What are the wedding anniversary gifts by year?
There are two types of anniversary gifts for each year: traditional gifts and modern gifts. Traditional anniversary gifts are represented by different materials which increase in value as each year passes, from paper to diamonds. Modern anniversary gifts were created to reflect the need for more practical, less symbolic gifts.
Wedding anniversary gift ideas
1st Anniversary: Paper
Paper anniversary gifts are traditionally given to represent the blank pages of a couple’s marriage. In the modern list, clocks are given for a similar reason - to symbolise all the time together couples have to look forward to. For a playful spin on the paper theme, treat your loved one to items such as notepads, books, or even posters and wall art.
2nd Anniversary: Cotton
The way cotton is intertwined imitates the way the couple’s lives have become woven together by their second wedding anniversary. For an extra special second wedding anniversary gift, items made from cotton could include sumptuously soft blankets or bedding to snuggle up in together, or a cotton pyjama set for her.
3rd Anniversary: Leather
Leather is a durable material that has typically been used for protection. So for the third wedding anniversary, leather gifts represent the strength of the matrimony. A leather, or faux leather, watch, bag or shoes make the a stylish anniversary gift for her. And if you prefer to go by the modern list, gifts made from glass or crystal could include shimmering gin, champagne or whisky glasses for the couple.
5th Anniversary: Wood
The fifth year of marriage is represented by wood. Trees are seen as a symbol for strength and wisdom, reflecting the couple’s deep rooted union. You could mark this milestone with a statement piece of wood furniture or silver gifts such as silver 925 jewellery if you prefer to go by the modern list.
10th Anniversary: Tin
10 years of marriage is traditionally celebrated with gifts made from aluminium. Items stored inside tin are prolonged, a symbol to recognise the way a couple’s love has endured for a decade. Going by the modern anniversary gift, diamonds can also be gifted to celebrate the milestone, or jewellery with cubic zirconia gems make a beautiful and affordable alternative.
15th Anniversary: Crystal
Crystal mimics the clear and sparkling love between a couple on their 15th wedding anniversary. Glass gifts make a more affordable option, sets of drinks glasses or decadent glass tableware are both thoughtful ideas for wedding anniversary gifts. Or, for the modern alternative, a watch represents the time you’ve spent together, and have ahead of you.
20th Anniversary: China
China is a fragile material, but when it’s cared for properly it will stand the test of time. Ceramic gifts such as striking serveware and small trinkets make a pretty and practical 20th anniversary gift for couples as a reminder of their two decades together.
25th Anniversary: Silver
Silver represents 25 years of marriage in both the traditional anniversary gifts list and the modern version making it a timeless choice for a gift. If you’re searching for a wedding anniversary gift for your wife, a piece of silver jewellery will be a sparkling addition to her jewellery box.
30th Anniversary: Pearl
Pearl is valued for its beauty and rarity making it the perfect representation for 30 years of marriage. A shining piece of pearl jewellery is one gift idea that will remind her of three decades with the person she loves. Or, if you’re shopping for anniversary gifts for couples, homeware accessories such as a lamp with pearlescent shades make an eye-catching shared present.
40th Anniversary: Ruby
Ruby red is the colour of passion and romance so for the 40th wedding anniversary, look for gifts in a rich red or love and heart themed presents to celebrate this amorous achievement.
50th Anniversary Gifts: Gold
50 years marks the golden wedding anniversary and a gift in glittering gold is said to represent the wealth of spending a lifetime together. So, for the couple who have spent 5 decades together, a gold mirror or gold-plated jewellery make an anniversary gift they’ll cherish.
