There are always people who feel it is important to mark special anniversaries, and they tend to measure the length of their relationships when they are single. To them, six months of dating the same person might signify the bond with the other person is about to step up to the next level. It works well if both people measure time in the same way, but there can be difficulties if only one person looks at life through this type of measuring process.
Marking dating anniversaries can bring a mixed reaction from a significant other, and it is not always a good one. If the other person tends to be a serial dater with no resolution to settle down, it can mark the end of the relationship. Embarrassment is also a factor to consider when it comes to celebrating an anniversary of this type, and a person should understand their current partner might not place that much emphasis of the length of the dating relationship.
Forming a permanent relationship out of a dating one is often a measurement of time for those seeking the right partner, and marking an anniversary without a commitment from their loved one might make them examine their feelings. A lack progress in the relationship could tell them they should move on, but they must be willing to talk with their partner before giving up.
Relationships are sometimes a slippery slope of feelings between two people, so marking an anniversary between two who have been dating for a year or more could be a sign the partners need some clarity in their definition. If one person feels their current status is fine, they might discover their significant other is ready to move on without them. If the anniversary brings to light that they have been together for too long without progress, the couple might find they are ready to make a lifelong commitment to each other.