As my husband Kyle and I near our 2nd wedding anniversary in a few weeks, I have started thinking a lot about anniversary traditions, and then it sparked a “Wedding Wednesday” post!

To me, the best “gift” is always spending time with one another, but I would be lying if I told you that even the smallest gift doesn’t make me happy or bring me a bit of joy because it does! 

After researching anniversary gift traditions on the Hallmark website, I found traditional vs. modern yearly gift “themes” or “guides”. Here are the first five anniversary years…

Traditional vs. Modern

• 1st Anniversary // Paper vs. Clocks

• 2nd Anniversary // Cotton vs. China

• 3rd Anniversary // Leather vs. Crystal/Glass

• 4th Anniversary // Fruit/Flowers vs. Appliances

• 5th Anniversary // Wood vs. Silverware

Last year, for our first wedding anniversary, I went the traditional route while Kyle opted for the modern gift route. Via Your New Friend Sam on Etsy, I ordered a handwritten paper print of our shared wedding vows and had them framed, and Kyle gifted me a new watch.

I loved exchanging gifts and seeing how he took the modern route as I wouldn’t have guessed it! Kyle would probably tell you that I’m not one that always loves surprises, but I have to say that I loved that one! 

Do you celebrate your anniversary with gifts, an evening out to dinner, or even by taking a trip? I’d love to hear!