You and your partner are now in your second decade together as a married couple. Your 10th wedding anniversary may already feel like such a long time ago, but now that you’re getting ready to celebrate 11 years of married bliss, you have another excuse to spoil your other half rotten all over again.
But what should you get your spouse when the two of you are celebrating your 11th wedding anniversary? Last year, you may have chosen to follow traditions and give your partner something around the theme of diamonds, but did you know that your 11th anniversary also has a traditional and modern gift, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone too?
So, if you’re keen to give your partner a gift filled with love and special meaning, you have plenty of options to choose from. In this guide, we’re going to explore all the traditions surrounding gift-giving when it comes to celebrating your 11th anniversary. We’ll let you know what the traditional and modern gifts are, and give you 50 suggestions to help you find something your partner will love.
For more information about all the anniversary gift-giving traditions from your first anniversary through to your 90th, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary?
You might already have a few ideas for what kind of gift you want to give your partner to mark your anniversary, but a traditional or modern gift can have a deeper level of symbolism that makes it extra special. People have been giving both traditional and modern gifts to their partners for more than 100 years, and which you choose to go with is up to you – and any can be super romantic and meaningful.
Traditional 11th anniversary gift – Steel
The traditional gift when celebrating your 11th wedding anniversary is steel. Okay, so steel might not seem like a particularly obvious choice, especially as it’s often reserved for fairly industrial use. But, steel is incredibly strong and durable, so it’s actually poignant when you think about how it sums up your marriage. If you use your creativity, steel can also make for a touching and beautiful gift.
Modern 11th anniversary gift – Costume jewellery
The modern 11th anniversary gift is costume jewellery, otherwise known as fashion jewellery. It’s often big, bold and relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to fine jewellery, because it doesn’t tend to feature pricey precious metals or gemstones. But don’t let that put you off – it symbolises the fun and playfulness you have in your marriage.
11th anniversary gemstone – Turquoise
If you’d love to get your other half some jewellery but you’d prefer it to contain a real gemstone or precious metal, then the traditional 11th anniversary gemstone is turquoise. This lovely (as the name suggests) turquoise-coloured stone represents protection and luck, which you clearly have by the bucket load after spending more than a decade with the love of your life.
11th anniversary flower – Tulip
The traditional 11th anniversary flower is the tulip, which couldn’t be a more perfect flower when celebrating your anniversary. Not only are tulips wonderful springtime flowers, but they represent perfect, deep love. And, after 11 years of marriage, we imagine that’s exactly what you feel for your other half. Plus, it looks fantastic either as part of an arrangement or as the star of the show in a bouquet.
How do you choose a gift for an 11th wedding anniversary?
When it comes to choosing the ideal 11th anniversary gift, you could have a few ideas in your mind already. Do you go for the typical anniversary gift, like chocolates and flowers, or do you think outside the box? Or, you might want to choose a gift packed with special meaning – the choice is practically endless.
Here are a few points to bear in mind when trying to think about the perfect 11th anniversary gift for your partner:
- Are you keen to stick with the traditional or modern themes? They’re not exactly easy to work with – it can be easy to assume that steel doesn’t scream romance.
- Do you have a set budget? Some costume jewellery can be relatively inexpensive, but it depends what your partner likes. Some steel gifts can also vary greatly in cost.
- Are you hoping to choose something personalised? Steel is a great option if you want to give your partner a custom gift, while costume jewellery can be a little more difficult to personalise.
- What sort of thing does your partner love? Unless you’re super lucky, your other half might not have expressed much interest in steel or costume jewellery, but they could have dropped a few heavy hints about something else.
Is a couple you adore about to celebrate their 11th anniversary, and are you wondering whether or not you can join in on the traditions and get them a gift associated with steel or costume jewellery? The great thing is, these ‘rules’ aren’t just for the couple themselves – if you want to give them something that ties into the themes then you’re more than free to do so. They’re bound to love and appreciate your gift and the extra meaning behind it.
50 ideas for an 11th wedding anniversary gift
As you near your 11th anniversary, you might wonder just how you can top what you gave your partner to mark your 10th anniversary. The good news is, even though the traditional and modern gifts aren’t quite as extravagant as diamond, they’re still jam-packed with just as much symbolism and meaning. So, if you’re looking to give your partner a gift linked to one of the themes, here are 50 suggestions to get your creativity flowing and help you find the perfect gift.
10 traditional gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
If you’re interested in giving your partner a traditional 11th anniversary gift, you’ll need to choose something closely associated with steel. Steel isn’t a common gift to give someone (unless they just so happen to be a big fan of Sheffield-based industry), but if you think a little out of the box, you can find something wonderful that they’re bound to love.
1. An engraved steel dessert spoon
Does your partner have a sweet tooth or do you love to entertain? A personalised engraved dessert spoon is a fantastic one-of-a-kind gift that you can use every time you entertain or fancy a sweet treat. It also has the bonus of being super affordable.
2. A steel rose
The rose is a symbol of love recognised the world over. The trouble is, they wilt after a few days and your floral gift is no more – that is, unless you give your other half a steel rose. That way, it can sit in the garden forever and be a permanent reminder of your 11th anniversary.
3. A steel black cat garden ornament
If your partner loves cats – particularly black cats – then a steel black cat figure can stand on your garden fence and strut its stuff like it owns the place. A great anniversary gift for the cat lover in your life.
4. A steel figures ornament
For something truly unique and full of character, a steel love figure is a real showstopper. There are also plenty of different styles depending on what your partner might enjoy – something romantic, something silly, or something a little bit more risqué.
5. Engraved stainless steel ice cubes
It’s always worth sharing a drink with your partner to toast your anniversary. So, whether you want to share a Coke or a whiskey on your special day, engraved stainless steel ice cubes are more than fitting for the occasion.
6. A personalised steel thermos flask
If your partner spends a lot of time outdoors or travels frequently for work, a personalised steel thermos flask works on so many levels. Not only will it help quench their thirst on their travels, but it’s a personalised reminder of your anniversary which they can take with them on their adventures.
7. An “I steel love” you personalised keyring
There’s nothing quite like a good pun, and an I steel love you personalised keyring is cute, charming and funny. It’s a lovely little token gift that your other half can always keep close by.
8. A stainless steel and wooden bracelet
Traditionally, steel isn’t often used in jewellery, but in the right hands, it can be a phenomenal material. And with a stainless steel and wooden bracelet, it’s definitely in the right hands. It also sort of crosses into modern gift territory as well, meaning it’s a gift with double the meaning.
9. Stainless steel word art
For a brilliant piece of personalisation to hang on the wall, a piece of stainless steel word art lets you create custom artwork on mirrored stainless steel. It’s a brilliant and hugely personalised gift that you can use to remember the life you’ve built together.
10. A stainless steel wine tumbler
If your partner loves a glass of wine but isn’t a fan of traditional glasses, a stainless steel wine tumbler keeps wine – and any other drink for that matter – at the ideal temperature. It also comes in a range of colours, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding one that suits your partner’s taste.
10 modern gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
If steel isn’t really your partner’s thing, then you could give them a modern gift for your 11th anniversary instead – costume jewellery. Costume jewellery is big, bold and beautiful, and with such a huge choice available you’re sure to find something that fits their usual style.
1. A precious heiress necklace
For that precious someone in your life, a precious heiress necklace will let them feel like royalty. It’s far from subtle, but it’s a lovely on-theme gift that is beautifully glitzy.
2. Celeste flower and leaf pearl cluster statement earrings
To really make a statement on your anniversary, a pair of Celeste flower and leaf pearl cluster earrings are utterly fabulous.
3. Gold butterfly wing stud earrings
If your other half is an insectologist or simply loves beautiful butterflies, a pair of gold butterfly wing stud earrings are equal parts delicate and pretty.
4. A crystal robin brooch
To make any outfit stand out from the crowd, a crystal robin brooch is perfect for any nature lover. Available in a clear or multi-coloured design with plenty of sparkly detail, this brooch goes with a wide range of styles.
5. An organic shapes necklace
For a real hit of bold blue, an organic shapes necklace is a unique and eye-catching accessory that adds a contemporary touch to any ensemble.
6. Pearls of gold bracelet
If you and your other half enjoyed bingeing Bridgerton together and they commented on the incredible jewellery they wore, you could make your anniversary one to remember with a pearls of gold bracelet, which was worn by characters in the iconic series.
7. A Diamonique scattered stone bangle
Give your partner a touch of Hollywood glam with a Diamonique scattered stone bangle, created by TV personality Brenda Edwards.
8. Silver tone ‘dream heart’ crystal pendant
For something part vintage, part modern, a silver tone ‘dream heart’ crystal pendant ticks a lot of boxes.
9. Mood gold mother of pearl disc inlay organic long pendant necklace
A mood gold mother of pearl disc inlay organic long pendant necklace is a lovely contemporary piece that can be worn with loads of different styles and can bring an entire outfit together.
10. Peacock icicle shiny short creole earrings
With a pair of peacock icicle shiny short creole earrings your partner’s sure to turn a few heads thanks to their shimmering, deep purple icicle design.
5 affordable gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
Steel and costume jewellery aren’t gifts that are going to align with everyone’s tastes, but you might still be keen to give your partner an 11th wedding anniversary gift that is tied closely to the traditional or modern themes. Thankfully, if you’d still like to give them a token gift that has that all-important symbolism behind it, you can do just that without having to break the bank. Here are five suggestions for affordable gifts on your 11th anniversary.
1. A personalised steel guitar pick
For the rock star in your life, a personalised steel guitar pick ticks a lot of boxes: it’s steel, personalised, affordable and perfect for any guitar-strumming spouse.
2. A steel anniversary keyring
One cute and thoughtful way to mark your anniversary is by giving your partner a puntastic steel anniversary keyring. It’s a lovely little token gift your other half can keep with them wherever they go.
3. A steel D20 die
If you and your partner love to spend hours playing fantasy role-playing games, you could treat them to a steel D20 die, so they can be reminded of your 11th anniversary every time you embark on an epic quest together.
4. Clear diamante tulip flower drop earrings
Combine the modern anniversary gift with the traditional 11th anniversary flower with a pair of wonderful clear diamante tulip flower drop earrings. They have double the significance and look fantastic.
5. Sterling silver plated hammered stud earrings
TK Maxx is a great place to shop for affordable costume jewellery, just like this pair of sterling silver plated hammered stud earrings. They’re also subtle enough that they can be worn whatever the occasion.
5 DIY gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
What could be more thoughtful and charming than giving your partner a DIY gift made by your own fair hands to mark your 11th anniversary? Yes, steel and costume jewellery are usually made by those with years of experience, but there are some unique and accessible ways to get stuck in yourself which don’t need loads of specialist tools. For example, steel wire is fairly cheap and can be crafted into loads of different things. Here are a few suggestions so you can get crafting.
1. A DIY steel wire sculpture
You don’t need to find a welder to make something small and unique out of steel. You can pick up 5m of steel wire for next to nothing, and with a wire sculpture tutorial, you can follow simple instructions to make something special for your partner.
2. DIY costume jewellery
If you have a few simple tools, you can use steel wire to create fabulous pieces of costume jewellery, like a whimsical swirly moon, with a video tutorial available that runs through the steps.
3. A DIY steel wire cat bookmark
For something quick and simple even for the most inexperienced of beginners, a steel wire cat bookmark is cute, accessible and useful. A lovely little DIY gift.
4. DIY framed costume jewellery
If you have some old costume jewellery crammed in the bottom of a box or hidden at the back of a draw, give them a new lease of life by framing them. There are plenty of video tutorials available to give you some ideas.
5. DIY costume jewellery art
Something else you might want to do with that old costume jewellery is repurpose it into a unique piece of costume jewellery art that your other half can display. It’s a great way to get those creative juices flowing.
5 experience or activity gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
Your anniversary is the perfect excuse for getting out there and spending time with your other half doing something new and exciting. And thankfully, to keep your anniversary on theme, there are steel- and costume jewellery-centric experiences the two of you can take part in. Here are five suggestions for things to do on your 11th anniversary.
1. A steel axe-making class
Get in touch with your Viking side and spend time enjoying an axe-making course. You might not have much use for an axe at home (or maybe you do!) but it’s a fun and exciting way to spend time together while making something out of steel.
2. The Steel Cauldron tea experience
This one is bending the rules a little, but the Steel Cauldron afternoon tea experience is the self-proclaimed most magical tearoom in the world. Enjoy magical sweet and savoury treats in fabulously themed surroundings.
3. A Magna steel experience
Take a trip to one of the world’s largest former steelworks, The Magna Steelworks, which introduces you and your other half to the long and complex history of steel production in the north of England.
4. A jewellery-making workshop
Fancy having a crack at making your own jewellery but not sure where to start? A jewellery-making experience provides you with the materials, tools and techniques you need to make something showstopping.
5. Sheffield Steelers tickets
Loosely tied to the traditional 11th anniversary theme, why not check out an ice hockey game and watch the Sheffield Steelers? A unique and exciting way to spend your anniversary!
10 11th anniversary gifts that contain turquoise
The traditional stone for celebrating 11 years of marriage is turquoise, a fabulously bluey-green stone that can vary in price. In fact, some turquoise can even be more valuable than diamond, but that’s quite rare – a lot of turquoise jewellery can be fairly affordable as far as gemstones go. It’s a versatile stone that looks great set in loads of different kinds of jewellery, and here are 10 suggestions you might consider:
- Earrings
- A ring
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- A broach
- A locket
- A watch
- An anklet
- A hairpin
- Cufflinks
Most high-street and independent retailers will have a range of jewellery containing turquoise set in various different precious metals – so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a lovely piece that suits your other half’s style. At Bridebook, we also work closely with many fantastic jewellers who have a wide selection of turquoise jewellery.
5 floral-inspired gifts for an 11th wedding anniversary
If your partner’s a big fan of floral arrangements, you’ll have an easy time choosing something related to the traditional 11th anniversary flower, the tulip. Just like the rose, tulips represent love, so are the perfect choice for an anniversary gift. They’re a hugely iconic and recognisable shape and come in loads of different colours. That means they’re incredibly versatile. Here are five tulip-themed ideas so you can spoil your love on your anniversary.
1. A bunch of tulips
We couldn’t not suggest a bunch of tulips as a way to let your partner know how much you love them on your anniversary. They’re the ultimate symbol of love and are not only fantastic as part of an arrangement, but also work just as well when they’re in a bunch all on their own.
2. A steel tulip
Even though tulips are beautiful, after a week or so they wilt just like every other flower. Well, not quite every other flower. A steel tulip combines the traditional gift and the traditional flower, making it a surefire hit on your big day.
3. A midnight tulip candle
Create a romantic atmosphere on your anniversary with a midnight tulip candle, with a lovely lemony and floral scent.
4. A turquoise tulip pendant
An incredible triple-hitter for your 11th anniversary is a turquoise tulip pendant, it’s part floral, part turquoise and part costume jewellery. Plus, it goes really well with different outfits and styles.
5. A wild tulip Royal Scot Crystal vase
If you’re keen to give your partner a floral gift, you could elevate it further with a wild tulip vase from Royal Scot Crystal. That way, whenever your partner has flowers in the future they can reuse the vase and have a reminder of your 11th anniversary.
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