What is the traditional wedding gift list by year?

This tradition assigns a material to each year of marriage. Year one is paper, which makes for a simple and thoughtful card or book. Year two is cotton, so linen or a soft throw fits well. Year three is leather, and year four is fruit or flowers, though many people choose linen or silk instead.

Later years include wood, tin, crystal and silver. The twentieth is china, and the twenty-fifth is silver. These materials can inspire a gift for a specific anniversary, but they are not rules. Many couples today prefer to give experiences or contributions instead.

If you are choosing a present for an anniversary, pick something that matches the couple's tastes rather than strictly following the list. You might combine the traditional material with a personal touch, such as a framed photo on paper or a wooden keepsake box. Remember that the meaning behind the gift matters far more than the material. If you are unsure about what is appropriate for a particular milestone, ask the couple what they would enjoy.