1. Create a Personal Care Package
Everyone loves a thoughtful gift that is created just for them. If they love certain kinds of food, you could fill a basket with sweet or savory treats. They may want to relax, so aromatherapy gifts like lavender essential oils and a diffuser could be a welcome surprise. Many companies also create packages you can order online if you need to ship them from far away.
2. Solve a Problem
This is one of the best Military Spouse Appreciation Day ideas because it first requires that you listen intently to what’s going on. Your spouse is likely already sharing a situation that is causing them stress. Maybe they’ve complained about a messy house and too little help from others. You can solve the problem by buying them a visit from a cleaning service.
3. Throw a Party
This takes a little more planning, but it’s a great way to show how much you care. Instead of having the party at home (that requires clean up and prep work that might be seen as extra work for the spouse), consider renting a pavilion at a nearby park or booking a room at a restaurant. Invite your spouse’s friends, members of your squad, platoon, or a section.
You can even go in with some of your company mates who are also married. Pool resources to hire a DJ, provide catering that your spouses especially enjoy, and enlist someone to play bartender. Don’t forget to add a fun activity to keep the kids occupied.
4. Give Them a Day Off
Everyone appreciates a break. Schedule an afternoon at a local spa, give them a ticket to a nearby museum, or reserve a table for your spouse and their friends at a favorite café for lunch. Military spouses do so much that they sometimes forget about themselves. Let them know you haven’t forgotten.
5. Help Them Reach a Goal
While the holiday lasts only one day, your marriage lasts a lifetime. Help your spouse reach their personal goals, just as they help you with your military career. Start by asking what they want. For example, maybe they’re ready for a new career. You can connect them with MedCerts, which offers certifications and training that can be paid for with military benefits.
MedCerts offers training and certification in some of the fastest-growing fields, such as healthcare and information technology. Using the MyCAA program, it’s possible for spouses of active military personnel to receive grant funding to pay for tuition, books, and other costs associated with moving forward toward completing professional goals.
Say Thank You To a Military Spouse
This year, don’t let Military Spouse Appreciation Day go unnoticed. Try one of these ideas or get creative with something you know they’ll really love. Add in a heartfelt message in a card — love notes can be read over and over all year long!
