35 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: Traditional & Modern Ideas
The 3rd year of marriage is a mini-milestone to celebrate. Leather, pearl, crystal and glass are the symbolic gifts of choice – and we’ve found a unique mix of the best presents!
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Three is the magic number! While it’s not one of the major wedding anniversary milestones, there is still plenty for you to celebrate as a couple. For your 1st anniversary, the traditional present is paper, and it’s cotton for the 2nd. The materials represent the delicacy of the start of marriage, but the 3rd wedding anniversary gift is leather – which represents durability and flexibility.
Leather is a masterful material – strong, durable and flexible – representative of your strong bond after three years of wedded bliss. So, what type of gift can you get that incorporates leather but still feels meaningful and thoughtful? It is a versatile material, so leather anniversary gifts come in all shapes and sizes.
You could invest in something that you can use together as a couple – such as a valet tray, a weekend bag, or a leather bound recipe book, for example. Or you could get something that you know your other half will cherish; an item of jewellery, personalised diary or even a keyring. Just remember, your 3rd wedding anniversary gift doesn't have to be genuine leather to carry the symbolism. Vegan leather is easy to find, and often looks and feels just as luxurious as the real thing.
If leather just isn’t your thing, you could look at the alternatives – the modern gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary are glass and crystal. You can treat your partner to all manner of glassware, from Champagne glasses to whisky tumblers, vases and even trinket dishes. Or if you want to incorporate the 3rd marriage anniversary gem, then you’ll find an abundance of jewellery options. Pearls make stunning earrings, and delicate pearl bracelets can become an everyday staple.
3rd Wedding Anniversary Symbols
- Traditional 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gift: Leather – showing the durability of your relationship.
- Modern 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gift: Crystal and Glass – represents clarity, transparency and signifies a bright future.
- 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gem: Pearl – symbolic of the wisdom gained through your first few years of marriage.
- 3rd Wedding Anniversary Flower: Sunflowers – they symbolise adoration, loyalty and longevity.
Whether you want a modern or traditional gift, or you're shopping for him, her or they, use the links below to quickly jump to the section you need:
- Leather Anniversary Gifts
- 3rd Anniversary Gifts for Wife
- 3rd Anniversary Gifts for Husband
- Modern Crystal Anniversary Gifts
Leather Anniversary Gifts
You would be hard pushed to find a gift that doesn’t come in leather! There are so many options out there, and here are some of our favourite options that suit every style and every budget.
1. Personalised Anniversary Gift – Etsy
Put love on repeat with this sentimental leather anniversary gift. We love this memento of your first dance song, personalised with your names, wedding date and – of course – your song lyrics.
- Expert take: This is the perfect gift for music lovers, and would look great displayed close to your music system.
2. Toucan Double Sided Personalised Leather Keyring – Konoc
This double sided keyring lets you have two names, two numbers, two phrases or empowering words embossed, one on each side.
- Expert take: This 3rd wedding anniversary gift is available in eight different leather colours, so you can choose something that reminds you of your wedding.
3. Rayon Leather Holdall – Ted Baker
A leather weekend bag is one of the most ideal gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary – it can come with the promise of a romantic getaway for something extra special.
- Expert take: This sophisticated bag will last for years. Crafted from a waxy coated leather, it features top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.
4. Ecridor Venetian Gilt Rose Pen and Case Set – Caran d'Ache
For writing letters of love and for everyday use, this pen has a solid brass hexagonal barrel that’s engraved with a textured pattern.
- Expert take: The gift of a pen can represent learning, knowledge, and the creation of destinies. Perfect for a 3rd wedding anniversary gift.
5. Leather Memory Box – Life of Riley
This leather memory box is a romantic and gorgeous leather gift idea. No one will be aware of the 'treasure' stored inside, plus, it can be personalised.
- Expert take: Much like a treasure chest, you can fill this with mementos of your wedding day – photos, invitations, order of service and more.
6. Carry-All Macbook Folio – Harder London
Sometimes you can show love and romance in a practical way. This clever work folio has space for your MacBook, cables and stationary.
- Expert take: This wallet has space for your passport and cards, too, making it perfect to travel with.
7. Small Leather Trinket Tray – Rosanna Clare Designs
Another practical gift, this trinket tray looks gorgeous and can be used everyday for keys, coins, bits and bobs.
- Expert take: Available in a huge range of colours, you can pick your favourite shade or something that suits your home decor.
8. Leather Plant Pot Holder – Etsy
Shopping for someone with green fingers? They’ll swoon over this luxurious plant holder.
- Expert take: Make this 3rd wedding anniversary gift extra special by adding a pretty indoor plant. We love Philodendrons with heart-shaped leaves.
9. Witloft Leather Apron – Borough Market
Shopping for a budding chef or BBQ expert? They will adore this cool leather anniversary gift idea – the apron is practical, durable and feels luxurious.
- Expert take: This leather apron has a special coating that protects against stains, dirt and scratches. It becomes extra comfortable with time.
10 The Essential Cocktail Book – The Monogrammed Home
Leather bound books make beautiful gifts. We adore this cocktail recipe guide – it will look great on the coffee table and have you sipping Martinis and Margaritas in no time.
- Expert take: You’ll become an expert mixologist with this indispensable cocktail atlas, for classic and modern drinks, whether shaken, stirred or on the rocks.
11 Compass Leather Luggage Tag – Osprey London
We love the timeless style of this leather luggage tag. An ideal anniversary gift ahead of your next holiday.
- Expert take: Crafted in fine Milano leather, this tag is a great size for hand luggage or tote bags.
3rd Anniversary Gifts for Wife
If you are shopping for something to treat your wife for a 3rd wedding anniversary gift, there is so much choice available. You can stick with the traditional leather, or look for something that represents the 3rd anniversary gem (pearl) or flower (sunflower). Read on for our hot picks.
12, Floral Mug – Anthropologie
Along with the promise of a warm morning cuppa in bed, this sunflower mug is a pretty and thoughtful gift.
- Expert take: If you want to make this gift feel more luxurious, Fortnum & Mason’s Wedding Breakfast Tea will add a romantic touch.
13. Heart Photo Keyring – Aspinal
Who says keyrings aren’t romantic? This stunning heart design is handcrafted from full-grain leather, making it a perfect accessory.
- Expert take: This 3rd wedding anniversary gift doubles up as a mini photo holder – why not fill it with two images from your wedding day?
14. Leather Mini Oval Jewellery Box - Monica Vinader
We adore the rich jewel tones of these Italian leather travel boxes. A wonderful gift that exudes luxury thanks to the sleek, zip-around oval shape.
- Expert take: If you want to make this gift really stand out, you can get it personalised with your loved one’s initials.
15. Sunflower Gold Plated Necklace - Annie Haak
Inspired by the many meanings of the sunflower, this gorgeous necklace has the words 'Love You' at the back – a romantic 3rd wedding anniversary gift.
- Expert take: Sunflowers symbolise loyalty and adoration – making this such a romantic gift for your wife.
16. Logo-Embossed Bracelet – Loewe
A luxury gift for label lovers, this Loewe bracelet is made in Spain from smooth orange leather, embossed with the label's anagram.
- Expert take: This gift comes in tan or orange, with flexible inner steel to ensures it coils securely.
17. Delicate Double Chain Freshwater Pearl Necklace – Grace & Kin
Embrace the 3rd wedding anniversary gem; pearls make luxurious gifts. We love the double chain detail and delicate oval pearl combination.
- Expert take: Pearl necklaces have a timeless appeal, and never go out of style. This is a 3rd wedding anniversary gift that can be enjoyed for many years to come.
18. Summer Flowers Ring Holder – Etsy
Pretty and whimsical, if your wife was a boho bride she will adore this pretty sunflower trinket dish.
- Expert take: An ideal place to securely keep wedding and engagement rings – place it on the nightstand.
19. Smoked Plum & Leather – Jo Loves
While leather may not immediately spring to mind when it comes to fragrance, it adds warm, earthy and sophisticated notes. This option from Jo Loves is long-lasting and spice infused.
- Expert take: Perfume is a traditional and romantic gift. This scent offers a heady mix of sweet plum liqueur, crushed cinnamon, smoked cedarwood and soft, warm leather.
20. Handbag Hook – Aspinal
A practical but oh so pretty leather gift idea, this handbag hook can be used everywhere from the office to the bar.
- Expert take: We love the chic gold and black leather mix – keeping handbags off the floor will keep them in pristine condition for longer, and keep them safe!
21. Aurelie 85 Pearl Courts – Jimmy Choo
Leather gifts for a 3rd wedding anniversary don’t come more special than this. The ultimate blow-the-budget present, shoe-lovers will fall head over heels for this pair of Jimmy Choos.
- Expert take: With the glossy black patient leather and the pearl strap detail, this stunning pair of shoes embodies two of the 3rd wedding anniversary traditions.
3rd Anniversary Gifts for Husband
If you’re shopping for your husband but don't know where to start, then fear not. There are plenty of 3rd wedding anniversary gifts that are both traditional and modern. Enjoy our selection of crowd-pleasing presents.
22. Leather Rectangular Buckle Smart Belt – Marks & Spencer
If you want to get your husband something they can wear regularly, this leather belt is the perfect gift. The slim square buckle, and brown and brass colours give it a contemporary vibe.
- Expert take: In terms of sizing for this belt, it’s recommended that you choose something two inches larger than the waist size.
23. Heritage Chestnut Brown Valet Tray
You can organised even the most chaotic nightstand or desk with this elegant 3rd wedding anniversary gift. The valet tray comes in smooth chestnut brown premium bonded leather, and is lined with a plush tan suedette.
- Expert take: It may have a heritage vibe, bit this is a modern organiser with two cut-out cable slots to enable you to charge electronics.
24. Tan Leather Golf Tee Holder & Hip Flask – Wolf & Badger
You’ll hit a hole in one if you are shopping for a golf lover. This handmade leather golf tee holder has an attached stainless steel hip flask; there’s space for 4 golf tees and the tipple of choice.
- Expert take: Not only would this make an ideal 3rd wedding anniversary gift, it would also be ideal as a gift for your best man – why not check out some other groomsmen gift ideas?
25. Ombré Leather Eau De Parfum – Tom Ford
For something ultra luxurious, Tom Ford's fragrances are iconic. If you want a twist on traditional leather anniversary gifts, this fragrance is a decadent choice.
- Expert take: Ombré Leather is a layered scent with notes of leather, violet leaf, cardamom, jasmine sambac, oakmoss and patchouli.
26. Camden – Grenson
Grenson shoes have been on top of the men’s fashion most-wanted list for as long as we can remember. And this elegant Camden style offers the ultimate leather anniversary gift.
- Expert take: With its rounded toe and polished mid-brown bookbinder leather, this is a handmade pair of shoes that are crafted to last.
27. Sterling Silver Collar Stiffeners – Aspinal of London
Moving away from leather, this set of pearl and silver collar stiffeners offer a useful and beautiful alternative gift. They will keep shirt collars sharp and crisp all day.
- Expert take: Each pair of stiffeners can be engraved and come in an Aspinal jewellery presentation box.
28. Mother of Pearl Cufflinks – T.M. Lewin
Cufflinks are a classic gift, and we adore this budget-friendly option. The Mother of Pearl face is set on a silver swivel fitting, making them easy to put on.
- Expert take: If you want a failsafe option, the traditional style of these cufflinks make them the perfect 3rd wedding anniversary gift
3rd Anniversary: Modern Glass and Crystal Alternatives
The modern 3rd wedding anniversary gifts are glass and crystal. They symbolise the clear and bright future for your marriage, so this is certainly worth a celebration. We adore the variety of gifts available, everything from Champagne glasses to decanters, vases, mirrors and more. Take inspiration from some of our favourite finds...
29. Paloma Opera Crystal Glass Champagne Saucers – John Lewis
Pop a cork and toast to your wedding day! This set of two cut glasses have an glamorous old school vibe, and look far more luxurious than their minimal price tag.
- Expert take: Made from lead-free crystal glass, this glassware can be used for cocktails, too, or even to serve up a sophisticated dessert.
30. Yellow Set of 2 Aubrie Bright Wine Glasses – Next
Wine more your thing? Then step out of the ordinary with this unique set of contemporary glasses. We love the bright mix of pink and yellow.
- Expert take: These glasses are all about making a statement – you can add to the set with the Flute option, too, which comes in green and yellow.
31. Gold & Glass Double Arch Portrait Standing Photo Frame – Oliver Bonas
A photo frame would make a romantic and heartfelt 3rd wedding anniversary gift. We love this double glass style with an arched frame that’s edged in gold.
- Expert take: Why not fill the frame with a photo from your wedding day and one of you as a couple now, a perfect memento of your first three years of marriage.
32. Calle Vase – Anthropologie
The perfect vase doesn’t exist… oh wait. There is nothing not to adore about this absolutely stunning style – the ombre colour makes it ideal for matching and contrasting all different types of flowers.
- Expert take: If you want to add to this stunning gift with a extra long lasting floral display, we adore these faux Kiku flowers from Contempee.
33. Mr & Mrs Night Water Set – Fenwick
Looking for something fun and kooky? You can’t get better than this Mr & Mrs Night Water Set. We love the sleepy face adornment – it makes it a totally cute 3rd wedding anniversary gift.
- Expert take: Crafted from mouth-blown crystalline glass, the matching cup also acts as a bottle stopper
34. Ulla Glass Watering Can – Anthropologie
This gift will give your the opportunity to tend to your house plants in the most stylish way possible. Ideal for house plant lovers.
- Expert take: While we love the green hue, the style also comes with a clear glass body and pink handle.
35. Pink Glass Art Deco Decanter – Rockett St George
Fill your home with Art Deco vibes. This pretty pink decanter has a large round stopper that can be used when serving beverages, or it can simply be displayed as a unique accessory.
- Expert take: Utterly versatile, this gorgeous pink glass decanter can be used as a jug or a vase, too.
What Is Your 3rd Wedding Anniversary?
3rd wedding anniversary gifts are traditionally made from leather, and the modern interpretation is glass or crystal. As you’ll see from our gift guide, there is a diverse range of items available that you could spoil your other half with, whatever your budget. But, if you don’t want to buy something in any of the materials, you don’t have to – maybe you could take the symbolic meanings and interpret them in another way.
Leather represents strength and durability. Maybe there is a book that you feel has a powerful message, or if they have a favourite mood-boosting song, you could get them a copy on vinyl. You could invest in a household item that’s durable and you know they’ll use everyday and – maybe a stylish coffee pot, a relaxing tray for the bath, or even something that you can plant in the garden and watch grow. For the wordsmiths and the romantics, a heartfelt card and some words about why you feel your bond is strong would be an extra special gift.
Crystal and glass represent clarity and a bright future. Instead of a physical gift, you could go out to celebrate with a glass of Champagne, or have an evening picnic under the stars to discuss your dreams for the years to come.
Want more anniversary ideas? Browse our guide to anniversary gemstones here.
