You’ve spent four wonderful years together and you and your partner are deeper in love than ever. Your 4th anniversary is a wonderful milestone, and it deserves to be celebrated. It’s also a great opportunity for you and your other half to spoil each other.
But what should you give them to mark such a brilliant occasion? You more than likely have a few ideas about what your partner loves and the type of gifts that make them smile. But, there are specific traditional and modern gifts that many couples like to give each other to commemorate four years of marriage. Similarly, there’s also a traditional flower and gemstone that has a specific meaning.
So, in this guide, we’re going to explore all the traditions surrounding your 4th wedding anniversary to help you choose a gift that has extra special sentimentality.
For more information about what couples give each other for their anniversaries from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary?
For more than 100 years, couples have enjoyed giving each other one of the traditional or modern gifts associated with a 4th anniversary, as well as the traditional flower or gemstone… or even a combination of more than one. They each have a deep meaning behind them that makes gift-giving even more thoughtful.
Traditional 4th anniversary gift – Fruit or flowers
For the traditional anniversary gift for four years of marriage, there are actually two for you to choose from: fruit or flowers. Fruit represents the sweetness and growth of your marriage, and flowers also represent growth as well and beauty. With a little imagination, it opens you up to some really amazing gifts – or a bouquet of beautiful flowers will always hit the spot.
Modern 4th anniversary gift – Appliances
The modern gift for a 4th anniversary is appliances, which doesn’t seem like an obvious choice. Then again, even the modern anniversary gifts were created 100 years ago when there weren’t as many options as there are today and appliances weren’t as common. We can’t imagine your partner would love an iron as an anniversary gift (or maybe they would?) but there’s a huge range of possibilities out there.
4th anniversary gemstone – Topaz
The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz. It’s usually a striking shade of blue that offers a lot of stunning sparkle. It represents clarity and wisdom, which you no doubt have plenty of after four years of marriage. Blue topaz also goes well set in all types of jewellery, giving you loads of opportunities to find something your partner will love.
4th anniversary flower – Hydrangea (or sometimes geranium)
Hydrangeas are big blooms that come in a massive range of different and vivid colours, so you’ll have no problem finding one that fits your partner’s preferences. Hydrangeas represent grace and beauty, making them a lovely gesture to give to your other half to mark your big day.
Depending on where you look or who you ask, another flower also associated with four years is the geranium, which is smaller and more delicate than hydrangeas but still just as beautiful. They represent happiness and health, which is just lovely.
How do you choose a gift for a 4th wedding anniversary?
With so many options available to choose from (three gifts, two flowers and a gemstone) how can you possibly choose the best gift to give your partner for your four year anniversary? Well, there are several things to consider before you make your decision:
- Do you both care about the traditional and modern rules? If you do, finding something that’s on theme will be a high priority, but it’s not something you should necessarily feel obliged to stick to if you don’t want to.
- Do you have a budget? Appliances, gemstones and flowers can be pricey. Make sure to set your budget ahead of time and don’t be tempted to go over it.
- How much personalisation are you looking for in a gift? Personalised gifts can turn an ordinary gift (if there is such a thing) into an extraordinary gift. But not all gifts can be personalised, so think about if this is something you want to do.
- What are your partner’s tastes? The traditional and modern gifts might not be something your partner would particularly enjoy, so think about their interests and how they line up with these.
If you have a friend or relative who’ll soon celebrate four years with their partner, you might wonder whether you can join in on anniversary gift-giving traditions. Well, thankfully, the answer is yes! Anyone can feel free to join in, and it shows them that you’ve put a lot of thought and consideration into your gift.
50 ideas for a 4th wedding anniversary gift
If your 4th wedding anniversary is just around the corner and you want to give your other half a gift filled with special meaning, with so many gifts to choose from you might not know where to start. So, below are 50 ideas that fit the 4th anniversary themes to help get you started.
10 traditional gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
There are two traditional anniversary gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary: fruit or flowers. That means, there are loads of options to choose from which should (hopefully) make choosing one that little bit easier. And to help you get started, here are 10 ideas for fruit- and flower-themed anniversary gifts.
1. A fresh fruit hamper
Fruit is sweet and tasty and if your partner loves it, it can be an ideal gift. But, rather than just chucking them a bunch of bananas, how do you elevate fruit? Well, the most simple way to turn humble fruit into a brilliant gift is in the form of a hamper. Express4fruits has a ton of fruit baskets to choose from, to suit loads of different budgets and tastes.
2. A fruiting plant
Another way to give a fruity gift to your partner is in the form of a fruiting plant or tree. Then it’s a little bit like two gifts in one, fitting the fruit theme while being something your partner can care for and watch grow. You can choose anything from a kiwi plant to an olive tree, many of which can thrive in the UK. Browse Plants4presents to see the kind of fruiting plants that are available.
3. Delicious fruit preserves
If you’re concerned about giving your partner a gift they might not be able to eat through in time but still want to give something fruity, then delicious jams or preserves are a wonderful on-theme gift. Plus, why not pair it with some clotted cream and scones and treat them to a homemade afternoon tea? A fruit preserve gift box could be just the gift you’re looking for.
4. Fruit-scented candles
You could bend the rules a tad and give your other half something romantic and thoughtful but still very much in the spirit of the traditional 4th anniversary gift. Fruit candles smell absolutely amazing and help set the mood for a romantic evening celebrating four years together. A nice set like the fruit scent stack from Scented Candle Studio could be everything you need.
5. A flowery fruit basket
If you can’t decide between fruit and flowers as a gift to give your partner on your anniversary, then why not simply give them both in the form of an edible flowery fruit basket? They’re fantastic show-stopping works of art that your partner just won’t see coming!
6. An M&S bouquet
There are flowers, then there are M&S flowers. Yes, everyone knows that M&S is a brand associated with quality, and the same applies to their flowers. There are absolutely oodles of choices too, so whether you want something romantic, something colourful or something subtle, you’re bound to find something your partner will love. Browse the M&S site to see what sort of bouquets they have to offer.
7. A dried floral bouquet
Fresh flowers are often a go-to floral gift for many, but there’s something quite beautiful and delicate about dried flowers that means they’re also a wonderful option. They can be just as colourful and come in a wide variety of styles as fresh flowers. And there’s the added benefit that they don’t wilt nearly as long – in fact, many will last up to three years! Check out The Happy Blossoms to see just how incredible dried bouquets can be.
8. A custom flower arrangement
If you know exactly the kind of flowers your partner loves, then why not trust a floral expert to craft a bouquet featuring all their favourite blooms? A bouquet builder ensures you give your partner a carefully made flower arrangement that’s guaranteed to put a huge smile on their face on your anniversary.
9. A pressed flower necklace
For a floral gift that will last a lifetime, a pressed flower necklace preserves your partner’s favourite flower in resin which they can wear any time they like. That way, they’ll always have a reminder of your thoughtfulness which they can take with them wherever they are.
10. A LEGO bouquet
Another floral gift that will never wilt comes in the form of a LEGO bouquet, which looks pretty darn realistic when displayed in a vase! There’s also the fun the two of you can have building them together, and you don’t need to get someone round to water them when you go on holiday!
10 modern gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
If you’re not sure your partner would love fruit or flowers as an anniversary gift, the modern equivalent is, believe it or not, appliances! There’s a lot of choice out there, but here are 10 ideas to get you on your way.
1. A mixer
If your partner’s a keen baker and has perhaps marvelled at the mixers on The Great British Bake Off, then they’d probably love a KitchenAid mixer. They’re the crème de la crème of kitchen appliances and are super high quality. But, they can be quite pricey, so just make sure they align with your budget.
2. An air fryer
One of the most fashionable kitchen appliances of the decade is the air fryer, which encourages healthier cooking in a short amount of time, helping to save energy and money. Win win! Air fryers may seem like a gimmick, but they’re surprisingly versatile, so aren’t necessarily one of those appliances you’ll only dig out of the cupboard once in a blue moon. Check out the range of air fryers available at Currys to find one that’ll suit you.
3. A soup maker
Soup is a great winter-warming comfort food, but it can be a bit of a hassle to make at home. Not with a soup maker! All your partner has to do is throw in the ingredients and let it do its thing. Then, in less than 30 minutes they’ll have a yummy bowl of soup made exactly how you like it. Check out the Argos website to view their range of soup makers.
4. A coffee machine
If your partner loves a nice cup of coffee in the morning, they’ll know just how tricky it can be to get that barista-made taste at home. But, they can get a step closer with a coffee machine, whether it’s a traditional coffee maker or one that lets you simply pop in a pod – coffee machines are really varied. And thankfully, they also suit a range of budgets. Check out the wide selection at John Lewis to find something that suits your partner’s taste in coffee.
5. A Dyson Airwrap
Dyson may have made a name for itself as a manufacturer of super-powerful vacuum cleaners, but in recent years they’ve branched out into other appliances, including a firm hair care favourite with the Dyson Airwrap. It’s considered one of the best multi-stylers out there and does everything from drying to straightening. They can be quite pricey, though – but many will say it’s worth it!
6. A Stitch waffle maker
If your other half loves Disney and grew up watching Lilo and Stitch, then they’ll definitely love a Stitch mini waffle maker. It might not be something they’ll use every day, but you’ll be able to cook up a fun and tasty breakfast on the morning of your anniversary – you could even pair it with some fruit compote to include the traditional gift, too.
7. A slow cooker
If you’re both busy professionals, then it can be tough finding the time to make sure you’re eating home-cooked food. A slow cooker is a great way to make sure your home is filled with incredible smells when you walk through the door, without you having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Morphy Richards is known for their great range of slow cookers with options to suit all needs and budgets.
8. A Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser
For a little taste of chocolatey luxury, a Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser allows you to make the most indulgent, creamy and deliciously naughty hot chocolates at home. There are loads of different flavours of hot chocolate available to make, including milk chocolate, salted caramel, white chocolate and orange. Yummy!
9. A Batman toaster
Something that’s guaranteed to put a smile on the face of any fan of the Dark Knight, a Batman toaster lets your partner make perfect toast with the Batman logo right there on the bread – which means it’s even more perfect!
10. A pizza oven
There’s nothing quite as delicious and moreish as wood-fired pizza – the trouble is, you usually have to go out to a nice restaurant to get it. That is unless you have your own portable wood-fired pizza oven at home. It might take you a few goes, but once you’ve mastered it you’ll be cooking incredible authentic pizzas in no time, so it’s a great option for your pizza-loving partner.
5 affordable gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
If you’re looking to give your partner a gift in line with the traditional or modern themes and you don’t want to spend much (and avoid giving them a bag of apples) there are still plenty of options. So, here are five 4th anniversary gifts you can give that have plenty of symbolism and thoughtfulness behind them even if you have a small budget.
1. A fruit keyring
Who said your fruity gift has to be real? A fruit keyring can come in a whole host of different styles and shapes, so you can give your partner a funny token on-theme gift while not breaking the bank.
2. A fruity breakfast in bed
Breakfast in bed is always a very welcome surprise, but there’s no better time than on your anniversary. You could sneak out to the local shop and pick up some fresh fruit and pastries, then lay them all out on a sharing board to present to your other half for a loving start to the day.
3. A rose in a bottle
Flowers are the ultimate symbol of love but have a double meaning on your 4th anniversary as they’re one of the traditional gifts. So, you could give your partner a rose that will never wilt, hidden in a tiny bottle and personalised with a custom label. It’s adorable, affordable and unforgettable. Check it out at Not on the High Street.
4. A little bouquet of chocolates
Some people love flowers, some people love chocolates and lots of people love both. And for those people, a box of bouquet chocolates could be just the thing you’re looking for as a brilliant and affordable anniversary gift.
5. Bath flowers
For the ultimate romantic night in, you could run the bath for your partner and fill it with scented soap flowers to make the water smell beautifully floral. And why not join them so the bathroom gets all steamy?
5 DIY gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
Making your own gift to give to your partner for your fourth anniversary can be a lot of fun, and it’s something anyone can do regardless of whether you’ve made anything before. Here are five touching DIY anniversary gifts for celebrating four years.
1. Chocolate-covered strawberries
All you need is a punnet of fresh strawberries and a bar of your partner’s favourite chocolate to make the most indulgent and romantic treats there are. Just melt down some chocolate using a bain marie or in the microwave (taking extra care not to burn it) then dip the strawberries in them and leave them somewhere cool to set. They’re quick and easy treats that are dead simple to make and hit all the right spots on anniversary night.
2. A flower press kit
Pressed flowers are fabulous little keepsakes that are simple to make and take very little effort. You also don’t need any fancy tools to do them, but a flower press kit can walk you through it.
3. Paper sunflowers
Sunflowers are big and beautiful flowers that represent summer and sunshine. They’re also pretty easy to make out of paper so you can create your very own paper sunflower bouquet. There are paper sunflower video tutorials available to help get you started.
4. A wildflower bouquet
British wildflowers are absolutely stunning, and during the spring and summer months they’re found in abundance in fields, parks and woodland. It’s also a perfectly fine thing to do unless you remove the roots, so just make sure you do it carefully. If you do, you can put together a one-of-a-kind wildflower bouquet that’s extra special because you made it. Wildflower Favours has a handy wildflower bouquet guide so you can make something truly beautiful.
5. Homemade fruit jam
While you can of course buy jam, nothing quite beats sweet and sticky homemade jam – especially if you’ve made it yourself. And usually, it only needs a few ingredients, so it’s relatively quick and easy. Just find a yummy jam recipe, grab an empty jar and your favourite fruit, and make something full of love.
5 experience or activity gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
On their anniversary, many couples choose to spend the day in each other’s company doing things they enjoy and having fun. That’s why an activity or experience gift is a great option for an anniversary. So, here are five experience gifts that tie into a 4th wedding anniversary.
1. A flower-arranging experience
Instead of simply giving your partner a bouquet of flowers on your anniversary, why not give them an experience so the two of you can arrange flowers together? A flower-arranging experience is fun and rewarding and is a unique way to spend time on your anniversary. You can take home your bouquet when you’re done, and some provide a glass of fizz and snacks to enjoy along the way. Check out Buy a Gift to find a flower-arranging experience close to you.
2. Visit some historic gardens
Where do flowers often grow? In gardens, of course! And up and down the UK there are incredible gardens that are accessible to the public. If your anniversary is in the spring or summer, it’s a great time to visit and see the whole place in bloom, like at Woburn Abbey and Gardens. Or, you could visit the world-famous Kew Gardens which is home to more than 50,000 plant species.
3. Pick your own fruit
Towards the end of summer, farms around the country offer visitors the opportunity to pick their own fruit. It’s a charming way to spend a morning or afternoon, and it’s usually reasonably priced too. Take a look online to see which farms close to you offer fruit picking and do something different on your anniversary.
4. Take a trip to the Eden Project
The Eden Project in Cornwall is a way to experience international biomes, from tropical rainforests to the Med, and see how plants and flowers flourish around the world. Cornwall might be a fair trek for you, but you could make it an excuse to spend your anniversary away.
5. A jam-making masterclass with the Preservation Society
We’ve already suggested making jam as a DIY anniversary gift, but you could take this to the next level by taking part in a jam-making course thanks to the Preservation Society. What better way to learn how to make jam than by actual jam experts?
10 4th anniversary gifts that contain topaz
The 4th anniversary gemstone is topaz – specifically blue topaz – which is a lovely shimmering shade of blue that looks absolutely incredible set in all different kinds of jewellery. So, here are 10 ideas for wonderful jewellery you could give to your other half to mark four fabulous years together.
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- Earrings
- Cufflinks
- A ring
- A broach
- A locket
- An anklet
- A nose stud
- Belly button ring
You’ll find topaz used in a lot of different jewellery, both from independent jewellers and big-name high street brands. We also work with a range of wedding jewellers who can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
5 floral-inspired gifts for a 4th wedding anniversary
Flowers might be one of the traditional 4th anniversary gifts, but just like every other anniversary, there’s also a traditional flower – the hydrangea. If you want to give your other half something inspired by this flower (and who could blame you because they’re stunning), here are five ideas you could consider.
1. A bouquet of hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are like explosions of vivid colour, with big blooms that are surprisingly hardy. They’re wonderful additions to a bouquet, but work just as well when they’re the star of the show. You really can’t go wrong with a bouquet of hydrangeas.
2. A hydrangea-scented candle
Hydrangeas have an alluring sweet, almost dessert-like smell to them, which is one of the reasons why bees love them so much! It also means it’s the perfect scent to fill your home with, so a hydrangea-scented candle makes for an on-point anniversary gift.
3. A hydrangea scarf
Because hydrangeas flourish in millions of gardens up and down the UK, they’re possibly one of the most recognisable flowers out there. If your partner loves the look and feel of this garden icon, then they might love a hydrangea scarf to keep warm during the winter months.
4. Hydrangea bulbs
As we’ve already mentioned, hydrangeas are a great flower to grow in the UK, which makes them a brilliant plant for budding (get it?) horticulturalists. And hydrangeas come in loads of different colours, so you’ll easily find one your partner will love. If you plant them in the spring or autumn they’ll flower around mid to late summer. Check out your local garden centre or browse the huge selection of hydrangeas at J Parker’s.
5. A hydrangea pin badge
Another lovely way to honour the humble hydrangea is with a hydrangea enamel pin, which is a subtle and affordable way for you to give your partner a floral-inspired anniversary present.
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Browse other similar articles…
- The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
- 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
- 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
- 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
Happy Planning!
