We as humans like to give a lot of importance to certain events in our lives. We mark out dates that represent something memorable that has happened to us, and we tend to celebrate those days each year. Anniversaries are one example. They’re a great, romantic way lovey-dovey couples can reminisce the times they’ve spent with each other and remind themselves just how amazing their love is.
Gifts are another thing that’s quite common during such occasions. The married duo can give each other gifts, but guests should also bring something as well. Now, choosing the perfect present year after year can be challenging, which is why in the early 1920s, a famous writer named Emily Post decided to solve the problem by creating a list about what item should be given on each anniversary date. Today, that list’s modernized and it makes the perfect guide that can help you make the ideal pick.
First Year Anniversary Present: Clocks
It’s considered that the aesthetic dome clocks make the ideal anniversary present meant to mark the first year of a successful marriage. Clocks are considered to be a symbol of time, and as we know time is very precious. It can help the love birds see that their relationship’s just as significant and will remind them to look after each other in the times that are yet to come, just how they have done during the past year. Now, you might wonder – What is a dome clock?
Also going by the names anniversary or 400 day clock, this invention is meant to last somewhere around a year, only to be rewound again. The mechanism is entirely mechanical. It’s a type of clock that works through a spring and a spinning pendulum. People tend to choose it not only because it makes a great symbol of timeless love, but for other reasons as well.
One reason is that practical dome clocks require very little attention, mostly because they usually need to be set up once, and will then continue to work accurately all year long with no issues. The second reason is that they are very aesthetically pleasing and that’s all thanks to their significant design. They’re usually placed in a glass or crystal case that allows you to look into the interesting pendulum mechanism of the clock.
Some people even engrave the happy couple’s wedding date on it. You can also pick from different designs. These time-telling machines can be of a complete ancient look, can come in a wooden design, can be placed in very expensive golden or silver cases, or they can come along with musical elements.
The choice is up to you. Other than dome anniversary clocks, there are also other less popular but still quite good options you can choose from. These can include: a kitchen timer, a wall clock, or a regular wristwatch.
Second Year Gift: China
For a celebration of the second year of marriage, it’s suggested that you get china. It’s the ultimate robust, yet delicate gift that can be broken if not handled properly. This will remind the lovers that they should also care for their relationship as it’s very fragile too. The best varieties you can go for here are:
- Fine China – It is made from a type of white clay, named kaolin. The difference between porcelain and fine china is that the firing temperature in the production process is much higher, which makes it a much durable product. The smooth structure along with the opaque, white colour make the ideal features for classy-looking sets.
- Bone China – The manufacturing process here includes bone ash, kaolin clay and china stone. The end product is a delicate, lightweight material with a milky colour, and it can be used to make breathtaking items. This type is probably the most convenient and advantageous. Besides its’ rich looks, it is unbreakable, microwave and dishwasher-safe and it is meant for both everyday use or for events of special occasion.
These materials can be used to make exquisite ornaments, home items like vases, bowls, plates, or mugs.
Third Anniversary Gift Ideas: Glass or Crystal
As we know, crystal and glass are both very fragile materials that can easily be broken. Getting them as a present, be it the aforementioned fancy anniversary clock with dome or china will make the couple more aware of the fragility of their very own relationship.
You have additional choices in this category too. Firstly, you can get a breathtaking crystal figurine or sculpture of any shape. Animal-shaped ones are very popular, as each of them can additionally symbolize other things. For example, a figurine of two doves can represent harmony and love.
Secondly, home items made out of crystal are also a good pick. You can buy delicate wine goblets, dishes, elegant bowls or candle holders. A common option is to get crystal jewellery. It can be a bracelet, a nice pendant or necklace, or a gorgeous pair of earrings. The good thing is you can choose from numerous crystal styles.
The shapes of the necklace or earrings can be oval or almond-shaped, star-shaped, an octagon, a rose or pearl shape, a drop or a round variety. As for the type of crystal, it’s best if you get gemstones, or more specifically: diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires.
Lastly, glass is also a good choice for the third anniversary. Figurines, ornaments and dishes are excellent picks, but it’s more common that you get high-quality glassware that the couple can use throughout their years together.
Fourth Year Presents: Appliances
Electrical appliances are the products to go for when looking for presents meant to celebrate four-year anniversaries. They’re super practical, and it’s obvious that the receivers will benefit a lot from them. Appliances are used in our everyday lives now, thanks to the fast growth of technology. Now, your options here are many too. Here’s a quick list of ideas:
- A coffee machine.
- TV.
- Laptop, tablet or computer.
- Refrigerator or a freezer.
- Oven, toaster or microwave.
- Dishwasher.
- Washing machine or dryer.
- Blender, juicer or food processor.
- Iron.
- Vacuum cleaner.
- Air conditioner.
Fifth Anniversary Present: Silverware
Finally, for the fifth year it’s said that it’s best to get silverware. It’s known to be a symbol of purity and strength in a marriage. Here, most commonly, people go for the sustainable silver cutlery as the ultimate wedding gift.
These kinds of cutlery sets are excellent because they add quite an elegant appeal to the dining table. Their composition is also healthy as well. Silverware has been known to be able to purify water, which means it can keep water tasting fresh. Not just that, it keeps the food fresh too.
Silver’s also significant for giving a ‘cooling’ effect. It’s able to boost immunity and it’s a non-toxic material, so you won’t have to worry about food contamination. Let’s not forget to mention that it’s also very durable and makes a great investment.
Other silverware gift options can include silver photo frames, which make for a great personalized present and will allow the married couple to frame their closest moments together. Candlesticks made out of silver are also popular. Nothing will add to the romance and warm feeling than a nice candlelit dinner.
Conclusion
Hopefully this mini anniversary gifting guide will help you get the right item to mark and celebrate the love of the receivers. Getting the right present for such a special occasion will not only make the lovers happy, it’s said that it can also bring luck and joy into their household. So, take your time and make sure you get the perfect one!