An anniversary is a unique celebration, a moment that symbolises the timelessness of love. As each year passes it recalls the happiness of the past, while creating wonderful new memories for the future.

A Brief History

Before the middle-to-late 1930s, not all wedding anniversaries had a material representing the celebrational year. Only the 1st, and milestone anniversaries such as, 10th, 20th, 25th, 50th and 70th had a material gift suggestion. Further materials for the traditional list were added by an American jewellery association. Why there was a long gap between 50th and 70th and for many years, and why there was no material representing 65th anniversary is not known. Over the years more materials were added and the list up-dated and modernised by various American and British commercial companies.

Tradition

Traditionally gifts exchanged or from family and friends in the early years of marriage were practical household items to help the couple build up their home. Luxury gifts were given in the later years when the couple were assumed to have most things they needed.

The Power of Paper

The paper gift of the first year's anniversary may look boring at first sight, but it has endless possibilities. Tickets to theatre, opera, night club, or the couples favourite venue. A photograph by a professional photographer. A subscription to a favourite magazine. Shares in a company. Or something unusual. Tickets for a hot air balloon ride. Have a star named after a loved one. These are just a few of the possibilities.

Gift Suggestions

Below is a list of recognised gift suggestions: