Finding the Anniversary Gift Idea That Shocks and Awes

Coming across that dazzling pair of gold earrings that your sweetie hid in your apple pie? Nice surprise. Finding that one of them is missing? Not so much. Sometimes even the most expensive surprise anniversary gift idea can backfire. When it works the way you planned it though, their reaction is priceless.

But how do you do that? How do conjure up an anniversary gift idea that's perfectly suited to your mate without asking them directly "what do you want"? If your answer is "just give them the cash", you'd best enjoy this anniversary. It could be your last.

Or you may be tempted to throw caution to the wind and go with your gut, but so was the earring guy. Instead, close your eyes, open your ears and shock her, in a good way, with the perfect anniversary gift idea that makes her say "ahhh".

Show Your True Colors

On the surface, this is one of the simplest approaches to finding a tailor made anniversary gift idea. Use their favorite color as a starting point. Of course, to do that, you first have to KNOW their favorite color. And for guys, that requires you to leave your comfort zone and immerse yourself in a new experience: Paying attention.

Color Her Impressed

Look at her clothing and accessories and notice what shades tend to recur. Is she true to blue? Then a glittering sapphire bracelet may be an ideal fit.

Or maybe she prefers to go green. Pick out a dazzling pair of emerald earrings and await the accolades.

Does she often look pretty in pink? Treat her to a stunning pearl necklace that begs the question "how did he know?"

Ladies, the same approach will work wonders for your man, and since you've already mastered that whole "paying attention" thing, you're halfway home in your search for an anniversary gift idea.

Maybe it's an elegant watch with a face or strap to match his preferred tone, or a pair of classy cufflinks in the color he favors most.

Whichever route you go, overcoming your color blindness can offer eye-opening results in pursuit of the ultimate anniversary gift idea.

Playing the Numbers Game

What's in a number? How about the key to an unforgettable anniversary gift idea and, in the process, your loved one's heart?

Women are often pleasantly surprised when you remember your anniversary; let alone what number it is. So leave her doubly impressed by matching the gift to the material that is traditionally associated with that anniversary year.

Of course, this is easier for some years than others. Silver for the 25th or pearl for the 30th is pretty straightforward, but what about the first anniversary and its connection with paper? Hand her a pad of writing paper and you're liable to get a "Dear John" letter in return.

Fortunately, there's also a list of modern gifts for each year to go along with the traditional ones, probably compiled by the guy who went the "paper" route.

For example, the first anniversary is also linked with clocks, and it's not too big a stretch to extend that to watches. What better way to celebrate your first year together than with gorgeous his and hers watches? They're fashionable, functional and somehow apropos for the couple that's still learning what makes each other tick.

Even if they won't admit it, everyone loves a surprise, so incorporating it in your next anniversary gift idea will make a lasting impression. Let your imagination free and dare to be different.

But whatever you do, avoid the "jewelry in the pie" approach. Some surprises are just too hard to stomach.