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50 Paper Anniversary Gift Ideas to Celebrate Your First Year of Marriage

One year down. Forever to go.

By , Kim Duong NA and
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Courtesy Image | Khadija Horton

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So you're celebrating a year of marriage, congrats!! I hope you've got a bottle of bubbly ready because that is a *big* deal!! And since giving your partner an on-theme anniversary gift is a great way to celebrate, I'm here to ensure that you don't stress over finding the perfect present. Tradition says the first anniversary gift is (drumroll...) paper-themed—and we've got a ton of cute gift recs for ya below that fit the theme perfectly.

The good news? The paper gift theme is really up to your interpretation. You can go with a print of the lyrics to your wedding song to make your partner feel all mushy. Or a custom book expressing how much you love them if you want to be even more romantic. But! If the traditional first-anniversary paper gift theme doesn't suit your vibe, you should know there are alternative modern first-anniversary gift theme options, too! The modern themes for a one-year anniversary are clocks, gold, and two flowers: orange blossoms or pansies. We put a couple options for those on this list, too, just in case they fit your S.O. better.

Our top picks for the best paper anniversary gift ideas in 2023:

The trick to giving the perfect gift is making it personal, and the gift ideas below will guide you as you pick something out. But, just in case you're totally out of luck, another gift idea: a paper gift card to their favorite store. Trust, it totally counts!!

this personalized diary

Papier Minimal Photo Strip Diary

Minimal Photo Strip Diary
Now 20% Off

If your S.O. refuses to start the day without checking/updating their planner, help them stay up to date with this adorable diary that features a photo strip that can be personalized to showcase your fave memories together.

Who doesn't love a new piece of jewelry, right? The on-theme gold gift can be personalized to include two hearts, one for you and one for your S.O., or three hearts if you have a baby (or fur baby!) you want to add.

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The Anniversary Journal
Credit: Uncommon Goods

Keep track of memories from each year together in this journal. Don't worry if you can't think of anything to write together because there are prompts to guide you.

this modern alarm clock

Hatch Restore 1

Restore 1
Now 18% Off

If you want to go for the clock theme, do yourself (and your spouse) a favor by getting this modern alarm clock that will completely transform your time spent in bed (get your head out of the gutter). With soothing sleep sounds and a gentle sunrise alarm, it makes other alarm clocks look antiquated.

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If you're a book lover, then you know books hold a certain je ne sais quoi. If your spouse is an avid page turner, they'll surely love this paper and linen scented candle.

Personally, if I got this orange blossom PJ set for a first anniversary gift, I would fall in love with my partner all over again. Do with that information what you will.

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this personalized wedding print

TheModishHome Wedding Song Print

Wedding Song Print

Every couple remembers their wedding song, so why not make it a memory you can keep in your home for years to come?

Sure, you've been married for one year, but there's nothing wrong with getting to know your partner even more. With a focus on connection and good convo, this edition explores questions of background, values, and views on important issues.

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The paper theme was practically made for book lovers. Gift your novel-obsessed spouse with months of brand-new books to add to their growing collection with this subscription gift.

With one year down and many more to go, you two will have plenty of time to finish this vibrant 1000-piece puzzle with a very fitting name.

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these positive pocket-sized journals

BestSelf Partner Appreciation Notes

Partner Appreciation Notes

These personal journals will help you and your partner capture the moments you appreciate about each other every day as you go through life together.

This chic cookbook is perfect if they love cooking as much as they love you. Plus, it's just so pretty, there's simply no way they won't want to find somewhere to display it immediately.

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Made with recycled paper for an earthy, one-of-a-kind statement, this paper mache vessel is a chic touch of art that both of you can enjoy in your home.

Whether you forgot to save the wedding bouquet or want to give flowers that won't wither in a week, these paper peonies are the perfect way to commemorate your one year anniversary. No watering needed.

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If you two love birds are the proud parents of a fur baby, this gift will (selfishly) be perfect for both of you!

Legend has it that a dose of mindfulness and gratitude a day keeps the doctor away. Trust, this journal is just what the doc ordered for your S.O.

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This adorable set will let your S.O. stamp their style any and everywhere so they can personalize as many pages as their heart desires.

If your S.O. wears an Apple Watch almost everyday, do them a favor and upgrade their band to this chic, timeless one designed with high quality stainless steel that'll last just as long as your loving relationship.

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Paper incense aren't a very traditional anniversary gift, but if your spouse doesn't really do ~traditional~, these six high-quality fragrances are sure to be appreciated.

Who said anniversary gifts couldn't get spicy? This scratch-off book with 50 intimate adventures and games is a fun way to explore with your partner.

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Chaise Sanders
Associate Editor

Chaise Sanders is a NYC-based writer with a knack for all things lifestyle, beauty, entertainment, and style. Her work has graced the pages of Cosmopolitan, Country Living, InStyle, and more. When she's not busy crafting words, you can find her on Instagram roaming the streets of New York City, hunting down the best food spots, hidden gems, and deals.

Headshot of Katherine J Igoe
Katherine J Igoe
contributor
Katherine J Igoe (she/her) was a favorite editor for Cosmopolitan and is a freelancer: lifestyle, culture, and beauty (she's obsessed with gift guides, best-of movie lists , and beauty products). She's been a freelance writer and editor for over a decade, collaborating for Marie Claire (2018 to 2021) and Bustle (2021), with bylines in the New York Times, Parents magazine, And sorry. She lives in Boston with her family, and you can follow her on Instagram or Twitte. It's “I go to dinner,” not “her huge ego,” but she chose to both.
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