Anniversary gifts quick picks
1st anniversary: Filterity Wedding Vows Printable Wall Art Template
5th anniversary: Circle City Design Co Personalized Cutting Board
10th anniversary: Different Maps Tin Star Map
20th anniversary: Kate Spade New York Wickford Salad Set
30th anniversary: Aurate Venus Organic Pearl Gold Ring
Whether it’s your first year of marriage or you’ve been by each other’s side for decades, each anniversary is a major milestone that deserves to be celebrated. What you may not know is that, traditionally, each anniversary year is denoted by a specific gift, beginning with simple and affordable materials — like paper for the first anniversary — and gradually increasing in significance as the years go on.
“The traditional wedding gifts are absolutely not required, and beyond silver for 25 and gold for 50, are actually relatively recent inventions and have been largely invented by purely commercial interests,” says Nick Leighton, etiquette expert and host of the “Were You Raised By Wolves?” podcast. “They can still certainly be fun, especially when there’s an effort to be extra thoughtful and creative with the themes.”
If you’re in the market for an anniversary gift for your significant other, parents or friends, we created a guide to all the traditional wedding anniversary gifts by year, as well as our top gift picks for each landmark occasion.
1st anniversary gifts: Paper
Paper gifts are believed to be a symbol of a blank slate and the start of a new life together. Usually, gifts for the first anniversary are made from paper as it is a relatively affordable material that is meant to reflect the beginning stages of a lifelong relationship. Handwritten cards, personalized journals and even cookbooks are a perfect nod to this tradition.
A handwritten note is the perfect way to express just how much you love your significant other on this momentous first anniversary, and what better way to do so than on a customized card?
Relive the magic of exchanging your wedding vows by making them into a frameable work of art that can be admired for years to come.
Record your most memorable moments from your first through your 60th anniversaries with this personalized journal. It’s complete with photo pages, envelopes for mementos and more.
2nd anniversary gifts: Cotton
Representing softness, resilience and versatility, cotton is what you want to gift your spouse to celebrate making it to year two, says Jo Hayes, etiquette expert and founder of EtiquetteExpert.org. “[It] symbolizes the comfort and strength necessary for a healthy, successful marriage,” she says. “This is the perfect time to upgrade bedding, pillows or perhaps a cozy throw for the living room sofa.”
According to Laura Windsor, etiquette expert and founder at Laura Windsor Etiquette Academy, a suitable second-year anniversary gift would include something that enhances your time together, like personalized Egyptian cotton pillowcases or sheets for your cherished weekend sleep-ins, plush cotton towels or matching bathrobes.
Hayes adds that a modern twist on year two is china in the form of something like tea cups, which represents the “strong and delicate” reality of marriages in the early phase.
There’s no better way to commemorate year two than with this keepsake sweater that's so sweet they might want to frame it rather than wear it. Choose a sweatshirt color and embroidery option, then once you’ve made your purchase, submit a clear photo that you want on it.
Add a dash of luxury to their GRWM routine with these monogrammed hand towels by editor-loved brand Weezie in your choice of elegant trim. The two towels come with a hook loop to allow them to dry faster and add an instant boutique hotel feel to their primping space.
They’ll know you truly understood the assignment when you present them with these snuggly socks that read “2 Years Down” and “Forever To Go.” Plus, it’s a great option if you vowed you weren’t going to do presents this year but still want to surprise them with something special yet affordable.
3rd anniversary gifts: Leather
Treat your favorite person to leather goods for year three, which is “strong, durable and resilient, just like a marriage should be,” says Windsor. “It’s also used as a material to protect things just as a couple should protect their love.” She recommends leather goods or attire ranging from a personalized luxury wallet, a leather iPhone case, a luxury handbag or a long winter coat.
Going somewhere special to celebrate three years together? Treat them to this editor-approved two-piece travel case set made from Argentinian pebbled leather. Of course, it wouldn’t be the perfect three-year anniversary gift without a monogram. Try your initials together or your wedding date for a unique edge.
Like a friendship necklace, you’ll each get one half of a heart that comes together to create the full shape. Deck it out with each of your initials in your choice of leather color, and you’ve just come up with the sweetest three-year gift on a budget.
Whether they're taking clients out to dinner or treating you to a date night, they need a wallet that dresses the part. Treat your spouse to our favorite thin bifold wallet boasting an intuitive, no-nonsense design and smooth worn-in feel. It's also available with RFID blocking technology to protect their data, upgraded premium leather materials and an optional debossed personalization for the ultimate thoughtful gift.
4th anniversary gifts: Flowers and fruit
“A modern gift is fruit or flowers, reflecting the sweetness of your marriage and your blossoming love,” says Hayes. Windsor recommends trying something creative like recreating the same bouquet from your wedding day.
Fresh blooms are appropriate for all anniversaries, but they’re even more special on a four-year anniversary. One of our favorite flower delivery services makes a romantic crimson-hued bouquet filled with roses, carnations, gerbera and more. The cherry on top is an included apple cider-scented candle, so you nail both the flower and fruit themes simultaneously.
Not one to wish for a literal bouquet of flowers? Master year four’s gift with this easy and breezy Positano-inspired button-down short sleeve from editor-approved brand Kenny Flowers. It boasts an on-trend lemon motif that’s sure to brighten his day — and everyone who looks his way.
Like your love, these flowers last forever (well, thanks to their unique rehydration process using glycerin, up to three years). Sprayed with 24-karat gold and displayed in a chic matte black box, these roses sourced from Ecuador are luxurious in more ways than one.
5th anniversary gifts: Wood
As a celebration of strength and durability, significant others traditionally give each other something made of wood for their fifth anniversary. Just like a tree, making it halfway to a decade is a sign of putting down strong eternal roots. Opt for a personalized cutting board to use while cooking together, a luxe wooden tray for the bath or a classic wooden cornhole set for the backyard.
Whether you use it while cooking together or as a charcuterie serving board for date night, this personalized cutting board is the perfect wooden gift for any food lovers.
This handmade acacia wood tray is not only gorgeous but it’s great for using in the bath, as a cheese board or on display as home decor.
If you and your S.O. enjoy some friendly competition, opt for a wooden cornhole set like this one that’s easy to transport, set up and store.
6th anniversary gifts: Iron
“The traditional gift is iron, which represents the strength in a relationship and good luck for the future,” says Hayes. “A perfect gift would be a Le Creuset cast iron range of kitchenware.” For an even more unforgettable six-year anniversary gift, Leighton recommends considering a trip to Paris that includes a climb up the Eiffel Tower.
Ensure your bond stays iron-clad with this engraved cast iron skillet that comes pre-seasoned so it’s ready for your stovetop or oven. Six hash marks represent your sixth year of marriage while a customizable name plate and date make it an unforgettable gift for your favorite home chef.
If you’ve gifted them loads of jewelry over the years, your sixth anniversary is the perfect opportunity to get them an iron jewelry stand. This dainty tree option will pair perfectly with all kinds of décor styles while helping organize the beautiful chaos that is their jewelry stash.
If you’ve been blessed enough to create a little family in your six years together, you can honor the whole clan with this keepsake family figurine lined with velveteen to protect the surface underneath. Choose your number of children to make it look custom-designed for a gift that’s bound to trigger the waterworks.
7th anniversary gifts: Copper or wool
Opt for copper or wool to nail your seven-year gift. “Copper is strong yet malleable, representing a relationship that has grown, changed and improved over time,” says Hayes. Alternatively, she says wool is “warm and cozy representing the warmth, homeliness and coziness your relationship holds for each other.” Leighton recommends gifting something like gloves or a scarf for a romantic après ski fondue night.
It’s been seven whole years since you bestowed upon them their dream ring. Give them somewhere new to safely stow it, like this copper ring dish. The words “I still do” are a simple yet powerful way to enthusiastically reaffirm your commitment to them — even several years later.
We love all things Cozy Earth for its next-level comfort and premium fabrics. Blending yak, alpaca and ultra-fine merino wool, this cozy scarf with a chunky cable knit is the perfect way to make them feel wrapped in a warm embrace as you hit the seven-year mark.
Even if Moscow Mules aren't your shared beverage of choice, you’ll want to display this copper mug front and center on your bar cart. Choose your design — from vintage to shiny — and top it off with your initials and wedding date.
8th anniversary gifts: Bronze and pottery
Whether you opt for pottery or bronze, your eight-year anniversary gift is bound to strike a spiritual chord. “Bronze is believed to hold healing powers and is symbolic of the healing love your marriage provides for each other,” says Hayes, adding that it also represents strength, “a necessary quality for a marriage that has lasted almost a decade and survived the supposed ‘seven-year itch,’ which I personally don’t believe in.”
As a handmade material, she says pottery also demonstrates how hard you’ve worked to craft your relationship into a functional and beautiful marriage. Offer them a signature piece, or better yet, take a pottery class together for a true bonding experience, according to Leighton.
No one does pottery quite like Pottery Barn. This artisan-made vase constructed from red clay serves as the perfect vessel for all the blooms you’re about to shower them with (right?). It’s homey, it’s earthy and it’s just what the marriage gods ordered for your eighth magical year together.
David Yurman makes some of the most eye-catching conversation pieces that withstand the test of time. If their jewelry taste veers more artistic than trendy, grab this bronze and sterling silver amulet depicting the tree of life. Because after all, you do plan on spending said life with them.
If your partner likes to take a hands-on approach to life, they’ll love this pottery wheel that’ll allow them to hand-craft the eight-year gift of their dreams. It comes with everything they need to get started, from 16 carving tools to a foot pedal for speed control and an easy-to-clean basin.
9th anniversary gifts: Pottery and willow wood
They absolutely fawned over your pottery-themed gift from last year, so if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Pottery is, once again, on the gifting menu for year nine as well as willow wood, which Hayes describes as “both strong and flexible, essential elements in any healthy individual and marriage. As per year eight, the pottery reflects how your love has been crafted and shaped into something beautiful over time.”
Sow the seeds of a strong foundation in your marriage with a live willow tree that, unlike a bouquet, could live in your yard forever. It comes in a one-gallon planter and matures quickly to boast dramatic “weeping” leaves (happy tears, of course!).
If they bring joy to your life, return the favor with this dopamine-inducing duo for your ninth year: an on-trend fluted self-watering ceramic planter that houses mood-boosting sunflowers. They bloom via the included non-GMO seeds and plant food and don’t require any soil, making it a perfect low-maintenance gift.
10th anniversary gifts: Tin or aluminum
Reaching a decade-long anniversary is no easy feat! Commemorate it with something made out of tin or aluminum, which symbolize strength and resilience. Choose from unique gifts like a map of the stars from your wedding night printed on tin, a monogrammed silver-hued serving tray or a fun pair of date-night dice.
Add some spontaneity to your date nights with these fun tin date-night-themed dice. Roll a mix of 36 different date-night ideas, including movie nights, a visit to a new town, cooking for each other and more.
Made from 100% recycled aluminum, this beautiful serving tray can also be monogrammed for a special and personalized touch.
Mark the location of your most cherished time together with this ultra-cool and customizable star map that’s printed on a beautiful brushed aluminum sheet.
15th anniversary gifts: Crystal
Delicate yet sturdy, crystal symbolizes clarity and transparency. Toast to this milestone anniversary with a beautiful set of crystal champagne flutes, set the ambiance for a romantic dinner with a stately pair of candlesticks or frame a favorite wedding photo in a sparkling crystal picture frame.
This postmodern gold and crystal candleholder is a perfect addition to your dining table centerpiece.
This diamond-cut crystal picture frame is a stunning way to display your most cherished moments together.
Raise a glass to 15 wondrous years with a dazzling pair of crystal Champagne flutes.
20th anniversary gifts: China
Just like a marriage, china represents the beautifully delicate and fragile nature of being in love. Take this opportunity to refresh your kitchenware with an elegant bone china dinnerware set, a stylish salad bowl or a vintage-inspired teapot.
This beautiful, vintage-inspired piece is a teapot, teacup and saucer all in one. Crafted from bone china and decorated with 24-karat gold accents, it’s just as pretty as it is useful.
You can’t go wrong giving your S.O. a stunning bone china dinnerware set. We especially love the delicate floral design and platinum accents of this Noritake set that are both timeless and chic.
For something equally as elegant but better suited for everyday use, opt for this chic twisting-rope-design salad bowl with wooden serving spoons from Kate Spade. It’s microwave- and dishwasher-safe too.
25th anniversary gifts: Silver
The 25-year mark is traditionally known as the “silver anniversary” and signified by the brilliance and shine of this precious metal. Opt for a timeless piece of jewelry — like a pair of silver hoop earrings or a tie clip, or go for a sleek and modern picture frame.
A sterling silver tie clip is polished and classy and will go with any suit already in their closet.
Showcase your favorite photo with this silver-hued, wavy 5-by-7-inch picture frame.
Nothing is more timeless than a pair of hoop earrings, and these sterling silver Verbena Earrings are lightweight and gorgeous for dressing up or down.
30th anniversary gifts: Pearls
The 30th anniversary is represented by pearls. Just like a love lasting three decades, pearls are a rare and hidden beauty. Jewelry, such as an ethically sourced pearl ring or set of cuff links, is always a wonderful gift idea. For something more modern, opt for a mother-of-pearl decorative tray.
This unique pearl ring is ethically sourced and crafted with 100% recycled gold. Wear it on its own or stack it with your other favorite rings.
A pair of mother-of-pearl cuff links and matching shirt studs will automatically add a dapper feel to any suit or tux.
This mother-of-pearl and marble cheese board will be a gorgeous addition to your dinner party spread. It even comes with matching utensils.
35th anniversary gifts: Coral
Coral — like the kind you find at the bottom of the sea — represents longevity and strength, and takes years to form. It’s no wonder that this stone is a traditional symbol for 35 years of marriage. If coral-patterned home decor is not your S.O.’s style, go for a cozy blanket, a pretty vase or a piece of jewelry in a coral hue instead.
Decorative books are having a serious moment right now. Use your 35th anniversary to deck out their bookcase in this stunning set of titles that’ll inspire a serious sense of wanderlust or your next romantic destination. The cheery hue is also so unexpected for literary titles, making it brighten their space and mood.
Cozy up together for movie night in this super-soft fleece blanket lined with pom-pom fringe.
A grown-up friendship bracelet is made even better with the addition of a coral stone on a 14-karat yellow-gold chain.
40th anniversary gifts: Ruby
Rubies are glamorous, opulent and the traditional gemstone for a 40th anniversary. They’re also known as symbols of protection, wisdom and beauty. Treat your spouse to a luxuriously delicious-smelling candle in a ruby-hued glass jar, or for something a bit more extravagant, a pair of ruby baguette stud earrings or a ruby-and-diamond ring are sure to hit the mark.
Not only does this Voluspa candle smell like a delicious mix of mango, orange and goji berry but its vibrant, ruby-hued glass jar makes for a beautiful piece of home decor.
This ruby pendant set on a solid 14-karat gold chain is one of those delicate, everyday pieces that we can never resist.
A single ruby flanked by white diamonds in an art-deco inspired design is certainly a beautiful way to say “I love you.”
45th anniversary gifts: Sapphire
The 45-year anniversary gift is denoted by sapphire. This stunning gemstone is believed to represent wisdom, faith and long-lasting love. Opt for a sapphire-adorned necklace, chronograph watch with a sapphire crystal face or a sapphire-hued glass vase.
If traditional blue sapphires aren’t for you, this sparkling white sapphire necklace from Mejuri is a beautiful alternative.
This Tissot watch is classic and sporty, and the domed sapphire crystal face makes it a perfectly subtle way to include sapphire in a 45th anniversary gift.
If you’re in the market for something sapphire that’s not a gemstone or jewelry, this blue mouth-blown glass vase is bold, eye-catching and a beautiful pop of color in any space.
50th anniversary gifts: Gold
The golden anniversary! Prosperity, strength and wisdom are all symbolized by this gleaming metal. Commemorate half a century together with a personalized ornament that will serve as a sentimental reminder year after year, a pair of gold-rimmed sunglasses for a fashion-loving spouse or a classic signet ring that may even become a family heirloom in years to come.
Remember this milestone anniversary for years to come with a personalized holiday ornament.
A classic pair of gold-rimmed Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses is chic and timeless and will go with just about every outfit.
Personalize this classic pinky-sized signet ring with your S.O.’s initial. They’re sure to think of you each and every time they wear it.
60th anniversary gifts: Diamond
Sixty years is undoubtedly the most special anniversary and one that should be celebrated in a big way. We’re talking invincible, unbreakable and shimmering diamonds of all shapes and sizes, including a sparkling diamond pendant necklace, a pair of luminous diamond stud earrings and a set of diamond-cut tumblers to toast to your never-ending love.
Commemorate reaching 60 blissful years together with an exquisite brilliant-cut diamond necklace that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Pour one out in a stunning diamond-cut crystal tumbler in honor of this mega milestone. This set of two or four handcrafted glasses is ideal for whiskey or bourbon lovers.
What’s better than one glistening diamond? How about a mosaic of them? These stud earrings feature an array of diamonds set in 14-karat gold.
Meet our experts
For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights:
- Nick Leighton, etiquette expert and host of the “Were You Raised By Wolves?” podcast
- Jo Hayes, etiquette expert and founder of EtiquetteExpert.org
- Laura Windsor, etiquette expert and founder at Laura Windsor Etiquette Academy
Why trust CNN Underscored
Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don’t just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every gift you give is a hit. We also know that you get tired of seeing the same gift ideas year after year, which is why our team of editors has carefully curated each of our gift guides with a selection of products tailored to the person, hobby or event you’re shopping for (though, if you’re seeing some repeat products in our coverage, it probably just means that we really love them). For this gift guide, we interviewed etiquette experts to learn more about the traditional anniversary gifts and considered editor-loved and bestselling products that fit within each year’s guidelines.