Seriously, how is it that our partners are always picking out amazingly sentimental gifts — and we're left scratching our heads? It's forever the goal to figure out the perfect thoughtful present for an anniversary, but sometimes the gifts we purchase come off cheesy or trite. But not this year, my friends, not this year.
Below are 16 unique gift ideas that — in our humble opinion — totally hit the mark.
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1. Time capsule
Time Capsule for Two: A Snapshot Journal for Two People will give you the opportunity to preserve all of your fave special moments as a couple. It's a simple, elegant way to create a snapshot of your life today. (Amazon, $6.99)
2. Mix tape
"My hubby's a guitar player, so one year I put together a USB mix tape with all of our favorite acoustic tracks… with a few I've been hinting at him to learn since our first date. Hey, a girl can dream!" said Laura T. (MilkTape, $14.99)
3. Personalized couples art
If posing for couple photos turns him into Chandler Bing, then why not have an image sewn? This hysterically cute personalized couples art by Mary and Shelly Klein is sure to make him laugh: Select the faces, hairstyles and clothing that best reflect you as a twosome and BAM — you'll finally have an up-to-date portrait. (Uncommon Goods, $150)
4. Personalized M&M'S
Why should we be the only ones to receive chocolate? (I mean, it rocks, but still.) Add names, dates, personal messages, even photos to your fave M&M'S chocolates. (MyMMs.com, prices vary)
5. Love notes
Create a KindNotes Keepsake Jar filled with personal messages, inside jokes, even romantic coupons. No matter how much we depend on technology, nothing will ever beat an old-fashioned love note — they're the ultimate in Brownie Points. (Kind Notes, prices vary)
6. iPhone case
If your partner's Instagram is as active as a celebrity's, he'll love this vintage camera iPhone case. It fits an iPhone 5, and is made of a durable plastic that's sure to survive all of his shenanigans. (Amazon, $9.99)
7. Radio cooler
Whether you're enjoying a beach day together or are having your BFFs over, keep your drinks cool while listening to your fave music with this portable radio cooler. Compatible with almost any MP3 device and it holds up to 60 cans. (Wayfair, $66.99)
8. Customized map
A map customized with special moments like first dates or first time traveling together is more than romantic — and it's visually appealing. (Etsy, $26.99)
Up next: A manly adventure
Originally published September 2014. Updated October 2017.
9. A manly adventure
If your man's always wanted to race cars, give him the gift of putting the pedal to the metal by purchasing a race car driving experience through Cloud 9 Living. Choose from stock car racing, racing a Ferrari, dragster racing and more. (Cloud 9 Living, prices vary)
10. Voice art
Let's face it: Rare art is kinda pricey. Express how you feel about your beau in a way that's easier on your wallet by transforming your voice into a one-of-a-kind canvas print. (Etsy, $20)
11. Personalized love coupons
Add a little spice to your relationship by creating a custom book of hot and steamy love coupons. Create cartoon versions of you and your beau to star on the coupons, choose a cover, and customize the text to your liking (grrr, baby!). (LoveCoups, $24.95)
More: 23 Love Coupons — Because Cheesy Gifts Are the Best Gifts
12. Shirt of the Month Club
This gift is just as much for you as it is for him: Finally get him to throw out those ratty tees from college and replace them with this Shirt of the Month Club from Busted Tees. Each month, he'll receive a redemption code to use toward new duds. (BustedTees, prices vary)
13. Make memories
If travel is your thing — or just on your to-do list — The New York Times 36 Hours: 150 Weekends in the USA and Canada is a fun way to pick out weekend destinations. Soon you'll be attempting all 150! (Amazon, from $50.35)
14. Rubik's Cube
Is a personalized Rubik's Cube cheesy? Heck yes. But it's also adorable. (Personalization Mall, $29.99)
15. Sex Panther cologne
Don't worry: This Sex Panther cologne isn't made with bits of real panther, but it does growl when opened — and 60 percent of the time, it works every time. (Amazon, $39.82)