Save Money

Allocating An Anniversary Budget

February 11, 2013 · By Sandy Smith

Disclosure: This content is for educational purposes and should not be considered individualized financial advice. Some links on this site may be affiliate links, which means Yes, I Am Cheap may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or take action through those links. This does not change your cost. We only share resources we believe may be helpful to readers.

Your anniversary is an occasion when you can go back to being a girlfriend and boyfriend, and enjoy each other wholeheartedly. This especially applies to married couples, who can escape from the daily humdrum on their anniversary and spend some time together. However, the most exciting part is planning a surprise for your better half, which usually comes with a fear of an attack on the pocket.

Any price paid for that amazed expression on your partner’s face when they see your surprise, is worth it. You can plan ahead of your anniversary day and save up to wow your significant other in the most loving way. If the plan is sorted out and arranged before the D-day, you will be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy it to the fullest.

There are so many ways for you to come up with something exciting, and keep a check on your budget as well. Many anniversary ideas seem pricey, but they are actually pretty affordable. Here are some ideas that will make your anniversary plans memorable and easy to execute:

Plan a Dinner

Sites like Groupon can help you find a deal of the day that suits you. This way, you can save up on either the present or even the anniversary dinner (if you are planning one). A great candlelight dinner can jazz up your day; you can either pop some champagne at a fancy restaurant, or set up a table at home! Surprising your partner is all about creativity.

Save Up on Gifts

Get a present that speaks volumes, and doesn’t bear a horrifying price tag either. Save some money to get a nice watch or a perfume.

When buying jewelry, you do not necessarily have to opt for diamonds; other, slightly cheaper stones can be equally expressive. Choose roses in colors other than red, or go for other affordable options of flowers.

Plan a Special Surprise

Your better half will be happy to see a candlelight dinner and a glimmering present, but planning a special day dedicated to your relationship can be an even better idea. You can schedule some exciting things like planning a one-day trip to someplace exotic, or re-living some old memories. Show some effort by recreating your wedding day menu at home all by yourself. You can also dress up in your wedding day gowns all over again, and get a photo shoot done; getting a trash-the-dress shoot, years after your wedding will be a great idea and you won’t feel bad about the dress either.

Getting the Budget Right

People tend to spend a lot on anniversaries. But it will be awful to exceed your budget while only trying to make an effort. Plan the entire anniversary day according to your budget; when scheduling a holiday, inform your partner beforehand to avoid any overlapping (maybe they have something up their sleeve as well!).

At the end of the day, it is the time spent together that matters. Anniversaries are for showing gratitude for having each other, and of course pampering your partner. Do it tastefully and cleverly!

About the Author

Sandy Smith

I started this blog years ago as a way of keeping myself accountable to my own debt reduction plans. Now I'm using this site to help others get out of debt, and learn about personal finance so that they can live their best lives.

More from Sandy Smith →
Favorite Free Resources Extra Payment Calculator
Student Loan Forgiveness
FHA Loan Information
Learn Claude Coding
More About Us About Us
Featured In
Advertise
Contact
Products & Services Shop
Debt Planner
1:1 Coaching
Speaking
Legal Disclosures
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Contest Rules