Wedding Anniversary Names UK: Modern and Traditional Gifts Year by Year
Here, you will find out which anniversary years are associated with which modern and traditional gifts, as well as the gemstones and flowers that match.
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.
When it comes to shopping for the perfect wedding anniversary gift, your decision doesn’t have to be a complete stab in the dark. Of course, you can just choose something that you know your partner will love – but if you want to make it even more sentimental, consider using each anniversary’s traditional or modern gift suggestions as a guide.
To help you on your way, we’ve created the ultimate guide to wedding anniversary names with a suggested list of anniversary gifts by year, too. Each anniversary has a different traditional meaning and gift associated with it, depending on how many years you’re celebrating. You’ll also find that there are flowers and wedding anniversary gemstones associated with each year which could also help you decide on the perfect present.
So, whether you’re about to celebrate a milestone anniversary yourself, or you know someone who is, our guide to the names of wedding anniversaries will tell you all you need to know.
Anniversary Names & Gifts by Year: Our Traditional & Modern Guide
In a hurry? Skip to the bit you need right here:
- Wedding Anniversary Names in the UK
- 1st to 10th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
- 11th to 20th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
- 25th to 45th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
- 50th to 90th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
Wedding Anniversary Names in the UK
Here’s your complete list of all the traditional anniversary names and their modern gift alternatives, from the first anniversary all the way through to the 90th.
Note that there are no official names for wedding anniversary years 17, 18 and 19 – the next milestone after 16 is the 20th anniversary, and then every five years thereafter.
Year Traditional Anniversary Name Modern Alternative
1st Paper Clock
2nd Cotton China
3rd Leather Crystal/Glass
4th Fruit/Flowers Linen
5th Wood Silverware
6th Sugar/Confectionary Iron
7th Copper/Wool Stationery
8th Bronze Linen/Lace
9th Willow/Pottery Leather
10th Tin Diamond
11th Steel
12th Silk Pearls
13th Lace Textiles/Fur
14th Ivory/Elephants
15th Crystal
16th Wax Silver Holloware
20th China Platinum
25th Silver
30th Pearl Diamond
35th Coral Jade
40th Ruby
45th Sapphire
50th Gold
55th Emerald
60th Diamond
65th Blue Sapphire
70th Platinum
75th Diamond
80th Oak
85th Wine
90th Granite/Stone
1st to 10th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
Whether it’s your first anniversary or you’re about to mark 10 wonderful years, these modern and traditional anniversary gift suggestions will ensure it’s extra special.
1st Wedding Anniversary – Paper
Traditional anniversary name: Whoever devised the meanings of wedding anniversaries probably figured newlyweds would be pretty broke after paying out for a wedding – so the 1st wedding anniversary gift is nicely affordable! Paper also represents how a new marriage is a blank sheet – ready to be filled in!
Our favourite twist is to gift an experience – print out the tickets and it totally counts as a paper gift! Try Virgin Experience Days, which offers everything from trips to London landmarks and food and drink experiences to romantic and thrill-seeking breaks.
Modern 1st anniversary gift: For a less traditional spin, the modern alternative is a clock. This is said to represent a couple’s eternal love – cute, right? Elsewhere, carnations are the known flowers for year one, while gold is the associated colour. You could combine all these with a gold watch featuring pretty floral details for a first anniversary gift that truly covers all bases.
2nd Wedding Anniversary – Cotton
Traditional anniversary name: For those who want to stick with tradition, cotton is the 2nd wedding anniversary gift because it symbolises the strength, comfort and resilience of marriage. You’ll find plenty of sweet cotton anniversary gifts to pick from, including luxury bed linen, personalised pillowcases and coordinating robes to snuggle up in (hello, The White Company). Or, if your partner loves to receive flowers, how about some cute cotton blooms from Little Foundry?
Modern 2nd anniversary gift: Along with the modern gift of china, the second year of marriage is also represented by the colour red and cosmos flowers. We’re thinking you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous china vase filled with these delicate and colourful flowers here – or how about an upgrade on your dinnerware with a floral-print set?
3rd Wedding Anniversary – Leather
Traditional anniversary name: Leather is the traditional name for 3rd wedding anniversaries in the UK, said to represent the durability of your marriage. Leather has traditionally also been used to protect things – similar to how each of you protect one another. As your marriage matures, your relationship only grows stronger – hence why leather is the perfect fit.
You can’t go wrong with timeless leather gifts – think handbags, wallets, shoes – even smartphone cases are a great, affordable option. More trad gifts include a belt or leather hip flask. Our pick would always be Aspinal of London, whose leather gifts can be monogrammed for a personalised touch.
Modern 3rd anniversary gift: Perhaps your partner would appreciate something made from crystal or glass? Said to represent the multiple facets that every relationship has, in contrast to leather, it represents the fragility of a marriage and the fact that great care is needed in order to maintain it. Three years together is also marked by cheery sunflowers.
4th Wedding Anniversary – Fruit & Flowers
Traditional anniversary name: As your marriage blossoms and your partnership ripens following four years of marriage, the gift of fruit and/or flowers makes perfect sense. It’s a theme that’s also surprisingly easy to adapt to your partner’s tastes – from fruity gins and chocolates to gorgeous plants, there are plenty of gift ideas to suit everyone.
If you’re stuck for ideas, look to Bloom & Wild, which always has a wide array of botanical-themed gifting options. The flower subscriptions are particularly special and will be the anniversary gift that keeps on giving.
Modern 4th anniversary gift: Flowers not their thing? Linen is also associated with 4th wedding anniversary gifts, as is the modern alternative of appliances. Is there anyone whose morning wouldn’t be improved by a brand-new coffee machine? We think not.
5th Wedding Anniversary – Wood
Traditional anniversary name: The association of wood with 5th anniversary gifts comes from the strength and wisdom symbolised by trees. Your marriage will be pretty solid (and deep rooted) by now, after all.
Why not try gifting something like a romantic wooden sign to hang in your home, or even better, this gorgeous wooden signpost art which marks all your major moments together so far? If you’re feeling especially sentimental, how about sharing a bottle of wine that you had on your wedding day presented in a personalised oak box or choose a new wooden photo frame to give one of your wedding pictures a new lease of life.
Modern 5th anniversary gift: The modern anniversary gift for five years is silverware, while daisies – symbolic of fidelity and forever love – are the flower of choice.
6th Wedding Anniversary – Sugar/Confectionary
Traditional anniversary name: Life is thought to be getting sweeter by the time you hit your 6th wedding anniversary – the perfect time to treat the one you love to some sugary treats. If you’re looking for classic chocolate gifts (classic for a reason, if you ask us), you can’t go wrong with Hotel Chocolat, while Virgin Experience Days has a great selection of afternoon tea deals across the country.
Modern 6th anniversary gift: In the US, iron is most associated with 6th wedding anniversary gifts. From cast-iron kitchenware for the aspiring chef in your life to lamps, jewellery, engraved keyrings and more, whatever you choose is sure to last for decades. Thinking flowers? Opt for calla lilies, which are said to symbolise love.
7th Wedding Anniversary – Copper/Wool
Traditional anniversary name: Copper and wool are the traditional 7th anniversary gifts, said to have been chosen for their ability to conduct heat. After seven years together, marriage now feels warm and comforting, much like an evening cup of hot chocolate in bed from these cute copper-coloured mugs. Or, if you’re thinking wool, The White Company has some great cashmere gifts, like this cashmere throw that’s perfect for snuggling under while you watch a film.
Modern 7th anniversary gift: If you’d rather go for the modern option, stationery or desk sets are the associated gift, said to be symbolic of the pride in the work you’ve done together as a married couple. So why not invest in a gift to help upgrade their home office?
8th Wedding Anniversary – Bronze
Traditional anniversary name: Bronze is the 8th wedding anniversary name. Why? Because it’s strong, of course, just like the two of you. It’s also a combination of two metals (copper and tin) that are stronger together than they are separately. Traditionally it was also said to hold healing powers.
From cufflinks and framed prints to keepsake bronze statues, there’s plenty of gifts to choose from here.
Modern 8th anniversary gift: The modern 8th wedding anniversary alternative is linen and lace, and since there’s nothing lovelier than slipping into fresh, clean sheets at night, we highly recommend some luxury bed linen for your love – Piglet in Bed would always be our pick. Just add rose petals if you’re feeling fancy!
9th Wedding Anniversary – Willow/Pottery
Traditional anniversary name: Pottery and willow are the two traditional gifts that celebrate a 9th wedding anniversary. Pottery – just how marriage can be – involves going through a sometimes-painstaking process to create a beautiful work of art, while willow – again, much like your relationship – is known for its strength and durability.
From personalised espresso cups to clay-modelling classes, there are so many options to choose from here. Otherwise, how about a gorgeous willow picnic basket for a romantic date day for two or a trio of willow wand plants for your balcony?
Modern 9th anniversary gift: Leather is the alternative gift idea for a 9th anniversary, so if you didn’t get each other leather gifts for your third, now could be the time. Elsewhere, poppies are the flowers associated with a 9th wedding anniversary. With their vibrant red petals, they’re the perfect symbol of remembrance and hope.
10th Wedding Anniversary – Tin
Traditional anniversary name: What’s a 10 year wedding anniversary? Well, traditionally it’s tin. Thanks to this hardy metal’s inability to rust, tin symbolises protection and the durability of marriage. When going in search of 10th anniversary gifts, look to luxury treats like biscuits, chocolates or champagne that come housed in personalised tins, or opt for a keepsake item like jewellery.
Modern 10th anniversary gift: You may be interested to know that the modern gift alternative for a 10th wedding anniversary is diamonds. OK, OK, we’re pretty sure we know which they’d prefer too – but it has been an entire decade, so why not treat them? This Monica Vinader ring is a chic yet affordable option.
11th to 20th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
Don’t let the excitement dampen when you get here! More than 10 years of marriage is well worth celebrating. Here are the traditional and modern anniversary gifts by years married.
11th Wedding Anniversary – Steel
Traditional anniversary name: Valued for its durability and strength, steel is the name of the 11th wedding anniversary. Naturally when it comes to gift ideas, your thoughts might turn to stainless steel cufflinks, a hip flask or kitchenware, but there are lots of options out there that are less traditional. Horseshoes are made of steel… how about a horse-riding experience?
Modern 11th anniversary gift: Those who want to gift something more contemporary should look to jewellery. Perhaps now is the time to give your engagement or wedding ring an upgrade – or have a piece of jewellery from your wedding day restored. You could also combine the modern gift of jewellery with the traditional stone associated with 11th wedding anniversaries – turquoise.
12th Wedding Anniversary – Silk
Traditional anniversary name: We love the traditional 12th anniversary gift of silk because there are so many options out there. This elegant fabric’s interwoven threads are said to represent the strength of marriage, as well as protection, security and comfort.
Silk pyjamas, robes or lingerie are classic gift choices – these gorgeous silk pyjamas can be personalised, too.
Modern 12th anniversary gift: The contemporary equivalent is pearl. Pearl jewellery is a no-brainer here, and for men, mother of pearl works as a great inlay into gifts like fountain pens, shaving kits, cufflinks – even on a guitar! Elsewhere, peonies are the flower associated with a 12th wedding anniversary and with their shimmering white petals, a closed bouquet of white peonies almost looks pearl-like!
13th Wedding Anniversary – Lace
Traditional anniversary name: Lace is the 13th wedding anniversary gift in the UK, said to symbolise the intricacy of your relationship and the care and attention it needs to remain intact. There are tons of options for gifting here too. Go down the romantic and sensual route with lingerie from the likes of La Perla or look for filigree details on jewellery or watches.
Modern 13th anniversary gift: The modern take on a 13th wedding anniversary gifts is textiles or fur, symbolising the warmth and comfort of marriage. If they’re not big on lace, consider presents such as faux-fur-lined gloves, a cosy cashmere scarf or even a leather jacket. A rug, throw or handbag would all count as well!
14th Wedding Anniversary – Ivory/Elephants
Traditional anniversary name: Historically, ivory was the traditional symbol for the 14th wedding anniversary but since this is now hugely problematic because of poaching laws and animal rights, this anniversary is more commonly celebrated with elephant -themed gifts instead.
Modern 14th anniversary gift: Elephants represent the stability and patience of marriage, so we’re definitely on board with giving cute animal-themed gifts like these adorable marble tea light holders. Otherwise, couples also celebrate with the colour ivory as an alternative.
15th Wedding Anniversary – Crystal
Traditional anniversary name: To celebrate 15 years of marriage, the traditional 15th wedding anniversary gift is crystal. This luxurious gift option is chosen for its purity and clarity, and is said to represent how a couple sees one another clearly after 15 years.
Crystal jewellery will always be a welcome gift for this anniversary – we love these gorgeous drop earrings from Lily & Roo. Otherwise you might want to pick out some crystal glassware.
Modern 15th anniversary gift: For those who aren’t fans of traditional crystal gifts, the modern alternative is to give a watch. Olivia Burton has many beautiful designs in different finishes – including a crystal watch (win-win!). For him, be inspired by our choice of wedding watches.
16th Wedding Anniversary – Wax
Traditional anniversary name: Wax is the traditional name for a 16th wedding anniversary since it represents just how the two of you have moulded your lives together.
Wax's ability to bend and change shape when melted also symbolises the flexibility needed in a marriage, which is why luxury candles are such a lovely gift idea. Our picks would always be Jo Malone, Diptyque or NEOM. Maybe you could choose a scent that was present on your wedding day or one that features notes that were also in your wedding flowers?
Modern 16th anniversary gift: The modern wedding anniversary name for a 16th anniversary is silver holloware – which essentially means any tableware that isn’t flat. How about something stylish like a champagne or wine cooler? Complete with the very same bottle you drank at your wedding, of course…
20th Wedding Anniversary – China
Traditional anniversary name: It's a huge milestone, so what is the 20th wedding anniversary? To celebrate two decades of marriage, the traditional gift is china – a product that is indeed fragile but when looked after properly will stand the test of time. From quirky plates and cups to fine bone china baubles and trinket dishes, we’re pretty sure you’ll find shopping for 20th anniversary gifts a breeze.
Modern 20th anniversary gift: Couples with expensive taste will be pleased to know this is also the perfect wedding anniversary to gift something platinum. An eternity ring is a great option, or, if you really want to splash out, opt for a platinum ring with an emerald in it – the traditional gemstone for 20 years.
25th to 45th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
With 25 or more years of marriage under your belt, a real celebration is in order! Here are all the traditional and modern anniversary names for milestones between 25 and 45 years together.
25th Wedding Anniversary – Silver
When it comes to both traditional and modern anniversary gifts, what is the name for the 25 years wedding anniversary? Well, as the decades go on, the fewer modern alternatives there are, and silver is the gift associated with 25 years of marriage for both. When treated carefully (and polished regularly), this precious metal will continue to shine – just like the two of you.
Of course, silver jewellery is always well-received – but if you’re looking for shimmering silver alternatives, how about something like a personalised trinket dish, a champagne cooler, or a sterling silver bookmark?
The flower associated with a silver wedding anniversary is the beautiful iris, a bloom that symbolises courage, strength and admiration.
30th Wedding Anniversary – Pearl
Traditional anniversary name: So, what is 30 years of marriage? Well, for three decades of commitment, it’s the timeless gift of pearl, a gemstone that symbolises purity and wisdom.
From jewellery – like this striking pearl necklace from By Rae – to mother of pearl trinkets and homeware, hair accessories and even pearl-embellished clothing, there’s plenty of options for 30th anniversary gifting here.
Modern 30th anniversary gift: Like 10 years, diamonds are often considered to be the modern alternative for 30 years’ of marriage – an eternity ring or a gorgeous pair of diamond earrings would be an ideal gift to mark 30 years.
35th Wedding Anniversary – Coral
Traditional anniversary name: Coral is known as the anniversary for 35 years because of how precious it is – it was also historically believed to have magical properties. Now, of course, real coral is endangered, so coral-inspired or coral-coloured gifts are often given instead.
From coral-printed cushions and wall art to incredible scuba-diving experiences that allow you to explore a coral reef for yourself, this is an anniversary you can really have fun with. If you’re planning on the latter, just be sure to book with a trusted retailer that runs sustainable and environmentally friendly excursions.
Modern 35th anniversary gift: The modern anniversary gift for 35 years is jade, a vibrant gemstone similar to emerald.
40th Wedding Anniversary – Ruby
If you’re looking for anniversary gifts for your 40th year married, look no further than the gorgeous ruby. Red is a colour long associated with love, passion and protection, making it a fitting choice for the 40th wedding anniversary.
You’ll find everything from jewellery to cufflinks with rubies to help you nail the brief. Otherwise, if you want to gift something different, how about a beautiful bunch of ruby red roses with an engraved vase?
45th Wedding Anniversary – Sapphire
For the 45th wedding anniversary gift, the traditional and modern gift given is sapphire. Once the preserve of royalty, sapphires are a luxurious gemstone that represent strength and resilience, while their deep blue colour is said to symbolise the deep and endless love within a marriage. Beautiful, right?
Jewellery feels like the most obvious gift choice here, but if that’s been a popular theme over the years, how about some beautiful sapphire-blue glassware, a personalised anniversary print or this sundial for the garden? Don’t forget that sapphires come in many colours, too, including orange, yellow, and violet.
50th to 90th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
Wow. Anyone celebrating more than 50 years of marriage deserves the ultimate celebration. Make it extra special by gifting them something wonderful with these traditional and modern ideas.
50th Wedding Anniversary – Gold
If you’ve come here wondering 50 years is what anniversary? We’re here to tell you that after a lifetime together, there is only one gift that can do it justice, and that’s gold. This precious metal represents the enduring strength and beauty of a long-lasting marriage and couldn’t be more perfect for gifting.
Gold jewellery is always a winning choice for 50th anniversary gifts, but you’ll find plenty of other options out there too, from gold photo frames and glassware to gold-infused skincare. The list is endless!
If you think your recipient would prefer flowers, yellow roses are a common choice because of their gorgeous golden colour. However, violets are the flower officially associated with a 50th wedding anniversary – why not pair them both together for a beautifully vibrant and meaningful bouquet?
55th Wedding Anniversary – Emerald
Fast forward another five years and the name for the 55th wedding anniversary is emerald, so called because this gemstone represents true love, devotion and growth – all needed for a successful and long-lasting marriage.
Once again, emerald jewellery is an obvious choice here. But if you think they would prefer something a little different, we’ve got our eye on this personalised blanket from Not On The High Street. Elsewhere, you could choose some vintage emerald-coloured glassware, a gorgeous green photo album to give their wedding photos a new home, or some beautiful new bedding.
60th Wedding Anniversary – Diamond
Thanks to their strength, durability and ability to flourish under extreme pressure, the 60th wedding anniversary gift is that of diamonds. This precious gemstone is said to be invincible – undoubtedly how you will feel after six decades of marriage!
Of course, any gift that features real diamonds will feel like a truly special way to say happy anniversary, but you’ll also find plenty of alternative items that can help you to celebrate 60 years of marriage in style. From anniversary prints that tell the story of your wonderful life together to archived newspapers from the date of your wedding or a vintage bottle of Bordeaux, there are lots of options outside the box.
65th Wedding Anniversary – Blue Sapphire
What is the name for the 65th wedding anniversary? It’s sapphire – or specifically, blue sapphire. You’ll find plenty of blue-themed gifts for a 65th wedding anniversary, whether it’s crystal glassware or a sapphire-blue faced watch. For something totally out there – maybe your gin-loving recipient would enjoy a tour around the Bombay Sapphire distillery!
70th Wedding Anniversary – Platinum
Representing 70 wedding anniversary years is platinum! Though firstly, can we just congratulate you on making it this far…
Platinum is a metal that’s incredibly hard-wearing yet breathtakingly beautiful, making it the perfect pick for a 70th wedding anniversary gift. Choose anything from platinum jewellery to photo frames and more.
75th Wedding Anniversary – Diamond
Fun fact: The 75th wedding anniversary was the original diamond anniversary – but the gemstone became more associated with 60 years of marriage after Queen Victoria celebrated her diamond jubilee in 1897. So, if you’re celebrating a whopping 75 years – or you know someone who is – there really is no better way to mark it than with the precious gift of diamonds.
80th Wedding Anniversary – Oak
Known for its incredible strength and sturdiness – and as a symbol of how things can improve with age – it’s no surprise that the 80th wedding anniversary name is oak. Like an oak tree that can stand for hundreds of years, 80 years of marriage is built on the most solid of foundations.
You’ll find a wealth of romantic gift options that give a nod to oak, from engraved doorstops and chopping boards to beautifully crafted wall art.
85th Wedding Anniversary – Wine
The traditional wedding anniversary gift in the UK for 85 years is wine, undoubtedly because of its ability to only get better with age. If your partner or recipient is partial to a tipple or two, this is the perfect opportunity to present them with a meaningful bottle to share together. Not a fan? How about something wine-coloured instead?
90th Wedding Anniversary – Granite/Stone
A 90th wedding anniversary is also known as a granite wedding anniversary, though (quite rightly) diamonds are also gifted for this remarkable milestone. We know which we’d prefer!
FAQ
What Are the Traditional Wedding Anniversary Gifts by Year?
Here, we have all the traditional wedding anniversary names and gifts by year – from your 1st wedding anniversary all the way up to your 90th. We've also included the modern alternatives for the milestones which have them, giving you plenty of options on what to gift your love.
What Can I Do For My Wedding Anniversary?
If our gift ideas above don’t automatically spark an idea, there are lots of romantic activities you can do for your anniversary. Here are 25 anniversary date ideas you’ll both love – some of them are even free!
What are the Major Wedding Anniversary Years?
The first few years of your marriage up to 10 years are all considered major anniversary landmarks. After that, the big celebrations usually come every 5 and 10 years.
The anniversary where the traditional wedding anniversary gifts start becoming more precious is your 25th, when silver is the traditional material. Any anniversary from 30 years upwards is incredibly special. Ruby marks your 40th anniversary, gold for your 50th, diamond for your 60th and platinum for your 70th.
These precious gems also correspond to your “anniversary colours”. If you can’t afford real silver for your 25th anniversary or something emerald for your 55th, you can instead get your other half a gift or experience that incorporates those colours.
Do you think things have changed since you walked down the aisle? Read our article of things that change after saying 'I do'.
