But even though the traditional social and cultural values attached to marriage and family are gradually breaking down, many of us are still able to raise our living standards to levels far above mere animal existence and natural bodily instincts. To some people, marriage is a commitment of the heart and the mind for life. For them marriage is eternal. Such people treasure marriage and family relationships - their own as well as those of their loved ones. Each wedding anniversary is an occasion of immense happiness. It is a time for joyful celebration either with family and friends or alone with each other. Some people find the first anniversary the most memorable. Many have a tendency to give importance to the 10th, 20th, 25th, 50th, etc. But there are those special people who look forward to every wedding anniversary with eager expectation. It is these thoughtful people who cherish the memory of their own wedding day, who love to give as well as receive anniversary gifts to and from their spouse, family and friends.

Choosing the Perfect Wedding Anniversary Gift
Generally speaking, wedding anniversary gifts can be classified into three categories. The first is from one spouse to the other. The second is to close family members, like parents to children, children to parents, etc. And the third is to close friends.

From Me to You
The first is obviously the most significant. There is always an element of anticipation and expectant surprise in the husband and the wife. Both are sure the other will give them something truly special, and both take great pains to select a gift that will stir the heart of their spouse. (The consequences would be truly distressing if one of them should forget - especially if it is the husband!) Each spouse should carefully consider what would be the best gift to give the other. While it should be something the partner would really love to have, it should not be something predictable. Since the element of surprise will make the gift all the more enjoyable, even broad hints can be conveniently ignored if the gift selected is really special. Sometimes a gift that your spouse will love may be far more appreciated than something he or she needs. Emotional considerations should outweigh the practical when making that special choice. Wives may find gems and perfumes (along with her favorite chocolates and flowers) to be far more acceptable as wedding anniversary presents than a new washing machine or dishwasher. Even a husband can be pleased to receive a ring or tiepin with his birthstone. It isn't difficult to imagine the emotions that come into play when a husband and wife exchange their gifts. Love will be flowing between them. And you can be sure that exchanging gems will produce a far more emotionally charged atmosphere than any other wedding anniversary gift, because it does signify how precious your spouse is to you. Precious stones like diamonds, rubies, pearls, emeralds, etc. make wonderful anniversary gifts.

You Are Special to Us
The second category -giving wedding anniversary gifts to close family members - also stirs up deep emotions. While gems are a good choice, other sentimental things that can cause an emotional reaction can also be considered. If the couple is fond of pets, a nice furry kitten or a cute little puppy would be sure to raise a few happy "ooohs" and "aaahs". Birds and ornamental fishes also make good pets. Another thoughtful gift would be a hand-embroidered quilt that the couple could snuggle under when it gets real cold! You could try bed sheets, pillowcases, towels, handkerchiefs, etc. Homemade preserves and pastries also could be quite heart warming gifts. A delicious homemade chocolate cake would surely get a joyful reception. Remember that consideration should be given to the age of the couple when choosing their anniversary gift.

We Love You
The third category consists of those giving wedding anniversary gifts to close friends. This group can take a more casual approach to the subject. Though practical considerations can be given more prominence here, gems will definitely be appreciated. You can discreetly find out something the couple needs and gift it to them. It could be any domestic appliance, a TV, video or audio system, ornamental photo frames, decorated vases, clocks, etc. A group of friends can even get together and pool their resources to finance a weekend holiday. They should try to select a location the couple may have often expressed a desire to visit. You can imagine their joy when they realize a dream wedding anniversary vacation is about to come true.

Make Your Choice
A trip through the web will show you many sites that have charts telling you what you are expected to buy for each wedding anniversary. The traditional and modern lists include a variety of items. But you don't have to stick to any prescribed regulations. Be imaginative and innovative. Use your heart - especially if you are choosing a gift for your spouse. For example, if you are buying a wedding anniversary gift for your wife, some charts suggest you get her a 10 carat diamond only on your 100th anniversary. But, if you can afford it, why wait for a hundred years? Just imagine her reaction if you get it for her on your first anniversary itself! Even the romance of your honeymoon will pale into insignificance.

The following chart will give you an idea of which gems are recommended for each anniversary:

Wedding anniversary gifts are something special. You should feel that burning anxiety as you wonder “Will he/she like it?” until you see the smile light up the face and the eyes sparkle with joy as they look up into your own on seeing the gift. So whether it is the 1st, the 10th, the 25th, the 50th, the 75th or the 100th, a very, very, happy anniversary to you.

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