The Uncommon Life

What Pop Culture Staples Define Your Anniversary Year?

August 9, 2018

We compiled the top trends in food, film, TV, and music to help you celebrate in the style of your marriage year. Be prepared for a little nostalgia and a lot of great anniversary date/party ideas!

What year did you get married?

1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017

1968

   Popular Song   

“Hey Jude” by The Beatles

Originally written for John Lennon’s son, Julian, “Hey Jude” was the longest of any Beatles single, clocking in at over seven minutes. At the time it was the longest single to ever top the British charts and tied for the longest run at the top of the US charts.

See what else was popular »

Photo by ingen uppgift (Scanpix) via Wikimedia Commons

1968

1969

   Popular Food Trend   

Fondue

The trendiest thing to serve guests at a dinner party in 1969 was fondue. It could be cheesy or chocolate, but it always had to be seductive and delicious.

See what else was popular »

Photo by 663highland from Wikimedia Commons

1969

1970

   Popular Movie   

Love Story

It is hard to put into words how touching this love story is. For anyone who has seen it, you can appreciate how valuable the principles of sacrifice and dedication are in this ever changing world of ours.

See what else was popular »

1971

   Popular Song   

“Just My Imagination” by The Temptations

Soul music was in its golden era in 1971, centered around massive groups like The Temptations. Hearing the strings and backup harmonies of this track probably transports you to the listless summer days of youth, just as you were falling love together!

See what else was popular »

1972

   Popular Song   

“Rocket Man” by Elton John

Elton John cemented himself at the top of the pop charts with this stellar hit. Ostensibly about an astronaut going out into space, it also describes being a gay man in a heterosexual world. Elton always had a way of giving his songs a double meaning.

See what else was popular »

1973

   Popular Food Trend   

Granola

Granola. The hippie movement has contributed quite a bit to contemporary culture. Perhaps its most symbolic contribution is granola, a simple breakfast dish made by roasting oats in honey and adding fruit and nuts.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Hail Merry via Wikimedia Commons

1973

1974

   Popular TV Show   

Good Times

A refreshing return to social realism on TV! Good Times was set in Chicago and depicted a charming African American family who always find a way to put food on the table and have some laughs.

See what else was popular »

1975

   Popular Food Trend   

Sushi

A long time staple of upper class Japanese cuisine, sushi swept like wildfire across America in 1975. Part of the reason why it has stuck around is that sushi is actually a catch-all term for various types of rice and fish-based dishes (including nigiri, sashimi, California rolls, etc.).

See what else was popular »

Photo by Japan Sushifrom Wikimedia Commons

1975

1976

   Popular TV Show   

The Bionic Woman

Excitement about the future of technological advancement produced this sci-fi action series for popular consumption. Jaime Summers receives life-saving surgery from doctors who stitch her back up with bionic capabilities. Status as the world’s best undercover spy soon follows.

See what else was popular »

1977

   Popular Food Trend   

Pasta Primavera

In Italian cooking, primavera means fresh vegetables. For increasingly health-conscious consumers, this lighter dish offered welcome respite from the heavier pasta dishes often associated with Italian cuisine.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Stacy Spensley from San Diego via Wikimedia Commons

1977

1978

   Popular Movie   

Grease

If you were a young lady in 1978, you probably thought John Travolta was cute. Coming off the huge success of Saturday Night Fever, Travolta burst back into the spotlight as the leading man in the film adaptation of the musical, Grease. (We won’t ask if your husband looked like John Travolta at the time, though).

See what else was popular »

1979

   Popular Song   

“Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson

The cute boy from the Jackson 5 had grown up, and he wanted to sing about the forces of attraction and desire. Not only did MJ sing like diva – he also danced better than all of his backup dancers, making his live show a once in a lifetime experience.

See what else was popular »

1980

   Popular Song   

“Call Me” by Blondie

The singer of Blondie (Deborah Harry) was ready to set the tone for a new era of independent women just calling it like it is. And if it’s love your feeling, then embrace it.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Private Stock Records via Wikimedia Commons

1980

1981

   Popular TV Show   

The Love Boat

By the early ‘80s, enough people had lived (or heard about) the wild life you can lead on cruise ships. The Love Boat justified some of these assertions, painting life on a boat as a one surprising interaction after another. You never know what will happen when you leave the shore!

See what else was popular »

1982

   Popular TV Show   

Three’s Company

Most of us have found ourselves, at some point or another, living in unusual circumstances without a reliable income on the horizon. Three’s Company gives props to the absurd fun that can emerge in these transitional periods of life, foreshadowing the popularity of sitcoms like Seinfeld and Friends in the ‘90s.

See what else was popular »

Photo by ABC Television via Wikimedia Commons

1982

1983

   Popular Song   

“Every Breath You Take” by The Police

Before the release of this ballad the Police were known as a funk-punk trio. Fans of the raucous early days may not have seen this turn coming, but we like his foray into the softer side.

See what else was popular »

1984

   Popular Song   

“When Doves Cry” by Prince

In this song Prince lays bare his deepest feelings about relationships and wraps it up in gorgeous symbolism. With a captivating video to boot, Prince was everywhere in this year.

See what else was popular »

1985

   Popular Movie   

A Room with a View

Finding love in Edwardian times was a pretty limited affair. A Room with a View depicts the trials of looking outside your lot for love, and it is an engaging journey from start to finish.

See what else was popular »

1986

   Popular Movie   

Top Gun

Tom Cruise made a strong impression in this romantic military action movie. The critics did not give rave reviews, but as is often the case with film, the general public loved every bit of it. A sequel is in the works for 2019!

See what else was popular »

Photo by LCDR DAVID BARANAK via Wikimedia Commons

1986

1987

   Popular Song   

“With Or Without You” by U2

Now this is a love song. Bono holds nothing back in his declaration of love for a women who makes him sleep on a bed of nails for her love. Sometimes it goes the other way and ladies need some time to be sure of a man before jumping headfirst into love.

See what else was popular »

1988

   Popular TV Show   

The Wonder Years

What did we just say about coming-of-age stories? The top show in 1988 was The Wonders Years, which depicted the trials and tribulations of a suburban teenage boy in the 1960s. Not the most cutting-edge plot ever conceived, but like we said, if it’s about young people learning valuable lessons about the world we just lap it up!

See what else was popular »

Photo via Wikimedia Commons

1988

1989

   Popular Movie   

When Harry Met Sally

This instant classic arguably shed more light onto the complexities of a relationship than any other romantic comedy to date. The question of whether men and women can just be friends looms large – but in this case love wins out (as it always does!).

See what else was popular »

1990

   Popular TV Show   

Seinfeld

This hilarious sitcom ran its first season in 1989, and by 1990 all the men were dressing like Kramer and all the ladies had lipstick like Elaine. Okay, maybe it was not that influential, but it definitely remains one of the most important shows in American television history.

See what else was popular »

1991

   Popular Movie   

Beauty and the Beast

Here’s hoping this wonderful tale is retold to new generations for years to come. It is definitely an uncommon love between Belle and the Beast – who initially imprisons her, only realizing later that he actually loves her.

See what else was popular »

1992

   Popular Song   

“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Seriously, what is not to love about Whitney Houston? She has the vocal cords of a goddess, supermodel looks, and a heart big enough for every soul on the planet. With this song she instantly became the soundtrack to countless weddings across the country.

See what else was popular »

Photo by PH2 Mark Kettenhofen via Wikimedia Commons

1992

1993

   Popular Movie   

Sleepless in Seattle

One of the most endearing films about love ever made, Sleepless in Seattle portrays the grief in losing a loved one and the angst in searching for love once again. A true classic for anyone fascinated by all the ways that love can change us.

See what else was popular »

1994

   Popular TV Show   

Friends

Following the escapades of Rachel, Phoebe, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Ross was practically a full-time hobby. Each encapsulating a different stereotype of young adults, Friends gave a new generation something to compare themselves against. Let’s hope things never went as bad for you as they did for this endearing bunch!

See what else was popular »

1995

   Popular Food Trend   

Molten Lava Cake

This soft-centered chocolate mouthful was first introduced in New York City in 1995. Though it’s creation was a mistake, our taste buds never lie, and within a year it was popping up on the desert menu at high-end restaurants.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Vegan Feast Catering via Wikimedia Commons

1995

1996

   Popular Movie   

Jerry Maguire

Tom Cruise does a fine job making the life of a sports management agent look exhilarating. However, the crux of the film revolves around his inability to keep a stable marriage going with the loving Dorothy, who is ready to sacrifice her happiness for the marriage.

See what else was popular »

1997

   Popular Movie   

Titanic

We all knew the story of the Titanic before it was made into a movie. But we’re sure no one thought the tragic story could be portrayed with such romance.

See what else was popular »

1998

   Popular Food Trend   

The Cosmopolitan

What drink did you have on the first date with your soulmate? If you were following the trends it was probably a Cosmopolitan, a drink made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry, and lime juice. Granted, it could have been another specialty drink of the moment, as the Cosmopolitan embodied the best of an emergent craft cocktail culture that has since become the norm.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Jon Sullivan via Wikimedia Commons

1998

1999

   Popular Song   

“No Scrubs” by TLC

The ladies in TLC were never going to settle for just an ordinary partner. And you weren’t either.

See what else was popular »

2000

   Popular Food Trend   

Smoothies

Do you remember the smoothie craze? Business popped up left, right and center offering low-cal, nutrient-rich drinks full of fresh fruit and added protein supplements. You can see why they were so popular when initially introduced!

See what else was popular »

Photo by Stephanie from Austin TX via Wikimedia Commons

2000

2001

   Popular Movie   

Amelie

The French have always indulged in the surreal, and Amelie is a romantic comedy depicted in this heightened style. The interior design of the Parisian cafe is wonderful, and the entire film is a whimsical feast for the eyes.

See what else was popular »

2002

   Popular Movie   

Sweet Home Alabama

Reese Witherspoon plays a lovable fashion designer from the South trying to make a new life in the uncompromising metropolis of New York. A romantic comedy on the surface, but also a vivid portrayal of the culture differences between the North and the South.

See what else was popular »

2003

   Popular Food Trend   

Pumpkin Spiced Latte

Trick-or-treating or giving out candy on Halloween was a lot of fun with a pumpkin spiced latte in hand. We still like this creamy hot beverage because, well, it tastes pretty close to pumpkin pie.

See what else was popular »

2004

   Popular Movie   

The Notebook

The Notebook offers a peek into the engrossing romance of South Carolina in the 1940s. Abandoned homes, fiery young love, and a brutal war that tore so many relationships apart. Heart wrenching cinema that leaves you wanting to live in Charleston circa 1950.

See what else was popular »

2005

   Popular TV Show   

Grey’s Anatomy

Perhaps the success of Scrubs induced ABC to make a hospital drama of their own. Grey’s Anatomy had little humor about it, focusing more on the minutia of the doctor’s craft and detailing the personal sacrifice required to make it in the medical field.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Hunterfk88 from Wikimedia Commons

2005

2006

   Popular Food Trend   

Ramen

This Japanese noodle soup is a relatively recent creation, but it feels like it’s been around forever. Packed noodle soups definitely had a role to play in popularizing ramen soup across America, a status it has retained every year since.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Kyoww from Wikimedia Commons

2006

2007

   Popular TV Show   

The Big Bang Theory

It’s not true that all scientists are socially awkward. However, it is true that all three scientists in the Big Bang Theory do suffer from a lack of social graces. Not for lack of trying, mind you.

See what else was popular »

2008

   Popular TV Show   

Breaking Bad

The first season of Breaking Bad aired in 2008, a show that had millions of us captivated for the entirety of its five season run. We always found the best way to watch Breaking Bad was together with someone (like your future groom?) who was just as committed to watching every episode.

See what else was popular »

2009

   Popular Song   

“I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas

If there was ever a song that defined your first months of marriage, it was probably this one. Every time the song comes on you probably get transported back to the places and things you did as a couple – with this song as your soundtrack.

See what else was popular »

2010

   Popular Song   

“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

Like all the most gifted songwriters, Bruno Mars has an incredible ability to send a simple message about one of the most important aspects of a relationship. We all want to reach for the stars in life, but we also want to be with someone who loves us for who we are, inside and out.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Brothers Le [CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

2010

2011

   Popular TV Show   

Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones captured the imagination of the nation when it first came out in 2011. A whole fantastical universe was created for us to indulge in, even if it did involve violence and incest. If your like us, you skipped over the violent parts and paid extra close attention to the immaculate set design.

See what else was popular »

2012

   Popular Food Trend   

Rainbow Cake

Any birthdays you attended in 2012 (including your own) probably included rainbow cake. Usually sectioned off into bite sized quarters, rainbow cake was yet another confectionary creation designed to delight the eyes as much as the tongue.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Mervat from Wikimedia Commons

2012

2013

   Popular Movie   

The Great Gatsby

The Great American novel was turned into a film (once again), and this time it portrays the roaring twenties to a younger audience who can only imagine the glitz and glamor of the time. Plenty of relationship intrigue abounds, making The Great Gatsby more than just a gorgeous cinematic experience.

See what else was popular »

Photo By Nelatti [CC BY-SA 4.0 ], from Wikimedia Commons

2014

   Popular Movie   

The Fault in Our Stars

The blockbuster of 2014 was a tragic romantic comedy that really pulled at the heartstrings. Portraying the burgeoning love between terminally ill cancer patients makes you want to grip on to your loved one and cherish every single moment you have together.

See what else was popular »

2015

   Popular Song   

“Hello” by Adele

The Queen of the charts returned in 2015 with a track full of nostalgia for old friends you never see anymore. The video for the song was directed by Xavier Dolan and set the Vevo record with over 27.7 million views within a 24-hour span.

See what else was popular »

Photo by marcen27 from Glasgow, UK via Wikimedia Commons

2015

2016

   Popular Food Trend   

Avocado Toast

If you have ever experimented with avocado at home (like, when all you have at home is an avocado and a loaf of bread) you will know it can stand alone on a piece of multi-grain. It is the ideal healthy-yet-slightly indulgent snack. Restaurateurs took notice, and 2016 became the year of avocado toast.

See what else was popular »

Photo by Takeaway from Wikimedia Commons

2016

2017

   Popular Song   

“Passionfruit” by Drake

Although Drake is not married, he clearly understands some of the challenges of a long-term relationship. Commitment is one thing, but helping each other overcome interpersonal barriers? That’s a whole other level of devotion.

See what else was popular »

Photo by The Come Up Show from Canada (Jorja Smith & Drake) [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

2017
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50th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 50th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1968.

A popular food trend in 1968 was: Carrot Cake. Lovers of cake were in for a treat in 1968, the year that—gasp!—a vegetable became the household special. The cream cheese topping was definitely part of the craze – but we wager people justified eating loads of carrot cake on the grounds that it was ‘healthier’ than the alternatives.

A popular movie in 1968 was: Romeo and Juliet. Maybe you recall slicing carrot cake with a plastic spoon while watching this film at a drive in? As you may remember, Romeo and Juliet was a blockbuster amongst the teenage demographic because it was the first Hollywood version of the Bard’s play about teenage love to actually use teenagers.

A popular TV show in 1968 was: Here’s Lucy. Lucille Ball was already a massive star by the time this show, her third sitcom, ran on CBS. It featured Lucy as a widow looking to make her way in Los Angeles while providing for two kids. The idea behind the show was to highlight the generational gap emerging in society at the time – that between a working mom and her increasingly independent teenagers. Plenty of laughs ensue!

A popular song in 1968 was: “Hey Jude” by The Beatles. Originally written for John Lennon’s son, Julian, “Hey Jude” was the longest of any Beatles single, clocking in at over seven minutes. At the time it was the longest single to ever top the British charts and tied for the longest run at the top of the US charts. Truly a song that will be loved for a long, long time.

Uncommon inspiration: We suggest going out to a diner that still serves carrot cake for dessert. Then, while the night is young, seek out a Beatles cover band and request they play your favorite song (which just happens to be ‘Hey Jude,’ right?).

 

49th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 49th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1969.

A popular food trend in 1969 was: Fondue. The trendiest thing to serve guests at a dinner party in 1969 was fondue. It could be cheesy or chocolate, but it always had to be seductive and delicious.

A popular movie in 1969 was: Hello Dolly. The adventures of Dolly Levi into the often overlooked town of Yonkers, New York, brings about a barrel of laughs and a little insight into love to boot. Dolly Levi is a famous matchmaker, but her exploits in the film remind us all that matchmakers need to find a match too!

 A popular TV show in 1969 was: The Beverly Hillbillies. Ever wondered how a family from the Ozarks would fare in Los Angeles? This show was a hit because it portrayed, with humorous shtick, how an average family adapts to suddenly having all the money they could ever want. How would you change if money was not an issue?

A popular song/album in 1969 was: “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archie’s. Talk about ear candy. This track is smoother than honey and probably had all the boys whistling down the hallway at school

Some uncommon inspiration: For re-creating the vibe of 1969, we suggest going out for a fondue dinner and sipping champagne throughout the whole meal.

 



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48th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 48th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1970.

A popular food trend in 1970 was: Quiche. Forever looking for new ways to incorporate eggs into a healthy diet, frozen quiche came on the scene and moms everywhere were delighted about being able to offer their families a quick-yet-healthy meal.

A popular movie in 1970 was: Love Story. It is hard to put into words how touching this love story is. For anyone who has seen it, you can appreciate how valuable the principles of sacrifice and dedication are in this ever changing world of ours.

A popular TV show in 1970 was: The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Launched in 1970, this show ran for seven triumphant seasons, detailing the gallivanting life of a single lady and her mischievous friends.

A popular song/album in 1970 was: “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5. Even when Michael Jackson was a child he had star qualities. His natural falsetto made all the ladies swoon and all the men jealous!

Some uncommon inspiration: You might be surprised at how much quiche has improved since it was first introduced. Find it at a restaurant our buy it from the grocery store and have a serene, candle-lit meal at home.

 

47th Anniversary

 If you’re celebrating your 47th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1971.

A popular food trend in 1971 was: Eggs Benedict. 1971 was the year that poached eggs appeared out of the woodwork and plopped right into the weekend menus of your local diner. They have remained a breakfast and brunch staple ever since.

A popular movie in 1971 was: Fiddler on the Roof. Parents with kids who have since married can relate to the challenges Tevye faces in this musical comedy-drama. As a staunchly Jewish man, he has a hard time accepting that his five daughters want to marry outside of the faith and, in doing so, further distance themselves from the custom and traditions.

A popular TV show in 1971 was: All in the Family. Popular television took a conservative turn this year, as the crass Archie Bunker and his family life captured our collective imaginations.

A popular song/album in 1971 was: “Just My Imagination” by The Temptations. Soul music was in its golden era in 1971, centered around massive groups like The Temptations. Hearing the strings and backup harmonies of this track probably transports you to the listless summer days of youth, just as you were falling love together!

Some uncommon inspiration: Rather than re-watch All in the Family at home, we suggest going to the theatre and watching Fiddler on the Roof. It might be running at one of your local theatres. If not, then take your closest family out for breakfast and order your favorite benedict.  (We go for the Florentine.)

 

 46th Anniversary

 If you’re celebrating your 46th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1972.

A popular food trend in 1972 was: Tequila Sunrise. Mick Jagger made these colorful drinks popular in 1972 when he and his entourage ordered them at bars all across America during a Rolling Stones tour. Pretty much anything Mick vouches for his golden in our book (no pun intended!).

A popular movie in 1972 was: What’s Up Doc? Sliding right into the long-tradition of Warner Bros. comedy, scenes from this humorous flick were probably re-enacted by friends throughout 1972 and beyond.

A popular TV show in 1972 was: Mash. Inspired by the 1970 war film of the same name, Mash followed the adventures of doctors and support staff in the exotic enclaves of war-torn South Korea. Perhaps more than anything else, the show gave average Americans a sense of what war was like in South Korea and Vietnam (although presented in a humorous style).

A popular song/album in 1972 was: “Rocket Man” by Elton John. Elton John cemented himself at the top of the pop charts with this stellar hit. Ostensibly about an astronaut going out into space, it also describes being a gay man in a heterosexual world. Elton always had a way of giving his songs a double meaning.

Some uncommon inspiration: Sit back, relax, and enjoy What’s Up Doc from the Disney catalogue. We promise more than a few chuckles at the cartoon humor of the old days.

 

45th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 45th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1973.

A popular food trend in 1973 was: Granola. The hippie movement has contributed quite a bit to contemporary culture. Perhaps its most symbolic contribution is granola, a simple breakfast dish made by roasting oats in honey and adding fruit and nuts.

A popular movie in 1973 was: The Way We Were. Politics and custom clash in this political drama set before and after WWII. Pacifists could all identify with the view of Katie (played by Barbara Streisand) as she tries to impart the importance of social activism onto her friend – and future father of her son – Hubbell (played by Robert Redford).

A popular TV show in 1973 was: Gunsmoke. 1973 was the year of Westerns on television. Gunsmoke entered into its second to last season, and viewers were eager to get a last taste of the sandy ridges and small town shoot outs before the show disappeared into legend.

A popular song/album in 1973 was: “Killing Me Softly” by Roberta Flack. Killing Me Softly is both the name of the album that came in 1973 AND the name of the hit single that came with it. High school talent shows have never been the same since.

Some uncommon inspiration: A classic Hollywood film is not made every year. Reminisce about your college days while watching The Way We Were all over again. A romantic dinner beforehand is recommended because, well, the move is two hours long.

 

44th Anniversary

 If you’re celebrating your 44th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1974.

A popular food trend in 1974 was: Crepes. There is something decadent about crepes that has kept them popular over the years. Imported from France to compete with the very American pancake, breakfast lovers rejoiced at having a couple of doughy dishes to choose from.

A popular movie in 1974 was: The Great Gatsby. You no longer had to read the book in order to understand how the upper crust of society liked to get around in the 1920s.

A popular TV show in 1974 was: Good Times. A refreshing return to social realism on TV! Good Times was set in Chicago and depicted a charming African American family who always find a way to put food on the table and have some laughs.

A popular song/album in 1974 was: “(You’re) Having My Baby” by Paul Anka. Paul was so happy about the upcoming birth of his child that he wanted the whole world to know. It’s something strange, though, for Anka to sing “I’m a woman in love.” We just hope he asked the mother-to-be if it’s okay to make a smash hit about her pregnancy beforehand.

 Some uncommon inspiration: For starters, Paula Anka is performing in October around the Northeast. If there was ever a chance for a last dance, it would be this year. If you prefer staying close to home, we suggest going out for a fancy crepes lunch like they would in The Great Gatsby.

 

43rd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 43rd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1975.

A popular food trend in 1975 was: Sushi. A long time staple of upper class Japanese cuisine, sushi swept like wildfire across America in 1975. Part of the reason why it has stuck around is that sushi is actually a catch-all term for various types of rice and fish-based dishes (including nigiri, sashimi, California rolls, etc.).

A popular movie in 1975 was: The Romantic Englishwoman. Sometimes people put careers before love. When they do so, they risk losing out on a partner they thought to be committed forever. Such is the sad story of Elizabeth, who runs away from comfort only to find a boatful of discomfort and confusion.

A popular TV show in 1975 was: The Jeffersons. The Jeffersons was an instant hit when it first aired in 1975. The first couple of seasons did not shy away from controversial terms and topics, giving viewers another healthy dose of social realism once a week.

A popular song/album in 1975 was: “Rhinestone Cowboy” by Glen Campbell. It would not be America without some good ol’ twanging country music. Glen was a true cowboy, and he eulogized the lifestyle in his unmistakable voice.

Some uncommon inspiration: We say leave the sushi aside and attend a cowboy-themed event this summer. It could be a local hoedown or a country music open mike night where “Rhinestone Cowboy” will surely be sung.

 

42nd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 42nd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1976.

A popular food trend in 1976 was: Chicken Kiev. Chicken Kiev was packed as a ready meal for busy families who did always have time to cook a wholesome dinner. Once of the most exciting new frozen food options to hit the market, slowly more and more items were introduced and the Chicken Kiev craze died down for good.

A popular movie in 1976 was: A Matter of Time. Liza Minnelli was the star of this American-Italian musical-fantasy film. If it sounds interesting on paper, you can rest assured it charts a most fantastical journey for the viewer to behold on screen.

A popular TV show in 1976 was: The Bionic Woman. Excitement about the future of technological advancement produced this sci-fi action series for popular consumption. Jaime Summers receives life-saving surgery from doctors who stitch her back up with bionic capabilities. Status as the world’s best undercover spy soon follows.

A popular song/album in 1976 was: “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry. One of the most legendary tracks to come out of Cleveland, this funk rock number brought everyone out of the woodwork and onto the dancefloor. A choice track for the late nights of summer!

Some uncommon inspiration: Liza Minnelli was in a lot of great films. Why not make a point of watching them all this year to get the full deja-vu effect. Next thing you know you’ll start taking after some of her mannerisms again.

 

41st Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 41st anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1977.

A popular food trend in 1977 was: Pasta Primavera. In Italian cooking, primavera means fresh vegetables. For increasingly health-conscious consumers, this lighter dish offered welcome respite from the heavier pasta dishes often associated with Italian cuisine.

A popular movie in 1977 was: Eight is Enough. Large families are unique entities because they tend to exist in little bubbles of self-reliance. While you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who wants to have eight kids these days, watching Eight is Enough sure made it look like a fun riot.

A popular TV show in 1977 was: Annie Hall. Woody Allen introduced himself to fans of the romantic comedy genre with this perplexing and endearing film. It set a new standard for the depth to which a comedy could delve in exploring the nuances of a relationship.

A popular song/album in 1977 was: “Best of My Love” by The Emotions. Soul was taking a funky turn in the late 70s, no better exemplified than in this track from the Chicago-based vocal group.

Some uncommon inspiration: Reserve a quiet table in the back of your favorite Italian restaurant and enjoy pasta primavera with a little red wine. Delizioso!

 

 40th Anniversary

 If you’re celebrating your 40th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1978.

A popular food trend in 1978 was: Hummingbird Cake. We can thank all the sweet tooths in the South for bequeathing us this three-layered wonder. We mean really South: Jamaica, to be exact. The Jamaican tourist board initially sent recipes for Hummingbird Cake to America, attempting to attract more tourists. But it was only in 1978 that we got the ingredients in print, when one Ms. L H Wiggins mailed her recipe to Southern Living.

A popular movie in 1978 was: Grease. If you were a young lady in 1978, you probably thought John Travolta was cute. Coming off the huge success of Saturday Night Fever, Travolta burst back into the spotlight as the leading man in the film adaptation of the musical, Grease. (We won’t ask if your husband looked like John Travolta at the time, though).

A popular TV show in 1978 was: Dallas. As a society, we like to ridicule the rich, especially if they are making a fortune through illegal means. Dallas was a soap opera about a filthy rich family and their shady business dealings – justifying people’s disdain for the conniving rich.

A popular song/album in 1978 was: “You’re The One That I Want” from Grease. Although musicals are filled with songs, rarely do they stick in popular consciousness. Grease, of course, is the exception. This rip-roaring number is all about navigating the contours of young love, when desire and expectation are hard to communicate.

Uncommon inspiration: Challenging convention means taking inspiration from tradition and giving it a make-over. We enjoy nature more than cake – and if you share in our sentiment, you probably like the sound of a rural vacation to one of the many hummingbird havens across the country.

 

39th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 39th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1979.

A popular food trend in 1979 was: Cajun Blackened Fish. Southern food is often associated with comfort food, but there is nothing comforting about Cajun blackened fish. This dish sizzles and packs an explosion of flavor into every bite – just the way they like it in the Deep South.

A popular movie in 1979 was: Manhattan. New York City is the backdrop for Woody Allen’s next contribution to the romantic comedy genre. This one is more provocative than Annie Hall, though it still garnered huge critical and popular acclaim.

A popular TV show in 1979 was: Happy Days. Happy Days presented an idealized version of American life twenty years before, in the 1950s, when life was serene and proper. It’s probably not how it felt living through the ‘50s, but memory is often bathed in longing.

A popular song/album in 1979 was: “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson. The cute boy from the Jackson 5 had grown up, and he wanted to sing about the forces of attraction and desire. Not only did MJ sing like diva – he also danced better than all of his backup dancers, making his live show a once in a lifetime experience.

Some uncommon inspiration: You don’t have to try Cajun food in your area. We recommend taking a trip to New Orleans for a smoky, sizzling adventure. As MJ recommends, you really should not stop enjoying yourself until you get enough.

 



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38th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 38th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1980.

A popular food trend in 1980 was: Potato Skins. Casual dining restaurants introduced this surprisingly filling dish to their menus in 1980. We advise skipping them if you are watching your weight or happen to be a vegetarian or vegan. They are heavy, cheesy, and delicious.

A popular movie in 1980 was: Hero at Large. The thread-bare life of a struggling actor takes a turn for the miraculous in this adorable rom-com. After stopping a robbery in a Captain Avenger outfit, the unsuspecting Steve Nichols becomes embroiled in political campaigns and real-life complications.

A popular TV show in 1980 was: Dukes of Hazzard. While some might contest the depiction of life in Georgia made by the show creators, few will disagree that Dukes of Hazzard made you laugh right from the pit of your stomach.

A popular song/album in 1980 was: “Call Me” by Blondie. The singer of Blondie (Deborah Harry) was ready to set the tone for a new era of independent women just calling it like it is. And if it’s love your feeling, then embrace it.

Some uncommon inspiration: Blondie is still gigging, and need we remind you that they rule. So don your eyeshadow, lace up those moon boots, and relive the ‘80s for a night why dontchya?

 

37th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 37th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1981.

A popular food trend in 1981 was: Baked Brie. Lovers of cheese will know all about the seductive quality of baked brie. Imagine taking one of the softest cheeses on the market and putting it in the oven with maple syrup and pecans. The result is a bittersweet combination that is absolutely to die for.

A popular movie in 1981 was: Modern Romance. Confused film editor Robert is simply unable to accept that he had met the women of his dreams. His anxious questioning and evident discomfort at realizing the truth can be slightly annoying to watch. Luckily, he comes around and proposes at the end of the film.

A popular TV show in 1981 was: The Love Boat. By the early ‘80s, enough people had lived (or heard about) the wild life you can lead on cruise ships. The Love Boat justified some of these assertions, painting life on a boat as a one surprising interaction after another. You never know what will happen when you leave the shore!

A popular song/album in 1981 was: “Lady” by Commodores. Touching on the inspiration that a new partner can provide, the Commodores shot out of nowhere to the top of the charts. Maybe this was even the track that gave your husband the confidence to propose in this fateful year.

Some uncommon inspiration: If seafaring is something you want to do more of, now is your chance. Book a small cruise or just take a weekend vacation on the coast where you can hop in a schooner or go whale watching if you want.

 

36th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 36th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1982.

A popular food trend in 1982 was: Pasta Salad. The versatile Italian staple makes another appearance on our list, this time repurposed as the base ingredient for a cold salad. As you probably know, pasta salad has become the quintessential side dish for all summer BBQ exploits.

A popular movie in 1982 was: Grease 2. The sequel to the original was never going to make as big a splash, but in the end it definitely succeeding in conveying the style and substance of the original to a new audience.

A popular TV show in 1982 was: Three’s Company. Most of us have found ourselves, at some point or another, living in unusual circumstances without a reliable income on the horizon. Three’s Company gives props to the absurd fun that can emerge in these transitional periods of life, foreshadowing the popularity of sitcoms like Seinfeld and Friends in the ‘90s.

A popular song/album in 1982 was: “Always On My Mind” by Willie Nelson. The melancholic swoon of Willie Nelson is hard not to love. Too bad he learned his lessons too late in this song and let his loved one go. He was always a vagabond at heart.

Some uncommon inspiration: For your uncommon anniversary inspiration this year, we think it’s right and proper that you two learn the hand-jive dance made popular in Grease. Maybe you even learned it years ago and still have a poodle skirt?

 

35th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 35th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1983.

The top food trend in 1983 was: Couscous. A popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, couscous hit American grocery-store shelves in 1983, and people really took to it. The crushed balls of durum wheat offered an excellent substitute for pasta or rice, as it does to this day. In 1983 it was new and exotic.

A popular movie in 1983 was: Flashdance. This cute love story is brought to life with music-video style moments that definitely had an influence on other films made in the decade – like Footloose and Purple Rain.

A popular TV show in 1983 was: The A Team. If you like rooting for the underdog, and you don’t mind a little over-the-top violence, then this action adventure series is probably one of your favorite shows of all time.

A popular song/album in 1983 was: “Every Breath You Take” by The Police. Before the release of this ballad the Police were known as a funk-punk trio. Fans of the raucous early days may not have seen this turn coming, but we like his foray into the softer side.

Some uncommon inspiration: To honor the pop culture trends of 1983, we like the idea of going for an authentic Moroccan meal and swapping stories about all the places you have travelled together.

 

34th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 34th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1984.

A popular food trend in 1984 was: Tiramisu. An Italian invention from the 1960s, this dessert that found its way to American restaurants in no time. Anything with coffee and mascarpone cheese is bound to delight our taste palette, and in 1984 couples were flocking to Italian cafes and restaurants to get a taste, and finish their date on a high note.

A popular movie in 1984 was: Splash. Can a man fall in love with a mermaid? Realists will say no, but romantics will say sure thing. Splash illustrates a kind of mysterious love that pops out of nowhere and changes your life forever. We like the sentiment, whether mermaid or not.

A popular TV show in 1984 was: Who’s the Boss? Personalities clash in this quirky sitcom that reverses traditional gender roles. A relaxed male housekeeper tries to meet the expectations of his female boss, a highly successful businesswomen and type-A personality.

A popular song/album in 1984 was: “When Doves Cry” by Prince. In this song Prince lays bare his deepest feelings about relationships and wraps it up in gorgeous symbolism. With a captivating video to boot, Prince was everywhere in this year.

Some uncommon inspiration: Doves symbolize peace and harmony in the world. We like this symbolism so much that we think seeing plenty of doves in their natural habitat would be pretty special. Inspired by Prince, we think you and your dearest should take a road trip and do some bird watching this summer – keeping a particular eye out for the turtle dove.

 

33rd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 33rd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1985.

A popular food trend in 1985 was: Fajitas. One of the best dishes to come out of Tex-Mex cuisine, the novel concept of frying strips of meat with veggies and wrapping them in warm tortillas was greeted with cheers across the country.

A popular movie in 1985 was: A Room with a View. Finding love in Edwardian times was a pretty limited affair. A Room with a View depicts the trials of looking outside your lot for love, and it is an engaging journey from start to finish.

A popular TV show in 1985 was: Moonlighting. Never before had the genres been so mixed in a television show format before. Though not loved by TV purists, Moonlighting mixed comedy and drama so effortlessly that a new genre – dramedy – was created.

A popular song/album in 1985 was: “Crazy For You” by Madonna. The ‘80s were prime time for love-themed hits, and Madonna was not going to miss out on the party. Admittedly, “Crazy For You” is not the song you played to get the party started. Rather, it was a song to end the night too, slow dancing in the middle of the room as people slowly go their separate ways.

Some uncommon inspiration: To celebrate your thirty-third anniversary in the style of the time, we recommend watching Madonna’s documentary while eating fajitas made from the BBQ.

 

32nd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 32nd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1986.

A popular food trend in 1986 was: Monkey Bread. Monkey bread originated in Hungry, but in 1986 the traditional recipe had been interpreted by American bakers and turned into something uniquely American. Some liked to eat it for breakfast, others for afternoon snack, while most went for it as a dessert.

A popular movie in 1986 was: Top Gun. Tom Cruise made a strong impression in this romantic military action movie. The critics did not give rave reviews, but as is often the case with film, the general public loved every bit of it. A sequel is in the works for 2019!

A popular TV show in 1986 was: ALF. Yes, slowly but surely themes of extraterrestrial visitors on Earth entered television. While we admire the relatable nature of Alf, we cannot accept that extraterrestrial life could be that cute, could it?

A popular song/album in 1986 was: “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin. Berlin was a relatively obscure band before they released this misty paean for love. Count yourself lucky that, unlike the singer of Berlin, in 1986 you found someone ready and willing for a lifetime of commitment.

 Some uncommon inspiration: In this, your thirty-second year of marriage, we think it’s time to bring back the ‘80s and remember why Tom Cruise is so famous. He played some endearing characters in the decade, perhaps none more popular than in Top Gun.

 

31st Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 31st anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1987.

A popular food trend in 1987 was: Chocolate Truffles. When the American truffle was created and sold, people could not keep their hands off of them. The funny thing about truffles is that they are so good that people who can resist indulging in the less refined desserts – like chocolate cake or lemon meringue pie – lose all of their resolve in the presence of a truffle.

A popular movie in 1987 was: Dirty Dancing. Dirty Dancing was not just one of the most surprising box office hits of the ‘80s. It also became the first movie to sell over 1 million home video copies. We just could not get enough of the sultry moves on the dancefloor and the deceitful cheating going on left, right, and center.

A popular TV show in 1987 was: Full House. Asking your brother-in-law and best friend to help raise your three kids is so cute! But could it actually work? Full House showed us that yes, with a lot of patience and hard work, it can work.

A popular song/album in 1987 was: “With Or Without You” by U2. Now this is a love song. Bono holds nothing back in his declaration of love for a women who makes him sleep on a bed of nails for her love. Sometimes it goes the other way and ladies need some time to be sure of a man before jumping headfirst into love.

Some uncommon inspiration: In celebrating your thirty-first anniversary, we suggest going to the Catskills this summer – where Dirty Dancing is set – and enjoying the chocolate truffles for sale at one of the nice local bakeries there. No dancing involved – though you might want to hike or kayak a little to keep on top of things.

 

30th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 30th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1988.

A popular food trend in 1988 was: Bran muffins. When bran muffins were first introduced, they became incredibly popular overnight. Scientific study showed oat bran could lower cholesterol, and bran muffins were a convenient way to eat the stuff.

A popular movie in 1988 was: Mystic Pizza. Americans sure do love a good coming-of-age story! This particular narrative is based around the lives of three sisters trying to figure out what it is they want in love and in life. Being Portuguese-Americans does not make it any easier to bust out of their small town and leave their dead-end jobs at Mystic Pizza behind.

A popular TV show in 1988 was: The Wonder Years. What did we just say about coming-of-age stories? The top show in 1988 was The Wonders Years, which depicted the trials and tribulations of a suburban teenage boy in the 1960s. Not the most cutting-edge plot ever conceived, but like we said, if it’s about young people learning valuable lessons about the world we just lap it up!

A popular song/album in 1988 was: “A Groovy Kind of Love” by Phil Collins. To put a stamp on the most sappy of years yet, we give you a classic track from Phil Collins. You can call it cheesy. You can even call it kitsch. But you can’t deny that Phil Collins has a glorious voice.

 Uncommon inspiration: This year in pop culture was all about highlighting the difficulties of becoming an adult, finding stability, and maybe (just maybe) meeting your one true love. You succeeded in finding love, and although life moves quickly, you can always discover new ways to show your love. Our uncommon suggestion? Take voice lessons together so you can belt out those groovy love songs in confidence (and in tune).

 

29th Anniversary  

If you’re celebrating your 29th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1989.

A popular food trend in 1989 was: Crème Brule. No one is exactly sure where crème brule was invented (probably somewhere in France). What we can all agree on is that it’s truly amazing how tantalizing something made from four ingredients can be.

A popular movie in 1989 was: When Harry Met Sally. This instant classic arguably shed more light onto the complexities of a relationship than any other romantic comedy to date. The question of whether men and women can just be friends looms large – but in this case love wins out (as it always does!).

A popular TV show in 1989 was: Cops. Before goofy reality shows became popular, there was Cops. This nail-biting show let viewers in on the kinds of things cops see and do on a regular basis. No plot or conventional dialogue needed.

A popular song/album in 1989 was: “Wild Thing” by Tone Loc. The rowdy life of a young rapper is not for everyone. It was definitely the confrontational tone of the track that attracted young ears in 1989, as rap was quickly become a popular and respected genre across the board.

Some uncommon inspiration: After twenty-nine years, it is time to face the ultimate test and see if you two can make crème brule together. If you succeed, it might just be the highlight of your year.

 



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28th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 28th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1990.

A popular food trend in 1990 was: Fusion Pizza. As fans of anything that re-imagines tradition, we have a deep appreciation for whoever thought about using pesto as the sauce or throwing broccoli and feta into the same pie. Genius!

A popular movie in 1990 was: Pretty Woman. Richard Gere plays a wealthy businessman who hires a female escort for a number of social appearances and gradually falls in love with her. Who ever said that social class cannot be overcome?

A popular TV show in 1990 was: Seinfeld. This hilarious sitcom ran its first season in 1989, and by 1990 all the men were dressing like Kramer and all the ladies had lipstick like Elaine. Okay, maybe it was not that influential, but it definitely remains one of the most important shows in American television history.

A popular song/album in 1990 was: “Nothing Compares 2 You” by Sinead O’Connor. In the year of your wedding, Sinead O’Connor was lamenting the fortunes of all those with a broken heart. Although it’s true that many people end up perennially single, it must have been hard to empathize with the message of this song as you were planning a romantic honeymoon!

Some uncommon inspiration: For your twenty-eight anniversary, our variation on a theme is to watch Jerry Seinfeld at one of his many scheduled shows across the country this summer.

 

27th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 27th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1991.

A popular food trend in 1991 was: Chinese Chicken Salad. Chinese restaurants have popped up across America, and a number of dishes have made their way into the canon of America’s favorite dishes. One contender for inclusion was Chinese Chicken salad, which a lot of people had never tried when it came into vogue in 1991. Suffice to say, it did not catch on like Szechuan noodles have.

A popular movie in 1991 was: Beauty and the Beast. Here’s hoping this wonderful tale is retold to new generations for years to come. It is definitely an uncommon love between Belle and the Beast – who initially imprisons her, only realizing later that he actually loves her.

A popular TV show in 1991 was: Home Improvement. Tim “the Toolman” Taylor was an excellent representation of handy dads just trying to do the right thing. However, applying the logic of building to the dynamics of a family does not work, a realization that Tim has to make over and over again.

A popular song/album in 1991 was: “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M. Pop culture was veering into alternative rock and grunge in the early 90s. Thus, we get R.E.M and their noir-pop masterpiece.

Some uncommon inspiration: Since twenty-seven years has probably flown by, our uncommon inspiration is to dedicate a bit more time and money to interior and exterior home improvement. Tim “the Toolman” Taylor would be proud.

 

26th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 26th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1992.

A popular food trend in 1992 was: Ranch dressing. Ranch is another one of those quintessentially American dishes that an experimental eater in Nebraska whipped up out of nowhere. Major food manufacturing brands finally picked up on the dressing, and since 1992 it has been served with salads at pretty much every casual dining establishment in the country.

A popular movie in 1992 was: The Bodyguard. Fans of Whitney Houston will remember this one because in it she plays a character like herself (a global pop star), albeit in a rather unrealistic circumstance. She is being followed by a stalker, and requires the watchful eye of a secret service agent. Love is in the air, but the obligations of pop stardom make it near impossible to hold on to.

A popular TV show in 1992 was: Mad About You. If you missed this show – detailing the day-to-day lives of newlyweds in New York – when it first aired in 1992, you don’t have to worry. Sony has announced plans to revive the show with the same lead actors, focusing on where they are at later in life.

A popular song/album in 1992 was: “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. Seriously, what is not to love about Whitney Houston? She has the vocal cords of a goddess, supermodel looks, and a heart big enough for every soul on the planet. With this song she instantly became the soundtrack to countless weddings across the country.

Some uncommon inspiration: Since Mad About You is making a glorious return, it would be an uncommonly good idea to watch every existing season to be fully prepared. But we’re not done with ideas yet. For another unique anniversary idea, we suggest starting a book club with your partner and some close friends. First item on the reading list? ‘Remembering Whitney’, a biography penned by her very own mom.

 

25th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 25th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1993.

A popular food trend in 1993 was: Veggie burgers. By 1993, the word

was fully out about the ravages of industrialized livestock. Veggie burgers became a response to the preponderance of meat in virtually every classic American dish, offering a healthier alternative for the planet and our stomachs.

A popular movie in 1993 was: Sleepless in Seattle. One of the most endearing films about love ever made, Sleepless in Seattle portrays the grief in losing a loved one and the angst in searching for love once again. A true classic for anyone fascinated by all the ways that love can change us.

A popular TV show in 1993 was: Frasier. Niles and Frasier Crane play two opera-loving psychologists trying to outwit each other at every turn. Fans of the show will remember that Niles had a wife – Maris – who would always tell him what to do, but never once appeared on screen. Just about as far from marital bliss as you can get!

A popular song/album in 1993 was: “Dream Lover” by Mariah Carey. This video and song was played non-stop on MTV. Although the visuals are light and lovely, the lyrics of the song hit at the core of what abiding love is all about. Trust, commitment, emotional availability, and a desire to open up and explore the world.

Uncommon inspiration: We say forget about the urbane humor of Frasier and embrace the wholesome charm of veggie burgers in the countryside. Have you tried veggie burgers since 1993? They have gotten 1000% times better. We suggest you host a backyard BBQ with veggie burgers, lots of Mariah Carey, and an outdoor screening of Sleepless in Seattle. Your kids will feel included, and your friends will absolutely love reliving the awkward ‘90s for a night.

 

24th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 24th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1994.

A popular food trend in 1994 was: Caesar Salad. Another creation of American culinary exploration, a man by the name of Caesar Cardini came up with the recipe for Caesar dressing. Aside from the fact that he’s Italian, this should explain where the name for this popular dressing comes from.

A popular movie in 1994 was: Four Weddings and a Funeral. Any fans of British romantic comedy are familiar with Hugh Grant. In Four Weddings and a Funeral he makes his first appearance has a bashful Brit looking for love.

A popular TV show in 1994 was: Friends. Following the escapades of Rachel, Phoebe, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Ross was practically a full-time hobby. Each encapsulating a different stereotype of young adults, Friends gave a new generation something to compare themselves against. Let’s hope things never went as bad for you as they did for this endearing bunch!

A popular song/album in 1994 was: “I’ll Make You Love Me” by Boyz II Men. Now they serenade the roaming crowds in Vegas, but in 1994 these pop craftsmen were just beginning to make a name for themselves in the mainstream.

Some uncommon inspiration: With work and life responsibilities filling up your days, chances are you have not been to Vegas in while. Find a long weekend this summer and get back into the groove with a trip to Vegas to take in a show from the one and only Boyz II Men. We can’t guarantee they will play “I’ll Make You Love Me” but we can guarantee a memorable time.

 

23rd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 23rd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1995.

A popular food trend in 1995 was: Molten Lava Cake. This soft-centered chocolate mouthful was first introduced in New York City in 1995. Though it’s creation was a mistake, our taste buds never lie, and within a year it was popping up on the desert menu at high-end restaurants.

A popular movie in 1995 was: While You Were Sleeping. Sandra Bullock plays a lonely token fare collector who happens to save her crush from getting hit by a train, and then pretends to be his wife. Her white lie brings the family closer, but by the time her crush has recovered and proposes to her, she has fallen in love with someone else!

A popular TV show in 1995 was: Star Trek: Voyager. Sci-fi took another stylish turn with this ingenious show, launched in 1995. As the fifth incantation of the Star Trek saga, Voyager depicts a crew eager and successful to shorten their 75-year journey home.

A popular song/album in 1995 was: “Fantasy” by Mariah Carey. Another transcendental piece of pop tinged hip-hop from Mariah Carey. The year was 1995, and Mariah had fallen head-over heels just like you!

Some uncommon inspiration: Our uncommon suggestion for your twenty-third anniversary is pretty straightforward. Leave the kids in bed and go out for a fancy dinner, exploring each other’s shared fantasy for molten lava cake.

 

22nd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 22nd anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1996.

A popular food trend in 1996 was: Sun Dried Tomatoes. If you ask an Italian, they would probably tell you that sun dried tomatoes make a great snack, addition to a salad, or defining flavor in a pasta sauce. In 1996 sundried tomatoes were made widely available on grocery store shelves, and Americans began to experiment on their own.

A popular movie in 1996 was: Jerry Maguire. Tom Cruise does a fine job making the life of a sports management agent look exhilarating. However, the crux of the film revolves around his inability to keep a stable marriage going with the loving Dorothy, who is ready to sacrifice her happiness for the marriage.

A popular TV show in 1996 was: Suddenly Susan. You might have thought that a successful magazine writer in San Francisco had figured it all out. But not so fast. Suddenly Susan is a reminder that achieving independence is one of the most important steps we can take in life. Only when we are independent can we imagine living in harmony with someone else.

A popular song/album in 1996 was: “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion. Everything that Celine Dion does feels larger than life. Her style. Her voice. Her earnest lyrics that run so deep they could describe the situation for thousands of people at the same time – and that’s exactly what this song could do.

Some uncommon inspiration: Catching a Celine show is another reason to go to Vegas (who knew there were so many!).

 

21st Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 21st anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1997.

A popular food trend in 1997 was: Fried Calamari. Squid has been a favorite of many cultures across the world. Gradually, fried squid (known as calamari) made more and more of an appearance in American cuisine. It fully exploded in 1997 as people who had never tried squid before realized they actually like it!

A popular movie in 1997 was: Titanic. We all knew the story of the Titanic before it was made into a movie. But we’re sure no one thought the tragic story could be portrayed with such romance.

A popular TV show in 1997 was: The X-Files. A return to conspiracy-land was on the books for 1997. The X-Files, led by investigators Mulder and Scully, would stop at nothing to find answers to the most perplexing issues.

A popular song/album in 1997 was: “Something About The Way You Look Tonight” by Elton John. Never one to shy away from love, Elton came back with a life-affirming number that tried to put words to that bubbling feeling of joy you get when going out with the one you love.

Some uncommon inspiration: For your twenty-first anniversary, there is no better way to honor your marriage year than to watch Titanic and make a list of all the things you still want to achieve together.

 

20th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 20th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1998.

A popular food trend in 1998 was: The Cosmopolitan. What drink did you have on the first date with your soulmate? If you were following the trends it was probably a Cosmopolitan, a drink made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry, and lime juice. Granted, it could have been another specialty drink of the moment, as the Cosmopolitan embodied the best of an emergent craft cocktail culture that has since become the norm.

A popular movie in 1998 was: You’ve Got Mail. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan make another appearance in a romantic comedy (they were also the lead actors in Sleepless in Seattle). In You’ve Got Mail, they play business competitors who fall into an anonymous online romance that gradually turns into the real thing. As you remember, the internet was radically changing how people communicated by this point.

A popular TV show in 1998 was: Will and Grace. Ironic depictions of relationship drama was what made Will and Grace so popular. The modern twist was the portrayal of a gay man (Will), who lived with Grace and shared in her relationship troubles.

A popular song/album in 1998 was: “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith. This love ballad is probably the softest song in the Aerosmith catalogue, but that’s not why it carries a lasting impression. While we like the distorted guitar and crackling snare, what really catches our ear is the lyric: “every moment I spend with you is a moment I treasure.” A genuine heart-melter from the canon of classic rock!

Uncommon inspiration: Since you’ve probably had your fair share of cosmopolitans, we recommend a night of nostalgia spent on the couch, re-watching your favorite Will and Grace episodes with a bottle of wine (or two). By the end of the night you’ll be scrunched together like little puppies, exhausted from laughing and shouting at the TV for hours.

 

19th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 19th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 1999.

A popular food trend in 1999 was: Roasted Red Bell Peppers. Portuguese roasted red peppers became the specialty food of choice in this year. Consumers looking to cut calories and eat well on a diet found lots to like in these sweet, juicy vegetables.

A popular movie in 1999 was: Notting Hill. Even the most ardent critics of romantic comedies must agree that Notting Hill is a masterpiece of the genre. Julia Roberts plays a famous American actress who falls in love with a sardonic bookstore owner on Brick Lane (Hugh Grant), who tries (and fails) to keep it together.

A popular TV show in 1999 was: Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Dealing in supernatural matters was easy for Buffy Summers, a regular woman who just happens to be the next in a long line of “Vampire Slayers,” women who are called to battle against vampires, demons, and all that the darkness can unleash. Buffy definitely started a TV trend of badass ladies getting things done – and we love her for it.

A popular song/album in 1999 was: “No Scrubs” by TLC. The ladies in TLC were never going to settle for just an ordinary partner. And you weren’t either.

Some uncommon inspiration: Nineteen-years together is long enough to take stock of how things are going, and where, collectively, you would like to take things. Our uncommon anniversary suggestion is to take inspiration from TLC and write down the extraordinary things you love about each other. Keep the list somewhere safe, to be looked at the year before your fortieth anniversary.

 


 

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18th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 18th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2000.

A popular food trend in 2000 was: Smoothies. Do you remember the smoothie craze? Business popped up left, right and center offering low-cal, nutrient-rich drinks full of fresh fruit and added protein supplements. You can see why they were so popular when initially introduced!

A popular movie in 2000 was: Meet the Parents. Visiting the parents of your new partner is never an easy proposition. Meet the Parents documents a scenario where pretty much everything that could go wrong, does. We feel for you Greg.

A popular TV show in 2000 was: Curb Your Enthusiasm. The co-creator of Seinfeld, Larry David, turned his attention to his own life in this irreverent show. Larry enjoys pushing conversations to the limits of sanity and poking fun at himself whenever he can. Hey, if you can’t laugh at yourself then what’s the point of comedy, right?

A popular song/album in 2000 was: “Shape Of My Heart” by The Backstreet Boys. This song describes the situation for so many people who break off a relationship before realizing the person they cast off was actually the only stabilizing force in their life. If you have ever had to forgive (or seek forgiveness) from your partner, this song is for you.

Some uncommon inspiration: Since we love smoothies so much, our uncommon inspiration for anniversary number eighteen is to have a nice dinner and, for dessert, treat each other to the most delicious smoothie.


17th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 17th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2001.

A popular food trend in 2001 was: EVOO (extra virgin olive oil). The march towards specialty foods took another big step in 2001 with the introduction of EVOO, or extra virgin olive oil. What that meant was mixed or flavored olive oil was out. Consumers wanted to taste the pure, undiluted oil of fresh olives, and were willing to pay extra for it.

A popular movie in 2001 was: Amelie. The French have always indulged in the surreal, and Amelie is a romantic comedy depicted in this heightened style. The interior design of the Parisian cafe is wonderful, and the entire film is a whimsical feast for the eyes.

A popular TV show in 2001 was: Scrubs. Scrubs is the first show on our list to be set in a hospital, and the medical setting had a big influence on its popularity when it came out in. We liked the show because it offered a glimpse into the very human life of nurses, doctors, assistants, and everyone who works in hospitals.

A popular song/album in 2001 was: “Fallin’” by Alicia Keys. Alicia found a way to say exactly how millions of us feel about love. It’s confusing, enthralling, sometimes the best thing, sometimes the toughest thing. At the end of the day, it is a vital force of life that we cannot live without.

Some uncommon inspiration: After seventeen years, we think it’s time to give Amelie another watch. You could even combine it with dinner at a French bistro to set the mood for the evening.

 

16th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 16th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2002.

A popular food trend in 2002 was: Bacon. While today we have vegan bacon that rivals even the most salty meat, in 2002 the greasy slabs were pretty much all people had. Of course there was maple bacon chips, bacon bits for Caesar salad, and various other bacon-infused products to pique people’s interest.

A popular movie in 2002 was: Sweet Home Alabama. Reese Witherspoon plays a lovable fashion designer from the South trying to make a new life in the uncompromising metropolis of New York. A romantic comedy on the surface, but also a vivid portrayal of the culture differences between the North and the South.

A popular TV show in 2002 was: The Bachelor. A man seeking his dream wife was the basis for The Bachelor, a reality show that launched in 2002. A number of changes to the layout of the show have occurred over the years, but in 2018 it is still going strong. That tells you how much we like to see love grow out there in the world.

A popular song/album in 2002 was: “Like I Love You” by Justin Timberlake. Everyone has a different way of expressing love. For JT, cruising around together shooting the breeze is all it takes to take the plunge. We agree. Sometimes the simplest – and most personal – things are what make us love another person the most.

Some uncommon inspiration: For your sixteenth year, we think you should go out to dinner pretending he is ‘the bachelor’ and she is trying to be as appealing as possible, without coming on too strong!

 

15th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 15th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2003.

A popular food trend in 2003 was: Pumpkin spiced latte. Trick-or-treating or giving out candy on Halloween was a lot of fun with a pumpkin spiced latte in hand. We still like this creamy hot beverage because, well, it tastes pretty close to pumpkin pie.

A popular movie in 2003 was: Love Actually. Watching a film like Love Actually for the first time, you were probably struck by how serendipitously the true love of your life just pops in one day, and then stays forever. How magical! Love Actually delves a little deeper into the challenges of globe-trotting professionals trying to negotiate serious relationships – a common concern for young adults at the turn of the century.

A popular TV show in 2003 was: The Bachelorette. Seeking commitment in the frenzied modern world was the theme of The Bachelorette, a show which had its inaugural season in 2003. As one of the earliest reality TV shows to find popularity, The Bachelorette gave empowered women across the nation a chance to find the man of their dreams.

A popular song/album in 2003 was: “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé. This track was absolutely everywhere when it first came out! Who better than Beyoncé to put into words that feeling of losing control over how you look, and how you feel, because you are so deeply in love with one person. Queue flashbacks to late night texts and spending three days together without a change of clothes because, well, you could not imagine being anywhere else.

Uncommon inspiration: For your fifteenth wedding anniversary, we suggest you pretend you’re on your first date. Go out to a romantic dinner and ask questions like you’ve just met. What is your secret wish? Where would you like to travel next? What new thing have you learned recently?

 

14th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 14th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2004.

A popular food trend in 2004 was: Yoghurt. Yoghurt has been a staple of traditional European cuisine for years, but it was only in 2004 that properly packaged, marketed, and flavored yoghurt products hit the market.

A popular movie in 2004 was: The Notebook. The Notebook offers a peek into the engrossing romance of South Carolina in the 1940s. Abandoned homes, fiery young love, and a brutal war that tore so many relationships apart. Heart wrenching cinema that leaves you wanting to live in Charleston circa 1950.

A popular TV show in 2004 was: Lost. The epic survival drama in Lost captured everyone’s attention in 2004. The expensive set design and on-site filming in Hawaii made for some of the most dramatic television ever produced.

A popular song/album in 2004 was: “My Boo” by Usher. If you married your high school sweetheart than this song must ring true for you. Usher waxes poetical in commemoration of the first kiss and the first crush, which, for most of us, is probably super embarrassing.
Some uncommon inspiration: Our uncommon suggestion for a romantic date night this year is to make a playlist of all your favorite Usher songs and learn to sing them together.

 

13th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 13th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2005.

A popular food trend in 2005 was: Cupcakes. Cupcakes: you know them, you love them, and yet you don’t have them very much. Of course this was not the case in 2005, when a wide variety of packaged cupcakes hit grocery store shelves for the first time.

A popular movie in 2005 was: Pride and Prejudice. Perhaps the most famous love story ever written, Pride and Prejudice made just as strong an appearance on the big screen. For ladies, it was ideal date material to see just how sentimental their partners could get.

A popular TV show in 2005 was: Grey’s Anatomy. Perhaps the success of Scrubs induced ABC to make a hospital drama of their own. Grey’s Anatomy had little humor about it, focusing more on the minutia of the doctor’s craft and detailing the personal sacrifice required to make it in the medical field.

A popular song/album in 2005 was: “We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey. Mariah is back on the list with a third shout out to love. If you got married in 2005 then you are the living embodiment of the message that Mariah was trying to convey. True love exists, and if you’ve found it, flaunt it.

Some uncommon inspiration: For year thirteen, an uncommon date idea is to bake cupcakes and eat them all while watching Pride and Prejudice.

 

12th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 12th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2006.

A popular trend in 2006 was: Ramen. This Japanese noodle soup is a relatively recent creation, but it feels like it’s been around forever. Packed noodle soups definitely had a role to play in popularizing ramen soup across America, a status it has retained every year since.

A popular movie in 2006 was: The Holiday. Critics may have panned the film for its predictable plot, but viewers did not care. Jack Black and Jude Law as leading men probably had little to do with its success. The real champions in the movie are the ladies who are fed up with cheating boyfriends and do something about it.

A popular TV show in 2006 was: The Office. You did not have to have a dead-end office job to fall in love with this mockumentary-style comedy. Michael Scott and his team at Dunder Mifflin Scranton took on the major issues of the day while trying to keep their jobs in a dying paper industry.

A popular song/album in 2006 was: “For You I Will” by Teddy Geiger. Mustering every ounce of confidence is what it takes to proposes to someone. Teddy was only talking about a high school crush. Little did he know he touched on one of the toughest things about getting married: finding the confidence to go ahead and make it happen.

Some uncommon inspiration: Year twelve calls for something truly unconventional. While enjoying some tasty ramen noodle soup, put yourselves back into your high school headspace and share what your hopes and dreams were in those tumultuous years. Have some of them come true?

 

11th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 11th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2007.

A popular food trend in 2007 was: Fresh fruits and vegetables. The organic movement had been around for a while, but in 2007 the impetus behind the organic movement really made an impact on people’s eating habits. Fresh, organic fruit and veg was all the rage.

A popular movie in 2007 was: Atonement. The moral of this gorgeous film is that a lie will stay with you for your whole life. Especially when it leads to another person’s death. An yet, in and amongst the deceit, the flowers of love find a way to flourish.

A popular TV show in 2007 was: The Big Bang Theory. It’s not true that all scientists are socially awkward. However, it is true that all three scientists in the Big Bang Theory do suffer from a lack of social graces. Not for lack of trying, mind you.

A popular song/album in 2007 was: “Beautiful Girls” by Sean Kingston. If you got married in 2007, you successfully proved Sean Kingston had it all wrong about love. Love is not a lustful thing that appears at midnight in the park and makes you feel all crazy. Rather, love is like a rose bush that grows stronger every year, the roots extending like memories you forge by exploring each other’s personality.

Some uncommon inspiration: Eleven years of marriage is verging on the uncommon! Although it might seem like a traditional thing to do, we think spending the day harvesting fruit or berries is kinda romantic, and pretty unusual in our day in age.

 

10th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 10th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2008.

A popular food trend in 2008 was: Organic Chocolate. The best late night snack or birthday gift in 2008 was organic chocolate. Now it is everywhere in shops, but we can all remember a time when Nestle and Hershey bars were the only chocolaty treats available.

A popular movie in 2008 was: 27 Dresses. A successful wedding planner – and perennial bridesmaid – who can’t find love is suddenly swept off her feet by a nosy reporter. Here’s hoping you and your boo did not meet under such turbulent circumstances.

A popular TV show in 2008 was: Breaking Bad. The first season of Breaking Bad aired in 2008, a show that had millions of us captivated for the entirety of its five season run. We always found the best way to watch Breaking Bad was together with someone (like your future groom?) who was just as committed to watching every episode.

A popular song/album in 2008 was: “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay. The lovable Brits came out with this gem in 2008, and it was probably the soundtrack to your summer park hangs and late night bedroom dance parties. We recommend you crank it up and revive the glory days.

Uncommon inspiration: Chocolate aficionados are not satisfied with the organic label as a sign of quality. They want to eat the most refined chocolate available, and that means making raw chocolate at home. Why not see what all the fuss is about by taking a class together with a local pastry chef to learn the ins and outs first-hand.

 

9th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 9th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2009.

A popular food trend in 2009 was: Alternative chips (baked root vegetables). Continuing with our theme of healthy and delicious food trends, 2009 brings us the baked root vegetable chip. Touting fewer calories and less saturated fat, baked carrot and turnip chips quickly supplanted Lays or Doritos in people’s snaking regimen.

A popular movie in 2009 was: 500 Days of Summer. 500 days is the length of time Tom and Summer maintain their alluring fling before Summer calls it off and Tom falls into a depression. It turns around in the end though. Both find serious contenders for true love status – in Tom’s case, the lady’s name is Autumn, symbolic of his matured understanding of what true love feels like.

A popular TV show in 2009 was: Modern Family. Modern Family breaks new ground in the ‘mockumentary’ style made popular by The Office. The major difference, of course, is that Modern Family is set in the home. The show was a hit, portraying how families with less-traditional lifestyles are able to hold it together and find all the love in the world for each other.

A popular song/album in 2009 was: “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas. If there was ever a song that defined your first months of marriage, it was probably this one. Every time the song comes on you probably get transported back to the places and things you did as a couple – with this song as your soundtrack.

Uncommon inspiration: Here is a wild idea: why not celebrate your ninth anniversary by inviting both sides of your family to your place for the weekend. Would disaster ensue? Would everyone get along? On the flip side, you could always take inspiration from 500 Days of Summer and watch The Graduate together.

 


 

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8th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 8th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2010.

A popular food trend in 2010 was: Food Truck Tacos. Mexican food has always been present in American cuisine, but in 2010 it took center stage as food trucks selling cheap and delicious tacos began popping up everywhere. Say goodbye to the diner and hello to the taco truck – lunch dates had never been so tasty!

A popular movie in 2010 was: Valentine’s Day. This film taught us that, although we might live amongst strangers, we are all seeking love. Some of us will go to great lengths to find it – like flying to a different city and dressing up as a waitress to spy on someone you have a crush on!

A popular TV show in 2010 was: The Walking Dead. Thanks to this popular TV drama, we now have an idea of what the zombie apocalypse would look like. Let’s just say, if ever the zombies make an appearance on Earth, we hope to be sipping a Cosmopolitan at a disco lounge on Mars by then.

A popular song/album in 2010 was: “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. Like all the most gifted songwriters, Bruno Mars has an incredible ability to send a simple message about one of the most important aspects of a relationship. We all want to reach for the stars in life, but we also want to be with someone who loves us for who we are, inside and out.

Uncommon inspiration: Singing your heart out in the shower is some kind of spiritual therapy. It’s even more therapeutic to sing love songs to your baby – in public. So wrangle up your friends and hit the karaoke bar to sing this gorgeous ballad in a duet with your spouse.

 

7th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 7th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2011.

A popular food trend in 2011 was: Gourmet Jerky. Lovers of salt and BBQ will be salivating over this year’s culinary innovation. Gourmet jerky meant vegans and vegetarians could get in on the fun, as soy and veggie-based strips pack all the chewy flavor you could want in an afternoon snack.

A popular movie in 2011 was: Midnight in Paris. Woody Allen brought Owen Wilson to the streets of Paris for this time-stretching drama, and the results are outstanding. The film is whimsical and fun until you realize that Wilson’s character spends more time getting drunk in a 1930s dream bubble than with his fiancé.

A popular TV show in 2011 was: Game of Thrones. Game of Thrones captured the imagination of the nation when it first came out in 2011. A whole fantastical universe was created for us to indulge in, even if it did involve violence and incest. If your like us, you skipped over the violent parts and paid extra close attention to the immaculate set design.

A popular song/album of 2011 was: “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele. The Queen of Pop made her everlasting mark in 2011 with this bold statement on the resilient attitude of a lover scorned. Not that you need to take the song literally. A pop song is universal, and Adele struck a chord at the center of what makes love so frustrating, and yet so life-affirming.

Uncommon inspiration: Despite what Midnight in Paris may suggest, jazz clubs are still alive and kicking. Skip down to a lounge for a late-night set of sultry trumpet solos and emotive sax lines. Who knows, maybe the lounge will even have vegan jerky on the menu.

 

6th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 6th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2012.

A popular food trend in 2012 was: Rainbow Cake. Any birthdays you attended in 2012 (including your own) probably included rainbow cake. Usually sectioned off into bite sized quarters, rainbow cake was yet another confectionary creation designed to delight the eyes as much as the tongue.

A popular movie in 2012 was: Silver Lining Playbook. This beautiful romantic comedy charts the emergent love between two people struggling with mental illness. Addressing the issue of mental health is never easy, but Silver Lining Playbook opened the doors to discussion by showing that love can be a stabilizing force in anyone’s life. A truly uplifting flick!

A popular TV show in 2012 was: Parks and Rec. Who knew that managing the Parks and Rec department of a local town could be so hilarious and dramatic? With a cast of comedic actors in the important roles, it’s little wonder that politics was put on the backburner for the more thrilling questions, “who’s dating who?”.

A popular song/album in 2012 was: “Let Me Love You” by Ne-Yo. The topic of self-love does not get enough attention. Ne-Yo made a contribution to the dialogue with a song that describes what true love really is – an undying love for someone, even if they do not yet love themselves.

Uncommon inspiration: On the topic of self-love, we suggest taking a full day at the spa with your significant other. Sometimes the best way to celebrate achievements in life is to take a full day out of the grind and let your mind and body recharge.

 

5th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 5th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2013

A popular food trend in 2013 was: Cronut. Rising out of the culinary melting pot of New York City, the cronut elevated donuts from the roadside snack category to the best new desert category. The secret is flavored cream packed into a dough that is more spongy than your run-of-the-mill Boston cream or honey cruller.

A popular movie in 2013 was: The Great Gatsby. The Great American novel was turned into a film (once again), and this time it portrays the roaring twenties to a younger audience who can only imagine the glitz and glamor of the time. Plenty of relationship intrigue abounds, making The Great Gatsby more than just a gorgeous cinematic experience.

A popular TV show in 2013 was: House of Cards. Kevin Spacey takes the best of Southern charm and distorts it into a maniacal President who will do anything to hold onto power. His fraught relationship with the First Lady is all the indication we need to know that living in the fast lane means compromising a solid relationship. Thrilling to watch, painful to actually live through.

A popular song/album in 2013 was: “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk. The smooth chords bursting through this dance track make it hard to sit at the bar nursing a drink. If you tied the knot in 2013, you probably included this number in your wedding party dance playlist, did you not?

Uncommon inspiration: While gambling can be fun once and a while, we actually prefer going to casinos to admire the classic interior design sensibilities on display. Besides, it might just be the closest you can get to the elegant beauty of West Egg. Our uncommon inspiration for year five is to spend the night at the casino – enjoying the fancy drinks and admiring the classic decor.

 

4th Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 4th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2014.

A popular food trend in 2014 was: Cauliflower. Seemingly out of the blue, chefs and food manufacturers decided to seek a gluten-free alternative in a popular, though underutilized, vegetable. As it turns out, cauliflower can be mashed, fried, boiled, cut into slivers on the grill, made into pizza dough, and used in almost any type of salad.

A popular movie in 2014 was: The Fault in Our Stars. The blockbuster of 2014 was a tragic romantic comedy that really pulled at the heartstrings. Portraying the burgeoning love between terminally ill cancer patients makes you want to grip on to your loved one and cherish every single moment you have together.

A popular TV show in 2014 was: True Detective. Who does not like a good crime thriller once and awhile? True Detective brought the tropes of a detective show to the forefront, while keeping the character development fresh by creating self-contained micro-narratives from one season to the next.

A popular song/album in 2014 was: “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith. Verging on Adele status, Sam Smith shook the world with this romantic plea for enduring love. There must be something in the water in England because they seem to produce one heartthrob after another. It might have something to do with Elton John, but we can’t verify that.

Uncommon inspiration: Go for a tasty vegan dinner and try the cauliflower burger. Then take a walk around your favorite neighborhood, gazing in wonder at the stars and holding on to every moment for as long as you can.

 

3rd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 3th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2015.

A popular food trend in 2015 was: Poke. Although seafood goes against or vegetarian ethos here at UncommonGoods, we can still get behind a poke bowl with grilled tofu. The traditional Hawaiian offering burst onto the scene in 2015 because it combines fresh veggies and healthy ingredients into a protein-rich bowl of goodness.

A popular movie in 2015 was: Cinderella. The enchanting story of young Ella’s path to the throne will never get old. It has all the makings of a true classic: a cruel stepmother, a resilient protagonist willing to risk it all for love, and a kind prince who sees the fire in Ella’s eye and falls for her instantly.

A popular TV show in 2015 was: Mad Men. The life of a 1950s ad man might look good on paper, but it sure is a struggle to stay on top of the heap. As a family man, Don Draper struggles to match the expectations of his job with the obligation he feels to his family.

A popular song/album in 2015 was: “Hello” by Adele. Well hello again, Ms. Adele. The Queen of the charts returned in 2015 with a track full of nostalgia for old friends you never see anymore. The video for the song was directed by Xavier Dolan and set the Vevo record with over 27.7 million views within a 24-hour span.

Uncommon inspiration: If you’ve seen Mad Men, you will know Don Draper liked to enjoy 2 hour booze-soaked lunches on the company dime. We recommend living it large like Don and sipping martinis on a patio all afternoon and evening. Poke bowls optional.

 

2nd Anniversary

If you’re celebrating your 2th anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2016.

A popular food trend in 2016 was: Avocado Toast. If you have ever experimented with avocado at home (like, when all you have at home is an avocado and a loaf of bread) you will know it can stand alone on a piece of multi-grain. It is the ideal healthy-yet-slightly indulgent snack. Restaurateurs took notice, and 2016 became the year of avocado toast.

A popular movie in 2016 was: Bridget Jones’s Baby. Fans of Bridget Jones had been holding their breath waiting for a third film. They got it in 2016, and it was worth the wait. We always like to watch other people deal with complicated relationship drama, and Bridget gets herself into a real mess this time.

A popular TV show in 2016 was: West World. The world of TV took another turn for the surreal in 2016. West World is set in an unknown land of the future, where guests can pay to experience the Old American West with the assistance of android hosts who can fulfill any desire. It’s convoluted, kinda creepy, and wildly entertaining.

A popular song/album in 2016 was: “One Dance” by Drake. Chances are you grooved to this song when it come on your Spotify playlist as you cruised home from work one day. Then you played again at home, and once again at work when you hit a creative block.

Uncommon inspiration: West World is running every Sunday. Have you caught up? We recommend hosting a little Sunday get-together for close friends and family. Serve up avocado toast and green tea – and when everyone leaves, close out the night with a new episode from this dystopian masterpiece.

 

1st Anniversary

 If you’re celebrating your 1st anniversary this year, then your wedding date was 2017.

 A popular food trend in 2017 was: Pickles and Fermented Foods. Continuing in the long tradition of modernizing old-world staples for hungry mouths, pickled and fermented foods (like kimchi) made a real mark in the culinary scene last year. You probably tried your first pickled garlic as an appetizer last year (we won’t ask if you liked it).

A popular movie in 2017 was: Beauty and the Beast. A return to fantasy land is warranted for the re-imagination of Beauty and the Beast. Seeing the enchantress turn the selfish prince into a Beast is quite satisfying. But, knowing Disney, even the villain is given a second chance to find love.

 A popular TV show in 2017 was: The Handmaid’s Tale. Margaret Atwood’s controversial book was turned into a hit TV show in 2017. Depicting a future world in which only a select few women are still able to give birth, the tone of the show is sinister and enchanting. In an unjust world, the only glimmer of hope is Offred’s quest to find the daughter that was taken from her.

A popular song/album in 2017 was: “Passionfruit” by Drake. Although Drake is not married, he clearly understands some of the challenges of a long-term relationship. Commitment is one thing, but helping each other overcome interpersonal barriers? That’s a whole other level of devotion.

Uncommon inspiration: Beauty and the Beast is a love story steeped in magic and the mysterious connection we all have with fate. Reckon with your own fate by taking your partner to a psychic reading. You might just hear what you want to hear.

 

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When you reminisce about the tunes, trends, TV, and movies of your anniversary year, we hope you stay inspired from your first anniversary through your fiftieth and beyond.

See more inspired anniversary gifts »

 

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