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This is just the beginning.
By Aly Walansky — Written on May 25, 2019
The 2nd anniversary is pretty poignant because this is when you become veterans in marriage. You've gotten married and survived not just the first year (which is largely the honeymoon phase), but another year after that. It's an important milestone that can't be forgotten and should be recognized with the perfect anniversary gifts.
Traditionally, second anniversaries are celebrated with the gift of cotton, which, while soft and comforting, is also versatile, adaptable, and deceptively strong. These are all important qualities in a marriage, too!
That said, don't feel obligated to go with a cotton gift. Instead, choose from these many 2nd anniversary gift ideas.
1. DMC Pearl Cotton LOVE Kit
A spin on the traditional “cotton” gift for the 2nd anniversary, this handmade “LOVE” hooped hanging is the perfect way to show her or him that you really care. This DIY kit comes with all of the materials you need to stitch your own message of love.
(DMC, $14.99)
2. Figleaves Cotton Stripe Pintuck Robe
Taking the idea of cotton as the traditional gift and making it luxe. This Figleaves robe is crafted from 100 percent cotton and is a nod to the bridal white, while giving her a gorgeous way to relax in style.
(Figleaves, $53)
3. Garnet and Diamond Band from Diamond Vault
Garnet is the traditional gemstone that represents the second wedding anniversary. Celebrate two years of marriage with this stunning garnet and diamond band from Diamond Vault.
(Search for Jewelry, $957)
4. Cleto Chiarli Brut de Noir Rose
Give the gift of bubbles! And why not share one that's really pretty to look at and tastes of roses, strawberries, and raspberries?
(Wired for Wine, $15.97)
5. Jenni Earrings
These bright and color-rich earrings will show the bright future of the couple celebrating their 2-year anniversary. It is original and stylish enough to show that you thought the gift through.
(Kendra Scott, $110)
6. Traditional Sapphire and Round Diamond Twist Hoop Earrings
The 2nd anniversary is the perfect time to reminisce about the day you said “I do” with a sweet reminder of your love that has her wearing the traditional “something blue” every day.
(ShaneCo, $720)
7. Bond Touch
Bond Touch is the first and only wearable that keeps you connected to your loved one through touch. With a simple tap, your partner feels a vibrating “touch,” letting them know they are on your mind.
(Uncommon Goods, $49-$98)
8. Algoma White Rope Hammock Chair
With a fun twist on this cotten tradition, gift your spouse a cotton rope hammock, which allows breeze to flow through and confirms to your body, offering the ultimate comfort. Easy to hang from a tree or fit it to a Algamora C-frame for added convenience, give your significant other the gift of comfort and relaxation.
(Lowe's, $37.23)
9. Boston Loft Furnishings Harrington Honey Oak/Espresso Wood Poplar China Cabinet Wine Storage
China is a modern gift, and nothing is more unique and sleek-looking that this cabinet. The oversized door handles offer a dramatic mid-century feel to any space, and the cabinet comes equipped with wine storage as well, making it the ideal gift to give something classically unique.
(Lowe's, $258.42)
10. Piccadilly Picnic Basket
This Piccadilly Picnic Basket has everything you need to create a luxury picnic. With two plates, two sets of cutlery, linen napkins, a corkscrew and two wine glasses all tucked into a willow lined basket, you'll be ready to whisk your loved one away on a romantic adventure.
(The Apollo Box, $82.95)
11. Artifact Uprising Framed Canvas Prints
Give them the gift of beautiful memories with a framed canvas photo. Printed on cotton-blended canvas with museum-like quality, each print features a sleek metal frame that is ready to hang.
(Artifact Uprising, $119)
12. Olive & Cocoa Customized 'Party Of 2' Sign
Commemorate that special day, this hand painted “party of 2" sign can be personalized with a last name and date of choosing.
(Olive and Cocoa, $164)
13. ClosetMaid
You’ve lived together for a few years now, so getting settled is most likely still happening. What better way to gift each other than with an organized space? ClosetMaid has affordable, stylish options that are DIY, and you can customize them too.
(ClosetMaid, prices vary)
14. RISE Brewing Co. Nitro Cold Brew Coffee
Create a healthy, lasting-morning ritual just for the two of you with RISE's nitro cold brew coffee. Free of harsh chemicals and additives, 1.5x more caffeine and 70 percent less acidity than real coffee, this coffee comes in a range of flavors like Oat Milk Latte, Mocha Latte, and Classic Latte.
(RISE, $34.99/12-pack)
15. Custom Tailored Suit
Many men keep their suit from the wedding, but after years it is difficult to make it fit. Design the exact same suit with this online 3D suit designer, which offers more than 150 fabrics available and thousands of combinations. You only need height, weight and body shapes, and you will receive a perfect fitting suit.
(Hockerty, $269)
16. Ellis James Designs Black Jewelry & Makeup Bag
The black Jewelry and Makeup Bag from Ellis James Designs has room for more than meets the eye. Fill it up with her favorite makeup or some new jewelry, and gift her what she loves in her new travel bag.
(Ellis James Designs, $22.95)
17. Monthstone Necklace
Commemorate your anniversary with a stone that represents the month you tied the knot. The Lulu DK Monthstone Necklaces have a stone for every month and every special moment.
(Lulu DK, $58)
18. Song Lyric Wall Art
This is a unique sheet music canvas that includes 2 sheet music stanzas, the title of the song, and the lyrics of the song. This is personalized to your liking (color, size, design).
(Etsy, $79+)
19. Custom Tray on Cotton
A meaningful 2nd anniversary gift for him, these modern, stackable trays are personalized with your special wording on 100 percent Organic Cotton.
(Etsy, $69+)
20. Couples Underwear
Looking for the perfect couple gift? How about matching his and her couples underwear that can be personalized and customized? Sounds good to us!
(Etsy, $29.92)
21. 2 Year Anniversary Socks
These custom socks for men are the perfect gift idea. The socks can be personalized with initials or dates, making a truly special pair of socks.
(Etsy, $16.95)
22. Amazing Wife Gift Mug
A funny and sweet mug to give your wife on your 2nd anniversary, it’s sure to make her giggle with her morning coffee daily.
(Etsy, $13.99+)
23. Handmade Cotton Rose
This is a handmade cotton rose to give to your special someone to celebrate an anniversary, or as an interior decoration for your own home. Each flower has been made by hand using printed cotton fabrics.
(Etsy, $17.22+)
24. Couples Crown Pillowcases
With these pillowcases for him and her, there never will be the same drawing because all of them are painted by hand. The drawing stays very soft as fabric and will be with you for many years.
(Etsy, $27.75+)
25. Initial Necklace
Celebrate a 2nd anniversary with a personal gift like the Sparks collection Initial Necklace. Spell it out with custom charms to make a unique and dainty keepsake to celebrate this special milestone.
(The 9th Muse, $110)
26. Double Interlocked Hearts Ring
The Double Interlocked Hearts Ring is a great way to celebrate. Make this ring symbolic of the many more years to come by adding special engraving and custom stones.
(Jewlr, $119)
27. Soma Cool Nights V-Neck Pajama Set
Give her bed time an upgrade with this soft pajama set that will make her never want to leave the bed. That's sort of ideal on an anniversary.
(Soma, $49)
28. Trinity Gold White Opal Earrings
This is the perfect gift for someone who likes to dress to impress. Whether it's work or for a romantic date night, let her know you want her to feel beautiful always.
(Mod Monocle, $95)
29. eCreamery Custom Ice Cream
You've settled into the comfort level where a night at home with ice cream and a great movie makes an ideal date night. Take it up a notch by making personalized ice cream with her favorite flavors!
(eCreamery, $49.99/4 custom pints)
30. Omaha Steaks Filet & Diamonds Anniversary Surprise
Make her dinner at home with this great set from Omaha Steaks that includes 2 filet mignons, smashed red potaotes, triple berry tartlets, and diamond accent earrings.
(Omaha Steaks, $59.99)
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Aly Walansky is a NY-based lifestyles writer who focuses on health, wellness, and relationships. Her work appears in dozens of digital and print publications regularly. Visit her on Twitter or email her at alywalansky@gmail.com.
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