Not every couple dreams of a formal, sit-down, catered affair for their wedding anniversary party.  In fact, they may not even want a fancy social reception at all.  If you're looking for something a little different, here are eight unique anniversary party ideas to consider.

1. Luau or Tropical Flair - Did they go to Hawaii or the Caribbean on their honeymoon? Do they love to vacation in the islands? Or do they dream of going one day? Create a celebration with an island atmosphere.  Tiki torches, seashells, and fake palm trees add to the decor. Play music from the tropics. Serve up coconut based drinks. Don't forget the flower leis for the celebrating couple.

2. Big Family Barbecue - You can fire up the grill and do this in your backyard.  Or, you can go all out, rent a big tent, hire professional grill-masters and a country music band.  Whether your party is low-key or over the top, it will be casual fun that friends and relatives of all ages will enjoy.

3. Romantic Dinner Cruise - If you live near a river, lake, ocean or just about any body of water, there is bound to be boats available for your celebration.  They usually include a meal, music and dancing.  It has all the trappings of a typical anniversary party, but with a seaworthy twist.

4. Year We Got Married - Did the happy couple get married in the 1950's? Then plan a doo-wop sock hop.  If their marriage took place in the 60's, load up on tie-dye, peace signs, lava lamps and rock and roll. If they took the plunge in the 70's, then go all out disco. Build the party around the decade of their wedding, including music, fashion, headlines, even popular foods.

5. Fiesta - If you're planning a wedding anniversary party for a couple that still has a lot of spice in their relationship, then how about a fiery south of the border theme? Hire a mariachi band, serve spicy food and decorate with pinatas.

6. Hollywood Love Story - Roll out the red carpet (literally!) for your own version of Tracy and Hepburn. Decorate with life-size cardboard cutouts of movie stars, clapboards, awards, stars and twinkle lights. Select invitations featuring tickets. Play soundtracks from blockbuster films.

7. Interesting Location - If the couple is still wild about each other after all these years, consider throwing their anniversary party in your local zoological park.  Most zoos have facilities you can rent, even after hours, and your guests can enjoy some of the animal exhibits.

How about having your celebration at the botanical gardens?  Can you imagine a more beautiful location?  You might also want to investigate to see if the restaurant the couple went to on their first date is still open and have the party there. What other location might be of particular sentimental value to the them?  Find out if it's available for parties.

8. Destination Anniversary - Choose several close friends and family members and plan a weekend trip to an exotic location to celebrate the couple's milestone.  Destination weddings are all the rage, so why not adapt this trend to your celebration?  This may sound extravagant, but it can be cheaper than planning a elegant formal dinner for a hundred people.  The guests are usually only responsible for paying their air fare or other transportation costs.  That means that you'll be picking up the tab for hotel and meals. But think of the memories!

Traditional celebrations can be wonderful.  But if you're planning a wedding anniversary party for a unique couple who would enjoy something a little different, don't settle for an ordinary event. You don't need to be limited to conventional ideas. Just use your imagination, maybe borrow one of these suggestions, and you'll create an anniversary to remember.