How much should an anniversary gift cost?

So you’ve got an anniversary coming up and you want to get your partner a little something special to show them how much you care. 

But now comes the million-dollar question – how much should you spend on that anniversary gift? Should you break the bank or keep it simple and heartfelt?

Well, the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this dilemma.

The amount you should spend on an anniversary gift depends on a variety of factors – how long you’ve been together, your financial situation, and most importantly, the thought and effort you put into the gift.

Or maybe there are other ways to celebrate the anniversary without spending a dime.

Now, let’s dive into this and uncover all it has to offer!

Personal opinion about the gift cost

I don’t place high importance on receiving gifts if I’m being honest. While I do appreciate them my preference lies more towards Quality Time.

For instance, a dinner date to mark one year together sounds lovely to me. I also enjoy a relaxed evening with Netflix, especially if that’s what we did on our first date.

So, there’s this guy at work whose wife wants him to buy her a Cartier love bracelet that costs $5,000. But he’s freaking out about it because he’s tight on cash and doesn’t know if he can afford it this year.

On the other side, I have this buddy who would be stoked with a fancy dinner at a cool restaurant and a cute little handmade gift or something meaningful.

She is all about practical gifts – like a big ol’ cast iron skillet for family meals or a food chopper to make her life easier in the kitchen.

Basically, it looks like there are a bunch of things to think about when it comes to how much to spend on a gift.

Factors to Consider When Deciding How Much to Spend

When it comes to anniversary gifts, it’s all about finding the right balance between a token of appreciation and not breaking the bank.

There are a few factors to consider – 

1. Firstly, the length of your relationship will play a role in how special the gift should be. Depending on how long you’ve been together, the gift can be different. We’ll talk more about it next.
2. Next, your budget is important to keep in mind – you don’t want to overspend and put a strain on your joint finances.
3. Personal preferences and values are also crucial – if you’re a cutesy romantic couple, a traditional gift like a diamond ring might be suitable. In a study, I found that people’s preferences are generally like this:
   1. Thoughtful- 55.5% opinion
   2. Funny- 28.9%
   3. Personal- 28.6%
   4. Useful – 20.5%
   5. Sentimental- 16.8%
4. Lastly, special circumstances such as a milestone or a significant event like a post-marriage anniversary should also be taken into account.

Wedding Anniversary Gifts Ideas by Year for Every Budget

Let my wedding anniversary gifts list inspire you to create moments of romance and celebration year after year. With options to suit every budget and personal preference, you can be sure to find the ideal gift that will make your spouse feel truly loved and cherished. And who knows, maybe you’ll even find the courage to go bungee jumping together!

1st Anniversary 

2nd Anniversary

3rd Anniversary 

4th Anniversary 

5th Anniversary 

6th Anniversary 

7th Anniversary 

8th Anniversary 

9th Anniversary

10th Anniversary 

20th Anniversary 

25th Anniversary 

30th Anniversary 

35th Anniversary 

40th Anniversary 

45th Anniversary 

50th Anniversary 

Some FAQ’s

Is cash an appropriate anniversary gift? 

While traditional lists suggest specific gifts for each year, giving cash can be a practical and appreciated gesture. It allows the couple to spend on a gift of their choice or add it to their savings. However, there is no set dollar amount on how much you should spend on an anniversary gift. It ultimately depends on the relationship and the couple’s preferences.

How much does the average person spend on presents?

If you’re celebrating your own anniversary, we recommend sticking to a gift budget of about $100. But when it comes to celebrating big anniversaries for your parents or other important people, a gift in the $25-$50 range should be just right.

How can I find out what my partner would appreciate as an anniversary gift?

Unveiling your partner’s ideal anniversary gift involves deciphering their interests, hobbies, and hints they might drop. Listen for desired activities or items, consider their passions, and observe their recent mentions of needs or wants. Consulting loved ones or reflecting on past gifts can offer clues. If stuck, open communication is key – ask them directly! Remember, it’s the thoughtfulness that truly matters.

Conclusion

Let’s do a quick recap on why giving thoughtful gifts on wedding anniversaries is so important. Whether it’s your dating anniversary gift, your first anniversary, or 20 years down the line, showing your love and appreciation through a special present is essential. It doesn’t have to be an expensive gift – a heartfelt card or a simple flower bouquet can represent the symbolic significance of your time together.

When it comes to the actual purchase, there’s no strict price tag that qualifies as the perfect anniversary gift for your husband. It all depends on how much money you want to spend and what fits your savings budget. Some may invest in a more expensive present, while others usually spend a smaller amount for a gift that comes from the heart.