The Meaning of Marriage Anniversaries

Marriage has many traditions attached to it both for the happy day and the years following.

Marriage anniversaries traditionally have a specific material or item attached to them, dependent on the number of years. It is customary to give gifts based on these materials.

First Anniversary

The first year of marriage is traditionally marked with a gift of paper. This is thought to represent the fragile nature of a new partnership. Couples will often give each other gifts such as travel tickets for romantic holidays or perhaps a book that they know their partner will enjoy.

10th Anniversary

The 10th year of marriage brings the aluminum celebration. Thought to be a symbol of pliability, it represents the stage of the union when partners find they have to compromise in some of the relationship decisions.

25th Anniversary

The 25th year of marriage is symbolized by silver, a tradition traced back to German origins. Traditionally the wife would receive a wreath made of silver on the 25th anniversary.

50th Anniversary

The 50th wedding anniversary is one of the biggest milestones, and as such it has gold as its symbol. When the traditions of anniversary materials began so many hundreds of years ago, it was rare for any couple to reach such a lengthy union.

References

• Meaning Of Gifts: 1st Anniversary Gift - Paper
• The Wedding Anniversary Site: Home