Preface Preface

• A half-decade of marriage is a milestone, and choosing the right 5th anniversary gift has to do with tuning into your partner's personality and desires. Finding something that's both meaningful and unique requires a little time, thought, and care. But picking out a gift for the one you love is also a thrill - just imagine their face when you give them the perfect gift! Here are some ideas.

Go natural Go natural

• Wood is the material of the 5th year of marriage, and its tree symbolism - strong with deep roots and a long, lasting future - clearly translates to relationships. An image or sculpture of a tree, or even a literal plant itself to go in your yard, is a classic gift for traditional types.

Put a fork in it Put a fork in it

• Silverware is the "modern" 5th anniversary gift. Make it more romantic than new forks and spoons by choosing a grand serving utensil with a significant design, for example, or a set of specialized silver (tiny spoons for a tea drinker, fancy chopsticks for a sushi lover) that has an extra personal element.

Get romantic Get romantic

• It isn't much of a stretch to extend the wood symbol into paper, where a whole world of gift ideas opens up. Select divine stationery with your family name at the top, find a classic set of books that your spouse adores, or pen a love letter straight from the heart.

Think big Think big

• If your home is in need of new furnishings, now is the time. After five years of marriage, you'll want to own a perfect credenza, splurge on that gorgeous desk you've been coveting or have those built-in shelves installed. A gift for the home is a gift for the marriage.

Create a treasure Create a treasure

• Maybe you never got around to having your wedding photos properly framed, or perhaps your little ones' artwork is piling up on a counter. For displaying the images of your lives, whether they be cherished photos or tiny handprints, wooden frames do the trick and make a perfect 5th anniversary gift.

Embrace nature Embrace nature

• What better moment to go on a romantic forest camping trip for two? Celebrate five years of marriage under a forest canopy. Indoor types can opt for a getaway with a fireplace where wood can add a warm glow to your romantic time away.