Anniversary gifts are not as easy to give as it might seem. In the early marriage years, a young couple may not know each other as well as they will after being married for many years. For this kind of couple celebrating an early anniversary, the traditional gifts may be best. It also may be that the couple is just starting out in the work world and the budget is still on the tight side.
In later years, after couples get to know each other better, they can choose more personalized gifts for each other. The traditional gifts may seem less important than they did earlier on. Silly or crazy gifts with attitude that go perfectly with a favorite hobby can be just as nice to give or receive.
How to Choose the Perfect Anniversary Gift
In the past, formal lists of anniversary gifts for each year of marriage were available so that the proper choice could be purchased. But couples feel free to choose gifts that they think their spouse will enjoy, rather than sticking to a traditional list. The old idea was to buy less expensive items and move to more costly gifts as the years went by. The new idea is to consider gifts that reflect personalities, jobs, hobbies and athletic pursuits.
Choosing what you think your spouse will like is the best thing to do. Keep in mind that anniversary gifts should be on the personal side. Avoid gifts that are more for the home or family, and try to focus on things your spouse can use. A spouse that cooks may enjoy some new kitchen gadget, while a spouse that spends time fishing and camping will be pleased with some shiny new gear. Elegant, shiny and expensive presents never hurt. Just follow your budget and your heart.
Types of Gifts to Consider
These anniversary gift ideas, 25 for men and 25 for women, have a bit of shiny metallic bling. Each gift has a touch of silver, gold, platinum or an eye catching glossy surface. The theme of shiny, precious things carries through from the most expensive items to the least. Precious metals and luxurious materials have been part of gift giving forever. Some are practical, some are not. Some are high tech, and some just for fun. These offer some eye-popping traditional choices along with tech savvy gadgets and fun stuff for any hobbyist to enjoy.
I. Here’s Our Top Anniversary Gifts He’ll Love
1. Vintage Rose Gold-Tone Mechanical Men’s Watch by Invicta, Model 12408
Stunningly artistic is the best way to describe this Rose Gold colored Stainless Steel watch. The intricate details on the movement are the hallmark of a great timepiece. The soft calfskin leather band is high quality. The watch comes in a handsome gift box. This is one of the nicest gifts for men that appreciate superb craftsmanship in a traditional wind-up wristwatch.
2. GrowlerWerks Ukeg 64 Copper Craft Beer Growler
This copper over stainless steel growler is a handsome way to keep your home brews or favorite draft beers cold and ready to dispense anywhere. This is a stylish a welcome gift for any man who loves great tasting beer and appreciates superb technology and craftsmanship.
3. Skylock, Charcoal Grey
Skylock is the high tech answer to keeping your bicycle locked and safe. It doesn’t use keys, it can tell your cellphone if someone is tampering with it, it works on solar energy and it is so new it won’t be available until October 2015. You can place your order for this amazingly sleek product. While it is perfect for the man who loves his bicycle, it can be included in great graduation gift ideas, too.
4. Diesel Men’s Analog Quartz Gunmetal Watch
The model DZ7263 Little Daddy Series watch is another alternative for gifting a fabulous timepiece. It is industrial in design, with gunmetal and bold components for casual wear. This is a gift for a man with a strong sense of personal style.
5. Pick Punch The Original Guitar Pick Punch
For the avid guitarist, this silver and black punch can make standard size picks from used gift or credit cards, old ID or hotel key cards and a wide array of beautiful bling plastic for sale specifically for this punch. This could also be on a list of must have birthday gifts for that special musician in your life.
6. Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker, Electric Titan
As the #1 Best Seller in Super Automatic Espresso Machines, this is the perfect gift for the man who enjoys a delicious cup of espresso. Its design is strikingly simple, with stainless steel shine and masculine look.
7. Kikkerland BQ01 Portable BBQ Suitcase, Black
With stainless steel cool and cleverly portable, this BBQ grill in a suitcase could just turn the head of the man who knows how to grill and do it well. He can arrive in style, cook up a storm and then pack up to leave; a happy man.
8. Orion 10034 GoScope II 70mm Refractor Travel Telescope Moon Kit (Burgundy)
This portable travel telescope is right up the alley for any astronomer. It comes with a kit of accessories, a Moon map booklet, tripod and a strong carrying case. It’s perfect for any dad who wants to take his family out to explore the night skies.
9. Gerber 01471 Suspension Butterfly Opening Multi-Plier with Sheath
This is a multi-tool that can do just about any task an outdoorsman needs to do. It is a multi-plier with 12 integrated components. This is a fine gift for the man who hunts, shoots and hikes.
10. Wine Enthusiast Madison Avenue Whiskey Glasses, Set of 2
These whiskey glasses are straight out of the 60s with vintage design and handsome silver accents around the edges. They hold easy in your hand and are round to share that distinctive whiskey flavor in the best way. Hand blown and lead free, these are glasses for the discriminating man.
11. Ray-Ban Aviator Non-Polarized Sunglasses
The cool look of Ray-Ban sunglasses make them a classic look for men. This version isn’t polarized, but depending on the size you need they come in a wide variety of colors. This is a nice retro gift for a guy who is an old school gentleman who knows his way around in life.
12. Callaway Men’s Big Bertha Alpha 815 Driver
If the man is a golfer, he will derive hours of pleasure using this Alpha 814 Driver. It is called Big Bertha because it is a club that designed to get maximum distance with the lowest amount of spin. Avid golfers like its adjustable features and comfortable feel.
13. Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator
Most wine lovers appreciate having an excellent win aerator to prepare their bottles of wine for drinking. This item allows for instant aeration, by simply pouring the wine through it. A gift like this helps any man to efficiently serve wine. It comes in versions for reds and whites.
14. Bond 50: The Complete 23 Film Collection, including Skyfall
Most men enjoy James Bond, though each of them may prefer one actor over another. This complete Blu-ray set is in honor of 50 years of Bond and includes all 23 films, plus the most recent blockbuster, Skyfall. Hours of viewing pleasure with the spy who loves them all, and a great gift hit.
15. The Greenbacks – Brand New Poker Chip Set!!! 2 Decks Custom Playing Cards
When the regular gang gets together for poker night, they can enjoy these chips featuring famous currency from around the world. History buffs will enjoy switching up the chips for a night. A man who knows his way around a poker table knows what a unique, conversation starting gift this is.
16. GERBER Bear Grylls Fire Starter
This emergency fire starter has a ferrocerium rod and a metal striker. It also has an emergency whistle, and all three are connected securely with a black lanyard. This is the #1 Best Seller in its category, with over 1, 800 customer reviews. Any man who spends significant time outdoors camping, hiking, hunting or fishing can use a high quality product like this. Surprise him with what he least expects you know he needs.
17. 1 X Personalized Pocket Knife
Having a useful pocket knife has been a tradition among men since these do everything knives were invented. This version features intricate scrollwork on the bolsters and a personalization of the handle for free with up to 20 characters. With an Old West flavor, any cowboy would enjoy it.
18. Waring Pro Electric Wine Opener
This is a smooth and sleek electric wine opener that any man would feel comfortable using. It just takes the touch of a button to uncork and eject the cork. It stays charged for a long time and it is cordless. Perfection for a man who enjoys entertaining.
19. Nikon Camera with Zoom Lenses and Case, Model D3300 DX-format
This camera has specifications and features only a true photography buff can understand. But one thing is certain, it is one top of the line item and it comes with extra zoom lenses and a case. Over 460 customers own it, and gave it high praise. It will make a welcome gift for any photography buff.
20. De’Longhi CGH800 Contact Grill and Panini Press
This is one sleek and shiny panini press with the design and features to make any man cave more complete. Just supply him with the right ingredients and he can make his own tasty sandwiches for game nights with the guys.
21. HobbyZone Delta Ray Electronic Airplane
When your husband is a grown up kid, who happens to like playing with electronic toys, this Delta Ray plane will probably turn his head. It has technology that keeps it running well and safely. It could turn out to be one of the best anniversary gifts he’s ever received.
22. Sriracha2Go 3-Pack (Bottles Shipped Empty)
The endearing thing about this gift is its stainless steel carabiner allows any gentleman to take his own ready supply of Sriracha with him wherever he goes. No need to miss the extra flavor he craves anymore.
23. PicoBrew Zymatic
If your man loves craft beer, then this machine may be the beginning of something tasty at home. This is the first all grain beer brewing machine in the world. Comes with recipes and instructions, but he’ll have to buy his keg extra.
24. ICE Orb Floating Bluetooth Speaker
This amazing Bluetooth speaker actually levitates above its base. Its circular spinning ensures that the speakers provide 360 degree sound so that everyone in the room can hear the music equally. Most everyone who owns this product is enjoying the crisp sound and the cool look of this spinning, shiny silver orb.
25. Rocketbook One Cloud-Based Paper Notebook
Scheduled to be released on September 30, 2015, this paper notebook connects to Cloud services using your mobile camera. What a great gift for a husband who is old school and tech savvy all at the same time.
II. Here’s Our Top Anniversary Gifts She’ll Love
1. Toms Women’s Gold Glitters Slip-On Shoes
Traditional gifts for that all-important 1st Wedding Anniversary are paper or cotton. But it can be hard to settle for such simple materials when the romance hasn’t left the marriage. Most men want to splurge a little on something special, and there’s no reason why a piece of jewelry can’t be tucked into one of these snazzy canvas shoes as an extra surprise. These fabric shoes meet the tradition, but the extra gift hidden inside could meet the heart’s wishes. It all depends on the individual.
2. Alex and Ani Deep Romance Rose Expandable Wire Bangle Bracelet
Among the many gifts for women, this beautiful yellow gold toned bracelet might just be the right second year anniversary gift for a young woman. It has a pretty pink enameled rose on the bangle and it is simple, yet stylish.
3. Lodis Audrey Wilhelmina Work Satchel
Leather is the traditional gift for the 3rd Wedding Anniversary. This handsome 100% leather bag is available in Black, Red and Toffee for the professional woman. Gift wrap is available for this item. It is a luxury investment for this event, but would also be very nice for Christmas gifts as well.
4. Starfighter Stargazer Lily Bunch, With a Vase
The well-deserved traditional gift for the 4th Wedding Anniversary is flowers. Most any kind are appreciated, as many women have their personal favorite. Though gentlemen may assume that only roses will do, the truth is that beautiful flowers of any kind are certain to please their wives. This #1 Best Seller in Fresh Cut Lilies is a popular product, with over 400 customer reviews. One nice thing about stargazers is that the lily names the favorite pastime of many couples in love. Holding hands and looking at the night sky might just be the activity to follow the gifting of these lilies.
5. Elegant French Louis XVI Antique Style Furniture Armoire
This elegant jewelry armoire meets the stylish requirements of a woman who simply loves jewelry. It will hold a very large collection for that lucky person celebrating her 5th Wedding Anniversary. Wood is the traditional gift for this year of marriage, and this item not only celebrates that but provides a place for all the lovely gifts of jewelry to follow for many years.
6. Lindt Chocolate Swiss Luxury Selection Box
In the U.K. the traditional gift for the 6th Wedding Anniversary is sugar. What better way to celebrate than with a gift of delicious Lindt chocolates? This will please any woman who loves chocolate. For those who don’t, the alternative tradition is something made of iron. Perhaps a cast iron skillet would do? Perhaps not.
7. Goal Zero Solar Generator Model 22004 Yeti 150
Many women are ecology minded. This solar generator might just be a favorite present for someone who appreciates the benefits of using solar energy to power technology. When a dad is looking for something for a busy mom who spends a lot of time outdoors with the kids, this could be just the right gift. Of course, adding a bouquet of flowers or a little sparkly jewelry couldn’t hurt.
8. Alex and Ani “Spiritual Armor” Endless Knot Expandable Wire Bangle Bracelet
This is a beautiful Celtic knot work bracelet, which is created in a style similar to what might be worn by the ancient Celts. Though it is not the traditional bronze gift of the 8th wedding anniversary year, it has all the design qualities of a high quality bronze piece. It would be very suitable for a woman who is fond of Celtic themes.
9. Aurora Watch for Women with Pink Leather Band by Kenneth Jay Lane
Pretty is the way to describe this delightful stainless steel watch. It has a light pink calf leather wrist band with an attractive texture. It has a mother of pearl inlay with pink inset crystals which mark the hours. The inlay is filled with sparkling pink, green and white crystals. It’s perfect for the woman who adores bright colors and having fun.
10. Complete Gourmet Seasonings, Spices & Finishing Salts of the World
Though tin and aluminum are the metallic gifts of choice for the traditional 10th Wedding Anniversary, they are not the most pleasing of all the metals. But, this set of 20 spices from around the world are packed in 20 tiny tins of deliciousness; perfect for the woman who loves to cook.
11. Sterling Silver Pressed Flower Round Pendant Necklace
Each one of these pendants is filled with real flowers gathered by hand and pressed to perfection. They are encased in clear acrylic surrounded by a round of sterling silver with a necklace chain to match. An adorable gift for someone who truly loves gardening and nature.
12. MIZUKI Double Branchlet Ring
Made from 14 Karat yellow gold with inset crystals, this ring wraps elegantly around the finger, enclosing it with two golden branches. A beautiful choice for the woman who loves gold and whose husband wants to adorn her with a lovely ring.
13. JayBird BlueBuds X Sport Bluetooth Headphones
The right gift of fitness is a gift of love. An avid runner will be thrilled to receive these top rated headphones.
14. Korres Body Butter
High quality body butter is one little luxury that many ladies appreciate because the fragrance is generally light. It’s difficult to purchase perfume unless she specifically likes the scent, but this product is a different issue. It is available in 6 different pleasing fragrances, so you can choose one or buy them all, depending on your budget. Offer to give her a relaxing massage with it.
15. Purple Crystal Music Box Plays “You Are so Beautiful to Me”
Crystal is the traditional gift for the 15th wedding anniversary, and this precious little cut crystal music box has been a well-received gift. It could also be considered as nice Valentine gifts as well, but it certainly fits the theme of this anniversary year very nicely.
16. 2000 Dom Perignon 750 mL
A lovely bottle of delicious, not to mention world famous, champagne could be a wonderful gift for two to share on their anniversary. In terms of birthday gift ideas for her, it’s probably another great option.
17. Gold Leaf Strap Dress Sandal for Women by Giuseppe Zanotti
These are golf leaf sandals for a very confident woman. The heels are 4 and a half inches high. These are part of the designer’s collection of fanciful and strikingly distinctive line of footwear. The man who gifts his wife with a pair of these dress sandals from Italy has arrived in his world and wants to share every penny with the wife he adores. He and his wife may have worked together for years building a business and raising a family. This anniversary gift will be a statement that she is beautiful and he wants her to let him enjoy it.
18. ilFornino® Stainless Steel Basic Wood Fired Pizza Oven
There are times of life when the only gift that will do for an anniversary is the unexpected. This wood fired pizza oven might be the wish of a woman who has cooked for her family for years. She might just be the best chef on the block and ready to upgrade to this dream oven. For this woman, this could be the best thing she could imagine. Only her husband knows for sure.
19. Moritz Glik 18K Gold and Oxidized Silver Rose Cut Diamond Necklace
Diamonds are always welcome as an anniversary gift. They may be a reminder of the diamond ring she was given as one of many engagement gifts as her husband to be was courting her. She may also be receiving one for the first time if the couple started out with mostly love in their budget. This diamond pendant is a very pretty gift that can be worn for any occasion. It is a nice choice for the man who wants to give something special that his wife can enjoy wearing often, due to its stylish yet not formal design.
20. Coastline Imports Blue Cottage Rose Chintz China Set
The 20th wedding anniversary gift is traditionally china. So, to honor tradition, our 20th gift idea is this lovely set of china in a beautiful floral design. This is actually a tea set for one. The lady who enjoys tea can enjoy her favorite blend in lovely style. But, it’s always nice to buy two sets and enjoy a cup together as a couple. This is one perfect way to celebrate the 20th year in any marriage.
21. Melissa Joy Manning “New Elements” 14k Gold Herkimer Diamond Ring
This custom cut Herkimer diamond offers a splendid anniversary gift for a women who love contemporary design and the chance to wear something a bit different than the rest. A Herkimer diamond is actually a very unique kind of double matrix formation crystal that shines like a diamond, but is not one. The sparkle of this ring is undeniable and each is one of a kind.
22. Salvatore Ferragamo Women’s Diamond-Accented Stainless Steel Watch
This watch has a lovely calf leather beige wrist band and a diamond accented face. It is a bit sporty, yet a bit elegant. It is a gift that could be worn during a business or casual day, depending on the style preferences of the woman who owns it. The sentiment that comes with this kind of anniversary gift is that time spent together is precious, and future time together is the wish of the gift giver.
23. Caffeine Molecule Necklace by Silver Phantom Jewelry
Because silver plate is the modern 23th anniversary gift, this pretty necklace in Silver Tone Alloy might hit the spot with the woman who adores caffeine in all its forms. A nice brand of coffee, an elegant blend of tea or a box of chocolates could be added to follow this theme.
24. Kona Acoustic Guitar; Model K1TRD in Red
The Chicago Public Library created its own modern list of wedding anniversary gifts, which challenges tradition but offers new options. For the 24th year, musical instruments is the suggested theme. This beautiful red acoustic guitar may be the long-wished for dream to give to a beginning guitar student. It’s never too late to start, as they say. But, should music not be in your loved one’s dreams, then a traditional gift of an opal is the way to go.
25. Honora “Rock Star” Freshwater Cultured Pearl and Black Agate Bracelet
The exquisite freshwater cultured pearls and sterling silver make this bracelet and handsome gift for the traditional 25th Silver Wedding Anniversary gift. This 7 and a half inch toggle strand bracelet is beautifully designed with stunning black Agate drusy quartz and 7mm pearls matched for size.
