Wedding anniversaries are celebrated every year, but not many people know that with each year, there is a customary gift.

The guidelines of what to give one another for anniversaries originated in Europe. Emily Post published “Etiquette“ in 1922 where she suggested gifts for the first through fifth, 10th, 15th, 25th, and 50th year anniversaries.

There are two lists: a traditional list and a modern list. Both lists cover gifts up to the fifteenth year of marriage. Then they address only every fifth anniversary up to the 60th. While the modern list comes off as more extravagant, it fits the style of a present-day relationship. The traditional list keeps the classic courtesy and focuses on simpler things.

Each gift symbolizes a milestone in the relationship. For example, on the traditional list, it is customary to give paper for the first anniversary. Paper represents a clean slate on which you are to write your journey through the years together. Paper is also delicate and is known to rip easily, just like the beginning of a new relationship.

As the years go by, the meaning of each gift becomes more powerful, as does the relationship. For instance, in the 50th year of a relationship, it is custom to give one another gold which signifies success, fortitude, and wisdom.

The lists are more geared towards older couples, as younger ones generally have an easier time of thinking of gifts. The lists are optional, and provide ideas and guidelines to those who want them.

It seems in this day and age, traditions are slowly being lost or forgotten. Perhaps as the years go by, millennials will maintain the customs that have been set for them and keep the traditions alive.