Romantic dinner

• Straw and cotton are traditionally associated with second anniversaries. Decorating the table within this theme will mark the occasion appropriately. A pretty china vase with cosmos, the flower associated with the second, will tie the traditions in. Straw bundles tied with colored raffia make a pretty filler. Monogrammed cloth napkins will make dinner at home more of an event.
  
  A special dinner can be made ahead of time or a dinner for two can be ordered in from a favorite restaurant. Since the second anniversary is most often celebrated alone by the couple, favorite foods can be made or ordered for each person instead of satisfying a crowd. Candlelight adds a romantic glow to the event. It can be followed by a romantic walk, a movie, or other couples-only pursuit.
  
  

Picnics

• A day trip to a favorite locale with a picnic packed for two is a fitting tribute to the occasion and a nice way to get away from day-to-day responsibilities for the day. The beach or a mountain hike to a secluded area where the couple can be alone is romantic and special. Food always tastes better outdoors, so a simple spread with a nice bottle of wine works well.
  
  The picnic can be extended to an overnight event. A night in a tent in the woods, a rental cabin, or a beach hut are inexpensive but give the couple much needed alone time that is often in short supply. It is a chance to unwind and have a mini-second honeymoon. Many cabin rental companies also offer anniversary discounts or special services such as fresh flowers or breakfast in bed that can be inquired about ahead of time.
  
  

Exchange gifts

• Small tokens of love that are thoughtfully picked out go much further than expensive items that are often later forgotten about. Small china figurines or dishware to add to a collection is nice but may be impersonal. Artisan pottery, filled with favorite blooms, ties in with the theme even if not technically china.
  
  Monogrammed cotton handkerchiefs or scarves are thoughtful and useful. Nice dress shirts for him are always popular. Straw tableware such as place mats, woven artisan baskets, and even beautiful jewelry can bring the straw theme into gift giving.