Non-Cheesy Anniversary Gift Ideas for the First Five Years

Rob and I celebrated our 5th anniversary last week. When it was our first anniversary, I told him I'd like to try and stick with the traditional or modern themes for our gift ideas. It's been fun trying to find something for each theme that suits his personality. I don't know about you, but I've actually found that googling "_____ anniversary gift ideas" isn't always particularly helpful. Rob doesn't need, or want, a leather beer cooler par exemple. So, here are a few ideas for the first five years that we've gone with, or that I just think are great.

First Anniversary: Paper or Clocks

Him
*I got Rob this LED clock from Crate & Barrel, but it's so bright, it's now being used as both Seb's clock and nightlight.
*Any unique book would be a great idea as well. Rob loves DEVO and vintage computers so I also found a couple of books I knew he'd enjoy. (We Are Devo, Core Memory)

Her
*I think this print from Pottery Barn is beautiful, but I'm a sucker for any type of vintage French decor.
*The true way to my heart is books. Any books. Big, small, fiction, non-fiction. I love them all. A hardcover book of work from my favourite artist was a great choice. Friends of ours also did this, where you have your initials folded into a book and it's beautiful.




Second Anniversary: Cotton or China

Him
*Lululemon Core Hoodie. Rob owns 2 of these; one in black and the other in dark grey, and he loves them.
(currently sold out online)


Her
*This is a good opportunity to pick up a couple of the china pieces that you maybe didn't get at your wedding or shower.







Third Anniversary: Leather, Crystal/Glass

Him
*Does he need a new wallet or new belt? I'm a fan of Roots leather products. It's quite soft, and I find it stands up to daily use quite well.


Her 
*Sticking with Roots, I bought their Olivia Bag ages ago and seriously love it. It's super roomy, and I've even used it as a diaper-bag when I didn't want to carry around the massive 'look!therearediapersinsideme' diaper bag. The Mont Royal Bag is my current fav.
*For our 3rd anniversary, Rob bought me a beautiful embossed leather journal. Here's a similar one from Anthro.




Fourth Anniversary: Linen/Silk, Fruit/Flowers, Appliances

Him
*Edible Arrangement. This was maybe just as much for me as it was for him, but it killed 2 birds with one stone. Fruit that looked like flowers! Plus, put melted chocolate on anything, and we're in heaven (wink, wink ;)
*And, given most anniversaries happen in the spring and summer, I think guys would probably appreciate a new linen shirt.

Her
*Flowers are an obvious choice, but you can get creative by picking up a few items with flowers on them. (Like this apron and Homegrown Monogram Mug both from Anthropologie).
*For a soft and silky splurge, Anthro has this gorgeous kimono.





Fifth Anniversary: Wood and Silverware

Him
*An eco-friendly shaving kit in wood cigar box. This was a birthday or Christmas gift for Rob years ago, and he uses it exclusively now. I've also gifted it to my brother-in-law who also loved it. Plus their Cedarwood Guinness soap smells amazing!
*Father and son hammer set. This is what I gifted Rob last week. I'm so happy with how they turned out.

Her
*World Map Cutting Board. Normally I'm not too excited by gifts that make me spend more time in the kitchen, but this one is so lovely. If you're in the Ontario area, my parents also make stunning cutting/cheese boards. You can see them here.



So, there you go. A few more ideas next time you're hunting for anniversary gift ideas. Do you have any to add?

Looking for ideas for anniversaries 6-10? Find that post here.

xo
Jenn

PS - Want the bestest anniversary card ever? Check this out....

Emily McDowell Draws Card