19 Thoughtful One-Year Anniversary Gift Ideas For Spouses & Partners

If you’re approaching your one-year anniversary, congratulations! Celebrating a first anniversary is a significant milestone in any relationship, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to show your partner how much they’ve meant to you over the past year. A thoughtful gift is a perfect way to commemorate your journey together. Here are 19 meaningful gift ideas—all focusing on the traditional theme of paper, along with some unique suggestions that embody love and connection.

One-Year Anniversary Themes

Anniversary gifts traditionally reflect the years spent together, with specific themes assigned to each year. The symbolism of these materials often represents the strengthening of your relationship over time. For instance, the first anniversary theme is paper, while the 25th anniversary is associated with silver and the 50th with gold. Additionally, clocks are sometimes tied to the first anniversary, symbolizing the passage of time.

While incorporating the traditional theme can be fun and meaningful, don’t feel confined to it. The best gifts are personal and considerate, reflecting your partner’s preferences and your shared experiences.

Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Make it Meaningful
   When considering what gift to give, think about the meaning behind it. Licensed marriage and family therapist Holly Richmond emphasizes the importance of sentimentality in gift-giving. The emotional value of a gift often outweighs its monetary value.
2. Know Their Love Language
   Understanding your partner’s love language can guide you in choosing the perfect gift. If they cherish quality time, you might consider giving them an experience to enjoy together instead of material presents. This personal touch can make them feel valued and appreciated.
3. Don’t Feel Like You Have to Break the Bank
   Meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive. Focus on personalization and thoughtfulness, as these often resonate more than high-priced items.

Our Picks for the Best One-Year Anniversary Gifts

1. A Customized Star Map

   Commemorate a special day with a customized star map that depicts the stars as they appeared on a significant date—this could be the day you met, your first date, or your wedding day.

   Price: $65

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: The Night Sky

2. A Guided Journal for Couples

   A guided journal can be a fun and reflective activity for couples to engage in together, helping to deepen their understanding of each other.

   Price: $12

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: Amazon

3. A Sentimental Art Print

   If your partner enjoys art, consider gifting a romantic or meaningful print. A piece like Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss” could add a lovely touch.

   Price: $35

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: Target

4. A Wedding Album

   Compile your favorite memories from your wedding into a beautiful album where you can reminisce together.

   Price: $60

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: Amazon

5. “Paper” Jewelry

   This unique gift option allows for personalized pieces, such as necklaces engraved with your vows, reflecting the paper theme while making it special.

   Price: $109

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: Paper Anniversary

6. A Book Subscription

   For the book lovers, a monthly subscription can provide them with new titles to explore.

   Price: $12.50 to $16.67

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: Book of the Month

7. Sheet Music

   Turn your couple’s song or first dance song into a beautiful piece of decor by having the sheet music framed.

   Price: $49

   Type: Paper gift

   View on: AmourPrints

8. The And

   This personal couples’ game encourages deeper conversation and learning about each other through thought-provoking questions.

   Price: $29

   Type: Intimate gift

   View on: The Skin Deep

9. The Adventure Challenge

   Filled with surprise date ideas that you reveal by scratching them off, this book keeps the excitement alive in your relationship.

   Price: $50

   Type: Intimate gift

   View on: The Adventure Challenge

10. An Inspiringly Sexy Book

    Explore new adventures in the bedroom with this steamy guide filled with various positions.

    Price: $10

    Type: Intimate gift

    View on: Amazon

11. A Massage Candle

    Create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere with a candle designed for massages, combining scents and warmth for an intimate experience.

    Price: $30

    Type: Intimate gift

    View on: Maude

12. A Sex Toy

    Enhance your intimacy with a versatile sex toy that provides pleasurable experiences for both partners.

    Price: $25

    Type: Intimate gift

    View on: Lovehoney

Other Meaningful Gift Ideas

• A love letter: A heartfelt, handwritten note expressing your feelings.
• An act of service: Completing a significant chore for your partner or cooking their favorite meal.
• Tickets to a special event: A memorable outing to a concert, play, or exhibition.
• A National Parks pass: Perfect for nature lovers, allowing access to numerous parks.
• DIY relationship coupons: Craft personalized coupons for favors or activities.
• A fun class or membership: Support their hobbies with classes in areas they appreciate.
• A vacation: Use your anniversary as an excuse for a weekend getaway.

The Takeaway

Ultimately, the essence of your anniversary gift lies in its thoughtfulness. It reflects your connection and highlights how much you care for each other. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional theme or explore your own ideas, the most important part is to create a memorable experience together.The theme for the one-year anniversary is paper.