Skip the traditional anniversary gift list and instead use a list that's been updated for today's couples. Whether you're looking for something for a spouse, family member, or friend, these contemporary anniversary gift ideas are sure to offer plenty of opportunities to showcase the personality of the one(s) you love.
First Anniversary: Clocks
Time sure flies when you're having fun, so commemerate your modern anniversary with the updated idea of a clock for the first anniversary. Ideas include:
- Time capsule with sand clock to countdown when you can open it
- Collage wall clock that highlights a photo from each month of your first year together
- Minimalist wall clock that won't distract from any décor scheme
Second Anniversary: China
In the traditional list, china comes in at your 20th anniversary. Today, though, consider this little luxury a few years earlier with these ideas:
- Create dot-painted china plates
- Pick out a small fine china figurine that reminds you of your spouse/the couple
- Head out to visit the best Chinatowns in the U.S. on an epic road trip
Third Anniversary: Glass/Crystal
Crystal and glass can add an air of elegance and glamour to a third anniversary. Select from:
- Swarovski brand crystal jewelry and cufflinks
- Good luck crystals to attract love and relationship luck
- DIY glass etched wine glasses
Fourth Anniversary: Appliances
Make life easier with these upgraded appliances for a fourth anniversary gift.
- Smart refrigerator complete with touch screen technology
- Gourmet coffee machine for your countertop
- Fun air fryer to make bar food favorites at home
Fifth Anniversary: Silverware
New silverware doesn't have to be boring. Instead, look for these gifts:
- Matching spoon bracelets (homemade or purchased)
- Oversized kitchen fork and spoon for wall decoration
- Modern set of flatware, from iridescent to copper picks
Sixth Anniversary: Wood
Put wood to work as a sixth anniversary gift with these fabulously modern ideas:
- Anniversary wood ring set
- Wood meat and cheese serving trays
- Reclaimed wood pallet project, such as coffee tables, chairs, and planter boxes
Seventh Anniversary: Desk Sets
Modern couples often have home offices as well as their workplace office. Help them get into the work groove with a few helpful ideas for the seventh anniversary:
- Faux leather desk set that combines elegance and masculinity
- Sleek charging station that fits on the corner of your desk
- Wood and galvanized desk organizer for home or work
Eighth Anniversary: Linen/Lace
Try picking out a few items that have a touch of romance for an eighth anniversary. For example:
- Cake decorated with powdered sugar dusted over a lace stencil
- Lace wine bottle craft that turns a favorite vino into a lamp
- New linen suit and dress for warm weather festivals
Ninth Anniversary: Leather
If you object to real leather, look for faux to keep the anniversary love flowing. Consider:
- Upgrading your den furniture with a leather couch and recliner
- Monogrammed leather luggage tags
- Leather map connecting your/the couple's hometowns
Tenth Anniversary: Diamond Jewelry
In the modern anniversary gift list, diamonds are for milestone anniversaries, not just ones after many decades together. Pick out:
- Diamond anniversary ring wraps and enhancers
- Necklace with a diamond for each child you have
- Matching diamond lapel pins for dress coats
Eleventh Anniversary: Costume or Fashion Jewelry
Fashion jewelry, also known as costume jewelry, is an inexpensive option after springing for diamonds the previous year. Consider:
- Charm bracelet that features meaningful and personal charms
- Brightly colored tie clips or beaded jewelry strands for layering
- Costume jewelry passed down from family members that has sentimental value
Twelfth Anniversary: Pearls
Pearls don't have to be for classic, traditional couples. Instead, look for modern ways to incorporate pearls into the anniversary present:
- Motorcycle with a pearl paint finish
- Trip to the beach to look for oysters
- Pearl bowling balls for the couple who graces the lanes
Thirteenth Anniversary: Textiles/Furs
Bring some texture into your life and add a little interest with a 13th anniversary gift that includes a variety of textiles and/or fur. Ideas include:
- Adding a variety of Steampunk decorations to your home that include different materials
- Adopting a cat or dog from an animal shelter
- Repainting your living room with a textured paint and fabric border
Fourteenth Anniversary: Gold Jewelry
While gold jewelry may not be the most inventive of gifts, it is one that will bring a smile to anyone's anniversary. Look for:
- Gold lockets with sepia-printed images of the couple on each side
- Essential oil pendant necklaces made from gold
- Gold jewelry for body piercings
Fifteenth Anniversary: Watches
Look for a watch to help you count the minutes until you're together again. Watch anniversary gifts include:
- Smart watches for him and her
- Antique pocket watch
- Watch and pocket watch tattoos for couples
Twentieth Anniversary: Platinum
Platinum is a sturdy metal that stands the test of time, just like a couple who has made it to their 20th anniversary. Pick out a gift such as:
- Platinum fountain pens for the office
- Latest cell phone (which includes precious metals like platinum)
- Use your platinum credit card to book the vacation of your dreams
Thirtieth Anniversary: Diamond
Diamonds, or "ice" in slang terms, come up again at the 30th anniversary (and another time in the traditional and modern lists at 60 as well). For more diamond-studded ideas, consider:
- Visit to New York City's famed Diamond District
- A cruise on the Diamond Princess Cruise Ship
- Portable countertop ice maker
Thirty-Fifth Anniversary: Jade
Put together a festive 35th anniversary gift with jade. Said to bring luck, it's a great way to wish the couple well. Present suggestions include:
- Jade gemstones in jewelry or money frogs for luck
- Potted jade plant for indoor or outdoor gardening
- Photo album in jade green to display anniversary party pictures
Modern Memories Made Together
The anniversary gift you select is one that should help your spouse or the couple remember their years together and want to move forward to make more. No matter what the anniversary year, select a gift that reflects their memories and you're sure to pick the right item.
