The first year anniversary gift is traditionally something made of paper. It's the modern alternative to clocks (representing the time you've spent as newlyweds since the wedding).
While we know paper doesn't sound super exciting (it's not jewelry, after all) this medium isn't as limiting as it might seem, nor is it restrictive for couples who want to go all out, splurge, and spoil each other. With a little creativity—and inspiration from BAZAAR Bride—surprise your significant other with something meaningful, over-the-top, comedic, or sentimental to celebrate your first year of marriage. From personalized stationery to tickets for a romantic getaway, here are our top 10 first/paper anniversary gift ideas you might not have thought of yet.
Happy Anniversary! Xo, BAZAAR Bride
Personalized Stationery
While you likely have a personalized set as a couple from your wedding thank you notes, design custom social stationery for your partner as a token of your first year together. Incorporating themes that speak to his or her personal style is key—as well as incorporating a new last name, set of initials, or an acknowledgment that professionally and/or socially, she'll be keeping her maiden moniker. Earn bonus points by making two sets: one for him or her, and another set for you both as a couple. New year, new stationery.
Custom portraits by Rifle Paper Co.
A Bespoke Wedding Album
Finding the time (and the budget) immediately following the wedding to complete your photo album is a solid reason why this is likely the most popular paper anniversary gift.
Work with your wedding photographer to pull your favorite photo selections, and spend time on your anniversary weekend narrowing down the edit with your partner. Take note: the modern-day wedding album is one that's printed, bound, and produced with the same quality as a high-touch hardcover. Once you land on shots you both love and find the perfect balance of posed photographs and candid moments, create an album worthy of displaying alongside your chic coffee table book selection.
