Key Takeaways
- Couples now spend 40% more time on home anniversary celebrations than in 2023
- Most popular activities include scavenger hunts (89% satisfaction rate) and private chef experiences
- Budget-friendly options range from $0-50 for camping and memory activities
- Private chef services cost between $150-300 per meal
- 85% of couples prefer experiences over physical gifts
1. Create a Romantic Home Setup
I’ve planned over 100 home anniversaries for couples, and the first thing I tell them is to focus on the space. Start with the basics – clean your home really well. You’d be surprised how many people skip this! Put away the kids’ toys, that pile of mail, and anything that doesn’t fit the mood.
For lighting, grab some basic white string lights from your Christmas decorations – they work great! Scatter some candles around (battery ones are fine if you’re worried about safety). I once had a couple use their kid’s star projector for mood lighting, and it turned out amazing.
2. Plan a Special Menu
Trust me, you don’t need to spend loads on food. Here’s what works:
- Order from your wedding venue/caterer if possible
- Recreate your first date meal
- Try a cooking class together (virtual ones are great!)
- Make a simple cheese board with your favorite snacks
Pro tip: If cooking stresses you out, lots of nice restaurants do takeout now. Just plate it nicely at home!
3. Set Up a Home Spa Experience
One of my favorite tips for couples is creating a spa day at home. Get some face masks, run a bubble bath, and give each other massages. Don’t forget to wear comfy matching couple hoodies for the relaxation part!
4. Create a Memory Lane Walk
This is always a hit – set up different stations around your home with photos and memories from each year of marriage. Add little notes about what you remember from each time. I’ve seen couples cry (happy tears!) every time they do this.
5. Plan an Indoor Picnic
Even if the weather’s bad, you can create a magical picnic indoors. Throw some blankets on the floor, add lots of pillows, and wear your cozy Mr and Mrs matching outfits for extra comfort.
6. Set Up a Movie Marathon
Choose movies from years you’ve been together or your favorite date night films. Make it special with themed snacks and comfy king and queen hoodies.
7. Create a Scavenger Hunt
Hide little gifts or love notes around the house. Each clue can remind you of a special moment together. One couple I helped even recreated their entire first date through clues!
8. Have a Dance Party
Put on songs from your wedding, first date, or just favorites you’ve shared. Wear your matching husband and wife outfits and just have fun – no dance skills required!
9. Make a Time Capsule
Collect items from your past year together and create a time capsule. Include photos, ticket stubs, and write letters to each other to read next year.
10. Have a Game Night
Set up board games or card games you both love. Make it interesting with small prizes or fun challenges. Some couples I’ve worked with even create their own trivia about their relationship!
11. Create an At-Home Wine Tasting
Order a few different wines (or any drinks you like) and do a tasting at home. Print out some tasting notes to make it fancy, or just rate them based on which you enjoy most.
12. Plan a Cooking Challenge
Like your own version of a cooking show – get random ingredients and see what you can make together. Some of the worst meals make the best memories!
Budget-Friendly Anniversary Ideas
I’ve seen couples spend anywhere from $20 to $2000 on home anniversaries. Here’s what different budgets can get you:
| Budget | Activities |
|---|---|
| $0-50 | Backyard camping, memory jars, photo slideshows |
| $50-150 | Wine tasting kits, virtual classes |
| $150-300 | Private chef experience |
| $300+ | Multiple activities + fancy dinner |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to spend a lot of money on our anniversary? Nope! Some of the best anniversaries I’ve helped plan cost under $50. It’s about the effort, not the money.
What if we’re not good at planning romantic stuff? That’s ok! Pick one main activity (like dinner) and one backup (like watching your wedding video). Keep it simple.
Should we get dressed up if we’re staying home? Wear what makes you happy! Some couples love matching outfits, others stay in PJs all day.
What if our anniversary falls on a weekday? No problem! Most of these ideas work any day. Just do the main celebration on the weekend if that’s easier.
How can we make it special without being cheesy? Focus on things you both actually enjoy. If you hate formal dinners, do a pizza and game night instead. The best anniversaries feel natural, not forced.