Your first wedding anniversary is coming up, and you want to do something extra special for your spouse to commemorate this major milestone. Every couple is different and every story is unique, so what is the best way for you and your partner to celebrate your first year of marriage? Take a look at some of our favorite, go-to one year anniversary gifts that would be perfect for your anniversary celebration.
1. Revisit the Bouquet
Perhaps one of the most meaningful tokens for a bride on her wedding day is her bouquet of flowers. With so much thought and consideration put into the arrangement, this is the perfect angle to take when considering what gift to give for your first anniversary. Consider contacting the florist and recreating her original bouquet, or have the bouquet made out of wood flowers so that it can last for years to come. You could even sign up for a flower subscription box so that she gets a fresh bunch every month!
2. Romantic Staycation
What’s better than getting away with your sweetheart? Do some research to see which highly-rated hotels are nearby, or look into an Airbnb. You could make it a surprise by packing their suitcase and telling them you’ll pick them up from work on Friday afternoon. Be sure to pack all the essentials for a romantic weekend- bring treats to put together a charcuterie board and candles for a relaxing bubble bath. This You Are Loved candle is a fantastic option and one of our go-to anniversary gift ideas!
3. Handwritten Letter
There are few things more romantic and meaningful than a handwritten letter for your spouse. With the traditional, one year anniversary gift being one centered around paper, this is a great option to consider if you’re one to keep traditions alive. Take some time and sit down to brainstorm what you would like to include in your letter. Write a draft or two before you settle on the final letter.
4. Personalized Accessories
Everyone loves a little bling! Whether their style is big and flashy or small and simple, there are plenty of options to consider for giving a personalized accessory for your first anniversary. For him, a watch with your names or special message engraved on the backside is both useful and meaningful. For her, a dainty necklace with your wedding date or a ring with your names engraved on the inside is beautiful and holds significance as you move forward.
5. Meaningful Wall Art
Commemorate the occasion with a piece of wall art dedicated to both of you! These wall art prints are totally customizable, making it easy to adjust the print to look like the happy couple. Perfect to hang up in your home or office, this is a beautiful gift that will stand as a constant reminder of your one year anniversary and is a great conversation piece to help share your story with others who see it. This is a great option if you’re looking for clever ways to give paper anniversary gifts!
6. Album of Your First Year’s Memories
A photo album is a gift that keeps on giving. Yes, it will be a beautiful and meaningful gift when given to your partner, but this is one that family and children can enjoy for years to come, and is the perfect way to record memories that perhaps would be difficult to remember otherwise. Gather together your photos from your first year together and take some time to record your memories associated with each photo. Whether you put together the album yourself or you use a digital program, this is a surefire gift that will stand the test of time.
7. Matching Pajamas
Perhaps one of the best parts of being married is just hanging out with your best friend. Give the gift of ultimate comfort and leisure by getting a matching set of comfy pajamas that you both can enjoy. Take it to the next level by getting some luxurious matching robes and slippers. Plan a relaxing night in to enjoy your new loungewear - stream a movie you’ve both been wanting to watch and get your favorite snacks and drinks.
8. Wedding Song Art
For many couples, one of the most special moments of their wedding day is dancing to their special song together. Whenever it comes up on the radio or in your playlist, you get to reminiscence on that memory. For your one year anniversary, consider how you can capitalize on that for your gift! Consider ordering a print of the lyrics to the song, just one line that means the most, or the title of the song with your wedding date printed beneath.
9. A Cool Clock
Just as paper is considered the traditional wedding gift for the first year anniversary, the modern first year anniversary gift is a clock. This is to represent the time that has passed in your first year together. Whether you’re getting a large clock to hang on the wall in your living room or you’re looking for a small, tabletop clock your spouse can keep on their desk at the office, this is a wonderful gift idea that holds beautiful meaning to celebrate your first year.
10. The Gift of Experience
Everyone has a bucket list of sorts. Think about what your spouse has mentioned they would love to experience and consider how you could make their dream a reality. It could be as simple as going on a nearby hike they’ve always wanted to explore, or taking them across the country to see a show they’ve always dreamed of experiencing. Give them the gift of memories that they can cherish for years to come!
So whatever direction you decide to take when choosing a gift for your first anniversary together, remember that the most important aspect of your celebration is to make your gift meaningful. Happy anniversary!