If you’re about to celebrate your 15th wedding anniversary, firstly, congratulations! To make it to 15 years of marriage is a fantastic milestone, which you and your other half deserve to shout about from the rooftops.
One thing you might have heard about your 15th anniversary is that it’s often referred to as your crystal anniversary. This is because it relates to the traditional gift couples have given to each other when celebrating 15 years since the Victorian era. This is a tradition which many couples continue to honour to this day. But equally, other couples may choose the modern equivalent or the traditional flower or gemstone.
That means, if you’re looking to give your partner a gift full of meaning and history, you have four different gifts to choose from. Of course, you don’t have to do this at all – you may already have an idea of what you’d like to give your partner. But, choosing a gift linked to either the traditional or modern theme can elevate your gift and make it that bit more special.
So, in this guide, we’re going to take a look at all the traditional and modern gifts associated with a 15th wedding anniversary and what each of them means. We’ll also offer you 50 gift ideas to spoil your partner with.
To learn more about all the traditions associated with gift-giving for anniversaries from 1 year to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary?
Almost every anniversary is marked by a traditional and modern gift, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone. These gifts have special meanings associated with them, which makes them great choices when it comes to treating your partner. Your 15th anniversary is a brilliant milestone, so to mark the occasion you may want to give them a gift linked to one of these gifts, just like other couples have for generations.
Traditional 15th anniversary gift – Crystal
Your 15th anniversary is known as your crystal anniversary because the traditional gift is crystal. Crystal represents how bright and long-lasting your marriage has been, but also how you’ve worked hard to protect something so delicate. Crystal is a versatile gift and gives you loads of choice. Surprisingly, it’s also suitable for a wide range of budgets, despite its luxurious reputation.
Crystal was also the modern gift for your third anniversary, so if you didn’t give your other half something crystal-related all those years ago, now might be the time to do it.
Modern 15th anniversary gift – Watches
The modern anniversary gift when celebrating 15 years is a watch. This is because watches represent the past, present and future, so you can look forward to celebrating many more anniversaries in the years to come. It’s a tricky gift to have creativity with – tricky, but not impossible. It’s still a great theme and you can find some real gems to surprise your partner with.
15th anniversary gemstone – Ruby
If you’d like to give your partner something sparkly for your 15th anniversary, the traditional gemstone is ruby. Red rubies are one of the four precious gemstones, so it’s an extra special gift you can really spoil your partner with. Rubies symbolise passion, protection and wealth, so are definitely on point when celebrating such an amazing milestone.
15th anniversary flower – Rose
You’ve reached 15 years of marriage, so could there really be a more appropriate traditional anniversary flower than the ultimate symbol of love, the rose? Roses are known the world over as representing love, but they also symbolise beauty and sensuality, so they’re the perfect floral choice when celebrating 15 wonderful years.
How do you choose a gift for a 15th wedding anniversary?
Now that you’re about to celebrate your 15th wedding anniversary, you’re probably having a good hard think about the perfect gift to surprise your other half with on the big day. Do you go for something tried and true, like a good old box of chocolates, or something outside the box (of chocolates)? Here are a few things to consider while on the hunt for the ideal anniversary pressie.
- Are you looking to choose a gift linked to the traditional or modern themes? Your 15th anniversary is often referred to as your crystal anniversary, so you might be keen to honour this. Similarly, you might also like the idea of gifting your other half a watch to honour the modern theme!
- What is your set budget? Some of the traditional and modern 15th anniversary gifts can be a little expensive, which may sway your decision as to what you go for depending on your budget.
- Are you hoping to give your partner a gift that can be personalised? Personalised gifts are popular on anniversaries, and some gifts are more easily personalised than others.
- What has your partner asked for or dropped hints about? Do you think your partner would love to receive a traditional or modern gift, or have they been dropping not-so-subtle hints about something specific they’d like?
Is a couple in your life about to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary? If they are, you might be on the lookout for a special gift and you could be wondering whether or not you can join in by gifting something linked to the traditional and modern themes. The simple answer is, of course you can! Not only will they appreciate the gesture, but it’ll mean so much more to them as they’ll know the important meaning behind your gift.
50 ideas for a 15th wedding anniversary gift
Your 15th wedding anniversary is a big deal: it shows just how much the two of you love and are committed to each other. That’s cause for a celebration, and a great excuse to spoil your partner if you can. If you’re about to celebrate 15 years and are on the hunt for the perfect on-theme gift, we’re here to lend a hand. So, here are 50 15th wedding anniversary gift ideas to give you some inspiration.
10 traditional gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
As you’re preparing to celebrate your crystal anniversary, you may be excited to give your partner a gift made from crystal, and therefore linked to the traditional theme. But, where do you start? Here are 10 suggestions for anniversary gifts made from or containing crystal.
1. A personalised crystal whisky glass
When the time comes to celebrate your 15th anniversary, it’s definitely time to raise a glass and toast this amazing milestone. And what better way to do that than with a personalised crystal whisky glass, which your partner can use whenever they fancy a glass of their favourite tipple?
2. A Royal Scot crystal vase
You may be planning to give your partner flowers to mark your anniversary, so to tie it into the traditional theme, you could give them flowers in a Royal Scot crystal vase. Not only is it a thoughtful gift, but every time you get your partner flowers in the future they can reuse the vase and be reminded of your 15th anniversary.
3. A fabulous set of crystal glasses
There’s nothing quite like a really lovely set of glasses, and you can’t get better than a set of Buckingham crystal highball tumblers. They’re perfect for entertaining, or just relaxing with your morning glass of OJ.
4. A raw crystal bracelet
With its coarse and unpolished appearance, raw crystals are a fabulous addition to any piece of jewellery, and many people love how they look even when compared to cut and polished stones. A raw crystal bracelet is a brilliant way to show off this rough and ready stone.
5. A crystal clock
There’s something rather retro about a crystal clock, but they make for a fantastic addition to a mantlepiece or shelf. They can be personalised, too, so you can include a message to your love as a constant reminder of your amazing journey together.
6. A crystal 3D portrait
If you’d like to display a memory of you and your other half but you’re not sure a framed photo quite cuts it, a crystal 3D portrait is an eye-catching gift for your 15th anniversary. They look amazing as they are, but pairing them with a light box really brings them to life.
7. A bottle of Crystal Head vodka
Is your partner a fan of Ghostbusters or other 80s comedies starring Dan Aykroyd? If so, then a bottle of Crystal Head vodka will be a great drink to share when you toast your big milestone, and might just be the perfect gift for them.
8. Handcrafted crystal wine glasses
Looking forward to sharing a glass of wine on your anniversary? Then a set of crystal wine glasses makes for a lovely on-theme gift which you can continue to use for many years (and bottles of wine) to come.
9. A Swarovski crystal good luck bear
Swarovski is a brand synonymous with luxury, which is why anything of theirs would make for a thoughtful gift. But, the Swarovski crystal good luck bear is as adorable as it is special and would sit proudly on any shelf.
10. An engraved crystal paperweight
A brilliant addition to any desk, an engraved crystal paperweight can accompany your partner at work so they always have something to remind them of your 15th anniversary.
10 modern gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
If you think your partner might prefer a gift with more modern flair, then you could choose to give them a watch. A lot of people like to wear watches, and they’re great accessories which are available in a range of styles to suit all tastes. They also suit different budgets, so whether you’re interested in spending a little or a lot, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a watch your partner will love. Here are 10 suggestions for watches so your partner can have a great time (pun most definitely intended) on your anniversary.
1. A crystal watch
The perfect way to treat your other half on your anniversary is with a crystal watch, which combines both the traditional and modern themes. Plenty of watches are available featuring crystals, and they can be subtle or bold. Browse crystal watches for him and her to find something for your other half.
2. A watch gift set
A watch is already a brilliant gift, but there’s also a way to make it even better – by giving a watch gift set. Depending on what you go for, the watch might be joined by a necklace, a bracelet, a plaque… there’s a huge selection to choose from.
3. An engraved anniversary watch
Watches don’t offer too many ways to add a personal touch, but there are some. This engraved anniversary watch features an engraving on the back to let your partner know just how much they mean to you. Because it’s on the back, this can be an incredibly personal message which only they know will know is there.
4. A ruby red watch
Link the modern 15th anniversary gift to the traditional gemstone with a ruby red watch. This beautiful watch tells not just the time, but also the day, whether it’s day or night and the business quarter. A great gift if your partner spends a lot of time at work.
5. A heart-shaped watch
For the love of your life, a heart-faced watch may be small, but it makes a big statement. It also features crystals around the face, making it a super on-theme double-hitter for your 15th anniversary.
6. An Apple Watch
With the meteoric rise of smart watches, mechanical watches aren’t the only thing in fashion at the moment. Leading the way is Apple, and the Apple Watch is a handy companion to the iPhone if your partner has one.
7. A watch with a personalised face
Give your partner the opportunity to tell the time like no one else can with a watch with a personalised face. Just upload your favourite photo and you’ll get a one-of-a-kind watch which your other half can always wear.
8. A gold-tone ring watch
For a watch that’s truly different, you might want to give your partner a gold-tone ring watch. This super unique watch isn’t worn on your partner’s wrist, but instead fits snugly on their finger like any other ring. It’s a real conversation piece and a nice option if your partner likes their jewellery a little bit different.
9. An engraved pocket watch
If your partner isn’t keen on wearing a watch around their wrist (or on their finger), you could also consider an engraved pocket watch. Pocket watches are a little old-fashioned, but that’s part of the charm, and the fact it can be engraved with your choice of photo makes it a gift they’ll never want to go without.
10. A personalised coat of arms watch
You and your partner have been married for 14 years, which is an incredible achievement. If you share a surname, you could treat them to a personalised coat of arms watch featuring your family coat of arms. A subtle but punchy way to keep your other half with you when you’re out and about.
5 affordable gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
You might be excited to give your partner a gift linked to the traditional or modern themes, but might not want to spend too much money. After all, some crystals and watches come with rather hefty price tags. But, not all gifts linked to the themes have to be expensive, especially if you’re only looking to give your partner a token on-theme gift. Here are five affordable suggestions so you can join in on the fun but not break the bank.
1. A mental health crystal set
If your partner believes in the healing power of crystals, then a brilliant affordable gift is a mental health crystal set. It includes lepidolite for alleviating negativity, amazonite for balancing mood, rose quartz for healing anxiety, rhodonite for calming shock and tiger iron for grounding yourself. If your partner isn’t a believer or is on the fence, at the very least these five stones look dazzling and make for lovely keepsakes.
2. A rose quartz crystal necklace
Rose quartz is said to improve calmness and promote love and a feeling of peace. That’s why a rose quartz crystal necklace makes for a mood-boosting gift which is subtle and stylish and also very affordable.
3. Crystal duck carvings
There’s nothing quite as cute as ducks, and if your partner is a big duck fan, then one or two mini crystal ducks could be just the token anniversary gift you’re looking for. They’re available in a huge selection of crystal types and colours, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding one perfect for your love.
4. A crystal chip candle
One crystal-themed gift your partner will never see coming is a crystal chip candle, which features a scattering of amethyst crystal chips and burns for around 25 hours. It’s a nice affordable gift which will also help set the mood on your anniversary.
5. The Watch on streaming or Blu-ray
Close the curtains, get the popcorn in and snuggle together on the sofa to watch The Watch, a sci-fi comedy starring Hollywood greats including Ben Stiller and Jonah Hill. The title means it’s a nice and creative way to link back to your 15th anniversary! The Watch is available on Blu-ray and your favourite streaming service.
5 DIY gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
One way to let your partner know you’ve gone the extra mile for your anniversary is with a DIY gift you’ve made using your own fair hands. The only trouble is, it can be a little tricky knowing what to make that can link back to the 15th anniversary themes. Well, with a little bit of outside-the-box thinking, you can do exactly that. Here are five DIY gifts to consider for 15 years of marriage.
1. Crystal art
Crystal art is a therapeutic pastime which is not only an enjoyable way to whittle away a few hours, but which also leaves you with a fantastic piece of art to display at the end of it. You can pick up a crystal art kit which you could either do and present to your partner, or give to them and enjoy doing together.
2. Grow your own crystal
If you fancy giving something scientific a go and only have a limited budget, you could try to grow your own crystal with just a few household items (don’t worry, it’s all above board – nothing Breaking Bad-esque is going on here). It might not be something you can set in jewellery, but it’s a fun way to give your partner a unique token gift. Check these instructions for what you need to get started.
3. A DIY crystal dreamcatcher
A great idea if your partner believes in the power of dreamcatchers, you could pick up some crystals, wire, wood and a glue gun, and you can create an effective but simple crystal dreamcatcher. Check out this video tutorial for everything you need to make one for your other half.
4. DIY bath salts
Salt crystals count as crystals, so indulge your partner by crafting your own personalised bath salts. Start by gathering Epsom salt or sea salt as the base, then add a few drops of essential oils for fragrance. Consider including dried flowers or herbs for an extra touch of elegance. Mix the ingredients well and pop them in decorative jars for a thoughtful and relaxing gift.
5. A DIY watch
You might think that making a watch yourself would be tricky… and you’d be right. BUT, a DIY watch kit gives you everything you need to make a watch for yourself, including all the tools, materials and instructions.
5 experience or activity gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
When the time comes to celebrate your anniversary, you and your partner will probably want to spend some quality time together. Instead of doing something you do all the time (as lovely as this no doubt would be!), why not try something new and spend your big day taking part in an activity or experience. There are loads of things you can do, including experiences tying into the 15th anniversary themes. Here are five ideas for unique ways to spend time on your anniversary.
1. A tour of a crystal factory
Dartington is a big name in the production of crystals, having operated in the industry for more than 50 years. They’ve spent this time perfecting their craft, and offer tours around their factory in North Devon. A Dartington crystal factory tour is an interesting and unique way to do celebrate your 15th anniversary.
2. Fun at the Crystal Maze Experience
Did you and your partner used to watch The Crystal Maze and think you’d like to have a go at that? If that’s the case, The Crystal Maze Experience is sure to give you some excitement on your anniversary and fits the theme perfectly!
3. A crystal therapy session
Crystal therapy is a unique and relaxing way to spend time on your anniversary. Stones are placed on different parts of your body to promote healing, relaxation and positive energy. If neither of you has done it before it’s worth trying out a crystal therapy session to see what the fuss is all about.
4. A 60-minute salt scrub experience
Pamper your partner by treating them to a 60-minute salt scrub experience. It’s a treat for the body and the mind, and helps rejuvenate the skin by removing dead skin cells and drawing out impurities. As above, it also totally counts as linking to the traditional theme, as salt comes in crystals!
5. A build-your-own-watch experience
Creating a watch can be an intricate and complex process. But, if it’s something you and your partner have fancied trying, there are build-your-own watch experiences which provide you with everything you need, plus the guidance of an experienced watchmaker. Not only will you spend some time together, but at the end of the experience you’ll have a nice new watch to show for it.
10 15th anniversary gifts that contain ruby
The traditional 15th anniversary gemstone is ruby, a beautifully deep red precious stone that is incredibly popular. Rubies represent passion, which makes them apt when it comes to an anniversary. They can vary in price and are hugely versatile, so often appear in a wide range of jewellery types and metals ranging from silver to platinum and beyond. Here are 10 suggestions for ruby jewellery you might want to give your partner to mark this fabulous milestone:
- Earrings
- A ring
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- A broach
- A locket
- A watch
- An anklet
- A hairpin
- Cufflinks
Because ruby is a precious stone, it’s commonly used in jewellery, which means you shouldn’t have to look too long or hard to find something your partner is likely to love and wear regularly. Almost every jeweller out there, both high street brands and smaller independents, is likely to have a big selection of jewellery and accessories that are set with rubies. Here at Bridebook, we work with loads of different jewellers, so check them out and have a browse to see if there’s something that would suit your other half’s tastes.
5 floral-inspired gifts for a 15th wedding anniversary
Flowers are a popular gift to give during anniversaries, and because the traditional flower for a 15th anniversary is a rose, now’s the time to think about giving your partner something related to the ultimate symbol of love and passion. Roses are one of the most recognisable flowers there are, and can work as part of an arrangement or in their own bouquet. They’re also often used as part of designs and patterns, so it’s pretty simple to find gifts linked to this extra special flower. Here are five rose-centric gifts to give you a few ideas.
1. A bouquet of roses
We couldn’t possibly start this list without including a bouquet of roses. It’s impossible to receive roses and not feel the love, especially on your 15th anniversary when an extra special gift has even more meaning (if that’s somehow even possible).
2. A bouquet of origami paper roses
Roses don’t have to be real to be stunning. Origami paper roses have a fabulously stylised design but are still instantly recognisable. Your other half also won’t have to worry about watering them or cutting the stems!
3. A Swarovski enchanted crystal rose
A tale as old as time both applies to your marriage (well, at 15 years it’s not quite that old…) and Beauty and the Beast. If your partner is a big fan of the Disney classic, a Swarovski enchanted crystal rose is a lovely nod to the film and also ticks off two traditional themes, which is sure to get you in their good books.
4. A bouquet of LEGO roses
Instead of getting your partner real roses, you could get them a bouquet of LEGO roses, which both look amazing and are also something you can build together.
5. Rose chocolates
Not to everyone’s tastes, but rose chocolates can be incredibly yummy and are a little more special than your standard choccies. A box of rose and violet chocolates adds a floral hit to a chocolatey treat.
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