Dating and Relationship

Posts Tagged ‘Wood or Silverware Anniversary’

Wedding anniversaries are among the most meaningful and celebrated events in a couple’s life together. In fact, one vital piece of advice given to spouses is “don’t forget your anniversary.” Why? Because anniversaries are a way to say “I love you more than ever” and “I’m glad I married you.”

They are a way to recommit and reconnect to each other, and to acknowledge deepening love and respect. Have a romantic dinner for just the two of you, or plan an exciting weekend. Show each other how much the day means.

Year One: The Paper Anniversary

On your paper anniversary, why not write something on that paper? How about a poem or letter about “why we’re so terrific together” or “the best moment of our first year of marriage.” Other paper choices are checks and show tickets, gift certificates and origami, even photographs.

The traditional symbols or materials linked to the first four anniversaries are paper, cotton, leather and linen. The modern ones are clocks, cotton or china, crystal or glass, and silk or electrical appliances. More treasured than any of those will be that special, private dinner or time together for just the two of you.

Year Five: Wood or Silverware Anniversary

There is a saying about marriages that goes “If you can make it five years, you can make it.” Perhaps that’s why the suggested gifts for this anniversary are wood or silverware–solid, permanent materials. What a good time to have a family photo framed in wood, or a hand carved box for treasures.

Even an important piece of wood furniture will make a memory of the special day. It’s a way to say your love will last. Suggested gift materials for the fifth through ninth anniversaries are wood or silverware, iron or wood, wool or copper, bronze or linen, and pottery, china or leather (see Resources).

Year Ten: The Diamond or Tin Anniversary

A tin anniversary? Why tradition ever included gifts of tin for a tenth anniversary is a mystery. Now diamonds are much more favored, because a decade of successful marriage is a milestone indeed.

Yes, the jewelers have certainly promoted the idea of diamond 10-year anniversary rings, but they do make long-lasting, well-loved gifts of great significance.

For years 11 through 15, the old traditions call for anniversary gifts of steel, silk, lace, ivory, and crystal or china; whereas newer ideas are jewelry, pearls, textiles or fur, gold jewelry, and watches.

Year Twenty: The China or Platinum Anniversary

Getting to the twentieth anniversary is quite an achievement. It’s a time span that may cover some of the most memorable events in the marriage. Within those 20 years, children may have been born, raised and gone off to college. Career changes and housing moves, spiritual awakenings and personal victories may have occurred.

In many cases, the routine of life has become more predictable and satisfying, so that the couple has more time to spend on their marriage relationship. China or platinum are the traditional gift suggestions, but don’t be limited to those.

A weekend getaway, a cruise, or the fulfillment of any lifelong dream, such as a week at the lake house, would make this anniversary as meaningful as it truly is.

Year Twenty-Five: The Silver Anniversary

This anniversary is famous for being a festive occasion. After 25 years, an anniversary party is certainly appropriate and highly recommended. Friends, family and children will want to gather around and join in celebrating your long-lasting union.

Silver gifts don’t have to be lavish, but a silver picture frame with the anniversary couple’s picture, or a silver candy dish engraved with the anniversary date, will be treasured forever. Be sure to have a photographer or videographer record the event, or enlist a family member to do the honors.

Year Fifty: The Golden Anniversary

What a significant occasion.The golden anniversary is often a party that the grown children give for their parents, taking over the planning, inviting and expense if at all possible. The event is usually published in the newspaper.

And, some couples choose the golden anniversary to reenact their wedding ceremony, taking their vows again in the company of loved ones.

A marriage of 50 years deserves to be honored, as do the husband and wife. Of course, every anniversary is important, and every year has its own traditional gift as shown in the Resources. But none gleams quite as beautifully as the golden one.