While the first wedding anniversary often comes with a grandiose celebration—like a big trip or a luxe staycation, and of course that top layer of wedding cake—the second is no less special and deserves to be celebrated. So, how do you mark year two in a way that feels fresh and new? Start by choosing a second anniversary gift that perfectly symbolizes your love and affection.
The traditional second anniversary gift is cotton, making this a prime time to splurge on upgraded bedding or a cozy throw you can use when snuggled up together on the couch. The modern gift is china–consider adding to your entertaining stash or finding a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. But by all means, feel free to think outside the box, and remember that going with a personalized, custom gift is always a foolproof plan.
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Laura Jennings, a gifting expert and the founder and CEO of Knack, recommends incorporating the traditional theme into a cozy article of clothing. Another great option? “If you’re going to buy yourselves something together to celebrate your anniversary, it's great to splurge on luxurious sheets or bedding—it's something you’ll both appreciate for a long time,” she says.
To help you find the perfect gift for your favorite person, we researched and narrowed down the best second anniversary gifts, considering the theme, functionality, thoughtfulness, personalization, and overall value. To evaluate the quality of the overall product, as well as custom details, we tested out some of our top picks in our NYC lab.
For something sweet and cozy for two, we love the The Modish Home Personalized Couples Initials Throw. For something sentimental, the Indigo Rose Co. String Art and the Pretty and Shine Wedding Vows Calligraphy Print are our top picks.
Read on for the best second-anniversary gifts your spouse is sure to love.
Indigo Rose Co. Cotton String Art
Durable
Ready to hang
Customizable
Pricey
No color options (only stains)
A fun and unexpected take on the cotton theme, this piece of artwork uses cotton string to create the shape of any state, with a heart placed over the city of your choosing. Customize one with the special place where you met, got married, or currently live.
Ultimately, we think this artwork would be a great gift for someone who appreciates a more rustic interior design style. Our tester customized it with the state of Kansas, where her family has a farm. "It's nice that you can tell it's handmade," she noted. We really appreciated the quality and that the piece was made of a hefty, evenly stained wood plank.
However, we did feel like the piece was a bit expensive for the simplicity of the materials (wood, string, and nails), but we liked the creative approach to a traditional map. It's great value if you're looking for a super personalized gift that's specific to an important place.
Personalization: Stain Color, State, City | Dimensions: 12" x 12"
The Modish Home Couples Initials Throw Blanket
Incorporating both the cotton and personalization element, this oversized blanket is customized with your initials and wedding year. Toss it over your couch to have on hand for snuggling up during movie nights, or layer it over the bedding in your master bedroom. It’s also available in two different sizes.
After testing, we noticed the graphic print on this blanket really stands out. We felt that the execution of the design was crisp and clear, however, the material felt a little cheap and synthetic. It's pretty affordable for the size, but we would have liked something with a softer and more plush touch.
Our tester also found that font and design options were limited, but that the throw would be a great choice for a couple with a traditional aesthetic. Because this is a bold decor piece, we would recommend getting to know the couple's home style before committing to it.
Personalization: Initials, Special Date | Dimensions: 50" x 60", 60" x 80"
"This is a great gift for a couple who loves to spend time at home together—it's perfect for displaying on a sofa or at the end of a bed." — Kate Donovan, Senior Editor
INSIDEOUTGIFT Embroidered Anniversary Roman Date Hoodies
A non-cheesy way to rock matching outfits, these super cool hoodies are embroidered with your wedding date in roman numerals. There are eight soft colors to choose from, as well as crewnecks and t-shirt options available if you're looking for a different style.
Personalization: Color, Special Date | Sizes: S-L
Pretty and Shine Calligraphy Print
Have your wedding song, wedding vows, or even just a heartfelt message transformed into a gorgeous print. Each piece is custom printed onto a piece of handmade cotton paper (the frame comes separately). Available in seven different sizes, this is also a budget-friendly pick.
When testing, we really liked the organic, botanical style of the print and the rustic, romantic feel that it has to it. Our tester customized the print with her brother and sister-in-law's vows. She explained that they had a small backyard ceremony and then a larger party for extended family and friends. Because many of the people at the reception weren't there for the ceremony, they displayed this print with their vows at the welcome table.
We found that the print looked best when it was framed and seen from a bit of a distance. "When you step back, you get a sense of the delicate design," our tester shared. "Up close and unframed, the paper seems a little cheap." Granted—it would be more expensive—but we would have liked to have seen letterpress or hand-drawn version versus a printed text.
Personalization: Material, Vows | Dimensions: 5"x7", 8 x 10", 8.5" x 11", and more
Minted Botanical Cascade Snap Tote
Delight your spouse with this romantic floral tote from the exclusive minted + BRIDES Gifts Collection. It's made with 100% cotton, features a brushed-copper snap closure, and can be personalized with a foil-pressed leather name tag for an added sentimental detail.
Personalization: Embossed Tag | Dimensions: 15.5” H x 16” W x 3.5” D
The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition
Feel like you’re starting to fall into a bit of a date night rut by year two? Here’s the perfect way to spice things up. The mystery scratch-off book comes with 50 creative adventures…but you don’t know what they are until you scratch them off. There’s also a space to write down notes and even add photos after you complete each one. Commit to doing one together weekly or monthly, and this makes for the perfect gift that keeps on giving.
Number of Players: 2 Players | Suggested Age: 18 Years and Up
PaperAnniversaryLove Custom Tray
These trays are a meaningful—and practical—gift for him or her. Choose from a variety of shapes and sizes, then add custom text on the inside. It can be something as simple as your wedding date, your vows, or a few lines highlighting what you love about your partner. The message is printed on organic cotton, in keeping with the second-anniversary theme.
When testing, we liked that it could be used by different genders and the text is completely customizable. While our tester felt that the tray was sturdy, she was surprised by the size. "It's way larger than I expected and will take up a lot of room on a night stand." She explained that it's not really a ring dish, but instead a surface that can corral phones, glasses, and other bedside items.
We were a little concerned that the cotton surface could get stained or ruined easily. We wish the base was covered in a clear, more durable material. "Accidents happen—I'm just imagining spilling a water glass on my nightstand and wondering how this would hold up," shared our tester. We felt that it would be an impressive gift overall, just maybe something the recipient would want to handle with care.
Personalization: Font, Title, Name, Date | Dimensions: 7” x 4”, 8” x 8”, 13” x 8”
Artifact Uprising Signature Layflat Photo Album
At this point, you’ve probably already compiled your wedding album, so why not create another album capturing all the fun and memories that have ensued since? This elegantly bound book features high-quality pages and a choice of linen or leather covers. For a personal touch, have a custom title foil stamped on the front.
Our tester used the photos from her own wedding to test out this product. She was impressed with the luxe linen cover and the thick, superfine card stock pages. She also felt that the quality of the photos was high: "The images are clear and have a matte finish to them," she shared.
Although we liked the photos in general, we didn't always love the cropping. "There was a lot white space and some photos were too small for the page," noted our tester. The album is also a bit pricey. But given the heavy card stock interior and high-quality cover, we can definitely see where the value comes from.
Overall, the extra white space and smooth pages would make for a great gift as a wedding guest book for close friends or family. Adding in engagement photos and have guests sign it with sweet notes at the wedding might also be a great idea for this gift.
Personalization: Colors, Text, Photos | Dimensions: 8.5” x 8.5”, 8.5” x 11”, 11” x 8.2”
Dust and Things Personalized Keepsake Box
This charming, handcrafted box is made by a small family-run business in the United Kingdom. It's the perfect spot to store travel keepsakes, love notes, and special date night ephemera like ticket stubs and menus. It's a simple way to show how much you cherish your memories together.
Personalization: Box Types, Names | Dimensions: Box 1 : 28cm x 18cm x 13.5cm, Box 2: 28cm x 18cm x 13.5cm, Box3: 35cm x 25cm x 18cm
Canvas Vows First Dance Lyrics on Canvas
Both a sweet and sentimental way to commemorate your wedding and a cool piece of artwork for your home, this custom canvas features the sheet music from your first dance song. With eight different sizes to choose from, this can either be a beautiful accent or a serious statement-maker.
When testing, we found that it looked very different from what we ordered. Maybe something was lost in translation—we were expecting musical notes, but the canvas contained text with a faded background instead. We liked the smaller size of the stretched canvas (it also comes in a range of larger sizes, as well). The quality seems to be a bit flimsy, but it's pretty close to what we expected for something in this price range.
Personalization: Song, Design Style | Dimensions: 10" x 2", 12" x 20", 12" x 24" and more
It's Your Turn Socks Cotton Anniversary Socks
Fun and whimsical, these matching socks are a sweet option for anyone looking for a smaller gift or a little something extra to pair with a larger present. Choose from four different colors and add your wedding date and names for a personalized touch.
Personalization: Names, Special Date | Colors: Black, Navy
Rose Gold Rebel Men’s Duffel Bag
Any type of luggage is always a super practical and welcomed gift. This weekender bag is made from 100% cotton canvas, so it’s totally on theme and can be customized with either your spouse’s name or a monogram on the front. Pair it with a surprise stay-cation for an extra special anniversary celebration.
Personalization: Embroidered Monogram | Dimensions: 13"h x 20"w x 10.5"d
Casper Snoozewear Blanket Robe
This may be called a robe, but it’s truly more of a robe-blanket hybrid. The puffy, duvet-like design makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in your favorite comforter, but with the convenience of having armholes and pockets. It's the ultimate movie date night must-have.
Colors: Indigo, White, Oatmilk | Sizes: S-L
Mirage Engraving Personalized Compass
This beautiful compass can be engraved with pretty much any type of photo or text in the font of your choosing, including in your handwriting, making this feel extra personal. The leather case is an optional add-on, though one that’s well worth it.
Personalization: Engraving, Leather Case | Dimensions: 2'' Diameter - 13'' Long Chain
Mark & Graham Turkish Hydrocotton Bath Robe
Channel those ‘we’re relaxing in a five-star hotel’ vibes every day by slipping on this extra-soft, organic Turkish cotton robe. Make sure to pick up one for both you and your partner; you can even have them monogrammed with your initials for a personal touch.
Personalization: Font Style, Initials | Sizes: S-XL
Wendy Gold Studios Personalized Anniversary World Map
Oh, the places you’ll go. This beautiful keepsake comes with a vintage-inspired world map plus 100 pushpins. Use them to mark (and reminisce about) all of the places you’ve traveled together—from your hometowns to wedding destination to honeymoon spot—and/or to plot all the locations on your bucket list and plan future adventures to come.
Personalization: Names, Special Dates | Dimensions: 20" H x 26" W
Coyuchi Pismo Organic Blanket
When it comes to upgrading your bedding, this blanket is the perfect accent piece. Available in three, sun-washed colors, each with the same geometric print, it’s an easy way to add a fun visual touch to any neutral bedding. Made of organic Portuguese cotton, the blanket is stonewashed to make it extra soft, and the perfect weight to add extra warmth in the winter or use solo in the summer.
New York Times Custom Front Page Puzzle
A unique way to celebrate your wedding day, this puzzle features the front page of the New York Times from that exact day. Plus, putting the puzzle together doubles as a fun date night activity. You can choose a 500-piece puzzle, or go with the 1,000-piece option for an added challenge.
Personalization: Month, Date, Year | Dimensions: 19" L x 13" W
YaYa & Co. Brooklyn Knit Throw
If you could take your favorite, coziest, most worn winter sweater and turn it into a blanket, this is what you’d get. Made of 100 percent, sustainable cotton, the black knitted throw boasts a unique wash that gives it a dimensional and even more textured look; it’s just as chic as it is cozy. For every purchase, the brand plants trees in the Amazon rainforest.
Colors: Black, Denim, Earth Brown and more | Dimensions: 50" x 60"
Imabari Deluxe Bath Towel
These towels aren’t made out of just any old cotton. The brand partners with local artisans across the globe to create gorgeous wares in a fair-trade environment. In this case, it’s a Pima cotton from a family-run mill in Japan that’s been making towels for over a century. The end result is these stunning, waffle weave towels that feel as good as they look.
Material: 100% Cotton | Dimensions: 23.6" x 47.3"
New Horizons By KK Custom Ceramic Photo Coasters
We love this riff on the theme of china with these ceramic coasters. You can customize a set of four with any photos of your choosing. We like the idea of using some of your favorite wedding photos or highlights from your honeymoon.
Personalization: Pictures | Dimensions: 4" x 4"
Paper Anniversary The House We Made a Home
A gift that will equally become a life-long keepsake, this features a rendering of your home, carved into mahogany wood. And because the whole set is set into a 100% cotton background, it’s still on-brand for a second anniversary.
Personalization: Home Outline | Dimensions: 10" x 12", 12" x 18"
Heirloom Video Book
Rather than a standard greeting card, record your anniversary message for your spouse with this unique video book. A customization website makes it easy to upload up to 20 minutes of video into the book, which can also be personalized with a recorded greeting and printed note on the front cover.
Personalization: Personal Videos, Personal Message | Includes: 5" HD screen, Charger, 16 Different Cover Designs and more
R. Chiara Diamond Center Stackable Ring
You can simply never go wrong with diamonds. This delicate, 14K gold band features five inlaid round diamonds, which makes for a romantic and exquisite gift. It is beautifully worn on its own, but it also works well amidst the rest of your ring stack.
Material: 14k solid Yellow Gold | Band Width: 1.4 mm
Fifth & Cherry The 14 Cutting Board
This wooden cutting board is so stunning it could easily double as a work of art. Handmade from cherry wood, the board comes with a lifetime warranty and free refinishing for life. The fact that you can engrave the side with your name, wedding date, or any other text of your choosing makes it completely gift-worthy.
Weight: 7 lbs | Dimensions: 14” W x 14” D x 1.75” H
The Best is Yet to Come
Think of this keepsake book as a living time capsule, with plenty of pages to house love letters and display photos and mementos. It’s sure to quickly become a family heirloom. There’s also a list of traditional and modern anniversary gifts for each year, which is always helpful.
Personalization: Name, Date, Monogram | Dimensions: 13-1/2" W x 8-3/4" T x 1-7/8" D
TableTopics Date Night
A great way to keep things fun and exciting on date night, these cards pose unique and thought-provoking questions to help you reconnect and truly focus on one another. It's a perfect activity to do on the night of your anniversary celebration.
Ideal For: Married Couples, Partners | Dimensions: 4" x 4" x 4"
Parachute Percale Sheet Set
If you don’t need to completely revamp all of your bedding, but do want to upgrade your sheets, go with this set. Made of already-soft percale cotton, the fabric only gets better and softer with time and has the added benefit of being nice and cool to the touch, a boon for hot sleepers. While it comes in eight neutral shades, you can’t go wrong with the crisp and clean pure white.
Colors: Cream, White, Sand and more | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, and more
Brooklinen Luxe Move-In Bundle
If you didn’t register for new bedding for your wedding, consider this the perfect time to upgrade your sleeping situation. This complete set has everything you need, including a comforter, sheet bundle, and even pillows. Made of 100 percent long-staple cotton, it also totally fits this anniversary's theme, not to mention it's one gift you’re both guaranteed to get plenty of use out of.
Materials: 100% Long-Staple Cotton | Includes: Fitted sheet, Flat sheet, Duvet cover and more
Fellow The Rookie Pour-Over Kit
You probably already have a coffee maker in your kitchen, but we love the idea of gifting this to any java junkie to keep on hand in their office. It comes with an electric pour-over kettle, dripper, and carafe, all in a modern and minimal matte black design.
Colors: Smoke Green + Maple, Matte White, Matte Black | Highlights: Customizable Brew Settings, Precision Temperature and more
Southern Nature Cotton Anniversary Burr Wreath Ornament
Want to go the creative route? Another fun take on the traditional cotton theme, each one of these glass ornaments is filled with real American cotton. It’s a sentimental way to commemorate this special anniversary for many holidays to come.
Personalization: Text, Special Date | Dimensions: 5" W x 5" H
ModPawsUS Custom Pet Portrait
For the spouse who’s obsessed with their pet, there’s truly no better gift. Simply send in a photo of your pet and receive this custom-made whimsical print. Trust us, it’s guaranteed to please your pet-loving partner. Plus, it makes for a fun and unique decor piece for your home.
Personalization: Font, Name, and Photo | Dimensions: 8" x 10'", 12" x 16", 18" x 24"
CULTURE & NATURE Reed Diffuser
Aromatherapy is not to be overlooked as a gift. This cotton scented diffuser absorbs the fruity & floral scent fragrance oils and releases a delicate aroma into your room for months. The best part is, you can control how strong the fragrance is by using all the reeds, or not.
Scents: Clean Cotton, April Flowers, Black Cherry and more | Dimensions: 6.7oz (200ml)
Melody Rose London Kissing Couple Dinner Plate
If you’ve got a china lover on your hands that also appreciates humor or whimsy, this is the perfect gift to add to your kitchen. This gorgeous piece is edged with hand painted, burnished gold. Talk about luxe. Not to mention, it’s dishwasher safe (which we love).
Material: Fine Bone China | Dimensions: 27cm
Bags of Love Custom China Plate
If the above two items weren’t exactly your cup of tea, opt for a china that you can completely customize. You have full control with this one—choose not only what print will appear on the plate, but the plate size, hanger or stand, and background color. Once you hit “start design,” you’ll be directed to a page in which you can see your virtual plate change along with your designs as you go.
Personalization: Image, Plate Size, and Background Color | Dimensions: 6.5" (16.5cm), 8" (20.5 cm) or 10.3" (26.3cm) Diameter Available
Paper Anniversary Cotton Cufflinks
These cufflinks are a sleek accessory that represent your lives weaving together. Made with textured, weaved cotton and tarnish-proof metal for long-lasting quality—they will definitely make an impression. Add on a tie clip for just an extra $30.
Personalization: N/A | Dimensions: 6.5" (16.5cm), 8" (20.5 cm) or 10.3" (26.3cm) Diameter Available
LikeJanuary Custom Song Tote Bag
If you and your boo have a special album or couple of songs, this 100% organic cotton tote is a cute way to bring that playlist to life. You have the choice to choose from normal or heavy canvas, add a title, and customize all the subtext.
Personalization: Name, Date, Songs, Numbers, etc. | Dimensions: 16"x 15" Body
AMZPrint Song Lyric Pillow
While we’re on the topic of music, bring one special song to life in your home with a retro-inspired cotton pillow. You’re able to put the song name, your name along with your partners, and your anniversary date (if you want). An added bonus: you can also add in a photo of you and your boo, too.
Personalization: Names, Date, Song Title, Artist | Dimensions: 19" W x 13" L
Brooklinen Men’s Henry Pajama Set
Give the gift of comfort. This super-soft cotton pajama set comes in four different colorways, with side pockets, and tailored cuff details. Plus, it’s machine washable (which is always a plus).
Colors: Ribbon Stripe Poplin, Blue End on End Poplin, and Navy Breton Stripe Poplin | Sizes: XS-XXL
Ralph Lauren Cotton Jersey Sleep Set
Speaking of pajamas, this striped jersey set is a perfect cotton gift for her. This set comes with two pockets on the buttoned top for endless emotional support chapsticks, and in two adorable colorways.
Material: 100% Organic Cotton | Sizes: XS-XL
Solmate Socks Mismatched Crew Socks
Don’t let them get cold feet. These adorable socks are the epitome of cozy. Made from 100% recycled cotton blended yarns, they’re exceptionally soft. Choose from 30 different colorways that you think they’d love most and you’ve got yourself a great cotton gift.
Material: 100% Recycled Cotton | Sizes: S-XL
GroomsByMandy Cotton Handkerchief
Get them a handkerchief that is not only exceptionally soft, but embroidered with something special that means a lot to you both. Choose from 19 different colors and tons of different customization options to make it extra personal.
Personalization: Text, Logo (PNG) | Dimensions: 12 x 12”
FreshScarf Cotton Scarf
There’s nothing like a great go-to scarf. Cotton is a great fabric for those in-between days when you just need a lightweight layer. It’s so lightweight they can throw it in their bag and carry it around, too. Choose from 10 different colors such as Soft Green, Dusty Rose, and more.
Colors: Terracota, Ice, Purple and more | Dimensions: 34" W x 70"L
Carbon 2 Cobalt Men’s Key Boxer-Briefs
Refresh his rotation with a comfortable, sleek pack of undies. These are made with 95% organic cotton and 5% elastane, giving them great shape retention and stretch for ultimate comfort. Choose from six different colors that you think they’d love.
Colors: Black, Brick, Grey and more | Sizes: S-XXL
Mark and Graham 5 Piece Travel Organization Set
Do you and your boo love to travel? This adorable cotton set stands out from the rest. It not only has chic, playful illustrations on all its bags, but you can customize them with up to three characters and with one of four fonts so they can jetset in style.
Personalization: Name, Monogram | Dimensions: Cosmetic Cases: 5"w x 8"d x 5"h, Hair Accessories Case: 13"w x4.3"d x 3"h, etc
Bearaby Hugget Knot Pillow
Pillows can make or break your living space. And this cotton knot pillow is definitely a maker. Not only does it give your space a sleek look, it’s designed to be a gently-weighted cotton pillow with a rubber foam which relieves stress and targets your senses.
Colors: Matchstick, Terrazzo, Autumn Plum and more | Dimensions: Medium diameter approx 8", Large diameter approx 11"
The Cotton Canvas Co Custom Table Runner
If your partner loves to host, get them a custom cotton table runner to make their events even more special. Printed on high quality cotton canvas material, you can choose from 20 different colors for your customization for their next adorable tablescape.
Personalization: Text, Logo | Dimensions: 14" wide x 72" long
House This Printed Cotton Gift Box
While we’re on the topic of setting the table, if your partner also loves to cook with your little one, this adorable printed apron and glove set will make their day. It comes with an adult apron, a kids apron, hat, and gloves in an italian-inspired lemon print.
Material: 100% Cotton | Dimensions: Adult Apron: 24 x 32”, Kids Apron: 19.2 x 22.4”, and more
Creaitivity Designer Cotton Anniversary Flower
Get them flowers that will last a lifetime. This handmade flower is not only made from a soft cotton, but it comes with a glass tulip shaped vase and you have the option to add on a personalized card and tag.
Personalization: Personalised Tag and Card Gift | Dimensions: Vase is 6.5” tall, Personalised Tag is 5” x 7”
What To Look For in a 2nd-Anniversary Gift
- The Traditional Theme, Cotton: From crisp white sheets and cozy throws to handmade paper gifts, it's easy to find something that will fit this theme. It's also a great time to refresh some household items like towels and kitchen linens that you may have received from your registry two years ago. That's why we love the Brooklinen Luxe Move-In Bundle and the Parachute Percale Sheet Set.
- The Modern Theme, China: If you're looking for something a little different, think beyond dishes and platters. And a little customization goes a long way. Add a personalized touch by monogramming a bedside table tray or ring dish, suggests Jennings.
- Personalization: If you want to gift something that's more of a departure from the traditional and modern anniversary themes, personalization is key. A monogrammed accessory, a piece of unique artwork, or another custom item will stand out and feel like you've gone the extra mile.
Why Trust Brides
Brides contributor Melanie Rud has nearly 15 years of journalism experience covering the beauty and lifestyle space for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She also recently planned her own wedding.
- Laura Jennings, who is the founder and CEO of Knack, a custom gift-giving company specializing in personalized gifts and curated boxes.