As you celebrate another orbit around the sun with the person who brings light to your daily life, it’s time to mark a milestone: your first wedding anniversary. This special occasion calls for a thoughtful and creative gift that will delight your partner or loved ones. Traditionally, the paper anniversary symbolizes the blank slate of your future together, inviting endless possibilities.
Feel free to stick with this theme or surprise your significant other with an unexpected yet thoughtful present. Whatever you choose, we’ve got 35 one-year anniversary gift ideas to inspire you.
35 Best First Anniversary Gift Ideas
As we approach the milestone of one year together, it’s time to celebrate your love and thoughtfulness with a special gift. But where do you even begin? With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide on just the right thing.Luckily, we’ve got you covered! Below is a curated list of anniversary gifts, ranging from affordable to luxurious. Whether you’re looking for something sentimental or a fun surprise, we’ll help you find the perfect present for your loved one.
Personalized Anniversary Pushpin World Map
Revisit the thrill of your travels with a personalized map that captures the essence of your adventures with your partner. It’s been how long since you embarked on a jet-setting escapade together? Was it your dreamy honeymoon, a festive Christmas trip to visit loved ones, or a spontaneous road trip across the country last week? Whatever the case, this unique keepsake will allow you to relive the memories of your travels in a fun and interactive way.
Simply add your names and anniversary date to make it an extra-special memento. With 100 push pins at your disposal, you can mark all the destinations that hold a special place in your hearts, from romantic getaways to family vacations.
Anniversary Journal by Duncan & Stone
Create lasting memories by documenting your journey together. As you approach your 50th wedding anniversary, reflecting on the sweet surprises and romantic gestures that made each year special can be a challenge. This anniversary journal provides an opportunity to record and cherish these moments, making it a treasured keepsake for future generations.
With sections dedicated to your dating and engagement period, as well as each subsequent anniversary, this thoughtful journal encourages you to share memories, insert photos, and relive the emotions of your journey together. The high-quality paper, beautiful cover design, and thoughtfully crafted prompts make it an ideal gift for anniversaries or weddings, ensuring it will be cherished for years to come.
Personalized Anniversary Material Art
The art of writing your own love story is a beautiful thing, and we’re huge fans of using paper as the traditional first-anniversary gift. This unique piece of art can serve as a poignant reminder that your relationship is a blank page just waiting to be filled with memories and experiences. Make it even more special by personalizing it with your names and the date that started it all – a keepsake you and your partner will treasure for years to come.
We’ve also received amazing feedback from our community, who have used this gift to create their own personalized maps of their travels together. There’s something truly magical about marking off the places you’ve been with the people you love, and the 100 push pins provided give it a fun, interactive twist that brings back all sorts of romantic memories.
Happy First Anniversary Toilet Paper Gift
While traditional paper may be a classic first-anniversary gift option, we’re not talking about just any ordinary sheet. For the partner with a quirky sense of humor, consider gifting an unconventional type of paper that will bring laughter and smiles to your anniversary celebration. As you navigate this unconventional route, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place – one that shows you’ve put thought into the gift-giving process. After all, a dash of romance never hurts!
In our experience, such an unusual gift can lead to some truly unforgettable moments. Take, for instance, the time we surprised our partner with a toilet paper gift. The reaction was pure joy, and the fact that it’s still proudly displayed in our bathroom today speaks volumes about its success as a playful token of our love. It may not be the most luxurious item you’ll ever give or receive, but its value lies in the memories and laughter it brought to our special day.
Date Night Wanderlust Paint by Shadow Kit
Celebrate your paper anniversary with a creative twist! Instead of traditional gifts, plan a date night that combines love and self-expression. This paint kit is the perfect way to do just that. Designed for two people, it includes everything you need to create unique pieces of art together – from canvases to paints to brushes, and even step-by-step instructions. Share in the joy of creativity with your partner and make this special night one to remember!
Cute 1st Anniversary Card
When it comes to finding the perfect one-year anniversary gift, there’s more to it than just the present itself – you also need a thoughtful card to make it extra special. Rather than diving headfirst into DIY crafts, we’ve got an alternative that will surely impress: this adorable otter-themed card. Otters are renowned for their endearing habit of holding hands while sleeping to avoid drifting apart, and this card cleverly captures that sentiment.
It’s a sweet way to let your partner know you cherish the time spent together and don’t want to be apart. The quality is top-notch, with an undeniably charming design that’s sure to delight. This card truly embodies the essence of togetherness, making it a wonderful addition to any anniversary gift.
Wedding Keepsake Library
As you gaze upon the remnants of your special day – invitations crumpled in a forgotten drawer, a withered bouquet relegated to the depths of your closet, and a cake topper frozen in time – it’s clear that these cherished mementos have been left to languish. But before the passage of more years erases their significance and the wear and tear of time takes its toll, seize this milestone anniversary as an opportunity to safeguard these precious symbols of your love and commitment.
Engraved Wooden Watch for Him
In today’s modern world, clocks have taken over as the symbolic representation of one-year anniversaries, replacing traditional paper gifts. A timepiece can be an excellent choice for your partner or husband if you want to present them with something they can use daily. This engraved watch stands out from the rest due to its unique wooden design and high-quality look and feel. The personalized message on the back serves as a sweet memento, allowing your loved one to carry it with them every day.
The additional tools and bracelets that come with the watch are an added bonus, although we did have to adjust the band size to get the perfect fit. Overall, this watch is a unique and classy piece that has earned its place in our collection.
Anniversary Wine Box
Make the first-anniversary celebration a memorable one with an innovative gift that will be cherished for years to come. This unique novelty item is an engraved anniversary wine box that allows you to commemorate the occasion, as well as mark anniversaries in the future. The custom design can include your and your partner’s names, the anniversary date, and the specific years you want to open a special bottle of wine.
To complete the gift, simply purchase the bottles of wine from your local store or shop, which will fit perfectly into the compartments provided.
Personalized First Dance Song Anniversary Gift
Are you searching for a thoughtful gift to commemorate your first dance or a special anniversary? Look no further! This bespoke paper art piece is completely customizable, allowing you to tailor the song, metallic foil color, and overall design to perfectly capture the essence of your loved ones. Whether it’s for your partner, a favorite couple, or yourself, this beautiful creation is sure to bring joy and sentimental value to the recipient.
With sturdy framing and exceptional personalization, this anniversary gift stands out as a treasured keepsake that will be cherished for years to come. It’s not just a physical item, but a tangible representation of your love story.
Personalized Passport Couple Print
For the adventurous couple who’s always on the move, a unique and personalized anniversary gift can be a wonderful way to commemorate their travels. A customized artwork featuring passport stamps from their journeys together is an thoughtful idea that will be cherished for years to come. With its intricate details and travel dates, this piece of art is not only a beautiful keepsake but also a romantic reminder of the memories they’ve shared along the way.
What I Love About You Book
If you’re struggling to find the perfect way to express your love and appreciation for your significant other, why not try something unconventional? A fill-in-the-blank book that prompts you to tap into your emotions can be a unique and thoughtful gift. The book’s compact size and intimate nature make it feel like a personal and special way to share your feelings.
I was pleasantly surprised by the charming simplicity of this little book, which brought out some unexpected creativity in me as I filled out the prompts. While some questions felt a bit repetitive, using a normal pen is advisable as markers can bleed through the pages. Seeing my children’s personalities come alive on the page was heartwarming and hilarious. It’s not just about the gift itself, but the experience of filling it out with your loved one that makes this book truly special.
Custom Street Map Puzzle
Finding that special someone can be akin to solving the ultimate puzzle – it takes patience, dedication, and a dash of serendipity. This thoughtful gift not only celebrates the journey but also provides a personalized keepsake for the couple. By customizing the puzzle with a meaningful location or whimsical elements like letters or shapes, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind memento that will be treasured for years to come.
Rainbow Fields Multicolored Alstroemeria Bouquet
For a one-of-a-kind first anniversary gift, consider this vibrant bouquet featuring yellow and gold Alstroemeria flowers. These blooms are often overlooked in favor of traditional roses, but they carry their own set of meaningful symbols, including understanding, humor, patience, empathy, commitment, and respect. If your partner is looking for something a little unconventional, this bouquet could be the perfect way to celebrate your special day.
From personal experience, I can attest that these flowers are well worth the investment. Despite being shipped long distances, they arrived in good condition and required only minimal trimming and care before blooming into a stunning display that lasted nearly two weeks. While there may have been some initial dehydration issues, the overall quality of the blossoms far exceeded my expectations – and those of many national flower shops.
For a consistently beautiful arrangement that outperforms its competitors, this bouquet is an excellent choice.
Hearts Afloat Pool Serving Tray
Bring the essence of Bali into your home with this unique floating heart serving tray. You don’t need to break the bank to recreate the exotic experience – just imagine setting up a decadent breakfast spread, complete with flaky croissants, refreshing mimosas and an assortment of vibrant tropical fruits.
The look on your partner’s face will be priceless as they’re treated to a luxurious floating breakfast, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for Instagram-worthy moments with the camera at the ready.
First Anniversary Paper Harry Potter Art
If you’re struggling to come up with a unique and thoughtful gift for your fellow Harry Potter enthusiasts who recently marked their first wedding anniversary, look no further! While you may not be able to whisk them away to platform 9 ¾ to celebrate, you can still show off your creative side by gifting them something truly special. Consider presenting the happy couple with an exquisite piece of Harry Potter-themed artwork that celebrates their love for the wizarding world.
And to make it even more meaningful, the figurines are intricately crafted from paper, allowing you to tie in the traditional paper anniversary gift theme with a touch of magic.
14k Gold Rough Diamond Halo Ring
When considering a second jewelry purchase for your wife, don’t assume one gift is enough. Gold is traditionally gifted on first anniversaries, making it a thoughtful and meaningful choice for this milestone. This 14k gold ring stands out with its unique blend of rough and refined elements, reflecting the complexities and beauty of any romantic partnership.
Leather Journal Notebook Gift Set with Luxury Pen
The leather journal is a true masterpiece, perfect for the outdoorsy type or anyone who appreciates fine details. Its recycled cotton paper and exquisite binding make it a luxurious writing experience. The soft, high-quality leather and thick, durable pages give it a premium feel, making it an ideal gift for those with a taste for the finer things in life.
While it may not have lined paper, its versatility shines through as a great canvas for drawing, pen/ink artwork, or even water-based media – truly a gem that will stand out from the rest.
Personalized Wedding Vows Throw Blanket
Wrap yourself and your partner in a loving gesture with this unique home decor piece. The beautifully crafted blanket features your wedding vows, serving as a tangible symbol of your enduring love. This thoughtful gift allows your partner to physically snuggle up in the promises you’ve made to each other, making it an unforgettable addition to your home goods collection.
1st Wedding Anniversary Christmas Tree Ornament
Whether you’re a fan of singing loud for all to hear or looking for an alternative way to spread Christmas cheer, this adorable anniversary ornament is a thoughtful gift option. Inspired by the classic holiday movie Elf, it’s especially meaningful for couples celebrating their first wedding anniversary. I had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand the joy this ornament brings. The design is charming and sentimental, resonating deeply with my husband despite its slightly smaller size.
While an additional version for subsequent anniversaries would be a welcome improvement, the overall impact is undeniable. This ornament has brought happiness to multiple members of my family, making it a unique gift suggestion. For more inspiration, explore our other anniversary gift ideas and discover thoughtful presents that celebrate your bond.
Outrageous Conversation Starters for Couples
Are you stuck in a rut when it comes to conversations with your partner? It’s easy to fall into the habit of discussing mundane topics like daily routines or work drama, but what if you could elevate your chats to a more meaningful level? Relationship experts have developed clever prompts and questions designed to help you and your loved one delve deeper, fostering a greater sense of connection and understanding.
Say goodbye to surface-level conversations and hello to a more intimate dialogue that will leave you feeling closer than ever before.
U.S. Art Supply Sketch Book Pad Pack
If you’re fortunate enough to be married to an artist, crafter, or serial doodler, you likely won’t be surprised that they often crave more sketchbooks. This trio of sketch pads is a thoughtful and practical gift that creative types will appreciate. In my own experience, I’ve relied on these sketchbooks for various artistic pursuits – from outdoor painting to quick studies – and found them to be a valuable addition to my creative process.
While the paper may be slightly thinner than usual, similar to printer paper, it hasn’t hindered my use with pencils. However, I do exercise caution when using ink, as it might bleed through to the reverse side.
Create Your Own Reel Viewer
In the first year of marriage, it’s natural to look back on the journey that has brought you and your partner together. One way to do this is by creating a unique gift that celebrates the memories you’ve shared so far. Imagine a beautifully crafted reel viewer filled with 7 (or even 14) special moments from your time together as a married couple. These could be anything from your wedding day, to your first holiday as a newlywed, or even the way your partner surprised you on your birthday.
The possibilities are endless!
Our First Anniversary Engraved Leather Picture Frame
Surprise Your Partner with a Thoughtful Gift: A Picture Frame’s Emotional Significance$$$$$Homegoods & DecorWhen looking for the perfect gift, sometimes the most meaningful present is one that captures a special moment or memory. Framing beautiful photos of you and your partner can be an incredibly thoughtful gesture that shows you care. If you don’t have any recent pictures of the two of you, consider surprising your partner with a picture frame and then plan a small photoshoot together.
What makes this gift even more meaningful is the opportunity to create new memories while cherishing old ones. Having framed pictures that aren’t selfies can be a wonderful way to celebrate milestones and special occasions. I recently had the pleasure of giving this photo frame as a gift for a special occasion, and it exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and aesthetic appeal. The tactile leather material added an intimate touch that made it feel like a treasured keepsake.
The best part was seeing the joy and appreciation on my partner’s face when they first saw the framed picture. It brought us closer together, serving as a daily reminder of our special moments and milestones. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary or just want to show your love and appreciation, this thoughtful gift is sure to bring a smile to their face.
The Adventure Challenge Scrapbook
While it’s natural to find solace in routine, there’s something undeniably thrilling about embarking on new experiences together. To spark a sense of adventure and create lasting memories, each book is packed with 50 wacky challenges that will surely push you and your partner – or your favorite couple – out of their comfort zones. Consider setting a goal to tackle one challenge per week, allowing you to fill an entire year with exciting escapades.
Made-To-Order Personalized Song
Want to surprise your partner with a truly unique anniversary gift? If you’re not musically inclined, don’t worry! There are talented professionals like David Morgan who can take your personal stories and turn them into an unforgettable love song. By entrusting the creative process to someone who’s skilled at weaving words and melodies together, you’ll give your partner a thoughtful and meaningful present that will be cherished for years to come.
Forever Together Photo Coasters
When couples can’t help but gush about their special day even a year later, it’s time to turn their love story into functional decor. Consider gifting them a set of customized coasters featuring cherished wedding moments, or opt for a unique twist by showcasing pictures of their beloved pets or memorable travel experiences together. With four personalized coasters in total, this thoughtful gift will keep their love alive and their tables protected from water marks.
One Year, Our Story So Far – Scrapbook
As you celebrate your first year of marriage, reflect on the milestones that have made this journey so special. Perhaps you’ve started a new life together in a cozy home, welcomed a furry companion into your family, or mastered the art of sharing the blanket without too many disputes. Whatever your achievements may be, we believe it’s essential to commemorate them in a meaningful way.
Our DIY scrapbook is the perfect tool for this purpose, offering 25 pages that can be used as a creative outlet for writing, drawing, or simply storing mementos from your first year together. This unique gift idea allows you to express your love and gratitude in a personal and heartfelt manner.
Love Is Art Kit
If you’re searching for an unconventional yet intimate first-anniversary gift, the Love Is Art Kit is a great option. This creative endeavor allows you and your partner to get artistic together, producing a one-of-a-kind abstract piece that you can proudly display in your home – just be prepared for curious onlookers to ask where you acquired it! By combining artistry with quality time, this gift will surely become a memorable milestone in your relationship.
Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace for Women
When it comes to choosing a symbolic gift for an anniversary, the options can be overwhelming. Some opt for traditional symbols like gold, while others prefer modern alternatives like peridot. To simplify the decision-making process, we propose a unique solution: combining both! This stunning gold and peridot necklace from Kendra Scott offers the perfect blend of timeless elegance and vibrant charm.
As someone who has had the pleasure of wearing this beautiful piece, I can attest to its exceptional quality and versatility. Whether dressing up or keeping it casual, this necklace effortlessly adds a pop of color to any outfit. In my experience, it’s become a treasured accessory in our household, loved by both my family members and friends alike. For those with sensitive skin, rest assured that this necklace has caused no irritation even with daily wear.
It’s the perfect way to commemorate your special bond, regardless of whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary or simply wanting to express your love and appreciation.
Cheers to the Years Anniversary Glasses
Looking for a thoughtful yet sustainable way to mark your partner’s special day? Forget the usual annual gift-giving frenzy! Instead, consider a unique stemless glass that can be personalized every year. This eco-friendly approach means you’ll create a lasting memory without contributing to the cycle of unnecessary consumption. With these reusable party cups, you’ll be sipping responsibly and celebrating in style – no dusty cupboards needed!
1-Year Marriage Anniversary Wine Bag
If you’re searching for an anniversary gift for the special couple, especially after splurging on their wedding present, you might be hesitant to break the bank again. Fortunately, there’s a thoughtful and affordable option: a wine-themed gift basket with a unique burlap wine bag. This charming accessory can hold a standard 750 ml bottle, making it an attractive addition to any wine lover’s collection.
Custom Love Letter Cufflinks
For the modern romantic, Cuffing Season is always in full swing. When it comes to commemorating a paper anniversary, love letter cufflinks are an innovative and thoughtful gift idea. Imagine presenting these unique accessories to your partner as you reveal dinner reservations at a swanky restaurant that demands formal attire – the perfect setting for celebrating your first anniversary with flair!
1st Year Wedding Anniversary Paper Rose Flower
If you’re searching for anniversary gift ideas that are thoughtful yet understated, consider gifting a paper rose flower. This unique token of your love will outlast a bouquet of real roses, serving as a lasting reminder of the special occasion. The creator offers various options for different anniversaries, allowing you to start a collection that you can treasure and display each year.
From a personal perspective, I was thoroughly impressed with the rose’s elegant ivory-like appearance and intricate detailing. While it resembles an origami creation more than a simple paper flower, the ceramic pot adds a charming touch. The only minor issue I encountered was a broken base plate, which I easily removed. Despite this, the rose itself matched the product description and images, making it a delightful gift to receive.
Personalized Family Pillow
Celebrate Your Unique Family Structure With a Personalized Pillow
Whether your family has evolved through life’s journey to include modern, traditional, or a blend of styles, it’s worth acknowledging and cherishing. You can commemorate the current state of your family, whether you’re a duo, a small tribe with furry friends, or a blended crew, by gifting yourself a customized pillow that reflects your loved ones.
First Anniversary Gifts FAQs
Is One Year Anniversary a Big Deal?
Marking a year since saying ‘I do’ is a significant milestone in any couple’s journey. While a quarter-century or half-century milestone may be more widely recognized, it’s essential to acknowledge the progress made during the first 12 months of marriage. The fact that they’ve reached this point demonstrates their ability to navigate initial hurdles, such as merging households and adapting to new living arrangements.
This early achievement is a testament to the couple’s commitment, communication, and willingness to work together through life’s ups and downs.
What Is the 1st Anniversary Symbol?
The inaugural year of marriage marks the paper anniversary, a symbol of the newlyweds’ evolving love story being written anew. Much like an unmarked page, their relationship awaits its unique narrative, filled with experiences to be shared and memories to be created. To commemorate this milestone, consider gifting your partner personalized artwork, a beautifully crafted journal, or a sentimental scrapbook chronicling the highlights of your first year together.
A heartfelt card expressing your deepest sentiments is also a thoughtful way to celebrate.
What Color is the 1st Wedding Anniversary?
When celebrating a one-year milestone in a romantic relationship, the traditional anniversary color is yellow, reminiscent of the vibrant hues of spring and the joyful energy that comes with falling deeply in love. This bright and cheerful color can add a touch of whimsy to any gift or celebration. While gold is also sometimes associated with first-anniversaries, yellow remains the most popular choice for marking this special occasion.
How Much Should You Spend on the First Anniversary Gift?
When it comes to budgeting for your own wedding anniversary gift or one for a special couple, aim to spend around the $100 mark. While the price tag itself isn’t everything, setting a reasonable budget can help guide your decision-making process. As a general rule of thumb, consider spending between $50 and $100 for family members and $20 to $50 for friends, ensuring you find a gift that’s both thoughtful and meaningful.
What Is a Traditional 1-Year Anniversary Gift?
As you celebrate your first anniversary, you may be wondering what to give your partner that will truly resonate with them. In traditional terms, paper goods are the go-to choice for this milestone, as they symbolize the unwritten chapters of your life together. However, if your partner’s style is more modern and sleek, a clock might be a thoughtful alternative.
This gift could represent the early days of your relationship, when time seemed to fly by as you got to know each other, and the bright future that lies ahead for the two of you.