A Guide to Anniversary Gift Ideas

A History of Anniversary Gifts By Year

The tradition of exchanging gifts every year has a long history. While it’s hard to pinpoint exactly where it began, it is believed to have started in medieval Germany. At this time, it was tradition for a husband to give his wife a silver wreath for their 25th anniversary and a gold wreath on their 50th anniversary. Another theory, however, is that what is known as a “traditional” list of gifts started in Victorian Era England. 

On the other hand, the “modern” list of practical gifts was created by the American National Retail Jewelry Association in 1937. Anniversary gifts can range from flowers to gemstones associated with different anniversary years and months. But no matter what present you choose, as long as you are guided by your partner’s tastes, you’ll be sure to find something they will cherish.

Types of Anniversary Gifts By Year

When it comes to anniversary gifts, both traditional and modern-themed gifts are great options. If you’re not sure where to begin your search, we’re here to provide a few ideas sure to spark your creativity. At the end of the day, it’s about finding something special that you know the recipient will appreciate.

Whether you’re celebrating 1 year or 50 years together, every anniversary is special. Here are a few anniversary gift ideas to consider by year:

Traditional 1 Year Anniversary Gifts

For generations, there has been a tradition to give paper as a 1st-anniversary gift. This represents the blank page of a new life ahead. A nice notebook or journal is a thoughtful gift where you can write and include your favorite photos of the two of you together as you reminisce on your first year together.

Modern 1 Year Anniversary Gifts

Clocks are a modern gift for the first anniversary. You can think of them as a thoughtful symbol meant to celebrate the time you’ve shared and all of the minutes and hours you’ll spend together in the years to come.

Traditional 5 Year Anniversary Gifts

Wood has been well-known as the traditional gift for a 5th anniversary. Wood reflects the strength and durability of your relationship, as well as the strong roots you’re putting down. Consider gifting wood furniture or wood home decor. Wood decorative accents are perfect for anyone who wants a cozy cottage feel in their home.

Modern 5 Year Anniversary Gifts

This is the perfect time to splurge on that serving ware that your partner has been wanting. Or, add beautiful pieces for your next dinner party. If you’ve already received a beautiful set of silverware for your wedding, consider adding a few more sets to match. New grilling tools are a must for that partner who loves to fire up the grill and cook up something delicious.

Traditional 10 Year Anniversary Gifts

To symbolize the strength and resilience of your relationship, a gift made from tin or aluminum is traditionally given. A set of aluminum cookware and bakeware is perfect for whipping up a variety of tasty meals. When looking for a complete collection of everything you need to get cooking, cookware sets from Kohl’s provide versatility and functionality. Be sure to also shop our full assortment of individual pieces as well, such as our lines of baking dishes and saucepans.

Modern 10 Year Anniversary Gifts

For a modern 10th-anniversary gift, try turning to every girl’s best friend: diamonds. If you and your partner have planned on upgrading her ring, the 10th wedding anniversary is the perfect milestone to commemorate with such a gift. You could also reach for a pair of diamond earrings or a charming bracelet.

Traditional 25 Year Anniversary Gifts

The 25-year mark has been designated as the silver anniversary. Silver symbolizes brilliance, radiance, and the value of a long-lasting marriage. Since silver is also the 25th-anniversary color, your gift doesn’t necessarily have to be made out of metal to fit the theme. Silver picture frames, photo albums, candle holders, and other silver keepsakes make great 25th-anniversary gift ideas.

Modern 25 Year Anniversary Gifts

Your 25th wedding anniversary is a momentous and joyous celebration. Many couples choose to celebrate the occasion with an intimate gathering with those they love. At this time, they may also choose to gift each other with sterling silver jewelry and accessories. A silver bracelet or necklace is the perfect everyday jewelry gift for both men and women. Additionally, a silver-tone watch is an elegant and luxurious option sure to give the wearer classic style.

Traditional 50 Year Anniversary Gifts

The 50th wedding anniversary, also known as the golden anniversary, is a milestone worth celebrating. While gold jewelry is a typical present, anything with a gold accent would make an appropriate 50th-anniversary gift. This includes different types of accessories and even home decor items.

Modern 50 Year Anniversary Gifts

Gold is a strong metal often given to symbolize prosperity, strength, wisdom, and lifelong love. When your husband gets dressed up, a pair of gold cufflinks will complete his outfit with ease. For your wife, consider expanding her jewelry collection with a gorgeous gold bracelet or a new gold ring. Look for pieces sure to match any outfit that can also be stacked and paired with other pieces on top.

Table of Traditional and Modern Anniversary Gift Ideas by Year

Anniversary Year	Traditional Gift Theme	Modern Gift Theme	Gift Suggestions
1	Paper	Clocks	Traditional – Stationery, Notebooks Modern – Wall Clocks, Table Clocks
2	Cotton	China	Traditional – Bed Sheets, Tablecloths Modern – Dinnerware Sets
3	Leather	Crystal/Glass	Traditional – Wallets, Leather Jackets Modern – Crystal Jewelry, Glassware
4	Fruit/Flowers	Appliances	Traditional – Floral Candles, Fruit Art Modern – Kitchen Appliances
5	Wood	Silverware	Traditional – Jewelry Boxes, Bookends Modern – Cutlery, Flatware Sets
6	Iron	Wood	Traditional – Cast Iron Cookware Modern – Wall Décor, Photo Frames
7	Copper	Brass/Desk Sets	Traditional – Tea Kettles, Jewelry Modern – Desk Organizers, Cufflinks
8	Bronze/Pottery	Linen/Lace	Traditional – Curtain Rods, Lamps Modern – Dresses, Lingerie
9	Willow/Pottery	Leather	Traditional – Planters, Willow Wall Art Modern – Handbags, Belts
10	Aluminum	Diamond Jewelry	Traditional – Decorative Figurines Modern – Rings, Earrings, Necklaces
11	Steel	Fashion Jewelry	Traditional – Jewelry, Storage Racks Modern – Bracelets, Pins
12	Home Décor	Pearls	Traditional – Throw Pillows, Mirrors Modern – Necklaces, Earrings
13	Lace	Textiles	Traditional – Lingerie, Robes Modern – Bath Towels, Table Linens
14	Ivory/Elephant	Gold Jewelry	Traditional – Elephant Home Décor Modern – Rings, Bracelets
15	Crystal	Watches	Traditional – Charms, Glassware Modern – Chronographs, Solar
16	Wax	Silver Hollowware	Traditional – Wax Melts, Jar Candles Modern – Silver-Tone Serveware
17	Furniture	Furniture	Desks, Bookcases, TV Stands, Bars & Wine Cabinets, Futons
18	Porcelain	Porcelain	Serving Bowls, Baking Dishes
19	Bronze	Bronze	Curtain Rods, Lamps
20	China	Platinum	Traditional – Dinnerware Sets Modern – Rings
21	Brass/Nickel	Brass/Nickel	Cufflinks, Necklaces, Anklets
22	Copper	Copper	Tea Kettles, Jewelry
23	Silver Plate	Silver Plate	Jewelry, Photo Frames, Cookware
24	Opal	Musical Instruments	Traditional – Necklaces, Rings Modern – Guitars, Music Accessories
25	Silver	Silver	Vases, Key Chains, Earrings
26	Pictures	Pictures	Tabletop Frames, Collage Frames
27	Sculptures	Sculptures	Figurines, Outdoor Sculptures
28	Orchids	Orchids	Artificial Floral Arrangements
29	Furniture	Furniture	Ottomans, Mattresses, Patio Furniture
30	Pearl	Diamond	Traditional – Necklaces, Earrings Modern – Rings, Earrings, Necklaces
35	Coral	Jade	Traditional – Coral Jewelry Modern – Jade Jewelry
40	Ruby	Ruby	Necklaces, Earrings, Rings
45	Sapphire	Sapphire	Rings, Bracelets, Necklaces
50	Gold	Gold	14k Gold Jewelry, 10k Gold Jewelry
55	Emerald	Emerald	Earrings, Rings, Bracelets
60	Diamond	Diamond	Rings, Earrings, Bracelets

Other Anniversary Gift Ideas

Whether you’re shopping for a significant other, parent, or even a grandparent, every special person deserves a special gift. Here are a few more practical gift ideas to consider as you conduct your search for the perfect present:

• Digital Picture Frame – In this digital age, paper photos are far and few. That’s why digital picture frames are a great way to show off all of the memories you’ve made over the years. It’s easy to upload your favorite pictures and some even let you add audio files to create a soundtrack to your slideshow.
• Small Appliances – Want to make cooking more convenient and delicious? Small appliances make for great gifts for any at-home chef. An air fryer allows you to cook food quickly and evenly in a matter of minutes. Food processors are great for quickly chopping, pureeing, and slicing up foods for any kitchen task. Be sure to also explore toaster ovens, pressure cookers, and so much more.
• Tech Gadgets – Kohl’s has everything the tech-savvy shopper needs. From big electronics like video games, tablets, and home theater systems to smaller tech gadgets like smartwatches, portable audio devices, and headphones, we have you covered.
• Fragrances – Colognes and perfumes are a timeless gift idea. To celebrate the special occasion, get your significant other a bottle of their favorite scent. And with the partnership between Kohl’s and Sephora, the selection of fragrances features something for everyone.
• Luggage – To celebrate your anniversary, why not plan a trip? And as a gift idea to pair with your celebratory travel, get new suitcases and luggage for your and your loved one! With a wide range of luggage sizes and styles, Kohl’s has just the travel essentials you need to prepare for your next vacation.

For more tips on jewelry options, be sure to check out our blog on how to find the perfect jewelry gift. You’ll also find inspiration for other special occasions such as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Shop all gifting essentials at Kohl’s today!