’s about time to get your head around it. But here’s a tip: How about this year, instead of spending all of your savings on expensive gifts, fancy restaurant dinners and weekend getaways, you give her something from the heart? A gift that is carefully thought out and home-made will be better than any store-bought gift in the world. So, while you’re thinking what the things are that you – and not a store – can give her, here are some guidelines:
The date
No anniversary is complete without the perfect romantic date. But where to do and what to do to make this extra special? You’ll know best, and if a specific location springs to your mind, go with your gut. But if you’re still not sure, here are a few suggestions:
At home:
Why not stay in, and cut the costs? You will be in a familiar space where you both feel comfortable, and you can cook her a wonderful meal before snuggling up in front of the TV to watch your favorite movie.
A picnic:
If there is a natural outdoor area you both love, then make the food ahead of time, pack a blanket and go have a picnic. You will feel great outside in nature, and if you bring everything you need there’s no need to spend any extra money. If you think you might be cold, go to a place where you can safely light a fire, or bring a blanket you can share.
A special place:
Do you two have a specific place that holds a place in your hearts? Maybe the place you met, where you had your first date or maybe shared the first kiss? Visit that place, remember the old, beautiful memories and make some new ones.
Food and drink
There is nothing that says “I love you” quite like a home-cooked meal. To create a perfect meal, think about decadence: A beautiful filet mignon, simply prepared, glazed with a red wine reduction, with some beets and celery mash on the side, followed by the most decadent molten lava cake. Or maybe a batch of light, homemade pasta, in her favorite sauce, with some chocolate-dipped strawberries for dessert?
There are so many options, and if you know what your significant other likes, you will be well on your way to preparing the perfect dish. Of course, you mustn’t forget the drinks. Bring out a bottle of sweet white wine, or if she prefers a good whisky, surprise her with a good bottle – and don’t forget the ice! If she’s not a fan of alcohol, homemade lemonade or hot cocoa will do the trick!
Gift from the heart
A handmade gift doesn’t have to be impractical, and while you can gift her a photo album of your memories, a scrapbook of your plans for your future with her or an illustrated poem you wrote just for her, you can also get practical. Has she been complaining about the cold weather? Learn how to make a chunky knit blanket, embroider a pillowcase or even sew her a piece of clothing. Use the skills you have to make something truly special.
If you know some programming, why not make a short video game with you two as the main characters. Alternatively, fix up that old bike she’s been talking about getting up and working for years. Show her that you are listening to her when she tells you what she wants or needs. You can also share with her a skill you have. If you are an amazing dancer, but she struggles to coordinate, gift her some dance classes, just for you and her. Make sure you put a lot of love into making the gift, because it will show, and be greatly appreciated.
If it’s not your first, or even your 20th anniversary of being together, she might feel like it’s not a special day anymore, and this is why you need to make sure she feels like the queen she is, every day of the year, and especially on your big date. So, start planning out the perfect day and surprise her with something original and heartfelt.
Roxana is a travel enthusiast and lifestyle consultant from Sydney and she loves to write about her adventures. She is all about the healthy lifestyle, loves to run with her husband and dogs and has fun cooking exotic meals for her family. Being a typical Aussie, she often hits the waves and loves beaches and sunshine! You can find out more about her writing following her on twitter and facebook. She is also one of the editors at Higstylife Magazine.
