Traditional Anniversary Gifts by Year for Your Manly Man

Each anniversary marks another year of growing stronger, laughing harder, and loving deeper. It’s more than just a number—it’s a celebration of your journey together. And if your guy appreciates gifts that are bold, practical, or snackable, this guide is for you.

We’ve taken the classic anniversary themes and added a rugged, Manly Man Co. twist. From paper to silver, here's how to turn tradition into something he'll actually want.

Year 1: Paper

Start your journey with something simple and personal. A handmade card, cheesy love note, or custom print of your vows hits just right. Bonus points for humor—or glitter, if you're brave.

Year 2: Cotton

Cotton represents comfort and connection. Think matching t-shirts with inside jokes, a cozy cotton throw, or cotton boxers printed with your anniversary date. Soft, fun, and surprisingly meaningful.

Year 3: Leather

Leather symbolizes durability and shelter—just like your relationship. Want something unforgettable? Go with Meat Cards: real beef jerky laser-engraved with your message. Yes, it’s leather. Edible leather.

Year 4: Fruit & Flowers

Trade roses for something tastier. The Beef Jerky Flower Bouquet combines handcrafted jerky “blooms” in a bouquet he’ll actually enjoy. It’s love at first bite.

Year 5: Wood

Rooted, strong, and growing—wood is the perfect symbol for your fifth year. A wooden keepsake box, engraved cutting board, or wall art shows just how far you’ve come together.

Year 6: Iron

Iron = strength. Gift him something sturdy and symbolic—like an iron bottle opener, golf club, or a forged knife. Just skip the ironing board unless you're aiming for laughs.

Year 7: Wool

Wool brings warmth, comfort, and connection. Wrap him in a soft wool sweater, custom scarf, or even a matching blanket for those lazy movie nights.

Year 8: Pottery

Pottery begins soft and is shaped by time—just like love. Try a custom mug, handmade bowl, or pottery class together for a date that’s messy in all the right ways.

Year 9: Willow

Willow trees bend without breaking—resilient and graceful. Choose art, photo frames, or home accents inspired by willow branches or tree symbolism.

Year 10: Tin or Aluminum

Durable, lightweight, and built to last. Gift him something useful and awesome—like the Personalized Ammo Can from Manly Man Co. Rugged, customizable, and perfect for storing keepsakes—or jerky.

Years 11–25: Keeping the Tradition Alive

• 11 – Steel: Strong, sharp, and forged under pressure—just like you two.
• 12 – Silk or Linen: Smooth, luxurious, and the reward of a relationship well cared for.
• 13 – Lace: It’s delicate and elegant—surprise him with something symbolic (and a little cheeky).
• 14 – Ivory: Choose faux ivory or wildlife-inspired art for a compassionate nod to tradition.
• 15 – Crystal: Give something that sparkles—like crystal whiskey glasses or a decanter he’ll proudly display.
• 16 – Wax: Candles with his favorite scent (yes, there’s bacon-scented out there), or go full spa mode.
• 17 – Wine: A bottle from your wedding year or an anniversary vintage, paired with personalized glasses.
• 18 – Porcelain: Refined and timeless—consider a porcelain mug with a quote or inside joke.
• 19 – Bronze: Strong, earthy, and unique. Look for custom coins, frames, or engraved accessories.
• 20 – China: Classic elegance. Or give it a twist with a jerky bouquet in a faux-vase arrangement.
• 21 – Brass/Nickel: Bold and polished—opt for cufflinks, a pen set, or a decorative item for his workspace.
• 22 – Copper: Known for its warmth and beauty. Think cookware, bar tools, or a hammered copper mug set.
• 23 – Silver Plate: Elegant and useful—ideal for serving trays, keepsake boxes, or a cocktail set.
• 24 – Opal: Layered, deep, and luminous. Try cufflinks or accessories with opalescent detail.
• 25 – Silver: A true milestone. Celebrate with engraved silver items, a bold keepsake, or just a whole lot of love.

Looking Forward

Whether it’s year one or year twenty-five, every anniversary is a new chapter in your story. Make it count with gifts that are meaningful, flavorful, or downright fun. From handcrafted jerky bouquets to rugged keepsakes, Manly Man Co. is here to help you mark each milestone your way.