2nd wedding anniversary gift ideas

2-anniv-ideas The number two (for 2nd anniversary) in gold against a violet background, decorated with cotton bolls (for the traditional 2nd anniversary gift)

Traditional: Cotton
Modern: China

Read on for unique ideas for giving 2nd anniversary gifts—as well writing anniversary messages and celebrating the happy occasion.

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2nd anniversary gifts and ideas for spouses  

What to give
Budget
  • Let them know you appreciate their individuality by giving them a T-shirt or hoodie (or a few!) featuring a favorite sports team, rock band, hobby, movie or TV show.
  • Give pajamas or socks with a whimsical print that makes them smile.
  • For an even more modern spin on china, give a porcelain vase or platter from a local potter.
Splurge
  • Treat them to a plush terry bathrobe and tuck an extra surprise in the pocket, like fine jewelry or a new cell phone.
  • At a local shop or craft show, find a handmade quilt—a piece of art they can snuggle up in.
  • Or find another piece of art to keep them warm and cozy—a vintage tea set.

 

What to write

What to write in a 2nd anniversary card

  • “It’s only been two years, and yet we’ve come so far. We’ve grown together in beautiful ways and learned to love each other through life’s ups and downs.”
  • “I was really proud of the way you (insert proud moment here). It’s just one of the many things you did that made me fall in love all over again.””When was our honeymoon supposed to end? Because to me, it’s still going.”

 

What to write about in a 2nd anniversary love letter

  • The highlight of your year together
  • Things they did this year that made you proud to be their partner
  • A challenging moment, and how you got through it together

 

How to celebrate

  • Set goals for yourself as a couple: What do you want to accomplish in this next year of marriage? What do you want to leave behind?
  • Decorate matching T-shirts—since cotton is the traditional second anniversary gift—with an arrow pointing to one side, and add “I’m with him,” “I’m with her” or “I’m with them.”

More ideas for anniversaries

2nd anniversary gifts and ideas for friends and family  

What to give
  • Give bright beach towels with a note: “Every day’s a day at the beach when you’re in love…well, almost, anyway!”
  • Or tea towels with a funny or sweet message or design.
  • Look for matching mugs with their initials.

 

What to write in a 2nd anniversary card

  • “Two years, two hearts…too amazing!”
  • “May this next year of marriage bring you fun, excitement, romance and contentment.”
  • “It’s so clear: your love is growing stronger by the day.”

Stacey Donovan has been a writer and editor at Hallmark for more than 20 years. She also writes romance novels (under a pseudonym), and has collected a wealth of obscure knowledge in the process.