Wedding Anniversary Gifts - First Five Years

A wedding anniversary is the anniversary (or yearly celebration) that occurs on the month and day of the wedding ceremony. The 25th and 50th anniversaries are the most often celebrated anniversaries. These celebrations often include family gatherings.

Specific types of gifts are traditionally associated with many of the yearly anniversaries, and gifts for the first five anniversaries are a great way to help a newly married couple celebrate. In general, there are two types of gifts associated with each anniversary - a traditional gift and a modern gift. Below is a list of the traditional and modern gifts given for the first five anniversaries, along with some ideas for each.

One Year:

Paper (Traditional) / Clocks (Modern)

For paper, stationary with the family name printed on it is a good idea. Photographs may be another. Creative baskets filled with various paper gifts (like cards, gift certificates, etc.) can create a unique and personal gift idea.

Clocks are the modern choice for the first anniversary. With a seemingly endless assortment of clocks available, you have many to choose from. Engraving the anniversary date is a nice touch.

Two years:

Cotton (Traditional) / China (Modern)

Cotton bed sheets may be one of the first items to come to mind, but there are also many other items made from cotton. For instance, terrycloth towels and bathrobes are made of cotton, as are denim and corduroy. Again, a gift basket of items that include cotton could be a unique and personal gift idea. Choose items that relate to hobbies or interests shared by the couple. A few items that include cotton are books (book bindings include cotton), coffee filters, and tents.

China isn't just for dishes. An oriental gift basket or a set of Chinese herbs and teas can make an original gift idea.

Three years:

Leather (Traditional) / Crystal, glass (Modern}

Leather items can include watches, luggage, leather-bound books, jackets and shoes.