You’ll soon celebrate your 19th wedding anniversary – what a wonderful milestone! You and the love of your life have spent almost two decades together, and next year you’ll mark 20 years of love.
You may already be thinking ahead and planning what you’ll give to your partner to celebrate your 20th anniversary, but it’s also important not to forget about your upcoming anniversary too. But, what sort of gift should you give your other half to celebrate 19 incredible years together?
Of course, there are classic anniversary gifts like flowers, chocolates and jewellery which always go down well. But, did you know there are also traditional and modern 19th anniversary gifts that couples have given to each other for more than a century? These gifts are filled with meaning and can make a gift stand out and be truly memorable.
The trouble is, what is the perfect 19th anniversary gift? Where do you start on the hunt for something that will surprise your partner so you have a wonderful anniversary as you begin the countdown to your 20th anniversary?
In this article, we’re going to explore all the traditional and modern 19th wedding anniversary gifts. We’ll also give you some ideas and suggest 50 gifts you can consider so you can treat your other half to something truly unique and filled with historical meaning.
For more information about all the anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 year through to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary?
Giving a traditional- or modern-inspired gift to mark a 19th wedding anniversary is a tradition that goes back more than 100 years. The gifts follow a set theme and are filled with romantic meaning and symbolism, which helps you tell your partner exactly how you feel. It also helps you think a little outside the box and give them a gift that you might not ordinarily consider, making your anniversary stand out from other times when you might buy them a gift.
Many anniversaries have two different types of gifts associated with each of the traditional and modern themes. But, when it comes to your 19th anniversary, both the traditional and modern themes are the same. This might mean you have a little less room for variety, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and not use your creativity. Plus, the meaning behind the gifts is still as poignant and special.
Traditional 19th anniversary gift – Bronze
The traditional theme to mark 19 years of marriage is bronze. Bronze was also the traditional gift to give for your 8th anniversary, so if you’ve been following the anniversary themes for a while, you may very well have given them something made from bronze before. But, that was over a decade ago now, so there’s no reason why you can’t revisit the theme if that’s the case.
Bronze is a combination of copper and tin, which are both fairly weak when separate, but when together they’re incredibly strong. It’s a little like your relationship, with the two of you being far stronger together than when you’re apart. Bronze is also a really versatile metal (as well as a fabulous colour) which offers you plenty of room to find something your other half will love.
Modern 19th anniversary gift – Bronze
The modern 19th anniversary gift is also bronze. This does mean your choice is a little limited, but because the choice of bronze gifts is so huge, you really shouldn’t have too much trouble finding something that suits your partner’s tastes. Bronze gifts can also be fairly affordable, so the theme fits with a range of budgets.
19th anniversary gemstone – Aquamarine
The traditional gemstone to give to mark your 19th anniversary is aquamarine, a gorgeously soft shade of blue that evokes a calm spring morning or a still, tranquil ocean. Aquamarine represents serenity and clarity, which is perfect when celebrating 19 happy years, as it’s something you’re more than likely all too familiar with. It’s often a fairly affordable stone, making it a great choice of gift, but some rarer aquamarines can be rather pricey, so make sure you shop around if it’s something you think would suit your partner’s taste.
19th anniversary flower – Chrysanthemum
If your partner would love to receive something floral on your 19th anniversary, the traditional flower to mark the occasion is the chrysanthemum.
Chrysanthemums have big, colourful blooms that represent happiness and long life. They’re also commonly available at florists and come in a wide range of colours, so you’ll never have to look too far to find a beautiful bouquet of chrysanthemums.
How do you choose a gift for a 19th wedding anniversary?
You may already have something in mind for the perfect gift to give on your 20th wedding anniversary. But, with your 19th anniversary not too far away, you may be thinking long and hard about what you can do that will be equally as thoughtful and memorable. The traditional and modern themes lend themselves brilliantly to gifts, but it’s possible that you’ve never really put much thought into them. So how do you choose a gift to give for your 19th anniversary? Here are a few things to bear in mind when making your decision.
- Is choosing a gift linked to the traditional or modern themes important to you? If so, the range of choice isn’t as wide as it is with previous anniversaries, but you can still have a lot of fun with bronze, chrysanthemums and aquamarine.
- What sort of budget do you have in mind? Bronze is a great theme if you’re on a budget because a lot of bronze gifts are actually pretty affordable.
- Are you keen to give your partner a personalised gift? Adding a custom touch to an item may be an important addition to an anniversary gift and thankfully, bronze is something that can be personalised rather easily.
- What sort of gift would your partner love to receive? Because there isn’t quite as much choice of traditional and modern gifts with your 19th anniversary as there is with other anniversaries, it might be a little trickier finding something that aligns with the things they love.
Is a couple in your life about to celebrate their 19th anniversary? What an exciting time! As part of the upcoming celebrations, you might wonder whether or not you can join in with the traditional and modern gift-giving traditions and give them something linked to bronze, chrysanthemum or aquamarine. Of course you can! These themes aren’t exclusive to the couple, so if you have the perfect gift in mind, you should definitely treat the couple – it’ll let them know just how much they’re loved and they’ll appreciate the lovely sentiment behind it.
50 ideas for a 19th wedding anniversary gift
With your 19th anniversary on the horizon, you may be on the lookout for a gift you can give to your partner that will let them know how much they mean to you. Because the traditional and modern themes are the same, you don’t have as much choice as you do with other anniversaries, but don’t let that put you off – you can still find something amazing that they’ll love to receive.
If you’re keen to give your other half something that’s closely linked to the themes but you’re not exactly sure where to start, we’re here to help. Here are 50 19th anniversary gift ideas so you can surprise your love on the big day.
20 traditional and modern gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary
When you’re celebrating your 19th wedding anniversary, the traditional and modern themes are the same, which is bronze. Bronze is a super strong metal that has a lovely warmth to it, and is versatile so it’s used in loads of different gift types. So, whatever sort of thing your partner loves, you’re bound to find them something they’ll be over the moon to receive. Below are 20 ideas for anniversary gifts that feature bronze so you can stick to this hugely sentimental theme.
1. A love life bronze sculpture
Because bronze is so strong, affordable and shiny, it’s the perfect metal for making sculptures out of. For the ideal gift that represents love through and through, a love life bronze sculpture is romantic and touching, and would look fabulous on display in the home.
2. Personalised bronze cufflinks
Has your other half hinted that they’d love a new pair of cufflinks for when the occasion calls for them to wear a suit? A fabulously on-theme gift for your anniversary is a pair of personalised bronze cufflinks, which means they can keep a constant reminder of your big milestone on them whenever they dress up.
3. A bronze cat chopstick rest
If you and your other half love ordering in the odd Chinese or Thai takeaway, or making a warming bowl of ramen at home, AND they love cats, this is the ideal gift for them. A cat chopstick rest is cute, on-theme and serves a brilliant purpose. They can come out to lend a hand every time they eat a meal with chopsticks.
4. A teeny tiny personalised bronze anniversary card
For an incredibly adorable and thoughtful gift your partner can hold on to forever, it doesn’t get any more romantic than a personalised bronze card keepsake. It’s unlike any other gift card you can give and will serve as a constant reminder about your love in the most delightful way possible.
5. A pair of unique bronze earrings
Bronze can be used to make loads of different types of jewellery, including earrings, which also makes them fairly affordable, especially when compared to jewellery made from precious metals. Bronze earrings come in a selection of designs and are suitable for different tastes and styles.
6. A bronze wall clock
For an on-theme gift which is not only subtle, but which will also have many, many years of use, a bronze wall clock can hang on the wall and fits with almost any decor or colour. Then, every time you or your partner checks the time, they’ll be reminded of your special anniversary.
7. A bronze photo frame
Bronze is the perfect colour to help make a photograph pop, as it’s fairly neutral but still has a great shine to it. A brushed bronze picture frame is a great on-theme way to give your partner one of your favourite photos together.
8. A petite solid bronze vase
Show your partner just how romantic you can be with a petite bronze stem vase. As the name suggests, it’s only small, but it makes a big impact, especially when used to display a single-stem flower.
9. A set of hand-painted copper wine glasses
Do you and your other half love to share a bottle of wine together? On your anniversary night, you could give them a set of hand-painted copper wine glasses and make it a night to remember.
10. A tree of life bronze pendant
For the nature-lover in your life, a tree of life pendant not only has a wonderful tree design, but is bronze and comes with a gold-plated chain, making it extra thoughtful and super special.
11. A whisky barrel oak and bronze ring
If your other half loves a glass of whisky, a wonderful choice of on-theme gift is a whisky barrel oak and bronze ring. Treat your partner to a ring like no other, with a contemporary design that makes a real statement.
12. A bronze planter
Because bronze has those shiny, earthy tones, it’s ideal for use as a planter. So, help your partner’s indoor plants really pop with a bronze round planter.
13. A bronze table lamp
Add a contemporary feel to your home with a fabulous bronze table lamp. The striking design draws the eye and brings light and life to any room.
14. A bronze love hearts sculpture
Tell your partner exactly how you feel about them with a love hearts bronze sculpture. This pair of linked hearts perfectly fits the theme and has so much meaning behind it that your partner won’t help but love it.
15. Bronze leaves wall art set
With a bronze leaves wall art set, you can add a vivid and attention-grabbing feature to any wall. It’s a really unique way to give a gift linked to the 19th anniversary theme and bring a fresh feel to a room – just make sure you’re confident your other half will love it first!
16. A bronze rose
Roses are a famous symbol of love, and a popular choice of gift to give on any anniversary. If you want to give your partner roses but also want to stick to the bronze theme, you could simply give them a bronze rose, which looks incredible and is guaranteed to never wilt.
17. A lovely bronze swirl bowl
For something small and stylish that your partner can put to good use, a bronze swirl bowl can be used in the kitchen or to hold jewellery or trinkets.
18. A bronze garden statue
We’ve already mentioned how bronze is a fabulous metal used for making indoor sculptures, but it’s also perfect for use outdoors because it doesn’t rust. A bronze garden statue is something your partner will be able to display proudly in the garden, and there are absolutely tons of designs to choose from so you’re sure to find something that suits their tastes.
19. A bronze snail paperweight
Does your partner spend a lot of time sat at their desk working or enjoying their hobbies? They could be accompanied by a bronze snail paperweight, which has oodles of character and can watch over their paperwork to make sure nothing is ever misplaced.
20. A bronze seven wick scented candle
There’s no better way to create a romantic atmosphere on your anniversary than with a candle. Actually, maybe there is – a bronze seven wick scented candle helps create a warm and cosy atmosphere so the two of you can get snuggly.
5 affordable gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary
With such a big anniversary coming up next year, you might look to save a few pennies this year so you can really spoil your other half for your 20th anniversary. That means, finding an affordable anniversary gift this year is possibly a good idea. Because bronze isn’t a precious metal, it can be relatively easy to find a low-cost gift that still has that extra special meaning. So, here are five suggestions for affordable 19th anniversary gifts.
1. A bronze anniversary card
Why not combine the traditional and modern gift with a greetings card, and give your partner a bronze anniversary card? It includes two handmade bronze wire hearts, which makes it totally fitting of the theme, and is hugely affordable.
2. Bronze lock and key keyring set
Do you feel like your partner has the only key to unlock your heart? If so, this bronze lock and key keyring set is a super meaningful token gift, as it helps you express how you feel and closely fits with the 19th anniversary themes. Your partner keeps one half and you keep the other, so you always have a subtle reminder of each other wherever you go.
3. A bronze old wren farthing gift bag
Back in the 30s, 40s and 50s, farthing coins were often made from bronze and had an adorable wren on one side and the king on the other. Give your partner a piece of the past with a bronze old wren farthing gift bag, which they can hold on to forever.
4. A bronze flower charm bracelet
When made from bronze, jewellery has a very vintage and retro feel to it. That includes this bronze flower charm bracelet, which has the feel of an antique piece of jewellery but without the enormous price tag.
5. An engraved bronze drinks stirrer
If your partner loves a cheeky cocktail or gin and tonic, an engraved personalised bronze drink stirrer is fun, affordable and will get a lot of use!
5 DIY gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary
Nothing says I love you quite like a gift you’ve made yourself. It shows how much thought and care you’ve put into your gift, especially if it’s something associated closely with the traditional or modern themes.
At first glance, you might think it’s impossible to make something out of bronze at home unless you have all the proper equipment. Well, bronze wire is incredibly cheap and a great material to use for arts and crafts! Here are five ideas if you’re looking to get hands-on and make your partner something unique.
1. DIY bronze wire art
Bronze wire can be used to make so many different things, including artwork. Basically, if you can imagine it, there’s a great chance you can make it. Check out this bronze wire art YouTube playlist for help and ideas for the sorts of art you can make using bronze wire.
2. DIY wire leaf earrings
Bronze wire has plenty more uses, and with little experience and only a few small tools, you can make some great DIY wire leaf earrings. Watch a simple jewellery video tutorial to find out everything you need to give it a go.
3. A crocheted chrysanthemum
Crochet is a pretty popular hobby these days, and if you have a crochet hook and some wool of your own, you can make some beautiful crocheted chrysanthemums that are as beautiful and bold as the real thing. Follow a video tutorial on the steps you need to take to make your own.
4. A DIY wire bracelet
Another great way to use bronze wire is by creating a DIY wire bracelet, which you can get really creative with and make a wide variety of designs. You do need a few tools, but you can create something really special. Watch a video tutorial for info on how to get started.
5. Bronze gild a photo frame
The art of gilding is adding decoration and protection to something using fine powder. This includes bronze, which you can use to gild anything from wooden photo frames to glass. You can pick up a gild set which has what you need to get started.
5 experience or activity gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary
Giving your partner a gift on your 19th anniversary is a gesture which they’ll definitely love and appreciate. But, to make your anniversary one they’re not likely to forget any time soon, you could treat them to an experience or activity. And, with a little creative thinking, you can make sure your anniversary activity fits with the traditional and modern theme. Here are five suggestions for what you and your other half could get up to on the big day.
1. A bronze crafting experience
Bronze casting is a super specialist skill and is something of a lost craft by today’s standards. Why not learn something new, and have a wonderful time together, by taking part in a weekend bronze casting experience? You’ll get hands-on and find all about what goes into this fantastic craft.
2. A bronze animal experience
This one definitely counts, even if the experience itself isn’t technically bronze-related. But, a bronze animal experience at New Forest Wildlife Park gives your other half the opportunity to get up close and personal with one of their favourite animals and a possible cuteness overload.
3. View Bronze Age artefacts at your local museum
The Bronze Age was more than 4,000 years ago and was named that way due to the people at the time discovering how bronze was such a valuable and versatile tool. There are loads of Bronze Age artefacts on display in museums around the country, so you could spend a day exploring history with the love of your life. Or, make a weekend of it and head to London to visit the British Museum!
4. Watch the Lionesses (and Lucy Bronze) play football
If you’re lucky enough that your anniversary takes place around the same time as an England Women’s international football match, you could take your other half to watch the Lionesses play. You may wonder how this is tied into the traditional and modern themes? Well, Lucy Bronze is a regular starter in the England team, of course!
5. A romantic bronze B&B getaway
There’s nothing quite like a romantic getaway where you and your partner can spend some quality time together. A bronze B&B gift experience gives you everything you need to have a romantic trip away.
10 19th anniversary gifts that contain aquamarine
The traditional gemstone to mark 19 years of marriage is aquamarine, a brilliantly blue stone which represents tranquillity, making it absolutely perfect thanks to the calming emotions it can evoke. Because aquamarines have such a wonderful colour, they’re usually a great choice, and they’re often used in all sorts of jewellery and accessories. If this lovely gemstone is something up your partner’s alley, here are 10 suggestions for gifts you might want to consider:
- Earrings
- A ring
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- A broach
- A locket
- A watch
- An anklet
- A hairpin
- Cufflinks
Aquamarine is a popular stone thanks to its captivating colour, but isn’t one of the most commonly used in jewellery. That being said, you still really shouldn’t have too much trouble finding aquamarine jewellery in high street or independent retailers. And at Bridebook, we’re partnered with a collection of fabulous jewellers, so make sure you check them out to see what kinds of pieces they have available.
5 floral-inspired gifts for a 19th wedding anniversary
If you’re thinking your partner might appreciate something floral for your anniversary, you really can’t go wrong with the traditional 19th anniversary flower, the beautiful chrysanthemum. They’re big, colourful blooms that work wonderfully as part of a floral arrangement, but also work just as well as the star of the show. Here are five suggestions if you’re keen to give your partner something bright and full of life.
1. A bouquet of chrysanthemums
There’s no way we couldn’t kick off this list and not include a bouquet of chrysanthemums. They’re big, bold and utterly beautiful and are available in so many different colours.
2. A tiny personalised chrysanthemum in a bottle
As we’ve already highlighted, chrysanthemums are blooming huge… which is why a tiny personalised chrysanthemum in a bottle is an adorable, on-theme keepsake that can be personalised to make it even more special.
3. A chrysanthemum scarf
Because of their beauty, chrysanthemums make lovely patterns used on clothing and accessories. That includes this chrysanthemum scarf, which will keep you warm during those chilly months or as a fashionable accessory during the summer.
4. Chrysanthemum stud earrings
A pair of chrysanthemum stud earrings are highly detailed, with their open blooms letting you see each of the individual 50 petals. They’re also subtle enough that they can go with a wide range of outfits and different styles.
5. Chrysanthemum artwork
Chrysanthemums are just as beautiful in artwork as they are in person, and are a wonderful subject for all types of art. Chrysanthemum artwork will brighten up a room and draw anyone’s attention.
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