Tag: All

Celebrating your 6th wedding anniversary is a fantastic milestone that should always be marked if possible. It means you’re more than halfway to your 10th anniversary and your love is growing stronger with every passing year.

But what should you give the love of your life to mark 6 years of marriage? You probably already have a few ideas, but did you know that for more than a century, many couples have enjoyed giving each other traditional or modern gifts that stick close to an ‘official’ theme? There’s also a traditional gemstone and flower, and they’re each filled with symbolism to give your anniversary gift-giving an even deeper level of meaning.

So, in this guide, we’re going to explore 50 6th wedding anniversary gift ideas that fit these themes so you can give your other half the perfect present. 

To learn more about all the different anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern gifts associated with six years of marriage are packed with meaning, so giving your partner a gift associated with one or more of them can really elevate your gift. That extra level of thought and passion can make your 6th anniversary one your partner will always remember.

Traditional 6th anniversary gift – Sugar

The traditional 6th anniversary gift is sugar, which represents how every year of marriage that passes gets even sweeter. And of course, sugar is used in loads of different treats and desserts, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to giving your partner something tasty.

Modern 6th anniversary gift – Iron

The modern gift for a 6th wedding anniversary is iron, a strong and incredibly durable metal that can withstand almost anything. After all, the Titanic was made of iron and it took an iceberg to sink it (and we can’t imagine the two of you will encounter many icebergs throughout your marriage). Iron isn’t an obvious gift choice, but with a little creativity, there are plenty of options out there.

6th anniversary gemstone – Amethyst

Amethyst is a stunning stone that comes in various shades of intoxicating purple. Because of its colour, it represents royalty, as well as love and happiness, so it’s perfect for the king or queen in your life. Amethyst is also relatively affordable and looks great set in all kinds of jewellery and accessories.

6th anniversary flower – Calla lily

The traditional 6th anniversary flower is the calla lily, a perennial flower with big heads that are turned up and look a little like china cups. They represent sympathy, unity and beauty, all strong emotions that you no doubt have for your partner.

If you have pets at home, calla lilies can cause problems for their health, so you might want to think about an alternative if you’re keen to give your partner a floral gift to mark six years.

How do you choose a gift for a 6th wedding anniversary?

As you pass the halfway point to your 10th anniversary, how do you decide what to give your partner to mark six whole years together? You might already have a few ideas, but with so many choices it can be tricky making a call on the perfect one. Here are a few things to think about when making your decision:

• Are you interested in following the rules? You don’t have to give your partner a traditional or modern gift, but it can be something fun and romantic with extra meaning.
• Have you set a budget? The size of your budget might determine what you pick up for your partner.
• Are you going to get a personalised gift? Personalisation is a brilliant way to elevate a gift and make it more thoughtful, but it can add to the cost.
• Do your ideas fit with your partner’s interests? Sugar is often a sure-fire winner when it comes to gifts, but what about iron? Try to bear your partner’s interests in mind when choosing their gift.

If a couple in your life will soon celebrate their 6th wedding anniversary, you may wonder if you can join in with the fun and get them a traditional or modern anniversary gift. Well, of course you can! These gifts aren’t exclusive to the couple themselves, so if you have a great idea for a gift then go for it – we’re sure they’ll love it.

50 ideas for a 6th wedding anniversary gift

If you’d like to give your partner an extra special gift to celebrate your 6th anniversary but you’re not quite sure where to start, then you’re in the right place. Here are 50 on-theme ideas so you can treat your other half to something thoughtful.

10 traditional gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

 The traditional anniversary gift for six years is sugar, which is a delicious sweet and versatile treat loved by many. But, it’s also more than just giving your partner a bag of sugar they can add to their tea – so here are 10 ideas to get your creative muscles working.

1. An indulgent chocolate fondue set 

If your partner loves a sweet and chocolatey treat that’s also a little bit naughty, then an indulgent chocolate fondue set from Hotel Chocolat is sure to set the mood on your anniversary night. Simply warm up the selection of moreish sauces and dip in your favourite treats for something truly lip-smacking.

2. A create-your-own mega jar of sweets

For something totally on theme and also super nostalgic, what could be more perfect than a jar of retro sweets? A create your own mega jar of sweets allows you to choose 20 of your partner’s favourites, from candy necklaces to fizzy refreshers.

3. A sweet shop-scented candle

Okay, so you might not be able to eat a sweet shop-scented candle, but it’s romantic, on-theme and helps create the perfect ambience for celebrating your amazing milestone.

4. A sugar cube pendant

A sugar cube pendant is a sweet and thoughtful gift that definitely thinks outside the… cube. It’s unique and maybe not to everyone’s taste, but it suits a whole range of outfits and your partner can wear it whenever they like to remember your 6th anniversary.

5. A tea caddie set

Emma Bridgewater is a designer loved by many, with a striking but homely range of kitchen and homeware. An Emma Bridgewater tea caddie set is on theme, useful and thoughtful.

6. A handmade fondant figure

A cake is a statement-making sugary gift to give your other half on your anniversary, which itself is brilliant. But, why not make it even more brilliant with a handmade fondant figure or two, to call back to your cake topper you may have had on your wedding day? Or if you didn’t have one, now could be the time to make that happen!

7. A sugar and spice nail set

If your partner loves to paint their nails, a sugar and spice collection is definitely all things nice. These fiery and warming gel polishes are a great way to give your love a unique on-theme gift.

8. Personalised chocolates

Chocolates are usually going to go down well on your anniversary, but for your 6th anniversary, they have extra special meaning. Plus, you can give your partner personalised chocolates to tell them exactly how you feel.

9. A sugar scrub

As well as being a treat for the stomach and soul, did you know that sugar can also be a treat for the skin? A sugar scrub exfoliates your partner’s skin to leave them feeling smooth, soft and radiant. That way, you can spend your anniversary with a home pamper evening.

10. Personalised anniversary doughnuts

If all else fails, why not treat your partner to a personalised box of doughnuts from Krispy Kreme? You can add your names to the box and make sure your other half knows it’s a treat you’ve been thinking about for a while!

10 modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

If you’re sweet enough for your partner, then you may prefer to give them an anniversary gift linked to the modern tradition, which is iron. At first, you might think it’s quite limiting, but with a little creative thinking you can get a loving and thoughtful gift. So, here are 10 iron-inspired anniversary gifts to consider giving on your 6th anniversary.

1. A cast iron lovebird garden ornament

What could be a better gift to mark two lovebirds celebrating their anniversary than with a cast iron sculpture of two lovebirds? It would look fantastic in any garden, doesn’t take up too much room and has absolutely bags of sentimentality behind it.

2. A personalised iron bowl

Bowls are useful and thoughtful gifts, but can be elevated to the next level for your 6th anniversary. A personalised iron bowl fits the theme perfectly and even allows you to include a custom message, so every time your partner puts their keys or some fruit (or whatever they choose to use it for) inside they’ll be reminded of your special day.

3. A wrought iron wine rack

You and your partner might enjoy sharing a bottle of wine together (especially on your anniversary), so you could treat them to a stylish wrought iron wine rack to keep all those bottles neat and tidy.

4. An iron bracelet

Iron might not be the daintiest of materials, but in the right hands, it can be crafted into beautiful jewellery absolutely packed with meaning. An iron bracelet is a fabulous way for your partner to always keep a reminder of your 6th anniversary with them.

5. A wrought iron rose 

Roses are a symbol of love recognised the world over, so why not combine roses and iron with a wonderful handmade wrought iron rose? Not only does it look amazing and have tons of meaning behind it, it has the added bonus of never wilting.

6. An iron

If you’re feeling extra brave and want to get your other half an on-theme gift that risks getting you in trouble, you could get them a new iron. This is especially poignant if they’ve been asking for one for a while. You might just want to accompany it with something sugary to sweeten the blow! Check out Currys for a huge selection of irons to fit loads of different budgets.

7. A cast iron hippopotamus statue

For an anniversary gift your partner will never forget, a cast iron hippopotamus is always going to put a smile on their face. It’s something that can sit out in the garden and watch over you with every future anniversary that passes.

8. A cast iron casserole dish

If your partner’s a keen cook, then a solid (literally) choice of anniversary gift is a cast iron casserole dish. Le Creuset is a well-known brand, but a Le Creuset casserole dish can be quite pricey. Thankfully, there are more affordable alternatives, like a ProCook cast iron casserole dish.

9. A cast iron sign

For something unique and retro, a cast iron sign is a brilliant way to add character and personalisation to your gift. You could choose something funny to hang in the garden or on the shed, or a brand new door number to hang beside the front door.

10. An iron heart sculpture

For the love of your life on your anniversary, an iron heart sculpture ticks two boxes: it fits the 6th anniversary theme and tells your partner just how much you love them.

5 affordable gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to mark your 6th anniversary with a token traditional or modern gift, then there are plenty of affordable options to suit smaller budgets. Here are five affordable 6th anniversary gifts so you can give your partner something sweet (or iron-y).

1. A cast iron bottle opener

If your other half loves to crack open the occasional bottle, or you enjoy sitting down to enjoy a drink together, a cast iron bottle opener is a super-affordable and thoughtful way to honour the modern anniversary tradition.

2. Decorative iron keys and a lock

A lock is a common symbol of love, with couples often leaving them on bridges or fences at famous romantic landmarks. Instead of this, you could give your partner decorative iron keys and a lock which they could display proudly in your garden. That way you’ll always have something to remember your anniversary by.

3. A few posh chocs

Hotel Chocolat is known for being makers of deliciously moreish chocolates, but unfortunately, some of their more extravagant boxes can be a little pricey. However, they do offer smaller chocolate selections and multi-buy discounts that mean you can still treat your partner with a smaller budget, like with the milk chocolate collection selector.

4. A LEGO Iron Man keyring

If your partner loves superheroes and is a big Marvel fan, a LEGO Iron Man keyring is bending the rules a little, but we still think it totally fits with the theme – plus it’s affordable.

5. An iron keepsake

For the ultimate iron anniversary token gift, an iron keepsake might be small, but it’s thoughtful and cute, and tells your partner how you feel without having to break the bank.

5 DIY gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

DIY anniversary gifts are a brilliant way to save money and give your partner a gift that’s extra special because you made it – and doubly so if it also fits the theme. In all honesty, it’s going to be tricky forging a gift from iron unless you have the tools and know-how, but at least there are plenty of options for making homemade sweet treats to surprise your partner with. So, here are five ideas to get you started.

1. Chocolate-dipped strawberries

Chocolate-dipped strawberries are sweet, romantic and incredibly simple to make. All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and your favourite chocolate to melt, and after a quick dip, voilà! You have a delectable and sexy treat to share with your other half. 

2. Homemade cupcakes

Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can still make your partner some simple cupcakes without worrying about whether or not you’ll be deserving of a Hollywood handshake. You can pick up cupcake kits that include everything you need from your local supermarket, or follow a cupcake recipe online. 

3. Homemade fudge

Fudge is ooey and gooey and a fantastic sticky treat your partner’s bound to love. It’s also super simple to make and a basic fudge recipe only requires four ingredients. Then you’re free to add chocolate, sprinkles, a drizzle or anything else your other half might love.

4. Homemade honeycomb

Honeycomb is crunchy, chewy and sweet, and can be quick and easy to make at home. Making honeycomb is part-baking and part-science, but if you get it right the results are delicious. It’s easy to customise your honeycomb and coat it in chocolate or another of your partner’s favourite toppings. There are also plenty of easy honeycomb recipes you can find online.

5. Homemade biscuits

For a homemade sweet treat your partner can dunk in their cuppa, biscuits can be super simple to make. Some only require a handful of ingredients and one or two inexpensive tools, and you can have a lot of fun decorating them with colours and designs your partner will love. There are loads of easy biscuit recipes available online, so have a bit of fun and experiment!

5 experience or activity gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

An exciting way to spend your anniversary is by treating yourself and your partner to an activity or experience, and there are actually loads of options out there for fun things to do that are sugar- and iron-related. Here are five ideas for things you and your partner can do together to celebrate your 6th anniversary.

1. A baking experience

Baking can be a brilliant way to spend time together, and you’ll have something to show for it at the end which you can tuck into and enjoy! There are loads of baking courses available, so you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one that suits you and your other half.

2. A blacksmithing experience

For something less sweet and a lot more fiery, a blacksmithing experience is a unique and interesting way to try your hand at something new and have a go at forging something of your very own.

3. Watch Iron Man on Disney+

Cosy up on the sofa, get some movie snacks ready (something sweet to stick to the theme) and have an Iron Man movie marathon. And the entire series is available to stream right now on Disney+!

4. A chocolate factory tour

What’s even better than enjoying a bar of chocolate? Enjoying a bar of chocolate while walking around a chocolate factory! Chocolate making goes back centuries, and you can learn all about the methods, ingredients and techniques that have developed throughout history… and enjoy a few treats along the way. There are a few options as well, like the Cadbury factory tour in Bourneville and York’s Chocolate Story in York.

5. A sword-fighting experience

This one is pushing the theme a little, but swords are often made from iron, and you and your partner take part in a sword fighting experience where you can swing swords around and work up a sweat. It’s so unique and thinking outside the box that your partner will never see it coming (unlike the sword which hopefully they will see coming).

10 6th anniversary gifts that contain amethyst

The traditional gemstone to give to your partner on your 6th anniversary is amethyst, which is a stunning and attention-grabbing purple stone. It’s super versatile and not always hugely expensive, plus it goes well with gold and silver, so you’re bound to find something that suits your partner’s tastes. So, here are 10 ideas for jewellery that contains amethyst.

1. A necklace
2. A bracelet
3. Earrings
4. Cufflinks
5. A ring
6. A broach
7. A locket
8. An anklet
9. A nose stud
10. Belly button ring

Amethyst is a hugely popular gemstone so most jewellers will have a range of jewellery you can check out. Here at Bridebook, we also work with a huge selection of wedding jewellers that offer loads of different options when it comes to amethysts.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary

Flowers are usually a sure-fire way to put a smile on your partner’s face when celebrating your anniversary. The traditional flower when celebrating six years together is the calla lily, an elegant and delicate flower which is a real show-stopper. If you’d love to get your partner a gift inspired by the calla lily, here are five ideas to get you started.

1. A calla lily necklace

If your partner loves unique jewellery, there’s no better 6th anniversary gift than a calla lily necklace. It’s cute and dainty, and can be worn with a wide variety of outfits.

2. An iron-forged calla lily

Iron and calla lilies don’t seem like an obvious combination, but a delicate iron-forged flower makes for a wonderful and striking centrepiece that has deep and thoughtful meaning. Check out this gorgeous hand-forged iron calla lily on Etsy.

3. A calla lily bouquet

We couldn’t not suggest a calla lily bouquet. They’re absolutely stunning flowers that make for a beautiful bouquet. Just remember, they can be toxic to pets, so bear this in mind if you have a four-legged friend at home.

4. Calla lily bulbs

Calla lilies don’t thrive in icy temperatures, so generally can’t be planted outside in the UK. But, if you’re up for the challenge and have a greenhouse or inside space, they can still flourish. Plus, calla lily bulbs are relatively inexpensive.

5. Beautiful wishes decorative figure

Willow Tree produces incredible decorative figures, and the Beautiful Wishes figurine features a child holding a bunch of calla lilies. It’s a unique and thoughtful gift your partner will definitely want to display for all to see.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

At Bridebook, we’ve helped millions of couples tie the not and plan their perfect wedding. We have all the tools, information and knowledge you could need, from budget planning to finding wedding vendors that fit with your unique vision.

Sign up to Bridebook today and begin planning your big day.

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
• 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 5th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Happy Planning!

Reaching your 5th wedding anniversary is such an amazing achievement. That’s half a decade married to the love of your life, which is something that should definitely be celebrated. That means it’s the perfect opportunity to give your partner a gift that’s absolutely jam-packed with symbolism and meaning.

But what sort of gift should you give your partner to mark your 5th anniversary? Should it be something they’ve asked for and you know they’d love, something that fits close to their passions and interests, or something else? There are traditional and modern anniversary gifts that couples have been giving each other for more than 100 years – as well as a traditional gemstone and flower. That’s not to say that they’re rules you have to stick to, but they can elevate your gift-giving and give it the deep level of meaning that’s fitting for such a fabulous milestone.

In this guide, we’re going to offer you 50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift, to give you a great place to start in your hunt for the perfect pressie. Then you can take the plunge and pick something up that you know your partner will truly love.

For more information on the different traditions associated with anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary?

Traditional 5th anniversary gifts are filled with symbolism, so you can give your partner something that has meaning and thoughtfulness. There are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone, giving you plenty of opportunities to do something a little bit different.

Traditional 5th anniversary gift – Wood

Of course, wood comes from trees, and trees are strong and durable. They can also grow to become exceptionally tall and withstand anything thanks to deep and unshaken roots. And even the tallest tree came from the tiniest of saplings. This is much like your marriage, which over the last five years has become strong enough to take on the world. Wood is also a versatile material and gifts come in various shapes and sizes, to suit loads of different budgets.

Modern 5th anniversary gift – Silverware

The modern 5th anniversary gift is silverware, which, if we’re being totally honest, isn’t actually very modern at all anymore. It represents wealth and glamour, which means it can be a fairly expensive gift option to choose. But it can also be luxurious and spectacular.

5th anniversary gemstone – Sapphire

Sapphire is the traditional 5th anniversary gemstone, a blindingly blue precious stone that symbolises wealth and royalty. And because it’s classed as a precious stone, it can be relatively pricey – but that also means it’s stunning when set in jewellery or accessories.

5th anniversary flower – Daisy

The traditional 5th anniversary flower is the humble daisy, one of the symbols of spring that represents purity and joy. It’s also the quintessential flower, with an open head with long and slender petals. Daisies are traditionally white, but also come in different colours such as yellow, purple and red. 

How do you choose a gift for a 5th wedding anniversary?

If you’re not sure what kind of gift to give your partner to commemorate your 5th anniversary, but you know you’d like to give them something with important meaning, how do you narrow it down? Think about the following points before making your decision:

• Are you interested in following the traditional and modern rules? If so, think about what type of meaning you’d like your gift to convey. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to stick to these gifts if you don’t want to.
• What’s your budget? It’s possible to pick up a wooden anniversary gift for relatively cheap, but the same can’t be said about silverware, which is notoriously pricey. This could sway your decision.
• Are you interested in personalisation? Wooden gifts are great for offering personalised touches. You can get personalised silverware, but it’ll add to an already rather high cost.
• What would your partner like? Have they told you they’d like something in particular? If so, how does this align with the traditional and modern 5th anniversary gifts?

If a couple in your life is about to celebrate their 5th anniversary, you might be interested to know whether or not you can join in by giving them a wooden or silverware gift. Well, the good news is, you’re more than welcome to stick to the traditional or modern gift-giving rules, and it’s a great way to tell the couple that you’ve put extra thought into their surprise.

50 ideas for a 5th wedding anniversary gift

It might not be long until your 5th wedding anniversary, which can be a tricky one if you’re looking to celebrate it by giving your partner a traditional or modern gift. Silverware might be on the expensive side, but thankfully wood gives you loads of possibilities. So, below are 50 ideas to get you thinking creatively about what your partner might love.

10 traditional gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The traditional 5th anniversary gift is wood, which at first you might assume is a rather dull gift to give someone you love. But, the expectation isn’t that you’ll give your partner a lump of 2 by 4 – it’s actually an incredibly versatile material that gives you practically endless options. So, here are 10 wood-themed anniversary gift ideas to give you a little inspiration.

1. A wooden photo frame

Many of us love to have photos of ourselves, loved ones and the things and places we’ve experienced either hung on the wall or displayed on a shelf. Since it’s been five years since the two of you tied the knot, you could frame your favourite wedding photo and give it to your partner in a wooden photo frame. A simple and classic gift that’s hard to get wrong.

2. Personalised wooden coasters

We all need coasters, and they’re perfect for injecting a bit of you and the things you love into your home. Wood coasters are a great gift that you can make even better with a custom personalisation. The Wood Look lets you give your partner a pair of wooden coasters carved with a special message. 

3. A personalised wooden desktop calendar

Calendars are already popular accessories to have on your desk, and are particularly useful if your partner has a habit of asking what day it is or what you have coming up that weekend. A personalised wooden desktop photo calendar can help alleviate any date-related questions they might have, with the added bonus of being highly customisable.

4. Wooden cufflinks

You might not think that wood would be a good material to use in accessories, so you might be surprised to learn that wooden cufflinks are fabulous! They’re unique, stylish and an on-theme 5th anniversary gift that your other half totally won’t expect.

5. A wood-burned photo

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame on this list, but what if the wood was the photo? You can now burn highly-detailed photographs onto a piece of wood, which looks great displayed in your home. Just upload your photo and let the experts on Etsy do the rest. And don’t worry if there’s anything in the background, they’ll take care of all of that for you.

6. A wooden bracelet

First we included wooden cufflinks and now we’re including a wooden bracelet! The walnut and grey of a wooden bracelet is like no other jewellery your partner has and can be worn with loads of different outfits and suits various styles. We bet they’ll never see a gift like this coming!

7. Wooden garden bench

If you have a back garden with enough room to spare, a wooden garden bench can provide you with somewhere to sit and relax and enjoy the summer sun (when we have those rare moments of summer in the UK at least). They can be pricey, but a high-quality bench will last years and whenever there’s a nice day you and your partner can sit outside with an ice-cold drink and think back to your 5th anniversary.

8. Plant a tree in your partner’s name

It’s important that we help support our woodland here in the UK, so it would be totally on-theme to dedicate the planting of a tree to the love of your life. You can do this on the National Trust website, so you know your gift will support a great cause. And you’ll be sent a certificate you can print off so you have something to give your partner on the big day.

9. A personalised pizza board

We’re willing to put money on the fact that your partner loves pizza… most people do, after all! A quirky, fun but also practical gift would be a personalised wooden pizza board, so every time you sit down to enjoy a pizza you can have a lovely reminder of your 5th anniversary.

10. A custom wooden sign for your home

Your partner might have a gaming room they like to retreat to, or perhaps a crafting room, a gym, or a shed they can’t seem to keep out of. If this sounds like your other half, a personalised oak house sign can tell everyone exactly whose space it is. Or, you could simply hang it up next to your front door to display your house name or number.

10 modern gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

The modern anniversary gift for celebrating five years is silverware. Although it doesn’t feel particularly modern by 21st-century standards, it does still make for an extravagant and thoughtful – if a tad expensive – gift to give your partner for your 5th anniversary. Technically, silverware could include any old set of knives and forks, but when the anniversary gift rules were written it meant the more expensive stuff.

Below, we’ve given you 10 ideas that fit the theme, but with some 21st-century additions for those who might not want to rely on expensive cutlery or gravy boats.

1. A personalised silver spoon

If you’re keen to give your partner some silverware but don’t want to spend hundreds, a personalised silver spoon is a fantastic way to do it. That way you can give something meaningful to your partner but not have to break the bank – or feel guilty about using them or getting them dirty! 

2. A silver hipflask

A hipflask is a really extravagant gift to have, especially one made from silver. They can also be personalised to make it extra special. Personalised Hip Flasks offer a rather pricey sterling silver option, or Engravers Guild has a pewter variation which also comes in a wooden case, ticking off both boxes!

3. Silver cufflinks

If your other half is partial to wearing a suit, then a pair of silver cufflinks is a gift that allows them to take you with them wherever they go. They’re also fairly reasonable in price, at least as far as silver gifts go, and offer the option to include an engraved personalisation.

4. A silver guitar pick

The guitar is one of the most popular musical instruments in the UK, so for anyone who has a partner who plays, you’ll know just how much they love playing a tune. They might also be forever losing their picks – so, to celebrate your anniversary, give them a pick they’ll never want to lose in the form of a sterling silver skull guitar pick.

5. Silver photo frame

We’ve already included a wooden photo frame in this list, so it seems only right to include a silver photo frame as well. Wood might not fit your taste or home decor, and a silver frame helps any photo stand out.

6. An engraved silver-plated pen

Many of us use pens throughout the day for work, doodling, journaling and more. If this includes your other half, then a silver-plated pen would make for the perfect gift to mark your 5th anniversary. It can also be engraved if you want to turn an ordinary silver pen (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary silver pen.

7. Antique silverware

We couldn’t create this list without at least mentioning antique silverware. By today’s standards, silverware is quite old fashioned, not to mention expensive. If you’d love to give your partner some real authentic silverware used by past generations, take a trip to your local antique shop and browse what they have in stock. If you see something you think your partner will really love make sure you snap it up quickly before someone else does.

8. A silver bowl

For something stylishly silver, which can also be put to good use (if you dare) as a serving bowl or fruit bowl, a silver and glass bowl is more traditional silverware but with a more contemporary feel.

9. A silver bookmark

If your partner loves getting lost in a good book, no doubt one of their pet hates is losing their page. Turn their frustrations into a great on-theme 5th anniversary gift with a silver Victorian hand bookmark. For what it is it’s fairly pricey, but your partner’s sure to get a lot of use out of such a meaningful gift.

10. Silver teaspoons

One of the most quintessential silverware gifts you can give is, of course, a silver teaspoon. So if your partner loves the finer things in life, they’ll love a traditional set of teaspoons in a fitted case. They might not want to use them because of how special they are, but they’ll always them as a wonderful keepsakes.

5 affordable gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Silverware can be an expensive anniversary gift, and maybe you’re not sure if your partner would love something made of wood – but you still want to give them an on-theme gift to mark five years together. Well, if you’ve got a small budget, you can still give them something filled with meaning. Here are five affordable gifts you can consider giving your other half to celebrate five years.

1. A pair of wood earrings

If you have a partner who loves dangly earrings, then they’ll definitely love these very affordable and very on-theme wood earrings. There are plenty of choices available so you can choose an eye-catching pair of earrings to suit your partner’s taste.

2. Interlocking wooden hearts

For an affordable token 5th anniversary gift that ticks many boxes, interlocking wooden hearts come with a lot of thoughtfulness and meaning behind them. Of course they’re wood, which represents the strength of your relationship, the hearts represent love, and the fact that they’re interlocking represents just how connected you are. Such a lovely sentiment on your big day.

3. A personalised wooden key keychain

A small but thoughtful gift that your partner can always keep with them is a personalised wooden key keychain. It’s neat and high-quality and can include a custom message of your choosing.

4. A wooden clock

For something stylish and practical, as well as totally on-brand with the traditional theme, a wooden clock with its simplistic design will look great hung in any room. That way, your partner will be reminded of your 5th anniversary whenever they check the time.

5. A wooden necklace

Another brilliant piece of wooden jewellery – which also just so happens to be affordable – is a wooden necklace. If your partner likes to wear jewellery and accessories that are big and bold, then they just might well love something colourful and unique. Avalaya has a big selection of wooden necklaces, so check them out and see if there’s something your other half might love.

5 DIY gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

If you’re keen to make your own DIY anniversary gift to give to your partner to mark five years, there are plenty of options for you as wood is obviously a great material to use for making things. Silverware, on the other hand, perhaps not! If you’re a keen woodworker, you’re probably not struggling for a few ideas, but there are still DIY gifts you can do even with little experience. Here are five to get you started.

1. A whittled wooden ornament

With a chunk of wood and a few basic tools, you can whittle the most beautiful and special ornament with little or no prior experience. You could whittle a duck or a bridge or even you and your partner hand in hand – the options are limitless. You can pick up a beginner’s carving tool kit relatively cheaply, and there are how to start whittling video tutorials available to give you a few ideas.

2. Wooden bunting

Wood makes for a brilliant and durable way to make your very own bunting that you can hang inside or out. And if you make it yourself, there are loads of fun and unique ways you can personalise it to include little touches about your relationship. Check out YouTube for tutorials on how to make personalised wooden bunting.

3. Wooden recipe book stand

If your partner fancies themself as a bit of a whizz in the kitchen, they might have a collection of cookbooks they take inspiration from. Help them keep their recipes to hand and everything neat and tidy with a DIY wooden recipe book stand. 

4. Wood coasters

We’ve already included wooden coasters in this list, but DIY wood coasters have a real rustic feel to them which means they don’t lose that fresh-from-nature look. They require a few woodworking tools, so if you have access to some you’re in a great position to give your partner something truly on-theme and full of charm. Check out this DIY wood coaster tutorial on YouTube for easy-to-follow steps.

5. Wooden trinket box

Your partner might have a collection of jewellery and accessories but maybe struggles with somewhere to keep them – you might have even given them many yourself. A DIY wooden trinket box is a super thoughtful and caring gift that’s also incredibly useful. Watch this DIY wooden trinket box tutorial video on YouTube for information on how to make your own.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is the perfect opportunity for you and your partner to head off somewhere and experience something fun and unique. But surely you can’t tie something like that into your 5th anniversary? Actually, you might be surprised! Here are five suggestions for wood- and silver-themed experiences.

1. A trip to a cabin in the woods

What could be more on theme for a 5th anniversary experience than staying in a wooden cabin somewhere deep in the woods? That’s so much wood! Your 5th anniversary is the perfect excuse for a woodland getaway so you and your partner can spend some quality, uninterrupted time together. Check out the likes of Forest Holidays and Airbnb for a wide variety of different options.

2. Take part in community tree planting

You could use your 5th anniversary as a way for you and your partner to give a little something back. Community tree planting is a huge nationwide movement that aims to plant millions of trees and increase the size of our woodland areas. Search online to find your nearest community tree-planting event.

3. A fancy afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is seen as a real treat. It’s offered in tea rooms, hotels, attractions, country houses, restaurants… and many are luxurious and extravagant, with some still using posh silverware! Virgin Experience Days have loads of different afternoon tea-related options.

4. A silverware factory tour

By today’s standards, silverware might be seen as a little old fashioned, despite the fact that it’s actually the modern gift for celebrating five years of marriage. But, there are still some producers that manufacture beautiful silverware. Newbridge Silverware is one of those companies, and they just so happen to also offer factory tours just outside of Dublin!

5. Visit a manor or country house

For a taste of how the other half used to live (when they ate from the most expensive silverware as if it were from IKEA), you could visit a castle, abbey or stately home. Many attractions like these offer visitors the opportunity to stroll through the grounds and through the property to check out the extravagance. Some even offer guided tours too. One option is Highclere Castle, which you might recognise as THE Downton Abbey!

10 5th anniversary gifts that contain sapphire

The 5th anniversary gemstone is the incredible precious stone, sapphire. Sapphire is an absolutely wonderful stone that offers intoxicating sparkle and works just as well whether set in jewellery made from gold, silver, platinum or anything else your partner might love. This includes all different kinds of jewellery, so no matter what your partner enjoys wearing, you’re bound to find something just right. Here are 10 ideas you might think about that look fabulous with sapphire.

1. A necklace
2. A bracelet
3. Earrings
4. Cufflinks
5. A ring
6. A broach
7. A locket
8. An anklet
9. A nose stud
10. Belly button ring

There’s unlikely to be a jeweller out there, including high-street brands and independent retailers, that doesn’t have a huge selection of sapphire jewellery for you to browse. We also work closely with a range of wedding jewellers that offer incredible sapphire jewellery.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 5th wedding anniversary

Flowers are always a wonderful gift to receive, but on your 5th anniversary, you could give your partner a floral gift with extra special meaning. Daisies are the traditional flower for five years of marriage, and one of the most recognisable flowers there are, which makes them a perfect addition to a bouquet or as inspiration for other gifts. Here are five gift ideas for the daisy-lover in your life.

1. A daisy bouquet

Of course, we couldn’t start this list without including a daisy bouquet. Daisies are small and delicate and come in lots of different colours, which makes them great when included in a floral arrangement or a dedicated daisy bouquet.

2. A Swarovski crystal daisy

Swarovski is one of the most well-known makers of glass and fine crystal, so you know their products are big on quality. That’s why a Swarovski crystal daisy just might be the perfect gift for your partner. And despite it being such a fantastically luxurious gift from a big-name brand, it’s not quite as expensive as you might think.

3. A daisy serving platter

Biscuits, vol-au-vents, cakes, sandwiches… just a few of the many uses for a daisy serving platter. It’s big, it’s bold and it’s instantly recognisable, and it’s something you can break out whenever you have guests over.

4. A sterling silver daisy pendant

It’s silver, it’s a daisy and it’s a double-hitting 5th anniversary gift that has twice as much symbolic meaning. A sterling silver daisy pendant is every bit as eye-catching as it is subtle. It’s not cheap but it is beautiful, and is likely to be something that your partner holds on to for many, many years.

5. A daisy chain ring

Another gift that includes both daisies and silver, a sterling silver daisy chain ring is actually relatively affordable and includes two links to traditional 5th anniversary gifts. It’s also a subtle nod to your anniversary that your partner can wear and pair with a wide range of styles and outfits.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

Here at Bridebook, our team of wedding experts has put together all the tools and information needed to help couples around the world plan the perfect wedding.

Sign up to Bridebook today and access everything you might need to plan your big day.

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
• 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 4th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Happy Planning!

You’ve spent four wonderful years together and you and your partner are deeper in love than ever. Your 4th anniversary is a wonderful milestone, and it deserves to be celebrated. It’s also a great opportunity for you and your other half to spoil each other.

But what should you give them to mark such a brilliant occasion? You more than likely have a few ideas about what your partner loves and the type of gifts that make them smile. But, there are specific traditional and modern gifts that many couples like to give each other to commemorate four years of marriage. Similarly, there’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that has a specific meaning.

So, in this guide, we’re going to explore all the traditions surrounding your 4th wedding anniversary to help you choose a gift that has extra special sentimentality. 

For more information about what couples give each other for their anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary?

For more than 100 years, couples have enjoyed giving each other one of the traditional or modern gifts associated with a 4th anniversary, as well as the traditional flower or gemstone… or even a combination of more than one. They each have a deep meaning behind them that makes gift-giving even more thoughtful.

Traditional 4th anniversary gift – Fruit or flowers

For the traditional anniversary gift for four years of marriage, there are actually two for you to choose from: fruit or flowers. Fruit represents the sweetness and growth of your marriage, and flowers also represent growth as well and beauty. With a little imagination, it opens you up to some really amazing gifts – or a bouquet of beautiful flowers will always hit the spot.

Modern 4th anniversary gift – Appliances

The modern gift for a 4th anniversary is appliances, which doesn’t seem like an obvious choice. Then again, even the modern anniversary gifts were created 100 years ago when there weren’t as many options as there are today and appliances weren’t as common. We can’t imagine your partner would love an iron as an anniversary gift (or maybe they would?) but there’s a huge range of possibilities out there.

4th anniversary gemstone – Topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz. It’s usually a striking shade of blue that offers a lot of stunning sparkle. It represents clarity and wisdom, which you no doubt have plenty of after four years of marriage. Blue topaz also goes well set in all types of jewellery, giving you loads of opportunities to find something your partner will love.

4th anniversary flower – Hydrangea (or sometimes geranium)

Hydrangeas are big blooms that come in a massive range of different and vivid colours, so you’ll have no problem finding one that fits your partner’s preferences. Hydrangeas represent grace and beauty, making them a lovely gesture to give to your other half to mark your big day.

Depending on where you look or who you ask, another flower also associated with four years is the geranium, which is smaller and more delicate than hydrangeas but still just as beautiful. They represent happiness and health, which is just lovely.

How do you choose a gift for a 4th wedding anniversary?

With so many options available to choose from (three gifts, two flowers and a gemstone) how can you possibly choose the best gift to give your partner for your four year anniversary? Well, there are several things to consider before you make your decision:

• Do you both care about the traditional and modern rules? If you do, finding something that’s on theme will be a high priority, but it’s not something you should necessarily feel obliged to stick to if you don’t want to.
• Do you have a budget? Appliances, gemstones and flowers can be pricey. Make sure to set your budget ahead of time and don’t be tempted to go over it.
• How much personalisation are you looking for in a gift? Personalised gifts can turn an ordinary gift (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary gift. But not all gifts can be personalised, so think about if this is something you want to do. 
• What are your partner’s tastes? The traditional and modern gifts might not be something your partner would particularly enjoy, so think about their interests and how they line up with these.

If you have a friend or relative who’ll soon celebrate four years with their partner, you might wonder whether you can join in on anniversary gift-giving traditions. Well, thankfully, the answer is yes! Anyone can feel free to join in, and it shows them that you’ve put a lot of thought and consideration into your gift.

50 ideas for a 4th wedding anniversary gift

If your 4th wedding anniversary is just around the corner and you want to give your other half a gift filled with special meaning, with so many gifts to choose from you might not know where to start. So, below are 50 ideas that fit the 4th anniversary themes to help get you started.

10 traditional gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

There are two traditional anniversary gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary: fruit or flowers. That means, there are loads of options to choose from which should (hopefully) make choosing one that little bit easier. And to help you get started, here are 10 ideas for fruit- and flower-themed anniversary gifts.

1. A fresh fruit hamper 

Fruit is sweet and tasty and if your partner loves it, it can be an ideal gift. But, rather than just chucking them a bunch of bananas, how do you elevate fruit? Well, the most simple way to turn humble fruit into a brilliant gift is in the form of a hamper. Express4fruits has a ton of fruit baskets to choose from, to suit loads of different budgets and tastes.

2. A fruiting plant

Another way to give a fruity gift to your partner is in the form of a fruiting plant or tree. Then it’s a little bit like two gifts in one, fitting the fruit theme while being something your partner can care for and watch grow. You can choose anything from a kiwi plant to an olive tree, many of which can thrive in the UK. Browse Plants4presents to see the kind of fruiting plants that are available.

3. Delicious fruit preserves

If you’re concerned about giving your partner a gift they might not be able to eat through in time but still want to give something fruity, then delicious jams or preserves are a wonderful on-theme gift. Plus, why not pair it with some clotted cream and scones and treat them to a homemade afternoon tea? A fruit preserve gift box could be just the gift you’re looking for.

4. Fruit-scented candles

You could bend the rules a tad and give your other half something romantic and thoughtful but still very much in the spirit of the traditional 4th anniversary gift. Fruit candles smell absolutely amazing and help set the mood for a romantic evening celebrating four years together. A nice set like the fruit scent stack from Scented Candle Studio could be everything you need.

5. A flowery fruit basket

If you can’t decide between fruit and flowers as a gift to give your partner on your anniversary, then why not simply give them both in the form of an edible flowery fruit basket? They’re fantastic show-stopping works of art that your partner just won’t see coming!

6. An M&S bouquet

There are flowers, then there are M&S flowers. Yes, everyone knows that M&S is a brand associated with quality, and the same applies to their flowers. There are absolutely oodles of choices too, so whether you want something romantic, something colourful or something subtle, you’re bound to find something your partner will love. Browse the M&S site to see what sort of bouquets they have to offer.

7. A dried floral bouquet

Fresh flowers are often a go-to floral gift for many, but there’s something quite beautiful and delicate about dried flowers that means they’re also a wonderful option. They can be just as colourful and come in a wide variety of styles as fresh flowers. And there’s the added benefit that they don’t wilt nearly as long – in fact, many will last up to three years! Check out The Happy Blossoms to see just how incredible dried bouquets can be.

8. A custom flower arrangement

If you know exactly the kind of flowers your partner loves, then why not trust a floral expert to craft a bouquet featuring all their favourite blooms? A bouquet builder ensures you give your partner a carefully made flower arrangement that’s guaranteed to put a huge smile on their face on your anniversary.

9. A pressed flower necklace

For a floral gift that will last a lifetime, a pressed flower necklace preserves your partner’s favourite flower in resin which they can wear any time they like. That way, they’ll always have a reminder of your thoughtfulness which they can take with them wherever they are.

10. A LEGO bouquet

Another floral gift that will never wilt comes in the form of a LEGO bouquet, which looks pretty darn realistic when displayed in a vase! There’s also the fun the two of you can have building them together, and you don’t need to get someone round to water them when you go on holiday!

10 modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re not sure your partner would love fruit or flowers as an anniversary gift, the modern equivalent is, believe it or not, appliances! There’s a lot of choice out there, but here are 10 ideas to get you on your way.

1. A mixer

If your partner’s a keen baker and has perhaps marvelled at the mixers on The Great British Bake Off, then they’d probably love a KitchenAid mixer. They’re the crème de la crème of kitchen appliances and are super high quality. But, they can be quite pricey, so just make sure they align with your budget.

2. An air fryer

One of the most fashionable kitchen appliances of the decade is the air fryer, which encourages healthier cooking in a short amount of time, helping to save energy and money. Win win! Air fryers may seem like a gimmick, but they’re surprisingly versatile, so aren’t necessarily one of those appliances you’ll only dig out of the cupboard once in a blue moon. Check out the range of air fryers available at Currys to find one that’ll suit you.

3. A soup maker

Soup is a great winter-warming comfort food, but it can be a bit of a hassle to make at home. Not with a soup maker! All your partner has to do is throw in the ingredients and let it do its thing. Then, in less than 30 minutes they’ll have a yummy bowl of soup made exactly how you like it. Check out the Argos website to view their range of soup makers.

4. A coffee machine

If your partner loves a nice cup of coffee in the morning, they’ll know just how tricky it can be to get that barista-made taste at home. But, they can get a step closer with a coffee machine, whether it’s a traditional coffee maker or one that lets you simply pop in a pod – coffee machines are really varied. And thankfully, they also suit a range of budgets. Check out the wide selection at John Lewis to find something that suits your partner’s taste in coffee.

5. A Dyson Airwrap

Dyson may have made a name for itself as a manufacturer of super-powerful vacuum cleaners, but in recent years they’ve branched out into other appliances, including a firm hair care favourite with the Dyson Airwrap. It’s considered one of the best multi-stylers out there and does everything from drying to straightening. They can be quite pricey, though – but many will say it’s worth it!

6. A Stitch waffle maker

If your other half loves Disney and grew up watching Lilo and Stitch, then they’ll definitely love a Stitch mini waffle maker. It might not be something they’ll use every day, but you’ll be able to cook up a fun and tasty breakfast on the morning of your anniversary – you could even pair it with some fruit compote to include the traditional gift, too.

7. A slow cooker

If you’re both busy professionals, then it can be tough finding the time to make sure you’re eating home-cooked food. A slow cooker is a great way to make sure your home is filled with incredible smells when you walk through the door, without you having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Morphy Richards is known for their great range of slow cookers with options to suit all needs and budgets.

8. A Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser 

For a little taste of chocolatey luxury, a Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser allows you to make the most indulgent, creamy and deliciously naughty hot chocolates at home. There are loads of different flavours of hot chocolate available to make, including milk chocolate, salted caramel, white chocolate and orange. Yummy!

9. A Batman toaster

Something that’s guaranteed to put a smile on the face of any fan of the Dark Knight, a Batman toaster lets your partner make perfect toast with the Batman logo right there on the bread – which means it’s even more perfect!

10. A pizza oven

There’s nothing quite as delicious and moreish as wood-fired pizza – the trouble is, you usually have to go out to a nice restaurant to get it. That is unless you have your own portable wood-fired pizza oven at home. It might take you a few goes, but once you’ve mastered it you’ll be cooking incredible authentic pizzas in no time, so it’s a great option for your pizza-loving partner.

5 affordable gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift in line with the traditional or modern themes and you don’t want to spend much (and avoid giving them a bag of apples) there are still plenty of options. So, here are five 4th anniversary gifts you can give that have plenty of symbolism and thoughtfulness behind them even if you have a small budget.

1. A fruit keyring

Who said your fruity gift has to be real? A fruit keyring can come in a whole host of different styles and shapes, so you can give your partner a funny token on-theme gift while not breaking the bank.

2. A fruity breakfast in bed

Breakfast in bed is always a very welcome surprise, but there’s no better time than on your anniversary. You could sneak out to the local shop and pick up some fresh fruit and pastries, then lay them all out on a sharing board to present to your other half for a loving start to the day.

3. A rose in a bottle

Flowers are the ultimate symbol of love but have a double meaning on your 4th anniversary as they’re one of the traditional gifts. So, you could give your partner a rose that will never wilt, hidden in a tiny bottle and personalised with a custom label. It’s adorable, affordable and unforgettable. Check it out at Not on the High Street.

4. A little bouquet of chocolates

Some people love flowers, some people love chocolates and lots of people love both. And for those people, a box of bouquet chocolates could be just the thing you’re looking for as a brilliant and affordable anniversary gift.

5. Bath flowers

For the ultimate romantic night in, you could run the bath for your partner and fill it with scented soap flowers to make the water smell beautifully floral. And why not join them so the bathroom gets all steamy?

5 DIY gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Making your own gift to give to your partner for your fourth anniversary can be a lot of fun, and it’s something anyone can do regardless of whether you’ve made anything before. Here are five touching DIY anniversary gifts for celebrating four years.

1. Chocolate-covered strawberries

All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and a bar of your partner’s favourite chocolate to make the most indulgent and romantic treats there are. Just melt down some chocolate using a bain marie or in the microwave (taking extra care not to burn it) then dip the strawberries in them and leave them somewhere cool to set. They’re quick and easy treats that are dead simple to make and hit all the right spots on anniversary night.

2. A flower press kit

Pressed flowers are fabulous little keepsakes that are simple to make and take very little effort. You also don’t need any fancy tools to do them, but a flower press kit can walk you through it.

3. Paper sunflowers

Sunflowers are big and beautiful flowers that represent summer and sunshine. They’re also pretty easy to make out of paper so you can create your very own paper sunflower bouquet. There are paper sunflower video tutorials available to help get you started.

4. A wildflower bouquet

British wildflowers are absolutely stunning, and during the spring and summer months they’re found in abundance in fields, parks and woodland. It’s also a perfectly fine thing to do unless you remove the roots, so just make sure you do it carefully. If you do, you can put together a one-of-a-kind wildflower bouquet that’s extra special because you made it. Wildflower Favours has a handy wildflower bouquet guide so you can make something truly beautiful.

5. Homemade fruit jam

While you can of course buy jam, nothing quite beats sweet and sticky homemade jam – especially if you’ve made it yourself. And usually, it only needs a few ingredients, so it’s relatively quick and easy. Just find a yummy jam recipe, grab an empty jar and your favourite fruit, and make something full of love.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

On their anniversary, many couples choose to spend the day in each other’s company doing things they enjoy and having fun. That’s why an activity or experience gift is a great option for an anniversary. So, here are five experience gifts that tie into a 4th wedding anniversary.

1. A flower-arranging experience

Instead of simply giving your partner a bouquet of flowers on your anniversary, why not give them an experience so the two of you can arrange flowers together? A flower-arranging experience is fun and rewarding and is a unique way to spend time on your anniversary. You can take home your bouquet when you’re done, and some provide a glass of fizz and snacks to enjoy along the way. Check out Buy a Gift to find a flower-arranging experience close to you.

2. Visit some historic gardens

Where do flowers often grow? In gardens, of course! And up and down the UK there are incredible gardens that are accessible to the public. If your anniversary is in the spring or summer, it’s a great time to visit and see the whole place in bloom, like at Woburn Abbey and Gardens. Or, you could visit the world-famous Kew Gardens which is home to more than 50,000 plant species.

3. Pick your own fruit

Towards the end of summer, farms around the country offer visitors the opportunity to pick their own fruit. It’s a charming way to spend a morning or afternoon, and it’s usually reasonably priced too. Take a look online to see which farms close to you offer fruit picking and do something different on your anniversary. 

4. Take a trip to the Eden Project

The Eden Project in Cornwall is a way to experience international biomes, from tropical rainforests to the Med, and see how plants and flowers flourish around the world. Cornwall might be a fair trek for you, but you could make it an excuse to spend your anniversary away.

5. A jam-making masterclass with the Preservation Society

We’ve already suggested making jam as a DIY anniversary gift, but you could take this to the next level by taking part in a jam-making course thanks to the Preservation Society. What better way to learn how to make jam than by actual jam experts?

10 4th anniversary gifts that contain topaz

The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz – which is a lovely shimmering shade of blue that looks absolutely incredible set in all different kinds of jewellery. So, here are 10 ideas for wonderful jewellery you could give to your other half to mark four fabulous years together.

1. A necklace
2. A bracelet
3. Earrings
4. Cufflinks
5. A ring
6. A broach
7. A locket
8. An anklet
9. A nose stud
10. Belly button ring

You’ll find topaz used in a lot of different jewellery, both from independent jewellers and big-name high street brands. We also work with a range of wedding jewellers who can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary

Flowers might be one of the traditional 4th anniversary gifts, but just like every other anniversary, there’s also a traditional flower – the hydrangea. If you want to give your other half something inspired by this flower (and who could blame you because they’re stunning), here are five ideas you could consider.

1. A bouquet of hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are like explosions of vivid colour, with big blooms that are surprisingly hardy. They’re wonderful additions to a bouquet, but work just as well when they’re the star of the show. You really can’t go wrong with a bouquet of hydrangeas.

2. A hydrangea-scented candle

Hydrangeas have an alluring sweet, almost dessert-like smell to them, which is one of the reasons why bees love them so much! It also means it’s the perfect scent to fill your home with, so a hydrangea-scented candle makes for an on-point anniversary gift.

3. A hydrangea scarf 

Because hydrangeas flourish in millions of gardens up and down the UK, they’re possibly one of the most recognisable flowers out there. If your partner loves the look and feel of this garden icon, then they might love a hydrangea scarf to keep warm during the winter months.

4. Hydrangea bulbs

As we’ve already mentioned, hydrangeas are a great flower to grow in the UK, which makes them a brilliant plant for budding (get it?) horticulturalists. And hydrangeas come in loads of different colours, so you’ll easily find one your partner will love. If you plant them in the spring or autumn they’ll flower around mid to late summer. Check out your local garden centre or browse the huge selection of hydrangeas at J Parker’s.

5. A hydrangea pin badge

Another lovely way to honour the humble hydrangea is with a hydrangea enamel pin, which is a subtle and affordable way for you to give your partner a floral-inspired anniversary present.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

Here at Bridebook, we know a thing or two about weddings, and our expert guidance and top-in-class tools have helped more than 2 million couples tie the knot. Since then, more and more of those happy couples celebrate four years of marriage every day that passes.

Sign up to Bridebook today and access all the tools and information needed to plan your perfect wedding.

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
• 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Happy Planning!

Every anniversary you and your partner spend together is a cause for celebration. You may have celebrated your first wedding anniversary and done something extra special – it was your first anniversary of many, after all. But, your second anniversary is just as fabulous as the two of you continue to fall deeper in love and carve out your lives together. So, we think your second anniversary should be treated with just as much prestige as other momentous anniversaries!

When it comes to celebrating your second anniversary, you might have your eye on the perfect gift to give your other half. But, there are traditional and modern gifts you might want to give that are filled with symbolism and special meaning, along with a traditional flower and gemstone. That means, if you’d love to give your love an anniversary gift that has a little history behind it, you can. Or, you can give them that one thing you already have your eye on – there’s no right or wrong option.

If you’re looking for an extra special gift to give your partner to mark your second anniversary, but you’re not quite sure what to give them, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’re going to explore the different gifts you could consider and what they represent, to take your gift-giving to the next level.

For more information about all the different anniversaries you and your partner will share and the gifts you can give them, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary?

Since the early 20th century, there have been traditional and modern gifts which many couples like to give each other to celebrate their 2nd anniversary. There’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that have wonderful meaning behind them.

Traditional 2nd anniversary gift – Cotton

Cotton is a natural fibre that grows in huge open fields. It’s a really delicate plant that can be carried away with a light breeze. But, once it’s been picked and processed this delicate plant becomes incredibly strong and durable – as strong and durable as your marriage. And it gives you a brilliant amount of creativity to come up with a unique present that your loved one will adore.

Modern 2nd anniversary gift – China

By today’s standards, china probably feels a little outdated. But, china is associated with quality and luxury. It’s also precious and fragile, so has to be looked after and maintained – a lot like a marriage. China is another gift that’s open to interpretation and gives you a chance to have fun with your gift-giving.

2nd anniversary gemstone – Garnet

Garnet is a lovely gemstone that’s frequently seen in deep shades of red, but can also come in orange, brown, green and even black. It symbolises trust and friendship, which is a beautiful way to encapsulate your relationship with your partner. Garnet isn’t always a first-choice stone for use in jewellery and accessories, but it’s very versatile, not to mention striking.

2nd anniversary flower – Lily of the valley

Lily of the valley is an incredibly dainty little flower that looks a lot like a cluster of tiny bells. They’re beautiful when grown outside, but also make for great bursts of green peppered with white as part of a bouquet. They symbolise purity and youth, which you and your other half no doubt have in spades!

It’s important to note that lily of the valley is toxic to cats and dogs, so if you have a furry friend at home then you should think of an alternative. Thankfully, we have plenty of suggestions for you below.

How do you choose a gift for a 2nd wedding anniversary?

You know your partner better than anyone, but you’ll only have one 2nd wedding anniversary, so how on earth are you supposed to choose the perfect gift? You could get them a few things, but then that’s likely to get expensive. Have a think about what your partner would really love which would stand out above other times you might give them gifts, like on their birthday or Christmas. Consider these points when choosing the ideal gift:

• Should you follow anniversary traditions? The traditional and modern gifts aren’t set in stone, so make sure they fit with what you and your partner might be expecting.
• Have you set your maximum budget? You might want to really spoil your partner, but you should set a budget and stick to it. This will likely influence what you can give them.
• How personal do you want the gift to be? Something off-the-shelf can be fantastic, but personalisations elevate a gift and make them even more special. 
• What does your partner love? Cotton or china gifts might not be something your partner would appreciate, and if so is there something else they might prefer?

If you’re someone giving a 2nd anniversary gift to a friend or family member, you can also interpret these rules how you see fit. There’s nothing wrong with joining in on the traditions and giving someone something linked to cotton or china to help them celebrate their big day.

50 ideas for a 2nd wedding anniversary gift

If you want to give your partner a 2nd anniversary gift steeped in meaning, but have no idea where to start, we’ve put together a list of 50 ideas to help get you started. That way, you can find the perfect gift and show your love that you’re super romantic and thoughtful.

10 traditional gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

The traditional 2nd anniversary gift is cotton, so to give you a bit of inspiration here are 10 cotton-themed gifts you can give to your loved one.

1. Personalised cotton bath towels

Never argue about who’s using the wrong towel again, with personalised bath towels! Good towels are hard to come by, but cotton towels with your names embroidered on them are as soft as they are thoughtful. You can pick up some lovely towels in a wide variety of colours from Not on the High Street.

2. Personalised dressing gown

Is there anything more relaxing than spending the day in your dressing gown? And relaxing is what anniversaries are all about. A personalised dressing gown is completely on-board with the cotton theme, with the added bonus of being completely unique to them. There’s a lovely selection of robes at The Fine Cotton Company which can be personalised with an embroidered name.

3. Personalised love knot cushion

Keeping the personalisation theme going, a cushion is a nice subtle way to bring a bit of you to your home furnishings. A love knot cushion from Not on the High Street can be personalised to include your names and the date you got married, and is available in different sizes and colours.

4. Bedsheets from the hotel where you spent your first night together

Contact the hotel where you and your partner spent your first night together as a married couple and ask them where they get their bedsheets from. Then, you can see if you can get hold of the exact same sheets so you can have that honeymoon feeling every time you get in bed. They’ll probably be from a wholesaler, but with a bit of charm, you might be able to place a one-off order with them if you explain what you’re hoping to do.

5. Cotton flowers

For a subtle but beautiful cotton gift, a handmade cotton flower is something your partner can always keep to remind them of your anniversary. They’re delicate but stunning and will last a lifetime.

6. A comfy pair of socks

Socks might not be glamorous, but they’re comfortable and practical. A lot of decent socks also happen to be cotton, and there are tons of options out there. Check out Nordic Socks for some of the snuggliest socks you’ve ever seen.

7. Song lyrics cotton canvas

If you and your partner are into music, you could give them a cotton record that features their favourite song lyrics, or maybe even the lyrics from your first dance. Take a look at Blim and Blum to see how unique and cool they are.

8. A cotton bracelet

Cotton isn’t usually associated with jewellery, but it actually makes for a touching accessory that your partner is bound to love. Not only is it a gift from you on your anniversary, but it also has deep and poignant meaning. There are expert craftspeople on Etsy who produce lovely cotton bracelets.

9. Egyptian cotton candle 

Candles are a surefire way to help build a romantic atmosphere on your anniversary, and why not do that with an on-theme Egyptian cotton-scented candle? Not only that, but the Egyptian cotton candles by Shearer Candles have a slight aroma of carnation, which calls back to your first anniversary flower last year.

10. A nice shirt

You really can’t go wrong by getting your partner a nice shirt that they can wear, either on an average day or to crack out on special occasions. And if you give it to them early in the day then they can always wear it in the evening if you decide to go out for a romantic meal or similar. Cotton Traders has loads of high-quality cotton shirts to choose from.

10 modern gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

If cotton’s not to your liking, the modern choice for a 2nd anniversary gift is china. Okay, perhaps china isn’t as modern as it was a hundred years ago, but it’s still a lovely gift that can be interpreted in lots of different ways. So, here are 10 china-themed gifts to give you some ideas.

1. A fancy china tea set

One of the most obvious china gifts you can give your partner is a fancy china tea set, especially if they enjoy a nice hot cuppa. There’s also a massive amount of choice available, from expensive bone china to sets that are a little (and a lot) more affordable. You can go quirky or posh or something for everyday use – the choice is yours.

2. A china rose

China is a hard gift to give someone, but you can surprise your partner with a little creative thinking. So, think outside the box and give your partner a handmade china rose, which is delicate and beautiful. And, if you get one through Not on the High Street, you can even personalise the petals with a message so your partner will always be reminded of your special day.

3. Some fine china

If your bowls and plates are in need of an upgrade, you could give your partner a lovely new set from a prestigious name, like Royal Copenhagen. China can be rather pricey, though, so it might not be a set you want to use every day – just for special occasions or whenever the mother-in-law pops around for tea.

4. A delicious Chinese meal

Remember, you’re free to interpret china however you like, so you could treat your other half to a delicious Chinese meal. Whether you spend the evening cooking a meal together, you snuggle under the duvet with a takeaway, or you get dolled up to visit a nice restaurant, just make sure you enjoy yourselves!

5. A delicate figurine

China can be used to create beautiful figurines which look amazing on a shelf or in a cabinet. These come in loads of of different styles from various artists and makers. You could choose something unique to your partner’s interests, or something that represents the love the two of you share. For example, The China Shop has a cute figurine that’s simply but appropriately named The Perfect Day.

6. Mr and Mrs mugs

You really can’t go wrong by giving your partner a mug. China mugs are delicate but feel special, and there are so many different options out there that you’ll be spoilt for choice. To keep things solely focused on you, you could even have them personalised, like a pair of espresso mugs from Susan Rose China.

7. An adorable trinket dish 

Whether your partner needs somewhere to keep their keys, their rings and other jewellery, or little bits that usually go amiss right when they need them, a trinket dish is always useful to have around. And a trinket dish from Becky Broome can be personalised to make it extra special.

8. A snack box from China

Another one that stretches the rules, but it’s your anniversary so do whatever you think will make your partner happy! And we bet that a box full of tasty snacks from China will be a fun and unique way to enjoy some treats on your anniversary.

9. A tealight dome

Fill your home with a warming glow cast by a tealight dome. They make for elegant and sweet little decorative items with the bonus of looking beautiful, especially when the sun starts to go down. Check out Nantucket Gifts for a great (and affordable) selection of tealight domes.

10. A china clock

Another brilliant use for china is as the face of a clock, which is surprisingly affordable and can be decorated with simple but effective designs. Thanks to the simplicity it’ll also look good wherever you choose to hang it. Susan Rose China has plenty you can choose from.

5 affordable gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

If you’re looking to give your partner a gift on your 2nd anniversary but only have a small budget to play with, then that doesn’t mean you can’t get them something thoughtful and on-theme. Here are five affordable gifts you can give your love to mark your 2nd anniversary.

1. Cotton candy

Why not give a gift that totally fits with the traditional second anniversary theme but at the same time is totally unexpected and affordable? Cotton candy is tasty, sweet and a cute token gift that still has a ton of meaning behind it. Sweet shops like So Sweet Shop have a bunch of different cotton candy treats to choose from.

2. Plain socks

A decent pair of cotton socks don’t need to break the bank. They’re a handy little gift that will always be put to good use. A lot of high street retailers sell multipacks of socks for next to nothing for the perfect practical present.

3. Cute mouse decoration 

Not all second anniversary ornaments have to be pricey. Rather than thinking china, why not think cotton instead, with a cute mouse sat on top of a cotton reel ornament? It’s adorable and fits the traditional theme, as well as being super affordable.

4. Moisture gloves

Okay, hear us out. Cotton moisture gloves might seem like a random gift, but it’s just the prelude to a larger gift you could give to your partner, in the form of a romantic pamper evening. Use them as part of a personal pamper party by spending the evening exfoliating, moisturising and relaxing in face masks.

5. Cotton bag

If you’re really not sure what to give your partner that fits with the traditional theme, why not pick up a cotton bag and fill it with goodies, like snacks, games and other treats? That way, you’re giving your partner something you know they’ll love while still including a little touch of tradition.

5 DIY gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

A DIY gift shows that you really care and put thought into your gift, because it takes a little more effort than popping to the shops or ordering something online (which is totally fine too!). But, you probably have a lot on so might struggle to find the time. Thankfully, not all DIY gifts have to take ages to make. So, here are five DIY 2nd anniversary gift ideas to get those creative juices flowing.

1. Grow your own cotton

You’ll have to start early for this one, but if you have a greenhouse or similar you can grow your own cotton plant here in the UK. Cotton seeds are very cheap, and given the right environment, can flourish. Then, right before your anniversary, you can pick them, arrange them in a vase and present them to your love.

2. Cotton bunting

Cotton is a brilliant material to make bunting from, whether from old t-shirts you don’t wear anymore or sheets you can pick up from a craft shop. But, the more personal you can make it the better, and it’ll look great hung up as you celebrate your big day. There are video tutorials on how to make bunting which can help you get started.

3. Cotton flowers

If you have some cotton wool, potpourri, thread and a glue gun, you have everything you need to make some super cute DIY cotton flowers! You don’t need any experience to make them, and your partner will love the effort you put into them. Check out this easy-to-follow video tutorial on how to make cotton flowers for instructions.

4. Some personalised embroidery

Embroidery is a really rewarding hobby because you can produce an unlimited number of incredible designs, so why not have a go at embroidering something that’s associated with something your partner loves? If you’re not sure where to start, you can pick up embroidery kits that include everything you need.

5. Cotton handkerchiefs

If you have some old cotton offcuts or a t-shirt you no longer wear, why not have a go at turning them into handkerchiefs? That way, your partner will have something lovingly handmade by you that’s already close to them, with the added bonus of being useful! Tiny Trash Can has simple instructions you can follow that don’t require any sewing.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

One of the most exciting ways to spend your anniversary is taking part in an activity or experience. But what experiences can you do that tie into your 2nd anniversary? Here are five suggestions for cotton and china-related activities.

1. World of Wedgewood factory tour

Stoke-on-Trent is famous for its history of pottery making, and there are plenty of factories in the area that still operate today. And thankfully, some of them offer factory tours so you can see how they make such beautiful pottery and china. If you’re not far from Stoke-on-Trent, why not treat your partner to a tour, like at the world-famous Wedgewood factory, where they’ll teach you all about this fascinating industry?

2. A relaxing spa day

This one slightly bends the rules but it still counts, because you’ll most likely be sitting around relaxing all day while wearing comfy cotton dressing gowns! A spa day is a wonderful way to hang out with the love of your life, enjoy some tasty food and unwind. Champneys has a selection of spa day options at their locations across the UK.

3. A Scream movie night in

For an affordable and snuggly but perhaps scary night in, why not sit down to enjoy a Scream movie marathon with a takeaway? This one’s a bit of a stretch, but one of the characters (played by Liev Schreiber) is named Cotton, so we think it totally counts! 

4. Sock creature kit

Couples who craft together, stay together. That’s not an official saying, but there’s no doubt that crafting is a cute way to spend time. And to link it to your second anniversary, Not on the High Street offers make-your-own sock animal kits.

5. Pottery painting 

Continuing the craft theme, why not spend an afternoon painting pottery together? Places like Social Pottery won’t let you paint fine china, but you could have a go at painting anything from a money box to a garden ornament. They then fire it for you in a kiln and you can collect your masterpiece a few days later.

10 2nd anniversary gifts that contain garnet

Garnet is a gorgeous gemstone that’s usually a deep shade of red but can also come in a range of different colours.  That means it’s super versatile and fits with loads of different types of jewellery, whether it’s classic silver, gold, platinum or anything else your partner might love. Here are 10 suggestions for jewellery you can consider that’s set with garnet:

1. Earrings
2. Cufflinks
3. A ring
4. A necklace
5. A broach
6. A locket
7. A bracelet
8. An anklet
9. A nose stud
10. Belly button ring

Plenty of high street jewellers will have a selection of jewellery pieces and accessories that are set with garnet, so next time you’re in town have a browse to see what they have. You can also check out the range of wedding jewellers we work with here at Bridebook, as they have lots of beautiful options.

5 floral gifts for a 2nd wedding anniversary

The traditional 2nd anniversary flower is lily of the valley, an incredibly delicate and dainty flower that symbolises purity and youth. Here are five ideas for second anniversary floral gifts closely linked to lily of the valley.

1. A lily of the valley bouquet

Nothing’s going to be quite as stunning as a lily of the valley bouquet, a really stunning arrangement with bold greens and pops of white. Just remember to find an alternative if you have pets at home as they can be toxic to cats and dogs.

2. Lily of the valley sculpture

For something a little more pet-friendly but still just as beautiful, a lily of the valley sculpture from David Shuttle is every bit as elegant as the real thing. And the best thing is it’ll never wilt so you’ll always have something to remember your anniversary by.

3. Lily of the valley gift and soap box

Lily of the valley has a delicate sweet scent that lends itself perfectly to soap and other body and soap products. So, a lily of the valley hand and body gift box smells amazing and is also a brilliant way to treat your partner on your anniversary. 

4. Lily of the valley brooch

Lily of the valley is such an eye-catching flower that it deserves to be shown off as much as possible, and a lily of the valley brooch is the perfect way to do that. It captures the elegance of this plant brilliantly!

5. Lily of the valley night light 

How about a floral gift that’s three in one… a crocheted lily of the valley nightlight in a pot! It’s eye-catching, unique and full of character, making it a great gift for your big day.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

Here at Bridebook we’re wedding experts, who have helped more than 2 million couples get married and go on to celebrate their second anniversary.

Sign up to Bridebook and access all the tools and information you’ll need to plan your perfect wedding.

Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
• 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• Wedding Gift List Guide – ft The Wedding Shop
• How Much Do Wedding Gifts Cost? The Ultimate Guide for Guests and Couples

Happy Planning!