The Best 21st Anniversary Gifts to Celebrate Over Two Decades of Marriage

Congrats! After 21 years of marriage, your relationship is officially of legal drinking age. Let's be honest, though: you've probably been toasting your love for quite some time. Whether it's champagne or a romantic keepsake, a 21st anniversary gift is the perfect way to mark this milestone. Each wedding anniversary is associated with a specific gift material, symbolizing how your bond has grown stronger and more resilient over the years. After just over two decades together, it's only fitting that the traditional 21st-anniversary material reflects the strength and durability of your relationship. Below, we'll guide you through all the 21st anniversary themes, followed by our favorite gift ideas for your husband, wife, life partner or a special couple.

In this article:

• Traditional 21st Anniversary Gift Themes
• Symbolic 21st Anniversary Gifts
• Alternative 21st Anniversary Gifts

Traditional 21st Anniversary Gift Themes

The 21st anniversary doesn't have a single traditional gift material like other years. Instead, brass and nickel are recognized as the modern symbols for this milestone. Both metals embody the strength and durability of a union that has thrived for over two decades. Beyond their resilience, brass and nickel are also linked to emotional well-being and protection against negative energy—essential elements for a long and happy relationship. Brass offers timeless elegance, while nickel delivers a sleek, modern vibe, so whether you pick one or both, you'll find a gift that perfectly matches your partner's or the couple's aesthetic.

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Twenty-one years of marriage also has an anniversary flower, gemstone and color, all of which can inspire meaningful gifts. The 21st anniversary flower is an iris, a stunning bloom that represents faith, wisdom and positivity. The 21st anniversary stone is iolite, a pretty purple stone representing clear vision and intuition. Legend has it that sailors used iolite to navigate by finding the sun's position, helping them safely return home. Finally, the 21st anniversary color is orange, a vibrant hue that signifies warmth, energy, and life—a perfect tribute to a passionate love that continues to thrive.

Symbolic 21st Anniversary Gifts

If you want to stick to tradition this year, we've found plenty of options that incorporate the various 21st anniversary themes and symbols below. From brass and nickel homewares to elegant jewelry and fresh blooms, our list is filled with 21-year anniversary gifts for your husband, wife, partner or favorite couple.

Brass and Copper Drink Dispenser

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Your marriage has officially reached drinking age, so why not serve up your spouse's favorite sip in honor of the occasion? This quirky drink dispenser looks like something straight out of a professional distillery, thanks to copper tubes that aerate the contents of the bottle. The brass spout is mounted on a liquid-resistant wood board for a seriously cool 21st anniversary gift that'll draw plenty of compliments (and attention!) at your next dinner party or family gathering.

Sheet Music Wall Art

Photo: Canvas Vows

Few moments are as memorable as your first dance as newlyweds, even after over two decades of wedded bliss. Take your partner right back to that special moment with this canvas art displaying the sheet music from your wedding song (or another tune you both find meaningful). Choose the silver tone finish for a subtle nod to the nickel anniversary material and get ready to dance the night away all over again.

Elegant Iolite Pendant

Photo: Kendra Scott

Want to spoil your spouse with a new piece of jewelry to celebrate your latest marriage milestone? Take inspiration from the 21st anniversary gemstone, iolite, with an elegant pendant they'll be excited to wear every day. The bold blue stone at the center contrasts beautifully with 18K gold vermeil hardware for an accessory that makes a subtle yet stylish statement. Given that iolite is said to inspire clarity and intuition, we bet your partner's joy will be clear as day when they receive this romantic gift.

Blue Iris Flower Delivery

Photo: BloomsyBox

A bouquet of flowers is always a super romantic gift, even after 21 years together. This vibrant bunch of blooms takes inspiration from the 21st anniversary flower, the iris, which looks beautiful paired with red tulips. You can even have them delivered right to the door to treat your love on the morning of your 21st wedding anniversary. Just don't forget to keep a lookout for the delivery so you don't give away the big surprise.

Orange Bee Drinking Ball

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Here's a novel gift that incorporates the 21st anniversary color, orange, in a really creative way. This glass bee drinking ball is specially designed to catch and hold water droplets from a garden hose, so busy pollinators can keep hydrated while they buzz about the place. It's a really great gift for anyone who loves spending time in the garden (or even just appreciates obscure facts, like the fact that bees need drinking water to regulate the temperature inside their hive).

Marble and Brass Cheese Board

Photo: Williams Sonoma

This cheese board doesn't just say "love" as a declaration of admiration for your partner (or the happy couple)—it also proudly labels your affection for a good charcuterie spread. Because let's face it: love and brie are worth celebrating! The round marble platter includes a matching brass cheese knife and you can snack—er, snag—an assortment of French cheeses from Williams Sonoma, too, to complete the gift.

Nickel-Plated Ice Bucket

Photo: Farrar & Tanner

This 21st wedding anniversary gift isn't just made of nickel for a meaningful touch—it can also be personalized with the couple's names and wedding date for an added layer of significance. The ice bucket is a stylish and functional piece that blends hammered nickel with handsome leather handles that can be embossed with up to 30 characters. Whether you're chilling champagne for date night in or keeping beer cans cool for a gathering, this piece will be a standout addition to any home bar.

Nickel Anniversary Bracelet

Photo: IFonlyPretty

Shopping for a thoughtful trinket that symbolizes your long-lasting relationship? Look no further than this handmade cuff. It's made from nickel and designed to look like an infinity symbol, which is a fitting tribute to your forever love. You can add a personalized engraving to the front and edges, including your wedding date, names or a special message for a unique touch. This elegant accessory is also available in brass, so you have your choice between two of the modern 21st anniversary materials for this meaningful gift.

Gold-Plated Brass Earrings

Photo: Gorjana

If your spouse has an eye for sleek, gold accessories, they'll love this pair of retro huggie earrings from Gorjana. The elongated hoops are made from 18K gold-plated brass and look seriously chic worn alone or stacked with other earrings. They'll add the perfect finishing touch to any outfit, from smart office attire to elegant evening wear. Not sure about gold? If your partner prefers cooler tones, they're also available in silver.

Nickel-Plated Wallet

Photo: Dango Products

If your spouse's wallet has seen better days, this unique design is a worthy (and necessary!) upgrade. Designed to hold up to 12 cards, this sleek accessory is made from nickel-plated leather for a sophisticated finish. The materials are assembled and polished by hand for over an hour, before being baked to set the hard coating for added durability. But that's not all—this wallet also has an RFID-blocking shield that protects cards from wireless fraud and skimming. Choose from three colors (black, rawhide or whiskey brown) for a winning 21st anniversary gift that'll impress your other half.

Buffalo Nickel Key Chain

Photo: Monticello Shop

For a unique 21-year anniversary present that blends history with personal significance, consider this keychain. Despite its compact size, it packs a meaningful punch. The accessory features a genuine Buffalo Nickel, renowned for its classic design and historical value, set into a durable leather strap. Minted in the early 20th century, the Buffalo Nickel symbolizes the enduring strength and rugged beauty of the American West, making it a fitting metaphor for 21 years of a resilient and timeless relationship. This upgraded key holder will be a cherished addition to their car keys or home entry, serving as a daily reminder of your love.

Tiger's Eye and Brass Bracelet

Photo: Ferragamo

Tiger's Eye is more than just a stunning semi-precious stone; it embodies strength, courage and protection—qualities that resonate with the resilience and deep connection of your 21-year journey together. Ferragamo's Tiger's Eye bracelet makes a perfect 21st anniversary gift for him, her or them with its golden-brown beads highlighted by flashes of deep orange, echoing the vibrant color of this milestone year. The bracelet also features a brass metal tag, adding a sleek, modern touch. It's a gift that doubles in meaning and style, celebrating your enduring bond with both elegance and significance.

Iris Coffee Mug

Photo: IEartandcraft

Want to incorporate the 21st anniversary flower into your gift without buying fresh blooms? This pretty coffee mug is a great budget-friendly option that won't bring on any allergies. It's beautifully decorated with a hand-drawn illustration of a purple iris on both sides of the handle, with space in the middle for a personalized message or your partner's name. The affordable price point means you can even pick one up for yourself to create a matching pair that'll bring a happy touch to your morning ritual.

Brass Desk Puzzle

Photo: Nordstrom

This brass anniversary gift is ideal for the spouse who's always fidgeting. The jack-inspired puzzle blends sleek brass with interactive fun, turning idle moments into an engaging (if slightly challenging) activity as they piece it together. Once solved, at least the first time, it doubles as a stylish and functional desk decoration or paperweight.

Brass Table Lamp

Photo: Brightech

Whether your spouse works from home or has a designated area to indulge in their favorite hobby, they'll love this retro table lamp. It boasts a playful mid-century modern design aesthetic, with brass finishes that are right on theme for the 21st wedding anniversary. That's not even the best bit, though—the base has a wireless charging pad for their phone, watch or headphones for dual practicality.

Brass House Plaque

Photo: Personalization Mall

Home is where the heart is, which is something you probably appreciate even more after 21 years with your spouse. If you want to add a sophisticated touch to your abode, it's hard to go wrong with a personalized wall plaque. This antique-style plate is crafted from rust-free aluminum with an antique brass finish and can be customized with your family name and wedding date for a thoughtful 21st anniversary wedding keepsake.

Brass Plant Mister

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Watering plants can seem like a chore, but we've found something to bring a touch of style to this daily ritual. This petite brass mister is a great alternative to a plastic watering can and is ideal for keeping succulents and delicate flowers hydrated. Over time, the brass finish acquires a unique patina, which will add a rustic touch to the retro design. It's a practical 21st anniversary gift for her, him or them that they'll love and use, especially if they enjoy growing cacti and other succulents.

Monogrammed Cocktail Shaker

Photo: Mark & Graham

If your spouse has a flair for making top-notch drinks, why not upgrade their toolkit with a sleek cocktail shaker? This nickel-plated stainless steel design boasts a brilliant gold finish that can be personalized with their initials for a thoughtful touch. Compliment the gift with a bottle of their favorite liquor and mixer so you can celebrate the 21st anniversary with delicious homemade cocktails. Margaritas, anyone?

Nickel Photo Frame

Photo: Bloomingdale's

Time to bring the wedding album out of the archives. If you got married on a beach or honeymooned on an island, this nickel picture frame will take you right back to the sounds of the ocean. The intricate coral-inspired design creates an elegant backdrop for your favorite romantic snapshot, so you can give your special memories pride of place on your mantle. If you want to make this 21st anniversary gift even sweeter, we suggest swapping the image once a year for a romantic ritual that'll leave you both smiling.

Dyson Wireless Vacuum

Photo: Dyson

Vacuums might not be the most romantic gift, but a Dyson certainly changes that perception. With its sleek design and top-notch performance, it's a practical gift that shows you care about making their life easier while adding a touch of luxury to everyday chores. Plus, the cyclone's nickel-plated finish aligns perfectly with the 21st anniversary theme. (Psst, if you already have a Dyson vacuum, the Dyson Airwrap also comes in a nickel finish!)

Alternative 21st Anniversary Gifts

If brass and nickel aren't quite your style, there are plenty of other thoughtful options to mark your 21st anniversary. Whether they spend time gardening every day, love to chill on the sofa or live for entertaining guests, we've picked out the best alternative gifts for the 21st wedding anniversary.

Personalized Serving Tray

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Even after 21 years of marriage, you still feel like that lovestruck kid doodling your initials in a heart. This wooden serving tray beautifully captures that sentiment, featuring a tree engraved with your initials, wedding date and, of course, a heart. Two love birds perch off to the side, adding an extra touch of romance. It's a sentimental yet practical 21st anniversary gift that you'll enjoy for years to come. (And yes, it's perfect for surprising your spouse with breakfast in bed!)

Bouquet of LEGO Roses

Photo: LEGO

Here's a playful twist on a classically romantic gift: This LEGO Bouquet of Roses offers a unique way to say "I love you" on your 21st wedding anniversary. Crafted from vibrant building blocks, this set lets you assemble an assortment of roses and baby's breath that'll never wilt—just like your love. With its striking red hue and fun, hands-on assembly, it's a unique gift that adds a dash of entertainment to your celebration.

"Happy Anniversary" Cookie Gift Box

Photo: Cheryl's Cookies

It wouldn't be an anniversary gifting roundup if we didn't include an edible anniversary gift for you and your spouse or the happy couple to savor together. This delicious cookie gift box is curated especially for wedding anniversaries and is brimming with delectable treats like snack-size cookies, confection clusters and chocolate-covered pretzels. It's a winning 21st anniversary gift for anyone with a sweet tooth. The box includes 29 tasty bites, with flavors ranging from chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin to buttercream-frosted "wedding cake" cookies. Yum!

Trendy Shoulder Bag

Photo: Melie Bianco

For the spouse who never misses a beat when it comes to style, this shoulder bag is an excellent 21st anniversary gift idea. Its asymmetrical design is fashion-forward while still offering plenty of space for daily must-haves. Choose from bone, taupe, pistachio or red vegan leather to match the season of your anniversary, so they'll be eager to use it right away.

Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket

Photo: Huckberry

Celebrate 21 years with a gift as enduring as your love, even if it's not a brass or nickel anniversary gift for him, her or them. The Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket from Huckberry features a tough waxed canvas exterior and a soft, warm flannel lining, combining rugged practicality with timeless style. It's the ideal choice for someone who values both form and function in their wardrobe. You simply can't beat the quality, construction and versatility of this outerwear—it's built to last for the rest of your marriage, or in other words, a lifetime.

Indoor Smart Garden

Photo: Click & Grow

Fresh herbs and veggies without the labor and seasonality of an outdoor garden? Yes, please! Help your spouse grow produce all year long with an indoor smart garden. This fun kitchen gadget automates watering and light for fuss-free gardening that doesn't require any outdoor space. It comes with a complimentary set of three basil plant pods, but they can also use their own flower and vegetable seeds if they prefer.

Smart Bird Feeder

Photo: Amazon

Smart technology is just so cool that we had to include two innovative ideas for a 21-year anniversary gift for your wife, husband or partner. This solar-powered bird feeder brings tech-savvy flair to the outdoors, attracting feathered friends right to your window. Equipped with a smart camera, it notifies the recipient of any avian visitors through an app on their phone, making birdwatching as effortless as checking notifications.

Reading Subscription

Photo: Book of the Month

Married to a book lover? Celebrate their passion for discovering new stories—even if it means the bedside lamp stays on long past your bedtime—with a Book of the Month subscription. Each month, they'll select from a curated list of top new hardcovers and audiobooks, with their choice delivered right to their door. From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming romances, this subscription keeps their reading experience fresh and exciting. They'll be eager to share every new story they uncover with you.

Weighted Throw Blanket

Photo: Brooklinen

If your partner frequently falls asleep on the sofa, here's a thoughtful 21st anniversary gift that'll help them feel relaxed after a long day. This textured cotton blanket is gently weighted to help reduce anxiety and support a more restful slumber (who doesn't want that?). Plus, it's filled with tiny glass beads, a more eco-friendly alternative to plastic or polystyrene pellets. Choose from two colors, navy or dark green, to match your living area or bedroom color scheme.

Succulent Grow Kit

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Your spouse doesn't have to be a pro to make things grow, thanks to this handy DIY succulent kit. It includes all the essentials needed to create their very own succulent display, including plant cuttings, soil and a wooden frame. It's available in three sizes and is a great gift for anyone short on space but big on plants. Bonus: After the succulents have taken root, the frame can be fixed vertically to a wall to create a living piece of art. Cool, right?