Traditional anniversary gifts, reimagined for millennial couples
Millennials aren't like everyone one else.
You do things on your own time. You leave jobs when you aren't happy. You celebrate like no generation before (do it for the 'gram!), and when the time is right, you marry whoever you want whenever you damn well please.
Just look at the statistics. Currently, about 27 percent of millennial couples are married, compared to 36 percent of Generation Xers, 48 percent of Baby Boomers, and 65 percent of Traditionalists when they were the same age. And even though most millennials haven't walked down the aisle just yet, 86 percent say that you plan on doing so one day. Whenever that is.
AdultFriendFinder — readers’ pick for casual connections
Hinge — popular choice for regular meetups
Editor's note: You don't have to be married to partake in these gift ideas. Anyone who's partnered can play along.
Traditions aren't really your thing. You're too busy *disrupting* industries, after all. The same logic should be applied to anniversary gifts.
As the tradition goes, the first anniversary calls for paper gifts, the second for cotton, the third for leather, the fourth for linen or silk, and the fifth for wood – but those are pretty basic.
So we're here to help you put a 21st-century spin on it. Keep this list of products, suggestions, and services nearby to help make traditional anniversary gifts more fun.
First anniversary: Paper = Tickets
If you know anything about millennials, it's that you prioritize adventures and experiences over just buying random stuff. Maybe FOMO has a little bit to do with it, OR maybe you're just the most in-tune generation ever! #WOKE. Tickets to anywhere, whether it be plane tickets or concert tickets, are a great first anniversary gift as you and your spouse continue to build memories. Doesn't really matter where you go, just get out and do something fun. And remember: Pics or it didn't happen.
Seconda anniversary: Cotton = MeUndies
It's uncanny how much couples start to become alike by the second year. You steal each other's phrases, probably pick up each other's mannerisms, and even start to dress alike.
How funny would it be for you to take it to the next level and buy yourselves matching underwear? MeUndies specializes in that sorta thing, allowing you to match your bottom half with your better half. They're supposed to be really soft, and if you're feeling particularly gifty, you can buy a membership box for as low as $32 per month and get a new matching pair every four weeks.
Third anniversary: Leather = Duffle bag
At this point, its been three years since your honeymoon, so you should probably plan another vacation. But if you're too busy to take a week off, consider taking a weekend trip to someplace fun. This overnight leather duffle bag is handmade and comes in both brown and black.
Tip: If you don't have time for the trip consider sprucing up your place instead. Adding a touch of leather or suede can enhance any living space. Maybe you get a new cowhide rug for the living room, or a suede throw pillow or two for the couch.
Fourth anniversary: Silk = A better night's sleep
There is conflicting data about just how much sleep millennials get each night, but the general consensus is that you get more sleep on average than older generations. That can probably be attributed to your obsession with a healthy work-life balance. These products will help you stay comfy during those Netflix and chill sessions and may even contribute to better sleep.
Pajamas: Not enough people realize the role pajamas can play in getting a good night's sleep. If your PJs are too insulating, it takes longer to fall asleep, and you end up tossing and turning all night. The solution is silk pajamas. Silk is a natural protein fiber that can keep you just warm enough in the winter and just cool enough in the summer.
Silk Pillowcase: The best pillowcases are silk pillowcases. Why? Silk can help your skin stay smooth and your hair stay hydrated while you sleep. These by Slip have even been said to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Fifth anniversary: Wood = Cheers
Wood you pass the wine? Red wine and wood have a long history. Grapes get fermented and when they meet oak, the magic happens. But then the two are separated. Why not use your 5-year anniversary as a chance to reintroduce them? Sip on crisp pinot noir or pop open an aged cabernet sauvignon and pour it into these eco-chic wooden wine glasses.
If martinis are more your speed, try these wooden martini glasses. Compared to traditional glassware, wood is a much better insulator and can keep your drinks colder longer. The maker of these says the wood is carefully sanded to be velvety smooth and then it's finished with an FDA-approved sealant so that the wood won't interfere with the flavor of your drink.
If cocktails are more your thing, there are also these wood and ceramic tumblers for the perfect sophisticated toast. Cheers to year number five!
Sixth anniversary: Iron = Iron
Just go with us on this one.
Most millennials don't even have an iron, but your reasons are solid. For one, irons can burn your clothes. Two, they can take forever to heat up. And three, as for ironing boards, who even has room for that? Not to mention, lots of fabrics don't need to be ironed anyway.
While your lover might not appreciate you getting him or her just like, any old run-of-the-mill iron (really don't do that), you should use this opportunity to buy one of these two modern spins on the traditional metal-device.
Oliso Pro Smart Iron: This smart iron pops up every time you take your hands off of it so it won't burn your clothes. Also, it auto-shuts off after 30 seconds if its left standing or it it falls over.
Collar perfect: Collar Perfect is a small and quick iron that works by clamping onto collars, cuffs, creases, between buttons, and other parts to smooth out wrinkles. What makes it millennial-friendly is that it can transform into a standard iron when you open its wings. Collar Perfect also comes with international power support so you can take it on with you on all your trips.
15 years: Crystal = Bling
The traditional gift for the 15th anniversary is crystal, and we have to say: It's what's on the inside that counts. Quartz crystals are used in many watches to help keep time more accurately. When selecting a watch for your boo, we recommend going with Fossil. The company has a blend of high-quality time-pieces and sparkly smartwatches to fit anyone's style. Some, like the styles pictured above, use quartz crystals to aid with time keeping.
20 years: China = Take a pottery class
Coursehorse has as variety to choose from in over a dozen major U.S. cities. Not only is it fun to get out and try something new together, but you'll also have a souvenir so you always remember your special day. Oh, and throw a party, duh! You two deserve it.
