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You've made it through year one of marriage together, so the pressure is really on to find the best one-year anniversary gift. Since you're new to this marriage thing, you might not realize that when it comes to gifts, each anniversary has specific symbols that represent where you are as a couple. There are also traditional and modern items and materials that represent your union, and you'll notice they grow stronger (just like your bond!) each year.
While the first year of marriage can sometimes be the hardest, you really still have what seems like all the time in the world to write your story. So it makes sense that paper is a traditional gift, while a clock is a modern idea. Luckily, so many unique, personalized and meaningful gifts can be printed on paper (think custom portraits and framed vows), and you can have fun with clocks (they come in every shape, form and sentiment these days).
1st Anniversary Symbols
Traditional: Paper
Modern: Clock
Metal: Gold
Flower: Carnations or Pansies
Color: Yellow
You can read more about the symbolism behind these ideas at the bottom of our guide, but first, here are the best one-year anniversary gifts for men and women. With that first big gift taken care of, you can get a jump on planning your second anniversary gift, or look even further into the future and start thinking about your third and fourth year, too.
1st Year Anniversary Plate
Say it on a plate this year with a sweet message that is sure to bring them to tears. Made of ceramic, the lettering is engraved in 24K gold foil. It's the perfect piece of decor to spruce up their mantel, bookshelf or even their coffee table.
1st Year Anniversary Plate
amazon.com
$36.99
UrllinzPop Up Flower Card
Even better than a fresh bouquet, these pop-up cards can be proudly displayed for years to come. They're also available in carnations — the traditional flower for a one-year anniversary. What's more, they're under $10!
Pop Up Flower Card
amazon.com
$9.99
PoqirzanPersonalized Song Lyrics Plaque
Treasure your favorite tune with this cute personalized song lyrics plaque. It comes in three different wood finishes — black, white and brown — and can be purchased framed.
Personalized Song Lyrics Plaque
amazon.com
$15.95
VICILIO1st Anniversary Card
Celebrate your paper anniversary with this adorable card. Made of recyclable card stock, it measures a little over five inches and many Amazon reviewers say the quality is great.
1st Anniversary Card
amazon.com
$5.99
QilijiBurlap Print
This cute burlap print is just the thing they need to spruce up a bare wall. It features an 11 x 13-inch frame and a mat size of 8 x 10 inches.
Burlap Print
amazon.com
$30.89
SUNBMOCarnation Bouquet
Carnations are the flower of choice for the first year as a married couple. This lovely bouquet of 20 white, pink and red stems is sure to brighten their day. Just note that the retailer suggests trimming the stems (1 inch) before showing them off in a vase.
Carnation Bouquet
amazon.com
$35.95
Benchmark Bouquets1-Year Anniversary Map
We told you there are so many things you can do with paper. Customize this frame with the location of where you first met or got married, as well as your names and wedding date.
1-Year Anniversary Map
amazon.com
$55.00
Define Design 11Hand Casting Kit for Couples
Okay, this pick is not traditional, but it's still totally sweet. Give them a gift you can do together with this hand casting kit for couples. It comes with everything you'll need to create an extra special memory together that is sure to be an instant keepsake.
Hand Casting Kit for Couples
amazon.com
$29.87
Dylan & RylieCustom Line Drawing Poster
Created especially for the two of you, your spouse will proudly display this print in your home for years to come. The minimalist design, printed on archival paper, will match any home decor, too.
Custom Line Drawing Poster
amazon.com
$13.99
ManmanUnisex Watch
He's going to absolutely love the retro style of this gold watch. It doesn't just look cool, though. Amazon reviewers, who gave it over 10,000 5-stars, say it works great. "The watch is easily adjustable, lightweight & looks very sharp," one reviewer shared.
Unisex Watch
amazon.com
$44.98
Tailor Personalized Stationery
As a couple, you can never have too much personalized stationery. From sending a thoughtful thank-you note to acknowledging a friend's birthday, they're bound to get tons of use. This box set comes with 15 off-white cards and you can choose from three standout borders — Bluebell (shown here), Slate and Olive. Take your pick of four paper options, too!
Tailor Personalized Stationery
Minted
$36.00
Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot
Perfect for at-home date nights, this fondue set comes with everything you'll need to enjoy delicious chocolate-covered snacks. It has a 6-cup capacity, and can also be used for family gatherings.
Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot
amazon.com
$29.99
NostalgiaLetterpress Vows
Do you remember what you said in your vows? When you're up there, in front of everyone you know, it can be hard to soak it all in. Make sure you never forget by turning your vows into custom letterpress artwork. You can choose the color scheme and the frame to match your decor.
Letterpress Vows
minted.com
$60.00
Hoya Heart
It doesn't get any cuter than this heart-shaped succulent that's 2 -3" tall, making it ideal for the office or a small space. The best part? It's pet-friendly and only has to be watered every two to three weeks.
Hoya Heart
thesill.com
$48.00
"Can't Help Falling In Love" Wood Music Box
They won't be able to help falling in love with you again and again every time they use this wood music box. Even if it's not your song, they'll get the warm fuzzies whenever they decide to turn the handle (it runs for about 30 seconds).
"Can't Help Falling In Love" Wood Music Box
amazon.com
$13.88
VACTERCustom Anniversary Book
You can put in your anniversary date, and receive the front page of The New York Times from every year (up until 20 years ago). It's a cool way to look back at all the things that happened on the day before you two said "I do."
Custom Anniversary Book
uncommongoods.com
$99.95
The New York TimesLeather Journal
Your wife will love this beautiful faux leather journal that's printed with a sweet message. The 140-page design, which can also be refilled, will be a great gift for the wife who loves to write everything down.
Leather Journal
amazon.com
$11.99
WelskyLove Lingual: Card Game
There's still so much to uncover about your spouse, so do it in a fun way. Inspired by psychologists, this card game features prompts that'll help you learn each other's love languages.
Love Lingual: Card Game
amazon.com
$25.00
FLUYTCOAirbnb Gift Card
Things are nice, but experiences together are even better. You can relive your favorite trip or even your honeymoon with this gift card. It can be loaded with a custom amount up to $500 for an amazing vacation.
RELATED: The Most Unique Airbnb Properties in Every State
Airbnb Gift Card
Air BnB"Our Story So Far" Scrapbook
Go beyond a traditional scrapbook for your one-year anniversary with this pick that's a little more rustic. It's completely blank inside, so you can customize it with touching words and your favorite photos.
"Our Story So Far" Scrapbook
amazon.com
$24.99
Pirantin1-Year Anniversary Wooden Date Night Box
A unique way of introducing new date nights, this wooden box is filled with 52 fun ideas. It's designed specifically for couples celebrating their first anniversary, so the dates are tailored to that special time in your life.
1-Year Anniversary Wooden Date Night Box
amazon.com
$16.99
STOFINITY1-Year Anniversary Keychain
Cute as can be, this one-year anniversary keychain is a simple way to show them just how much they're loved. Made of stainless steel, the two pieces fit together to create a whole puzzle.
1-Year Anniversary Keychain
amazon.com
$14.58
DabihuOne Year of Love
Filled with conversation starters, date night ideas, games and more, every week, you two will sit down and explore what this fun box of tricks has to offer. It's a great way to connect with each other.
One Year of Love
amazon.com
$29.90
Holding Hands Wall Art
How stunning would this look in your bedroom? You'll get an instant digital print to download (for under $10!), and then you can buy any frame of choice at your local store.
Holding Hands Wall Art
etsy.com
$6.50
Sunset Lamp
This eye-catching lamp shows a couple snuggling up together as they watch the sunset. You can dim it to your liking to create an ultra-romantic mood. One reviewer wrote: "The 'touch on/off' feature is very convenient as are three levels of brightness, and the decals for personalizing are of high quality, easy to place, and truly make it one's own."
Sunset Lamp
amazon.com
$39.99
Happy 1st Anniversary Card
Okay, so he isn't too sentimental. That's fine! You can still let him know how much he means to you with this metal engraved card that can be slipped right into his wallet.
Happy 1st Anniversary Card
amazon.com
$13.95
1st Year Anniversary LED Light
This rechargeable night light is inexpensive but so sweet."I didn’t know what to get him for our first anniversary, and this was the perfect gift I could have chosen. He loves it," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
1st Year Anniversary LED Light
amazon.com
$16.97
PandaschCustom Star Map
See the night sky as it was the moment you met your future spouse — or the night you tied the knot. You can add your names, and even an exact time.
Custom Star Map
amazon.com
$21.00
GenericHappy Anniversary Toilet Paper Roll
Make him laugh with this funny gag gift. It's even thick and soft for extra comfort if he chooses to use it.
Happy Anniversary Toilet Paper Roll
amazon.com
$16.99
Tevxj1st Anniversary Pocket Knife
It's hard to find keepsakes for guys, but this one will do the trick. It's practical, so he'll use it all the time. It also has a touch of sentiment thanks to the engraving.
1st Anniversary Pocket Knife
amazon.com
$23.99
GiveGreatGiftPersonalized Faux Bois Vase
Although the fifth year is the wood year, we couldn't help but include this beautiful vase. Simply buy some carnations and your gift is complete.
Personalized Faux Bois Vase
uncommongoods.com
$90.00
Laurel BegleyWomen's Hoops
Jewelry is always a good idea for any anniversary. If you want something she can wear every day, these earrings fit the bill. Plus, they're gold-plated and available in four sizes ranging from 20 mm to 50 mm.
Women's Hoops
amazon.com
$13.95
PAVOIGalaxy Carnation
Sure, a real bouquet is nice, but it won't last forever. These carnations, which are encased in glass, will. Plus, they come with lights for a special effect.
Galaxy Carnation
amazon.com
$27.97
Personalized Photo Ablum Keychain
Send this Amazon seller 10 photos and fill out your desired custom message, and they will create a one-of-a-kind genuine leather keychain. It's that simple!
Personalized Photo Ablum Keychain
amazon.com
$11.99
Cute Capsules in a Glass Bottle
Yellow is the color of the year, so this gift is spot-on. You'll get 25 tiny capsules that have a blank piece of paper inside for you to write personalized messages. When they are feeling down, they just reach for one of these "love pills" to boost their spirit.
Cute Capsules in a Glass Bottle
amazon.com
$9.99
The Adventure Challenge Couples Edition
Your challenge, should you accept it, is to have a lot of fun together. There are 50 scratch-off challenges to try. Some are (presumably) simple, like baking a pie, while others are more challenging.
The Adventure Challenge Couples Edition
amazon.com
$58.94
100 Dates Scratch Off Poster
You have another 365 days until your next anniversary — make them count! This poster gives you 100 ideas for fun dates, from enjoying a cheese tasting to going on a ghost tour. As you complete each activity, you scratch off the square, coloring in more of the poster as it goes on.
100 Dates Scratch Off Poster
amazon.com
$17.17
The Book of Us
This journal offers 150 prompts that, when filled in, will tell your own, personal love story. It's the perfect rainy-day activity to try as a couple.
The Book of Us
amazon.com
$10.69
Paper Stool
Yes, you can get furniture made from paper! This stool has a comfortable felt cushion and folds up flat when it's not in use. (When it's unfolded, it's held together with magnets.)
Paper Stool
amazon.com
$48.99
Goods BeautyWe're Not Really Strangers Card Game
This card game challenges players to ask and answer probing questions about how they really feel, so they get to know their partners more intimately. Once you've mastered the basic version, you can move on to the Honest Dating or Relationship expansion packs.
We're Not Really Strangers Card Game
amazon.com
$22.90
We're Not Really StrangersWhat I Love About You Book
This fill-in-the-blank journal makes it easy for you to express what you love about each other. It can work for any anniversary, really, but it fits the first-anniversary theme so perfectly.
What I Love About You Book
amazon.com
$15.15
Knock KnockLovers Roadcrossing Sign
You may be walking down the same road of life now, but there was a time when you were on two separate paths that somehow crossed. Commemorate that moment with this photo print, which features each of your names on street signs. It can be purchased with or without a frame.
Lovers Roadcrossing Sign
amazon.com
$49.97
Starburst Ball Modern Wall Clock
For something with more of a mid-century vibe, this George Nelson-inspired clock certainly makes a statement with its metal ball and starburst pattern. The second hand also sweeps around the clock face, so there's no ticking.
Starburst Ball Modern Wall Clock
amazon.com
$69.99
GIGUColor Series Photo Book
Okay, you probably splurged on your wedding album — but what about all the memories you've made since then? Make it a yearly tradition to preserve your best memories in a photo book by Artifact Uprising, a favorite of the Good Housekeeping Institute for its range of customization options.
RELATED: The Best Wedding Photo Albums for Every Budget and Style
Color Series Photo Book
artifactuprising.com
$18.70
Artifact UprisingThe Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook
Why go out to eat when you can stay in? For your next date night, cook your way — together — through one of these 650 delicious recipes. It should last you until no. 3 comes along.
The Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook
amazon.com
$21.51
America's Test KitchenCarnation 3D Art
You can kill two birds with one stone and get a gift that's a carnation made out of paper! Ashley Chiang, a 3D artist, makes flowers out of card stock using a similar quilling technique as the clock.
Carnation 3D Art
uncommongoods.com
$38.00
Uncommon GoodsPower Cocktail Ring
Gold and yellow? Win-win! This stunning ring features lemon quartz, which is believed to promote clarity. It's a piece she'll want to keep forever.
Power Cocktail Ring
monicavinader.com
£150.00
Invitation Cufflinks
Wear a memento from your wedding to the next one! If you have an extra wedding invitation lying around (and who doesn't have a box full of them?), you can have it transformed into a one-of-a-kind pair of cuff links.
Invitation Cufflinks
etsy.com
$89.00
PaperAnniversaryLoveCarnation Grow Kit
The traditional first-anniversary flower is the carnation, which is also the birth flower for the month of January. You can get a bouquet of carnations at the florist, but it's way more fun to grow them yourself! This kit comes with seeds, a glass bottle to grow them in, a soil-less growing medium and instructions. The vase also comes with a cork lid so you can re-use it when you're finished with the flowers.
Carnation Grow Kit
uncommongoods.com
$36.00
Uncommon Goods"Love Looks Good on Us" Greeting Card
Don't forget a card! All the gifts in the world would be meaningless without the sentiment to back them up. A written card will make sure they know how you're really feeling inside.
"Love Looks Good on Us" Greeting Card
etsy.com
$4.00
CopperandBrassPaperWhat is a good first anniversary gift?
If you're looking for first anniversary gifts for women, gifts for men or gifts for couples, there's a lot of leeway. Between paper, clocks, carnations and gold, there are so many options to choose from. But the best 1-year anniversary gifts are embedded with meaning. Paper gifts can be personalized in so many ways, with newly married names, important dates, vows, words from a wedding song or other mementos from the wedding.
What is a traditional 1-year anniversary gift?
The first anniversary gift is traditionally made of paper. Why? Not only is the material delicate and fragile, it's also a blank slate — just like your marriage. You still have plenty of shared history left to write.
What is a modern 1-year anniversary gift?
In 1937, the American National Retail Jewelers Association came out with a complementary "modern" list of anniversary gifts with more practical items; there, the first-anniversary gift of choice is clocks. And, if that wasn't enough tradition for you, year one is also associated with carnations, gold and the color yellow.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
For decades, Good Housekeeping has provided expert reviews and advice on gift-giving, including gifts for girlfriends, gifts for boyfriends, gifts for moms, gifts for dads and gifts for kids, among others. While not every product in this round-up has been tested in the labs at the Good Housekeeping Institute, editors have used their experience doing market research on gifts, their knowledge of trends, their information about what kinds of gifts have resonated with readers in the past, along with customer reviews, editor's picks and bestsellers to put together this list of the best 1-year anniversary gifts.
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