45 Thoughtful 1-Year Anniversary Gifts for the First Marriage Milestone

Can you believe it's already been almost a year since your wedding day? What can we say, time flies when you're in love. Mark the occasion with a special 1-year anniversary gift for your spouse from our list of thoughtful and symbolic ideas. Shopping for a couple celebrating their first year of marriage? There are plenty of gift suggestions that'll work for them too.

We've looked at the first wedding anniversary themes and added ideas to reflect each symbol. The traditional one-year anniversary gift is paper, which represents the fragility of a new marriage, and the modern symbol is a clock, a timeless token of love. Yellow and gold are the milestone anniversary colors, two vibrant hues associated with optimism. Finally, carnations are the one-year anniversary flowers and the metal gold is the substitute for a gemstone. We've tapped these traditions for inspiration and included other unique first anniversary gifts that don't follow any particular theme. Here are our favorite picks.

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1. Keepsake Anniversary Book

Photo: Uncommon Goods

We're kicking things off with one of our favorite paper anniversary gift ideas, a personalized journal. This hardbound book has dedicated pages for every marriage milestone, from now to the 60th. You can jot down memories from each year together. There are also photo pages and keepsake pockets for pictures and mementos. (Psst: A personalized version is available too.)

2. Decorative Travel Map

Photo: Canvas Vows

This personalized world map is a memorable first anniversary gift for anyone who loves to travel. The printed canvas comes with a set of pins they can use to track their adventures. Add their names and wedding date for a creative present that'll inspire their wanderlust.

3. Paper Rose Bouquet

Photo: PagesGarden

Looking for a romantic first anniversary gift for your wife, husband or spouse? Swap fresh blooms for paper flowers to nail the traditional theme. These handmade paper roses can be personalized with your first dance lyrics or your wedding vows. Choose a bouquet of 12, 18 or 24 for a sweet gift that'll never wilt.

4. Custom Star Map

Photo: Mapiful

A star map from your wedding day is a meaningful gift to give your spouse one year later. You can include a short quote, the date and the coordinates of where you tied the knot. Choose from various designs and sizes, then have it framed for a sentimental one-year anniversary gift for him, her or them.

5. Crystal Studded Watch

Photo: Swarovski

If your spouse likes to add sparkle to every ensemble, they'll covet this Swarovski watch. It features a pavé crystal-studded dial and Italian leather strap in black, gray or white. Plus, it's a cool way to follow the modern clock theme, so you'll get brownie points for that.

Get 10% off at Swarovski with our exclusive code: Theknot10.

6. Sentimental Wall Art

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Celebrate where your love story started with a personalized print. This first wedding anniversary present features intersecting street signs representing you and your spouse, plus two important years in your relationship like when you met and when you got married. It's printed on luxe matte paper and can be framed for a display-ready finish.

7. Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Photo: Tinggly

Marriage is all about trying new things and making memories together. Tinggly's Bucket List Experience will add some excitement to your next anniversary trip, whether it's overseas or in the US. The gift voucher allows you to choose from more than 10,000 experiences, from surfing lessons to food tours and everything in between. The only tricky bit is deciding what you'd like to do.

Get 10% off all experience gift boxes and getaway gifts with our exclusive code: TK.

8. Personalized Storybook

Photo: Wonderbly

There are so many ways to say I love you, but there's nothing like seeing those three little words in print. With Wonderbly's Love of My Life book, you can remind your spouse why they're your number one. Each page can be personalized with your own words and illustrations inspired by your relationship. It's easily one of the most adorable gift ideas for the first wedding anniversary.

Use the KNOT25 code to get 25% off two books.

9. Vintage-Inspired Earrings

Photo: gorjana

If you're thinking of buying anniversary jewelry for your spouse, consider these heart-shaped earrings. They're made of 14K gold and look great worn alone or stacked with hoops. We're obsessed with the vintage aesthetic and how they showcase the one-year anniversary material.

10. Sunrise Alarm Clock

Photo: Hatch

Give your spouse the gift of peaceful mornings with a sunrise alarm clock. This practical first year anniversary gift mimics sunlight and gradually illuminates the room to wake you up gently. Now you can leave your phones outside the bedroom and create a more relaxing space.

11. Crystal Tennis Bracelet

Photo: Swarovski

Jewelry is a romantic gift you can always rely on, whether it's your first wedding anniversary or your 20th. This Swarovski tennis bracelet is perfect for formal and casual occasions alike. It's embellished with sparkly crystals and comes in several colors to suit your spouse's style.

Get 10% off at Swarovski with our exclusive code: Theknot10.

12. Love Letter in a Bottle

Photo: Personalization Mall

Gifts for the first wedding anniversary can be as romantic as your wedding vows. This custom love letter is a simple yet meaningful way to show affection. Your words are printed on lined paper, tied with ribbon and presented in a personalized, confetti-filled bottle.

Use the code KNOT15PM to get 15% off your order.

13. Folding Book Art

Photo: NiCeFoldedBookArt

Married to a bibliophile? This unique keepsake will get you in their good books. The pages of this repurposed hardback novel are folded to spell out your wedding date. Your spouse can display it on their nightstand as a timeless reminder of your love story.

14. Cozy Bathrobes

Photo: Brooklinen

If you're celebrating your first anniversary at home, you both deserve some pampering. Treat yourselves to these luxurious bathrobes and get ready to relax. They're made from 100% Turkish cotton and are ideal for throwing on after a shower. Bonus: Brooklinen offers a two-robe bundle at a discounted rate.

15. Gold-Dipped Rose

Photo: The Forever Rose

Here's another unique gift that incorporates the one-year anniversary metal: a gold-dipped rose. This special keepsake is a real flower preserved in lacquer to symbolize everlasting love. It's one of the most romantic gifts for the first wedding anniversary, especially if you engrave the stem with your spouse's name.

16. Sheet Music Art

Photo: AllThingsCottonPaper | Etsy

Honoring an important moment like your first dance is a fun way to celebrate your first anniversary. This print features the sheet music from your chosen tune and can be personalized with your names and wedding date. Now your spouse will always remember your special song, although they'd probably never forget it anyway.

17. Romantic Mapmaking Class

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Searching for first wedding anniversary present ideas that double up as a fun date activity? Sign yourselves up for this online mapmaking class. During the 90-minute workshop, you and your spouse will learn how to create your own love map. Each geographic feature is inspired by a specific milestone, like your first date, engagement and wedding day. Bonus: You'll be mailed a cartography kit beforehand.

18. Gold Carnation Pendant

Photo: Made by Mary

Combine two themes, the milestone flower and metal, with this first anniversary gift idea. The 14K gold necklace features a hand-drawn stamp of a carnation and comes in three sizes. Your spouse can wear it alone for an understated look or layer it with other pieces in their collection.

19. Adventure Challenge Journal

Photo: The Adventure Challenge

If you're running out of date night ideas after a year of marriage, we feel you. The Adventure Challenge Couple's Edition is full of scratch-off activities to do together, from blindfolded baking to painting a masterpiece. It'll help you shake up your weekly ritual and make time for having fun. Busy schedule? Check out the Mini Dates version for quick, 30-minute ideas.

Get 25% off sitewide at The Adventure Challenge with this code: THEKNOT25.

20. Classic Hourglass Timer

Photo: Personalization Mall

This engraved hourglass is a fun take on a clock, the modern first anniversary gift. It's filled with white sand and can be etched with their names, wedding date and a charming quote. You'll save time on gift wrapping as this personalized anniversary gift arrives in a satin-lined box.

Get 15% off your purchase with this code: KNOT15PM.

21. Chanel Cologne

Photo: Chanel

Luxurious one-year anniversary gifts will always be in, like this classic Chanel cologne. It blends citrus notes with sandalwood for a fresh, woody scent and comes in an elegant branded bottle. Your spouse can wear it for a special anniversary dinner and every occasion after.

22. Newspaper-Inspired Print

Photo: New York Times Store

Here's a unique first anniversary gift for your husband, wife or spouse: a reprint of The New York Times front page from your wedding day. It's a fun way to remember when you said, "I do," plus it doubles as a cool piece of decor. Choose your preferred size, the date and whether you want it framed.

23. Cute Kissing Mugs

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Appeal to your spouse's sentimental side with these cute mugs. They're made from porcelain and resemble two faces sharing a kiss, while the handles form a heart. Pair them with coffee beans or tea bags for an even more thoughtful first anniversary present.

24. Paper Clip Charm Bracelet

Photo: Ana Luisa

While it's not technically made of the traditional material, this paper clip bracelet is a novel one-year anniversary gift idea. The sleek design can be elevated with playful charms, including letters, flowers, hearts and stars. Editor's tip: Start off with one charm and add a new one every year for a romantic anniversary tradition.

25. Anthropologie Gift Card

Photo: Anthropologie

If you'd prefer to give your spouse the gift of choice, get them an Anthropologie gift card for your one-year anniversary. They can put it toward whimsical home accessories or upgrade their wardrobe with trendy new pieces. Half the fun will be deciding what to spend it on. We suggest snagging a paper gift card to fit the first anniversary theme.

26. Couples Cooking Class

Photo: Sur La Table

Whether you're shopping for a foodie spouse or a couple who has everything, consider a Sur La Table cooking class. They offer both online and in-person workshops, so you can easily find one to fit your schedule. You'll learn how to cook from scratch and present your culinary creations. It's one of the best one-year anniversary gift ideas for anyone who enjoys cooking or wants to improve their existing skills.

27. Apple Watch Band Set

Photo: Goldenerre

If your spouse never leaves home without their Apple Watch, they probably don't need a new timepiece. Instead, why not upgrade the one they already have? Goldenerre's accessory set includes a herringbone stainless steel band and a matching rhinestone bracelet. Choose from several colors and sizes to suit their watch model.

28. Fresh Flower Delivery

Photo: FTD

Choosing gifts for the first wedding anniversary can be simple, like a bouquet of fresh flowers. FTD offers a host of beautiful blooms, from romantic roses to cheerful sunflowers. Want to be extra thoughtful? Get something with carnations to honor the milestone flower.

29. Paper Airplane Toy

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Looking for a traditional first year anniversary gift with a twist? This paper airplane is a creative interpretation of the theme. It comes with an attachable Bluetooth-enabled device and can fly at up to 25 miles per hour. All your spouse has to do is secure the attachment, download the app and prepare for takeoff.

30. Event Tickets

Photo: StubHub

Experiences make great first-year anniversary gifts because they give you something to look forward to. With StubHub, you can treat your spouse to tickets for a concert, show, game or play in your preferred city. Email the tickets to them directly or print them to put inside a handwritten anniversary card.

31. Personalized Anniversary Candle

Photo: Birthdate Co.

We still have plenty of cool first anniversary gift ideas to share, like this personalized candle. The scented flame is labeled with your names and astrology, tarot and numerology details from your wedding date. With notes of sage, frankincense and oatmoss, it'll help set the ambiance for a relaxing evening in.

Get 15% off sitewide at Birthdate Co. with our exclusive code: KNOT15.

32. Cozy Footsie Blanket

Photo: Uncommon Goods

How about a sweet heart-shaped gift to celebrate your first year of marriage? This soft throw blanket is made for cuddling. It's designed for two people and features a pocket at the bottom to keep your feet warm. Choose from two colors for a present that's practical in the best way.

33. Personalized Bottle of Wine

Photo: Mano's Wine

A personalized bottle of wine is a first anniversary gift idea that works for almost anyone. Part souvenir, part celebratory drink, it holds a full-bodied cabernet sauvignon and is etched with your names and anniversary details. Pair it with cheese and crackers for a tasty anniversary treat.

34. Engraved Pocket Watch

Photo: Personalization Mall

For a modern first anniversary gift with a retro touch, snag this silver pocket watch. The front can be engraved with your spouse's monogram, while the back has space for a longer message. Add a romantic quote or reference your wedding vows for a symbolic gift they can carry in their pocket.

Use the code KNOT15PM to get 15% off your order.

35. Cute Matching Underwear

Photo: MeUndies

Matching couples underwear is an amusing one-year anniversary gift that your spouse probably would never think of. MeUndies offers a range of inclusive sizes, underwear styles and pairing options for all couples, so you'll likely find something you both love. You can even subscribe monthly if you're committed to coordinating regularly.

36. Digital Photo Frame

Photo: Aura Frames

If your spouse has spent the last year taking photos with you, they'll appreciate a digital picture frame. This clever device connects to an app where they can upload all their favorite snapshots and view them on a loop. Tip: Take care of the setup so they can start curating their display right away.

37. Yellow Butterfly Ornament

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Take inspiration from one of the first anniversary colors with this yellow butterfly ornament. It's made from stained glass and symbolizes joy, optimism and nurturement, three important ingredients for a happy marriage. It's one of our favorite first wedding anniversary present ideas for a spouse who values sentimental gifts.

38. Surprise Picnic Date

Photo: Giftory

Who wouldn't love to be whisked away on a romantic anniversary picnic? Thanks to Giftory, you and your spouse can enjoy a mystery date in your chosen city. You'll get to explore the streets, pick up treats and solve clues, before arriving at a scenic picnic spot where you can eat and admire the view.

Get 22% off sitewide with our exclusive code: KNOT22.

39. Indoor Smart Garden

Photo: Click & Grow

A Click & Grow indoor garden will be a dream come true for anyone short on outdoor space or time. This smart device does all the work, providing plants with optimal light, nutrients and water. It's a great first anniversary gift for couples who want to start gardening.

Get 22% off gardens, kits, plant pods and accessories at Click & Grow with this code: TKxCG22.

40. Fancy French Press

Photo: Fellow

Still wondering what to give your spouse for your first anniversary? Elevate their morning coffee ritual with a Fellow French press. Not only does it look super cool, but it also has a mesh filtration system to make a smooth brew. The vacuum-insulated walls will keep their coffee hot for ages too.

41. Custom House Portrait

Photo: pleasantglenproducts

If you and your spouse recently bought a house, this first anniversary gift is especially fitting. The custom artwork features your new abode, along with your names, address and a short message. Upload a photo of your house for reference, and the Etsy seller will use it to create a paper print or canvas.

42. Light-Powered Watch

Photo: Citizen

Fancy watches make excellent gifts for any occasion, especially the first year wedding anniversary. This elegant timepiece is powered by light (both solar and artificial), so your spouse will never need to replace the battery. We love the brown leather strap and rose gold accents of this vintage-inspired accessory.

Receive 10% off your first purchase at Citizen with this code: THEKNOT10.

43. Personalized Charcuterie Board

Photo: Amazon

Snack enthusiasts will get excited when they unwrap this bamboo charcuterie board. It features a built-in groove for serving cheese and crackers and a hidden drawer stocked with utensils. Choose from eight customizable designs for a thoughtful one-year anniversary gift they'll use often.

44. Metallic Record Clock

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Shopping for unique first anniversary gifts for a music fan? This metallic record clock is on point. It's made from a recycled LP record with a gold or platinum finish, and can be personalized with up to five song titles. Add your names and wedding date to complete this modern one-year anniversary present.

45. Hand Casting Kit

Photo: Amazon

Gift ideas for the first anniversary don't have to be elaborate; they just need to be meaningful. Prioritize relaxing, screen-free time with your spouse by giving them this hand casting kit. The set has everything you need to sculpt a model of your hands, including molding powder, a bucket, a casting stone, sandpaper, gloves, a sculpting knife and decorating tools. It's a fun, tactile activity that'll help you unwind together.

Our team received [some of] these products as promotional samples in exchange for editorial consideration and independent review.

Naoimh O'Hare contributed to the reporting of this article.