The 50 Best First Anniversary Gifts Your Partner Will Love, Tested and Reviewed

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Collage of Sarah Chloe Homme engraved cufflinks on a colorful background

Chloe Jeong / Design by Tiana Crispino

A couple's first anniversary is a big deal. It's the first celebration of its kind and sets the tone for anniversaries to come. Therefore, finding the perfect first-anniversary gift will help make it a truly memorable occasion. So, what should you get your one-and-only? We asked wedding and event planner Jessica Sloane to weigh in.

"Lean into the personal and meaningful," she advises. Whether you're searching for a first-anniversary gift for your partner or shopping for a special couple in your life, Sloane recommends choosing something like a photo book or a personalized object. "It's great to find something representative of the wedding day to help make the first anniversary feel special." When in doubt, turn to the traditional and modern anniversary themes: Paper, to represent your delicate yet strong bond; or a timepiece like a clock, to commemorate the passage of time and your long journey ahead.

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If you're at a loss for ideas, don't stress! We researched a variety of practical and sentimental first-anniversary gifts, from stylish home décor pieces to jewelry and unique tokens of affection. We even tested several of the top-rated products for ourselves. We made our final selection based on the quality of materials, customization options, thoughtfulness, packaging, and overall value.

Read on for the best first anniversary gift for every couple.

Journey Print Shop Custom Map Print

Journey Print Shop Custom Map Print

Etsy

Has your love gone the distance? You can celebrate all of the places you've been together with this gorgeous piece. The design consists of a mountain range made from maps of the cities and countries you've visited. Add the caption of your choice above the illustration and your names and the date you got together below. The artwork is printed on painted white wood and encased in a beautiful handmade frame.

When testing, we opted for this print to commemorate several favorite locations we shared with our fiancé. We personalized it with three meaningful locations, and we loved how each mountain features a detailed terrain map. We also admired that the piece is crafted from high-quality materials, which makes it an excellent heirloom gift.

This wooden map print is exactly what we'd hoped it would be. It was very well-made and the print itself is very clear and detailed (no striping or uneven printing). We decided to gift this map to our partner, who appreciated the quality and the thought behind the piece.

Who It's For

Of course, this is perfect for the couple who loves to travel. If your partner is always looking for their next big adventure, then they're sure to love this keepsake of a few of the most special locations you've already visited together.

Journey Print Shop Custom Map Print

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Image 3D Create Your Own Reel Viewer

Amazon Uncommon Goods Create Your Own Reel Viewer

Amazon

If they only have eyes for you, make them a reel viewer they’ll never want to put down. Each reel can hold seven of your favorite pictures of the two of you, so they can cycle through memory lane whenever the mood strikes. If you can’t choose just seven photos, don’t worry. You can always order additional reels.

Whether you include photos of your wedding night, your first vacation together, or special memories of moving into your first home together, this thoughtful and affordable gift is sure to make them smile. When testing, using this reel viewer made us feel like a kid again, in the best way possible. The photos were clear and it was so fun to use, making it an interactive gift that will leave a long-lasting impression.

Who It's For

This fun and thoughtful gift is perfect for the partner who is always pulling out their camera to snap some photos. They'll love receiving an easy-to-use tool that helps them look back on some of your cherished memories as a couple.

Uncommon Goods Create Your Own Reel Viewer

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Finch and Cotter Custom Star Map Poster

Finch and Cotter Custom Star Map Poster

Etsy

Calling all star-gazers and starry-eyed lovers! This custom poster features a gorgeous image of the night sky as it appeared on a certain date from a specific location. Underneath, you can add the place and date of the couple's wedding, their names, and even a sweet personalized phrase like "Written in the stars" or "Forever began here."

When testing this print, we were impressed with the design, which is available in three sizes. (For an additional $32, you can purchase the 16x20 size framed.) We loved that the print is large, so it will be a focal point in any room you hang it in. We were also impressed with the print quality and found that the personalized aspect of this piece makes it perfect for a special celebration like an anniversary.

Overall, we were in love with this print. The text was written clearly and the color of the star map is pretty spot-on to the emerald color we chose online. It was amazing to look at a snapshot of the night sky on our wedding day—it really brought us back to dancing under the stars on that special night.

Who It's For

Calling all romantics! This one is for you. If you're someone who's all about the sentimental moments in life, then there is no better gift for your spouse than something as sweet and dreamy as this one.

Finch and Cotter Custom Star Map Poster

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Minted Custom Photo Art

Minted One Perfect Year Custom Photo Art

Minted

The first year of marriage is a special time in a couple's life together—and this print, part of the exclusive Minted + Brides collection, will help commemorate it. Choose 12 favorite snapshots from throughout the year, from the romantic beach trip you took in February to the backyard barbecue you hosted in June. (It's also possible to personalize the text under the photos if you don't want to follow a monthly theme.) Minted will create a custom piece of art using a collage of vintage-style photo prints. The brand offers six sizes and a dozen frame styles to fit any aesthetic.

Tip: Candid shots work especially well for this collage. When you're choosing your images, look for a range of couple shots, environments (a favorite hotel or landmark you visited), and something unexpected. Consider adding images representing important milestones like adopting a pet, buying a house, or starting a business.

Who It's For

We love the idea of this for a couple who just moved into a new home together. This gift offers a meaningful yet chic piece of décor that will look great with any design style and commemorate how far you've already come as a couple.

Personalization Mall Timeless Love Personalized Hour Glass

Personalization Mall Timeless Love Personalized Hour Glass

Personalization Mall

This personalized hourglass comes with the touching sentiment "Our love is timeless," and it's engraved with the couple's names and wedding date. It's a sweet and classy piece of décor that will remind you that time spent with your loved one is never wasted. 

While an hourglass may seem like a somewhat old-fashioned anniversary gift, we found that the shape and look of this one felt modern. We especially loved the effect of the white sand in the hourglass. There seemed to be bits of sparkle sprinkled throughout the sand, which added a nice contrast to the clear glass. Plus, the satin line box it came in is a great start to gifting this product. Just wrap it with a ribbon and add a gift tag, and you're all set to give this away!

Who It's For

Is your partner's love language words of affirmation? Then this gift is the perfect choice for them. It puts your feelings for them on full display, and it's something they can turn back to for reassurance again and again.

Personalization Mall Timeless Love Personalized Hour Glass

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Uncommon Goods Personalized Anniversary Journal

Uncommon Goods The Personalized Anniversary Journal

Uncommon Goods

A keepsake journal is a perfect way to mark the occasion and look ahead to the many anniversaries still to come. This one is made to last with black, silk moire binding and high-quality paper pages perfectly designed to preserve the memories you make together. Every section includes space to attach your favorite photos and writing prompts to help you record the highlights of each year. 

Who It's For

Creative couples will be especially drawn to a gift like this one, as it gives them the opportunity to record their time together in a scrapbook-style format. Plus, it offers an artistic activity couples can do together on at-home date nights.

The Metal Foundry Sundial Anniversary Gift

The Metal Foundry Sundial Anniversary Gift

 Amazon

A sundial is an excellent way to celebrate the first anniversary and the timelessness of lasting love. This gorgeous model is hand cast from solid brass, with a coat of white, lacquered outdoor paint to withstand the elements. Whether you keep it in your home or garden, this ornament is an excellent reminder that your love will endure as time passes. 

While testing, we were wowed by the weight and heft of the sundial, especially considering its small size. We also liked the gold lettering and details. The font was more traditional, but if it's your style, we think it would be a lovely accent piece for a table. Some assembly is required, and you'll need to purchase a plinth if you want to display it outdoors.

Who It's For

This sundial gift is great for someone with a green thumb. While it would also look beautiful displayed in your home, the bronze material is durable enough to withstand the elements. If your partner loves to garden, they'll be delighted to see it in the yard each day.

The Metal Foundry Sundial Anniversary Gift

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Uncommon Goods “Mates for Life” Print

Uncommon Goods “Mates for Life” Print

Uncommon Goods

Appropriately titled "Mates for Life" (we appreciate the pun), this lodge-style print is perfect for animal lovers. It includes sketches of various animals that mate for life, each one labeled with its scientific and common names. No matter who the recipient is, they'll get a hoot out of it.

Who It's For

As we said, this gift is spot-on for animal lovers of all kinds. They're sure to appreciate the play on their interests while still delivering a dose of romance to celebrate one year of marriage.

Wreath Love Co Personalized Wooden Clock

Wreath Love Co Personalized Wooden Clock

Etsy

Clocks are a modern gift for the first anniversary. They're a thoughtful symbol meant to celebrate the time you've shared and the minutes and hours you'll spend together in the coming years. This wooden hanging wall clock is elegant, minimalist, and engraved with your names and your chosen design. 

We tested the clock and found the overall look and feel to be high quality. We also appreciated the wide variety of styles and fonts with even more personalized options on the website. The brand accepts custom designs you can submit to them via PDF or JPG file. It's perfect for branded opportunities, including wedding-specific logos. We also found that the clock is a decent size, so it would be good for any room in the house.

Who It's For

This simple yet elegant clock is ideal for the minimalist, as its unfussy and versatile design would look right at home in a minimal décor aesthetic.

Wreath Love Co Personalized Wooden Clock

Brides / Vicky Wasik

New York Times Custom Front Page Puzzle

Uncommon Goods New York Times Custom Front Page Puzzle

Uncommon Goods

This front-page puzzle is the perfect anniversary gift for couples who love to do the Sunday crossword together. When they complete this puzzle, they’ll reveal the front page of the New York Times as it appeared on their wedding day. They’ll enjoy assembling it and remembering the personally newsworthy events that transpired on the day they said, “I do.”

Who It's For

This is the ultimate gift for history buffs who get a kick out of learning about facts throughout time—especially when they fall on such a special date like this one.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Artifact Uprising

The first anniversary is the perfect time to start a new tradition. This album is volume one of a photo book series the couple will be eager to add to every year. Choose from three sizes, ten stunning cover colors, and three foil shades to make the book your own. And don’t forget to choose the first photo wisely—the bold cut-out cover showcases it.

Who It's For

Considering its many personalization options, this gift is perfect for the couple who appreciates something totally unique. This offers a keepsake that's one of a kind, just like all of the beautiful photos inside.

Minted Heart Snapshot Mix Photo Art

Minted heart snapshot

Minted

This charming print arranges thirty of your most awe-inspiring photos in a romantic, heart-shaped collage. The canvas comes in six size options, 12 frame materials, and your choice of plastic or glass archival fronts. This art piece is a beautiful way to say, "I still do." 

Based on our test, we found that the photos themselves are high-resolution and do not show any bleeding of color or blurry edges. We loved that the photos are laid out in a beautiful way—the heart-shaped arrangement means that some overlap, but we were happy with how much we were still able to see each picture.

Who It's For

This is a great gifting option for those who aren't always confident in their words, as it puts your love on display with visuals instead. Besides, the heart shape combined with 30 cherished memories of you and your partner says more than any words could.

Minted Heart Snapshot Mix Photo Art

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Minted Letterpress Vows Art Print

Minted Letterpress Vows Art Print

Minted

Were your vows so good they made your partner (and everyone else) tear up? Have them made into a heartwarming piece of art to show your person that you still mean every word. Choose from a wide variety of sizes, color themes, and frames to create a piece that is just right for them.

We loved that this print was minimal without being stark, and that it can either hang on the wall or sit squarely on a surface. We personalized it with our brother and sister-in-law's vows, and they said they were overwhelmed with the sentiment behind the print. We found that it's a subtle yet deeply meaningful way to feature and remember those important words in your home.

Additionally, we were impressed by the quality of this print—it feels high-end and professionally made. The letterpress script adds a little bit of a handcrafted vibe to the design. Overall, it's a gift that will really be treasured by the recipient.

Who It's For

Of course, this gift is meaningful for any couple who wrote and shared their own vows on their wedding day. Just like the words they exchanged at the altar, this gift is sure to bring them to tears.

Minted Letterpress Vows Art Print

Brides / Vicky Wasik

Nellianna Origami Wall Clock

Nellianna Origami Wall Clock

Etsy


Can’t choose between the traditional (paper) and modern (clocks) first anniversary gifts? Cover both bases with this unique origami wall clock. The clock looks delicate, but it’s made of high-quality FSC-certified paper, so it’s more durable than it seems. Whether you get it in a muted tone like white or soft grey or a more vibrant pink, yellow, orange, or blue hue, this modern piece will add some visual interest to any wall in your home. 

We didn't know what to expect from a clock crafted out of paper, but we were pleasantly surprised. We love that it's a unique anniversary gift, but one that fits with either a paper or clock theme in a thoroughly modern way. We especially liked the minimalist look and feel, as well as the soft blue color—you can choose from six different pretty hues. It seemed a little flimsy when we first opened it, but once it was on the wall it really packed a graphic punch

Who It's For

This creative clock is perfect for someone who loves to stay on theme, as it fits with both the modern and traditional first-year anniversary themes.

Nellianna Origami Wall Clock

Brides / Vicky Wasik

We all love getting love letters, but we know that writing them can be difficult. Where on earth do you start when there’s so much you love about someone? This set of 12 time-capsule letters comes with prompts for that very reason.

Take one out and start writing whenever you feel inspired. Then, give all 12 to your darling on your anniversary. If they open one a month, they’ll have enough sweet notes to last until next year.

Who It's For

This gift was made with the writer in mind. If you love jotting down your thoughts and feelings, there's no better way to share them with your partner than with this thoughtful surprise.

Zavyanne8 Custom Couple Silhouette

Zavyanne8 Custom Couple Silhouette

Etsy

This art piece makes a gorgeous and romantic anniversary gift. In front of a hand-painted galaxy background is a floating paper cutout that includes the silhouette of two people in a loving embrace. Above them, a sweet message rests on a series of banners: “Love begins in a moment, grows over time, and lasts an eternity.” The cutout also includes the couple’s names and their anniversary date.

Who It's For

Sci-fi lovers will especially appreciate this galaxy-inspired print that proves your love is strong enough to last through space and time.

Dipinto Ad Arte Ceramic Address Plaque

Dipinto Ad Arte Ceramic Address Plaque

Etsy

Home is where the heart is, so make it your own with this gorgeous blue and white porcelain address plaque. These plaques are kiln-fired and hand-painted, so they can stand up to the elements and remain vibrant year after year. You can also have them customized with your names or any other information you’d like to include. From now on, this plaque will be a welcome sight after both long and short trips away.

Who It's For

New homeowners will be keen on home-enhancing gifts like this porcelain plaque. It will add a personalized touch to the couple's new abode.

Copper And Toad Customized Couple and Dog Print

Copper And Toad Customized Couple and Dog Print

 Amazon

Isn’t puppy love the best? Here’s a personalized piece of art to celebrate their bond with furry friends. In this sweet print, a couple sits on a bench with their pups beside them. For a custom touch, the back of the bench includes their names and a cute little heart.

Who It's For

Of course, this thoughtful print couldn't be more purr-fect for pet parents, as it puts your little furry family on full display.

Love Poems

Love Poems

 Amazon

This pocket-sized book compiles the best romantic poetry with sentiments from classic authors, ancient sages, and modern writers. It's the perfect gift to express your feelings about your significant other, and it will give them something special to read before bed each night.

Who It's For

Give this sentimental gift to your partner who loves poetry and is always pinning thoughtful quotes to their Pinterest board.

Boulevard Newlywed Anniversary Wine Carrier

Boulevard Newlywed Anniversary Wine Carrier

 Amazon

Surprise wine is the best wine, and this lovely pinewood wine carrier has compartments for three bottles. Each compartment is decorated with an image of two love birds on a branch and instructions to “open on your” first, second, and third anniversaries. The compartments are secured with brass latches, too, in case anyone gets ideas about sneaking a peak to discover what the next year has in store.

Who It's For

For the wine-loving couple, this gift can do no wrong. And it will give you something to look forward to on your next few anniversaries to come.

Oak & Luna Pillar Bar Necklace

Oak & Luna Pillar Bar Necklace

 Amazon

When wearing this bold pillar necklace, your partner will have a piece of you to carry with them everywhere they go. You can have the sides engraved with your names and/or wedding date, and select a gold bar in keeping with the color theme associated with the first anniversary. The necklace comes in rugged and delicate styles, depending on the look your loved one likes the most.

Who It's For

This unique and thoughtful necklace is made for the fashion-forward guy who isn't afraid to accessorize.

Uncommon Goods A Year of Connection

A Year of Connection

Uncommon Goods

This sleek stationery set comes with 52 foil cards that read: “You Matter to Me,” “Just Wanted to Say Hello,” “Thinking of You,” or “I Want You to Know.” Fill one out every week for a year after you get married, dedicating them to your sweetie. At the end of the year, they'll have the perfect anniversary gift to commemorate your time together (and many more days and weeks to come).

Who It's For

This gift is perfect for the busy couple. Even though you may not spend as much time together as you'd like, these cards show just how much that time you do have together means to you.

A.M. Thorne Moonstone + Salt + Pepper Diamond Studs

A simple twist on a classic pair of studs, these earrings are designed in 14K yellow gold and pair rainbow or white moonstone with rose cut salt and pepper diamond. Both classy and ethereal, they’ll look just as good with a black evening gown as they will with a cable-knit sweater.

Who It's For

If your partner is a fan of the finer things in life, they are sure to appreciate this luxury set of diamond and moonstone earrings.

Etsy Newspaper Printable 1st Anniversary Gift

This cute anniversary poster features a worn, vintage look that mimics an old newspaper. Simply add your names, anniversary date, and a sweet message with a photo from your wedding day. Frame it, and you’ll have a new addition to the gallery wall.

Who It's For

If your partner appreciates truly unique items, they're sure to love this one-of-a-kind and personalized print.

Storyworth Book

With a Storyworth subscription, you’ll receive one of several hundred question prompts via email once a week that you’ll respond to. At the end of the year, all your answers, or stories, will be bound into a sleek book with a photo on the front. We suggest titling it “It began with us” and including a photo of the two of you for the cover—it’ll make a sweet keepsake that your spouse can turn to time and time again.

Who It's For

This sentimental gift was made for the sensitive type, and it's sure to bring a happy tear or two to their eyes.

Mnewmosyne 183 A5 Notebook

Mnewmosyne 183 A5 Notebook

Greer Chicago

If your spouse is creative, a special notebook for drawing or journaling is an ideal gift. This one features blank, acid-free paper that’s thick enough to use a fountain pen on. At the top of each sheet is a place for a title or number to keep track of your thoughts. It’s all enclosed inside a chic black cover.

Who It's For

For the partner who prioritizes their mindfulness, this journaling notebook is the perfect gift to celebrate one year of marriage. It gives them a space to jot down their reflections over the next year of marriage to come.

Perfect for everything from grocery runs to dinner parties, this glimmering gold watch will always keep you on time. A sunray dial, mineral crystal face, and mirrored bezel all shine with elegance. The bracelet is 15 millimeters wide and adjustable with removable links to fit a variety of wrist sizes.

Who It's For

Give this to the guy who's always running late (wink, wink)—especially if he's always running behind to pick out a killer outfit.

Deanna First Custom Matchbook Gift

You definitely have a list of special bars and restaurants—the one where you had your first date, the fancy spot where you celebrated a big birthday, and the local favorite that you frequent all the time. Pick those that are most special to you, and Deanna First will draw matchbook illustrations for each one in a single print that you can frame.

Who It's For

This gift is perfect for the foodie who is always scoping out the next best restaurant in town, and we love that this is both a fun and thoughtful option.

Ygdigital Digital Alarm Clock

Ygdigital Digital Alarm Clock

Amazon

Sometimes, the best kind of clock is one that’s simple—and one that allows you to snooze. This alarm clock includes a large LED display and three levels of brightness so you can see the time without squinting, plus two USB ports so you can keep your phone, AirPods, and other devices charged.

Who It's For

This techy gift is made for the morning person! If your partner is always up before the sun, they'll definitely appreciate this useful and practical gift.

Etsy Personalized Comic Book

Capture how you met in a personalized comic book—it's a creative and unexpected play on the paper theme. This Etsy vendor provides a template that allows you to upload your favorite photos and write your story. There’s even a dedication page for you to fill out. Choose from a standard comic with space for 19 images, a longer version with 38 images, or a hardback comic with 49 images.

Who It's Fors

This gift could not be more on-brand for the one who loves graphic novels. Take this gift to the next level and pair it with tickets to Comic-Con.

If you’re a couple who loves a date night in, a cookbook is a classic gift that you’ll both get use of. With The Essential New York Times Cookbook, you’ll have over 1,000 recipes to whip up in your kitchen together. This updated version includes 120 new recipes, so get your salt and oil ready.

Who It's For

Give this foodie-themed gift to the amateur chef in your life. They'll love whipping up these recipes each week, and it'll be something you both can enjoy together.

Uncommon Goods Intimacy Card Deck

Intimacy Card Deck

Uncommon Goods

A deck of cards is right on par with the paper theme. This set includes 150 questions from six different categories, ranging from “relationships” to “about you,” that will keep you both talking all night long and strengthen your connection. All you’ll need is a bottle of wine, a cozy blanket, and a couch to pair it with.

Who It's For

Is your partner a deep thinker who loves intimacy and meaningful conversation? They will swoon over this card deck that will only bring you closer as a couple.

Fredericks and Mae Wildflower Seed Paper Cannon

Wildflower Seed Paper Cannon

Fredericks and Mae

If you're looking for a gift that's both sustainable and festive, go for this confetti that's embedded with wildflower seeds. Take a canister out to the backyard after your anniversary dinner, and let it pop! Over time, blacked-eyed susans, cocksomb, and sesame flowers will begin to grow—a perfect symbol of your blossoming life together.

Who It's For

If your spouse is a nature lover who loves a fresh bouquet of flowers, they'll appreciate this unique and garden-ready gift.

Book of the Month Subscription

Book of the Month Subscription

Book of the Month

A bookworm will love this subscription—it's a paper gift that keeps giving! Every month, they’ll have an average of five books to choose from from a range of categories, including romance, thrillers, and fiction. They’ll always have something new for the bookshelf.

Who It's For

Of course, this gift is ideal for the reader in your life. If your partner is always looking for their next great read, a book subscription is a no-fail option.

Mahli Alarm Clock

Mahli Himalayan Salt Sunrise Alarm Clock

Urban Outfitters

No one enjoys waking up to the sound of an aggressively blaring alarm. Wake up to the sunrise instead—at least, an alarm that mimics the real thing. This alarm clock features a Himalayan salt base that emits a warm glow when it’s time for you to wake up. It’s available in black, white, and brass to suit any decor style.

Who It's For

Ideal for the not-so-morning person, this gentle alarm clock will help make their mornings just a little bit easier.

CUFFLINKS, INC. Watch Movement Cufflinks

Watch Movement Cufflinks

Nordstrom

This stately pair of cufflinks throws vintage flair into a modern silhouette, featuring wind-up movements from early- to mid-twentieth-century watches. Made of gunmetal plates, they are three-fourths inches in diameter. The distinct design will pop against any dress shirt, which is perfect for the modern man with style.

Who It's For

Perfect for the technical worker or engineer, these cuff links bring a fun and modern vibe to an otherwise traditional accessory.

Etsy Venue Sketch Print

Throw it back to your wedding day with a custom sketch print of your venue. It’ll feature your names, the venue name, and your anniversary date. Photos are great, but there’s something special about an illustration. You can order it as a print to stick with the anniversary theme of paper, or as a canvas. It’ll add a sweet touch to your mantle or dresser.

Who It's For

Any type of special print like this one is perfect for the art connoisseur. They're sure to admire and appreciate this new and thoughtful addition to your home.

Anthropologie Metallic Wallpaper

Treat yourselves to a home renovation. We love this metallic wallpaper to glam up a bathroom—it’s loud and bold enough to command a small space. If you're looking for something more subtle and muted, Anthropologie has plenty of stunning wallpaper designs and prints to choose from.

Who It's For

Couples who are renovating or redesigning their home are sure to appreciate this gift that adds texture and glamor to any space.

Etsy Anniversary Clock

Not every clock needs to tell the actual time of day. This one shows the time that has elapsed since the day you got married. Three clocks highlight the years, months, days, hours, minutes, and seconds that have passed. Even better, it can play the song of your first dance.

Who It's For

Wow, a sentimental gift like this one is hard to beat. We love the idea of giving this to the partner who works from home. They can put this keepsake on their desk and think of your time together every time they look at it.

The latest Apple Watch in this sleek band is the perfect gift for the spouse who loves to break a sweat and track their steps. With advanced health sensors and apps, you can take an ECG, measure heart rate, and blood oxygen, track temperature changes for advanced insights into your menstrual cycle, and more.

Who It's For

While an Apple Watch is useful for just about anyone, those who are dedicated to their fitness and wellness routine will be especially grateful for the practical and useful gift.

Lime & Lou Custom Canvas

music memories custom canvas

Lime & Lou

Turn your wedding song into a beautiful piece of wall decor with this custom canvas from Lime & Lou. It's a thoughtful gift that highlights such a special day in your lives as a couple. Customize everything including the song, the memory (such as "our first dance"), your names or a date, and the center color of the record.

Who It's For

Is your partner a musician or a lover of all things music? Well, then this gift is perfect for them.

Papier Recipe Journal

If your partner loves to cook, they'll adore this custom recipe journal. It features sections for every meal of the day—including 25 recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plus, there's space for note ratings, dietary requirements, hints, and tips for each recipe. Make it special by customizing the title, selecting from eight different colors, and adding their name.

Who It's For

For the couple who would rather stay in than go out, this custom recipe book will take their weekly meals and at-home date nights to the next level.

Minted Watercolor Venue Portrait

Minted Watercolor Venue Portrait

Minted

It's been one full year since your big day, and this custom watercolor portrait from the Minted + Brides Collection is the perfect way to commemorate it. All you need to do is upload a wedding photo and customize the text for a keepsake you'll both cherish for many anniversaries to come.

Who It's For

Did you get married at a destination wedding? Memorializing your far-away venue with a custom print will preserve the adventure even further.

Map Your Travels Deluxe Push Pin World Map

Map Your Travels Deluxe Push Pin World Map

 Amazon

From your honeymoon to future family vacations, you're taking on the world together as a married couple. Track all of the adventures along the way with this custom push-pin map, which comes with a handmade frame and color-coded pins to track where you've been, where you're doing next, and what destinations are on your bucket list.

Who It's For

Another exciting yet thoughtful gift for the traveling couple, this map gives you a place to track all of the once-in-a-lifetime adventures to come.

Oakdene Designs Personalized Pop Out Photo Box

Oakdene Designs Personalized Pop Out Photo Box

Etsy

How adorable is this little personalized photo box from Etsy? Fill it with your wedding photos, pictures from a special vacation (such as your honeymoon), or a combo of all your favorite memories together from over the years. Then, customize the cover for a special touch.

Who It's For

This gift is spot on for the collector who always seems to keep special mementos from various periods of life. This is one item that they're sure to cherish forever.

West & Willow Custom Pet Portrait

West & Willow Custom Pet Portraits

West & Willow

Did you add a new furry member to the family this year? Opt for this adorable custom print that puts your pet on display. You can choose from a variety of background colors, sizes, and frames to match your decor aesthetic, then upload a photo of your pet and customize it with their name.

Who It's For

Another great gift option for the pet parents out there, this print is especially thoughtful for celebrating your first-ever pet together.

Zazzle Photo Collage Rustic Farmhouse Square Wall Clock

Zazzle Photo Collage Rustic Farmhouse Square Wall Clock

Zazzle

Your love stands the test of time, and this clock proves it! This rustic statement piece—which is available in six different design aesthetics and features 12 of your favorite photos—will make a beautiful addition to your home.

Who It's For

Ideal for couples who live in the countryside—or who just love a rustic chic design aesthetic—this clock will perfectly complement your home while sharing some of your favorite photos.

MochiThings Ticket Stub Album

MochiThings Ticket Stub Album

MochiThings

Is live music your partner's love language? Give them a place to save all of their concert tickets and the memories they made at their favorite shows. This album features 50 pages, 100 pockets, and space to write down the date, venue location, and their thoughts on each event.

Who It's For

Give this music-inspired gift to the festival- and concert-goer who always has headphones in their ears.

A scented take on the gift of time, this coiled beeswax candle is made to last. Every three-inch increment burns for approximately one hour, and the unique design ensures better use of wax than traditional shapes. Not to mention, it's a rustic and timeless addition to your home decor collection.

Who It's For

This nifty candle was made for the self-care queen who always has candles and essential oils burning. They'll be excited to add this unique piece to their collection.

Pictura Poema Personalized Wedding Portrait

PicturaPoema Personalized Wedding Portrait

Etsy

There's no need to be modest. You look great together, and you know it. This one-of-a-kind custom portrait is hand-drawn and can even include your pets. Just allow extra time for delivery—the artist will use your photos to create a "proof" for you to approve before it's finished and shipped.

Who It's For

This thoughtful print is perfect for the artsy couple who appreciates unique pieces of work. They'll especially love how this reflects them as a married couple.

What to Look for in a First Anniversary Gift

  • The Traditional Gift: Paper: The delicate yet strong, properties of paper make it the perfect symbol for the first year of marriage. Consider personalized art prints, custom stationery, or a sweet album with your favorite photos. Get creative! So many things are made from paper. Consider books, prints, card games, and photos. The modern gift is a clock, so think about watches and alarms in addition to an actual clock itself.
  • The Modern Gift: A Clock: With so many memories to share, the first year of marriage goes quickly! Commemorate the passage of time and the beginning of a long journey together with a special timepiece. This can range from personalized watches and fitness trackers to modern wall pieces or vintage-style standing clocks.
FAQ
  • How should we celebrate our first anniversary?

    You might want to go out for a fancy dinner or choose to cook a romantic meal at home. It's also a great idea to plan a getaway together, even if it's just for a few days—something as simple as breakfast in bed or a hike through nature can also make the day feel special.

    Apryl Roberts, the founder of Memorable Events, says her favorite suggestion is to take a quick trip. “The first year of marriage can oftentimes be challenging due to the new adjustments of married life,” she advises. “A trip helps to reflect and restart the passions that led to matrimony.” Bonus: It’ll provide a lot of photos for you to use in future anniversary gifts to come.

  • What is a good anniversary gift?

    When it comes to choosing an anniversary gift, the more personal and unique the gift, the better. It shows that you've gone the extra mile and are commemorating a moment that's special to the two of you.

  • What are some experiential gift ideas?

    If you want to ditch the anniversary themes and go with an experiential gift, Roberts is full of suggestions: a couples’ spa date, a private chef-hosted dinner, or a private wine or beer pairing excursion. You can even create a local date scavenger hunt, heading from restaurant to wine bar to dessert bar to the beach.

Why Trust Brides

Mckenzie Eggers loves anniversary celebrations and is an expert in gifts for every type and year. She sees anniversaries as important opportunities for partners to pause and recognize how grateful they are for one another.

Brides contributor Hillary Hoffower has over eight years of experience writing for the wedding industry, covering everything from bridal fashion trends to wedding decor. She’s an artsy type, so she loves thinking of creative ways to put a spin on anniversary themes. There’s so much you can do with paper!

For this story, the Brides team tested several of the top products and extensively researched the gift market. We considered materials, quality, ease of use, aesthetics, value, and packaging in our assessment. We also consulted with wedding and event experts, including:

  • Jessica Sloane, a Nashville-based wedding and event planner. She is also known for her styling expertise, design skills, and collaborative client-planner relationship.
  • Apryl Roberts, the founder of Memorable Events, a Virginia-based event and production company.
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A Guide to First Anniversaries

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