Anniversary gift ideas for the big marriage milestones
Published on Wed Feb 7 2018 in Lifestyle
Celebrating a wedding anniversary is a tradition across most countries and cultures. Marking the occasion by exchanging presents is common, and you’ve probably seen lists detailing the traditional gifts given at each year of marriage. This practice dates back to the Middle Ages, when giving certain objects was thought to bring good luck to the couple.
These lists live on today, bringing a bit of tradition or whimsy to anniversary celebrations. Here we jump into the symbolic meaning behind some of these gifts, and provide a few suggestions to help you pick the perfect present for you loved one!
First – Paper
A blank piece of paper can symobolise a fresh start, new beginning or future promises. The first year of marriage can mark any or all of these as well, making paper a fitting gift!
New stationary bearing the wife’s married name is a more traditional present, but there are other ways to gift paper. A first edition of their favourite book or framing sheet music of your wedding song are creative options. Tickets to a show are a gift you can share and the start of a memorable evening.
Fifth – Wood
For centuries trees have been a symbol of strength and wisdom. Wood can signify the lessons learnt during the first years of marriage, as well as the strong roots the couple has developed together.
A wooden jewellery box or engraved cheese board a popular gifts for marking the fifth anniversary. Update your home décor by choosing new furniture, carved artwork, or filling a wood photo frame with a portrait from your wedding are other options. You could also add a wooden bench to your garden or plant a tree together!
Tenth – Tin (or Aluminium)
Tin-plated iron cans were once used for storing food. The tin kept the iron from rusting, preserving and prolonging the life of the food inside. Couples reaching this marriage milestone likely have what it takes to go the distance.
Whilst tin was once widely used, it has been replaced by aluminium in many everyday items. Tin or pewter jewellery can still be easily found. Engrave a necklace, bracelet or cufflinks with your wedding date to create a special keepsake. You can also buy a fancy cocktail shaker, flower vase or a new set of baking pans.
Fifteenth – Crystal
The fifteenth wedding anniversary is marked with crystal. This is the first truly expensive item on the list, symbolising the couple’s investment in and commitment to their union. Crystal is also transparent, reflecting the honesty and trust the relationship now holds.
Crystal champagne flutes or wine goblets are popular gift choices for this occasion. You can top up an existing set, or add a new wine decanter or punch bowl to your service. If you’re not much for entertaining, a crystal clock or vase can mark this important milestone and dress up your home décor.
Twentieth – China
China is fragile, but can stand the test of time if it’s looked after carefully. After 20 years of marriage, you hopefully understand the importance of caring for your relationship.
Many couples commemorate this anniversary with a new set of china, either to replace or supplement one they received as a wedding gift. If your set is still in good nick, why not throw a dinner party where it’s put to good use? You could also give your partner a vintage china tea set, or go big with a trip to China!
Twenty-Fifth – Silver
Silver is one of the most precious metals. If ignored, it will tarnish and lose its shine. But with regular care and polish, it will continue to hold value, much like a good marriage.
Jewellery, cufflinks or a tie clip made of silver make great anniversary gifts, but you can also get creative. A silver pen or photo frame could be perfect for your office desk. Add a silverware set, punchbowl or candlesticks to the dining table. You can also search for vintage versions of any of these, and have the gift engraved with a special message.
Thirtieth – Pearl
In a process that takes years to complete, oysters turn a small irritant hidden within their shell into a beautiful and valuable pearl. Couples reaching this milestone have spent decades working on their relationship, and understand that true beauty comes from within and doesn’t always come easy.
A string of pearls is an easy go-to, but why not make the gift more interactive? Go pearl diving in the South Pacific, where you can learn firsthand about the industry’s history. You can even select your own pearl, and later have it set in a piece of jewellery! If you prefer to stay close to home, a fancy dinner with oysters and champagne is a fun nod to this traditional gift.
Fortieth – Ruby
Rubies have been prized for centuries, with their deep red colour bringing to mind love and passion. They also symbolise protection and devotion, thanks to their popularity with royalty.
Another anniversary for jewellery, rubies can be set into everything from earrings to tie clips. For a more creative spin, toast to your long union with a bottle of ruby port or a decadent red velvet cake. A set of ruby glass bowls, candlesticks or flower vases could be an impressive addition to your dining room table.
Fiftieth – Gold
Gold—one of the most valuable minerals on earth—symbolises ideas like strength, prosperity and wisdom. It was once the standard against which all wealth was measured, in much the way couples may measure their union against those who have reached the 50 year mark.
An engraved gold pocket watch, pen or gold-rimmed champagne flutes could all mark this momentous occasion. Many couples opt to upgrade their wedding bands at this point, passing their original rings down to children or grandchildren. You could also take a big trip to the Gold Coast (Australia) or the Golden State (California, United States).
Sixtieth – Diamond
Reaching your 60th wedding anniversary is an impressive feat! Like diamonds, the bond you share as a couple thrives under pressure and is seemingly invincible.
If you’ve held off buying jewellery on previous anniversaries, this may be the perfect time to splurge on a new ring, diamond-studded cufflinks or a broach. Or, have diamonds inlaid in a custom photo frame, music box or commemorative plate.
Do you celebrate your wedding anniversary with a night out? Get out of the “dinner and a movie” rut with these creative date night ideas!
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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