1st Anniversary Gift Ideas
7 Perfect Paper Presents

Home » Last Minute Anniversary Gifts » 1st Anniversary Gift Ideas

Paper is the traditional 1st wedding anniversary gift. But that doesn't mean you give a ream of it, even if it's photo-quality.

The idea is to give something made of paper because paper symbolizes the strength that comes from the interlaced connection of individual threads. True, interlaced threads don't sound that strong but that's why diamonds are reserved for 80 years of marriage. That takes some real strength.

Anyway if you're a traditionalist, here are a few 1st anniversary gift ideas. If you want to scrap the paper idea, refer back to the main last minute anniversary gift ideas page.

1. Books.

   For a practical gift, choose a book about a hobby or favorite subject. You can even run into the corner drugstore or Target for a good last minute anniversary gift.

   Or for the romance factor, go for a collection of poems. I hear "I Thought About You Today" by Vincent Tyler is a good one. It's available at Amazon.com.

   

2. Stationery.

   Not just for the ladies. Men might appreciate a classic box of Crane's stationery.

3. Money.

   Paper doesn't get much better than this. Accompany it with a nice card and maybe an idea of what you'd like to treat the couple to, like dinner out.

   But please don't give cash to your spouse!

   

4. Tickets.

   Tickets to a play, a movie, a sporting event, or plane tickets out of town to celebrate that important 1st anniversary milestone.

5. Wine.

   In a box! Put this with picnic items for a romantic afternoon. I have heard good things about Black Box wine and have seen it at Target.

6. A Ketubah.

   A Ketu-what? A Ketubah is a beautifully designed Jewish marriage contract, suitable for framing.

   If you're not Jewish you can still frame something marriage-related such as your invitation, program, a poem that was read, or your vows.

7. Art.

   Lots of art starts with paper, right? I wouldn't recommend buying expensive art spur-of-the-moment; you'll want to think this one out. But if you're out of time and like the art idea, how about uploading a great picture of the anniversary couple to a 1-hour photo website like Costco or Walgreen's. Have it printed as an 8x10 and then while you're collecting your photo, grab a frame and you're all set!

Return from 1st Anniversary Gift Ideas to Home