Top Anniversary Gifts by Year: From Paper to Pearls

Anniversaries aren’t just about marking time — they’re about celebrating growth, resilience, and everything you've built together. And the right gift? It becomes part of that story.

Whether it’s your first year or your fifteenth, here’s a guide to traditional anniversary gifts — from paper to pearls — with meaningful, elevated ideas (and where to find them).

1st Anniversary: Paper

Symbolizes: A fresh start and untapped potential
Gift ideas:

• Handwritten vow book

• Custom wedding venue illustration

• Personalized newspaper-style photo book

2nd Anniversary: Cotton

Symbolizes: Comfort and adaptability
Gift ideas:

• Personalized Cake Knife and Server

• Monogrammed cotton robes

• Custom canvas print of your vows

• Embroidered lyric hoop

3rd Anniversary: Leather

Symbolizes: Protection and durability
Gift ideas:

• Pearl Frame

• Leather-bound photo album

• Personalized passport holders

• Engraved leather valet tray

4th Anniversary: Fruit or Flowers

Symbolizes: Growth and blossoming
Gift ideas:

• Fresh flower subscription

• Personalized floral jewelry

• Mini lemon tree gift set

5th Anniversary: Wood

Symbolizes: Strength and deep roots
Gift ideas:

• Custom engraved charcuterie board

• Personalized wood frame with photo

• Keepsake memory box

6th Anniversary: Iron

Symbolizes: Resilience and endurance
Gift ideas:

• Cast iron skillet set

• Custom iron name sign

• Wrought iron candle holders

7th Anniversary: Wool or Copper

Symbolizes: Warmth and security
Gift ideas:

• Chunky wool knit throw

• Copper rose sculpture

• Custom copper soundwave art

8th Anniversary: Bronze

Symbolizes: Blending of strength and beauty
Gift ideas:

• Bronze sculpture or figurine

• Engraved coordinates keepsake

• Hidden message bronze bracelet

9th Anniversary: Pottery or Willow

Symbolizes: Flexibility and craftsmanship
Gift ideas:

• Couple’s pottery workshop

• Custom ceramic mug set

• Woven gift basket filled with date ideas

10th Anniversary: Tin or Aluminum

Symbolizes: Preservation and strength
Gift ideas:

• Engraved tin keepsake box

• Custom aluminum wall plaque

• Wine box with 10 love notes

15th Anniversary: Crystal

Symbolizes: Clarity and lasting love
Gift ideas:

• The Èlliance Pearl or Crystal Champagne Flutes

• Crystal decanter + glass set

• Engraved crystal photo block

20th Anniversary: China

Symbolizes: Grace and timeless beauty
Gift ideas:

• Fine china dinner set

• Custom wedding plate

• Porcelain tea set

Celebrate with Intention

Whether it’s your first year or your fifteenth, every anniversary is a chance to pause, reflect, and choose a gift with meaning. Choose something beautiful. Something lasting. Something that feels like you two.

And if you’re looking for pieces that combine craftsmanship, personalization, and elegance — explore The Èlliance’s collections.
Because some love stories deserve more than ordinary.