Whether you’re celebrating your first year of knowing each other or a wedding anniversary, it’s important to choose a thoughtful gift. Did you know there are traditional gift themes that have been around for years that will help guide you in the right direction? These milestones are represented by a theme that reflects the stage you are at in your relationship. We’ve put together a traditional anniversary gift guide to help you celebrate anniversary milestones from year one all the way to 60 whilst keeping in theme!
Traditional Anniversary Gifts by Year These traditional anniversary gifts by year symbolize the milestones you reach together. You can follow these no matter the relationship stage, whether you're married or celebrating with your valentine for a bit of fun. Here are our anniversary gift ideas for him and her.
1 Year Anniversary Gifts: Paper
The traditional first anniversary gift is paper. Paper symbolizes the blank pages of your shared future and the story you will write together over the years to come - the world is your shared oyster! This gift theme was traditionally celebrated by gifting books or love letters. Here are some unique takes on paper:
- Gift for him: Custom art prints
- Gift for her: Paper flowers
5 Year Anniversary Gifts: Wood
Five years in, and the traditional gift theme is wood. This represents the tree-like strength rooted in your growing relationship. Traditional gifts were handmade, carved from wood, such as jewelry boxes, trinkets, or furniture. If you want some other gift ideas, here is what we recommend:
- Gift for him: His favorite sports jersey in a wooden frame
- Gift for her: A tree sapling to plant in the garden
10 Year Anniversary Gifts: Tin or Aluminum
Welcome to double digits! Tin and aluminum, symbols of durability and flexibility, perfectly capture the essence of a 10-year commitment. As you've grown together, you've both learned to adapt and support each other. A traditional gift like tin boxes or jewelry were common. Here are some one-of-a-kind gift ideas for your 10-year anniversary:
- Gift for him: Engraved jewelry
- Gift for her: Metal candle holders
15 Year Anniversary Gifts: Crystal
Crystal symbolizes clarity, transparency, and the strength of your relationship after 15 wonderful years. Traditionally, this milestone was marked with gifts like crystal vases, glassware, or figurines that sparkled with beauty and meaning. For a unique take, consider these gifts:
- Gift for him: Crystal-encrusted watch
- Gift for her: Crystal lighting pendant
20 Year Anniversary Gifts: China
Reaching twenty years of marriage is a testament to your bond and the delicate strength that holds it together. Traditionally, fine china dinnerware or teacups were given to celebrate this milestone. If you want something a little more personal, try these gifts:
- Gift for him: Porcelain cufflinks
- Gift for her: Fine china perfume bottle
25 Year Anniversary Gifts: Silver
A major milestone, silver signifies the radiance and value of 25 years of marriage. Jewelry is the obvious answer here, but here are some unique silver gifts you may not have considered:
- Gift for him: A silver Minky blanket
- Gift for her: A set of silver silk pajamas
30 Year Anniversary Gifts: Pearl
Pearls symbolize the hidden beauty and wisdom that a 30-year relationship has cultivated over time. While pearl jewelry is a traditional gift, there are many other creative ways to celebrate this special occasion:
- Gift for him: Oyster shucking date
- Gift for her: Mother of pearl jewelry dish
40 Year Anniversary Gifts: Ruby
Forty years of marriage is a remarkable achievement. Celebrate this milestone with a gift as timeless and beautiful as your love. Ruby, the traditional gemstone for a 40th anniversary, is a perfect choice, but consider these other thoughtful gifts that express your affection:
- Gift for him: Ruby red lobster dinner
- Gift for her: Ruby red roses
50 Year Anniversary Gifts: Gold
Half a century of love is a remarkable milestone, and gold represents the beauty, strength, and value of your relationship. Traditionally, this anniversary is celebrated with gold jewelry or keepsakes. If gold is a bit too much, consider these gifts that keep with the theme:
- Gift for him: Gold-plated fountain pen
- Gift for her: Gold hoops
60 Year Anniversary Gifts: Diamond
60 years of marriage is a testament to an unbreakable bond, symbolized by the brilliance and strength of a diamond. Diamond jewelry is the go-to pick for both men and women on this anniversary. But if you’re not interested in diamonds, here are some fun gifts that keep with the theme but don’t involve real diamonds:
- Gifts for him: A diamond-certified music album
- Gift for her: A star named after her
More Tips for Choosing Anniversary Gifts
Here are our tips that will help guide you in the right direction for gifting your partner on your anniversary.
- Personalization: Add a monogram, engraving, or a custom message to make the gift extra meaningful.
- Experiences: Something you and your partner can do to make memories is priceless. If you’re stuck trying to find something that represents your love for them, look into making memories instead.
- Combination: Combine the traditional and unique gift themes to add a unique twist to the anniversary milestone you are celebrating together.
A Gift for Every Anniversary
As you navigate your relationship, each anniversary marks a new chapter. From the tender beginnings to the golden years, every milestone is an opportunity to express your love. Whether you lean towards traditional, unique, or a bit of both, remember that the heart of any gift lies in the sentiment behind it.
For those seeking a gift that's both cozy and heartfelt, a Minky blanket in a beautiful gift box is sure to impress. As a bonus, it’s the perfect companion for snuggling up together.
Happy shopping and may your anniversary be filled with joy, love, and cherished moments!
