Traditional Gift Symbolism: Paper
When the first wedding anniversary approaches, many couples are still in the honeymoon phase and may not have encountered the difficult ebbs and flows that come with marriage. That’s in part why paper has been the traditional gift for the first anniversary for well over 100 years. Paper is both fragile and withstanding, just like the early years of your marriage. Take care of the paper, and it will maintain a story for a lifetime. Handle the paper carelessly, and it will fade, tear, and disintegrate into nothing.
Modern Gift Symbolism: Clock
Clocks speak to relationships in a similar sentiment. Think of how quickly the first year passed by. The clock represents the movement of time, and with time comes good times, change, and challenge. Time is precious; just like your relationship. The clock is another reminder to spend time nurturing your relationship for the years to come. Buying some stationery or a wall clock might seem simple enough, but the nuance is what will set your gift apart. Make your gift as personalized and symbolic as possible. These first-anniversary gift ideas will help get you started. If you do write your feelings and they’re too personal to put on display, consider hanging in a place where only your loved one would see it every day, like the back of a closet door or in the primary bedroom. If you wrote your vows, now would be an ideal time to get those framed and display in a prominent place in the home. Even a framed marriage certificate will work. Just make sure the frame’s glass offers UV protection. Read more about our Diversity and Inclusion Pledge to make The Spruce a site where all feel welcome. Pawita Warasiri / EyeEm / Getty Images Tsuneo Yamashita / Getty Images
