What to Write in an Anniversary Card (and the Gift to Go With It)

Not sure what to write in an anniversary card? You are not alone. Most of us know exactly how we feel and then freeze in front of a blank card. The good news is that the best anniversary messages are rarely long or clever. They are honest, specific and a little bit personal. Here are some ideas to get you started, and a few gifts that say the same thing.

What makes a good anniversary message?

A good message does three small things. It names something real about the two of you, it looks back or forward, and it sounds like you. You don't need poetry. A single true sentence will mean more than a page of borrowed lines.

Try this simple shape: one memory, one thing you love about them now, and one thing you are looking forward to. Three short sentences, and you are done.

What should you write for a first anniversary?

The first year is full of firsts, so lean into them.

• "One year of you. Still my favourite thing to come home to."
• "Our first year went by far too quickly. Here's to slowing down and enjoying the next one."
• "A year ago I hoped this would last. Now I know it will."

What should you write after many years together?

Longer relationships suit warmth and a little humour. Mention the life you have built, or the small habits that only the two of you understand.

• "Ten years, two flats and one very spoilt dog. I'd do every bit of it again."
• "You still make me laugh every single day. Happy anniversary, love."
• "Thank you for all the ordinary days. They turned out to be the best ones."

What if you're not a words person?

Then keep it short and let the gift do some of the talking. "I love you. Always have, always will." is a complete message. So is "Still you. Always you."

If you find it easier, write the card a day early. Read it again the next morning and remove anything that doesn't sound like you. What is left is usually the right message.

What should you avoid writing?

Skip anything that feels like a greeting-card cliché you would never say out loud. Avoid inside jokes that might land badly if the card is read in front of family. And don't apologise for the gift or the message. Whatever you have chosen, choose it with confidence.

Which gift goes with an anniversary card?

The nicest gifts echo the message inside the card. If you have written about the two of you as a team, choose something that shows two parts belonging together. If you have kept your words short, choose a piece that says the rest.

• The Interlocking Circles Necklace with Linked Ring Pendant shows two rings joined as one. It is a quiet nod to a life that has grown together.
• The Hidden Message I Love You Bar Necklace is made for anyone who finds the words hard to say. The message is part of the piece, so she can carry it with her.
• The Hugging Couple Necklace with Embrace Pendant captures a single embrace, which is sometimes all an anniversary really needs to say.

When should you give the card and the gift?

There is no rule, but many couples like to give the card first thing in the morning and keep the gift for later in the day, over dinner or a quiet moment at home. It stretches the day out a little and gives each part its own moment.

If you are ordering a gift online, leave yourself enough time for delivery. You will find our current delivery times in our FAQ.

The words matter less than you think

Whatever you write, the fact that you sat down and wrote it is what will be remembered. Keep it honest, keep it yours, and don't worry about getting it perfect.

Every order comes with free UK delivery, and you have 30 days to change your mind.

With love,
Team Primrose Noir