What Are The Different Wedding Anniversaries [In Order]?
Typically, each year of marriage is associated with specific symbols and meanings, often accompanied by traditional and modern gift ideas.
And, with all our experience here at Gorse Hill, we understand that celebrating wedding anniversaries is first and foremost a cherished tradition that honours the enduring commitment and love between partners.
But what are the different wedding anniversaries called, in what order do they fall, and why are they so important?
In this article we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of wedding anniversaries in order, from the first year and up to the 75th year. We hope you enjoy the read!
Why Do Wedding Anniversaries Have Different Names?
Marriage is a beautiful journey marked by milestones that couples celebrate to reaffirm their love and commitment and these special days are anniversaries.
The different names associated with each year of wedded bliss (hopefully) are supposed to symbolise the progression and strengthening of the marriage over time.
Wedding anniversaries are special occasions that offer an opportunity to reflect on the past, appreciate the present, and look forward to the future.
How Did The Tradition Of Wedding Anniversaries Begin?
It’s widely believed that the tradition dates back to medieval Germany, where husbands would crown their wives with a silver wreath on their 25th anniversary and a gold wreath on their 50th anniversary.
Reaching 50 years of marriage was extremely rare back then of course, which was why GOLD was used, as this was the most precious thing available to the masses.
These materials symbolised the value and rarity of reaching such milestones but originally there were really only TWO main wedding anniversaries. Silver and Gold.
The Naming Of Different Milestone Wedding Anniversaries Over Time
Different cultures have adopted and expanded their own anniversary traditions over the centuries, adding more milestones and more names along with various associated materials.
This practice has become a way to celebrate the longevity and success of a marriage, with each named anniversary serving as a reminder of the couple’s journey together.
It also became practice for both husband and wife to “gift give” on their anniversary day so by following these themes, couples can choose meaningful and appropriate gifts that reflect the significance of the milestone they are celebrating.
Here Is The List Of Different Wedding Anniversaries In Order
1st Anniversary: Paper
2nd Anniversary: Cotton
3rd Anniversary: Leather
4th Anniversary: Fruit or Flowers
5th Anniversary: Wood
6th Anniversary: Iron (Traditional) or Sugar (Modern)
7th Anniversary: Wool (Traditional) or Copper (Modern)
8th Anniversary: Bronze (Traditional) or Pottery (Modern)
9th Anniversary: Willow (Traditional) or Pottery (Modern)
10th Anniversary: Tin or Aluminum
11th Anniversary: Steel
12th Anniversary: Silk (Traditional) or Linen (Modern)
13th Anniversary: Lace
14th Anniversary: Ivory (Traditional) or Gold Jewelry (Modern)
15th Anniversary: Crystal
20th Anniversary: China
25th Anniversary: Silver
30th Anniversary: Pearl
35th Anniversary: Coral (Traditional) or Jade (Modern)
40th Anniversary: Ruby
45th Anniversary: Sapphire
50th Anniversary: Gold
55th Anniversary: Emerald
60th Anniversary: Diamond
70th Anniversary: Platinum
75th Anniversary: Diamond or Platinum
What Are The Different Wedding Anniversaries | Explained
Each wedding anniversary is a milestone that symbolises the strength and growth of a marriage.
Whether you are celebrating your first year together or your fiftieth, taking the time to honour your commitment with traditional or modern symbols can add meaning and joy to the occasion and as you continue to journey through life together, may each anniversary bring you closer and strengthen your bond.
Do you have a favourite anniversary tradition or a unique way of celebrating? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Did you know Gorse Hill has invited back many thousands of couples for wedding anniversary stays here at our hotel just outside Woking in Surrey?
What Are The Different Wedding Anniversaries | FAQs
Q. How do different cultures celebrate wedding anniversaries?
A. Many cultures have unique customs, such as renewal of vows or community celebrations.
Q. Are there specific colours associated with wedding anniversaries?
A. Yes, certain anniversaries like the 25th (silver) and 50th (gold) have specific colours.
Q. Can couples create their own anniversary traditions?
A. Absolutely, creating personal traditions can make anniversaries more meaningful and memorable.
Q. Is it common to celebrate half-year anniversaries?
A. Some couples do celebrate half-year milestones, especially in the early years of marriage.