Anniversary Gifts by the Year: A Traditional Guide

Anniversaries are a wonderful occasion to celebrate milestones in a relationship. From the first year to the fiftieth, each year is symbolised by a traditional gift. This tradition has been around for centuries and provides a helpful guide for finding the perfect anniversary gift. In this post, we’ll explore the traditional anniversary gifts by the year and provide some ideas for each milestone.

1st Anniversary: Paper

The first year is symbolised by paper, which represents the newness and fragility of a young marriage. Consider a personalised photo album, a framed wedding invitation or certificate, a special book or a handwritten love letter.

2nd Anniversary: Cotton

Cotton symbolises the interweaving of two lives into one, becoming stronger together. Consider a monogrammed robe or towels, a cosy blanket or throw, or a cotton canvas print of a special photo.

3rd Anniversary: Leather

Leather is a durable material that represents the strength and flexibility of a relationship. Ideas include a leather wallet or purse, a leather-bound journal, or a pair of leather gloves.

4th Anniversary: Linen

Linen represents the elegance and grace of a well-established relationship. Gift ideas for this year could include a set of linen napkins or tablecloths, linen bedding, or a beautiful linen blouse or shirt.

5th Anniversary: Wood

Wood symbolises the strength and durability of a relationship. For this milestone, consider a personalised wooden cutting board, a wooden watch or jewellery box, a wooden picture frame or a set of wooden coasters.

10th Anniversary: Tin/Aluminium

Tin or aluminium represents the flexibility and durability of a relationship. Gift ideas for this year might include a set of tin or aluminium drinking glasses, a personalised tin or aluminium plaque, or a beautiful tin or aluminium vase.

15th Anniversary: Crystal

Crystal represents the clarity and transparency of a relationship. Some gift ideas for this milestone might include a set of crystal glasses, a crystal vase, or a beautiful crystal picture frame.

20th Anniversary: China

China symbolises the beauty and delicacy of a long-term relationship. For this year, consider a set of fine china plates, a beautiful teapot or vase, or a personalised china anniversary plate.

25th Anniversary: Silver

Silver represents the shining and enduring nature of a relationship. Some gift ideas for this milestone include a silver jewellery piece, a silver-plated picture frame or album, or a personalised silver anniversary plate.

50th Anniversary: Gold

Gold represents the strength and resilience of a long-term relationship. For this milestone, consider a gold jewellery piece, a gold-plated watch or clock, or a personalised gold anniversary plate.

 

anniversary gifts by the year

How a watch fits into anniversary gifts by the year

While the traditional anniversary gifts by the year provide a helpful guide, it’s important to note that the best gift is one that speaks to your partner’s individual tastes and interests. One gift that can be a great option for any anniversary milestone is a watch.

A watch is a timeless and classic gift that can be customised to fit any anniversary year. For example, a leather-strapped watch would be a perfect fit for a third-anniversary gift, while a gold-plated watch would be fitting for a fiftieth-anniversary.

Anniversary gifts by the year or otherwise, the best watches are at Fine Watches Berlin, and we can’t wait to hear from you.