Anniversaries are occasions to celebrate togetherness, love, trust and unity. The first anniversary is also a time to celebrate surviving that first critical year - which is often toted as the most difficult time in a marriage. There are many adjustments that need to be made and lots of kinks that need to be worked out. So if you know a couple that is about to celebrate this extraordinary milestone, congratulate their success and achievement with a special gift. Anniversaries have historically been associated with gifts made from various materials including polished metals and precious stones. Traditionally, the first anniversary has been symbolized by paper. Today, it is also marked by the gift of clocks. Henry Van Dyke wrote, "For those who love, time is eternity." If you are in need of further inspiration, trying sending your friends or family congratulations and warm wishes with one of these wonderful first anniversary gift ideas: Framed Newspaper from the Day they were Married: Finding the perfect paper gift is easier than it sounds. Unlike other anniversary gifts, paper allows you to be extremely flexible and inventive! One idea is to have the front page of the newspaper from the day they were married custom framed in wood or metal. It makes a wonderful keepsake gift that will be cherished for years to come. A Special Book: If the couple enjoys reading books about history, travel or science, or if they are both avid Stephen King, John Grisham or Michael Crichton fans, how about giving them a hardcover version that they can read together over and over again. Other ideas are to pick up a coffee table book that humorously illustrates the first anniversary or the various facets of marriage, or buy a few books that talk about special places that they might like to visit. Tickets to an Event: Here's some paper that will not go to waste! Give them the ultimate first anniversary gift of fun and entertainment. Pick up a couple of tickets to a seasonal, musical or sporting event that they'll both enjoy. Just place them inside a nice card for giving purposes. Antique Clock: Show them that love is timeless with the gift of an antique clock. Look for wrought iron indoor/outdoor clocks, cuckoo clocks, mantle clocks and dial quartz wall clocks. Make sure to research the authenticity of a piece before making a purchase. Gift of Time: Interpret clocks to mean watches, calendars, traditional clocks or the gift of time. If the couple already has children, offer to baby-sit the kids for them while they go out to dinner or get away for a weekend. It's a wonderful gesture that makes a perfect first anniversary gift. |
