Anniversary Gift Ideas by Year

The Tradition Behind Anniversary Gifts

There's a lovely old tradition of matching anniversary gifts to specific materials for each year. Paper for the first, wood for the fifth, silver for the twenty-fifth. Whether you follow the tradition or use it as loose inspiration, it's a helpful framework when you're stuck.

The Early Years (1–5)

Year 1: Paper

• A love letter book — Write twelve letters, one for each month of your first year.
• Concert or event tickets — Technically printed on paper, and infinitely more fun.
• A custom map print — The location where you met, first date, or wedding venue.

Year 2: Cotton

• Matching bathrobes — Cozy and practical.
• Personalised cotton tote bags — With an inside joke or wedding date.
• Quality bedsheets — Upgrade your sleep together.

Year 3: Leather

• A leather journal — For travel notes or daily reflections.
• A quality wallet or cardholder — Everyone eventually needs a new one.
• Leather-bound photo album — Fill it with prints from your relationship.

Year 5: Wood

• A wooden watch — Surprisingly stylish and unique.
• An engraved chopping board — For the couple who cooks together.
• A tree planting experience — Plant something that grows alongside your relationship.

The Milestone Years

Year 10: Tin or Aluminium

• A personalised tin sign — With your wedding date or a meaningful quote.
• Aluminium travel mugs — Matching ones for your morning commute.

Year 25: Silver

• Silver jewellery — A necklace, cufflinks, or watch with an engraving.
• A silver-framed wedding photo — Classic and sentimental.

Year 50: Gold

• A gold locket — With a photo from your wedding day.
• Renew your vows — Sometimes the best gift is a new promise.

When You Don't Know What to Get

If traditions aren't your thing, focus on experiences. A weekend away, a nice dinner, or simply a day with no plans and each other's company. The point is marking the milestone, not spending a fortune.

And if you'd rather get something tangible, check if your partner has dropped any hints on their WishBook list. No guesswork needed.