What are some other creative or unique anniversary ideas?

Wedding planner Trista Croce of BTS Event Management said couples should celebrate their anniversary in a way that reflects their relationship. “A fun night to reflect on your wedding day is a great way to go,” she says. “Think about having a nice dinner together, or enjoy a small cake or dessert that mimics what was served at the wedding. Croce also adds: "I think re-watching clips or looking at photos from the wedding is a great thing to do on an anniversary, as well as re-reading your vows to each other.”

Do you have to follow traditional and modern anniversary gift themes by year?

Croce says that couples don’t need to follow anniversary themes if they don't want to. “It's ok to throw out traditions," she says. "Or anything that puts a celebration or a couple in a certain box of expectations.”

The 20 Best 45th Anniversary Gifts in 2021

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

The 45th anniversary is known as the sapphire anniversary, meaning that both traditional and modern gifts are represented by the gemstone. The classic version of sapphire is a deep, rich blue—like the color of the sea. You don't have to limit yourself only to only gifting sapphire jewelry (although those are plenty welcome). You can also riff on on the hue and go with something blue—think a dyed leather travel set or a dutch oven for the kitchen. Or, you can break with tradition and choose something outside the theme altogether.

We’ve rounded up a range of gift ideas for whichever direction you want to go. Whether it’s classic sapphire, something blue, or a totally different gift that doesn’t fit the 45th-anniversary mold, we’ve got you covered.

Read on the best 45th-anniversary gifts.

Mejuri Floating Sapphire Necklace

Sapphire isn’t always blue. White sapphires, which are rare and colorless, are just as pretty. This floating necklace proves just that with white sapphire studs along a dainty cable chain that adjusts from 16 to 18 inches. They pop against gold vermeil but look just as dazzling on the sterling silver chain.

Salvatore Ferragamo Sapphire Rubber Strap Watch, 41mm

Such a sophisticated watch will look dashing on your guys’ wrists. Featuring a sapphire crystal face and matching rubber strap with stainless steel details and three hands, it’s more than handsome. Marked by slender stick indexes and powered by Swiss movement, this watch is a timeless one.

Defiant Jewelry Sapphire Crushed Glass Cufflinks

Sapphire takes on a whole new glitter in this pair of cufflinks. The centerpiece shines with sapphire crushed glass, and it’s up to you which metal should encase it. They’re available in antique silver, black, brass, copper, gold, rose gold, or silver.

Paper Gala Personalized Ring Dish

Keep those wedding and engagement rings safe in this adorable ring dish. Made of ceramic and speckled with foiled resin in blue, this ring dish is both sturdy and pretty. Have it stamped with foiled initials for a custom touch.

Melissa Joy Manning Blue Sapphire Cabochon Ring

Elegant and stunning, this ring is reminiscent of the ocean. Featuring a blue sapphire oval cabochon set against a recycled 14-karat gold band, it has a timeless feel with a hint of moodiness. It’s the perfect piece of jewelry to honor your 45th anniversary.

Uncommon Goods Personalized Constellation of Love

Capture your wedding night in this beautiful piece of artwork. The designer uses computer software to plot star charts from your date, which she then turns into a constellation illustration against a midnight blue sky. You can add an extra personal touch with your names and the date itself.

Tote & Carry Apollo 1 Navy Apollo 1 Travel Set

Travel in style with this luxury set that boasts a navy-hued alligator texture and gold zippers. The set comes with a backpack and extra-large duffel bag for international travel, but you can also opt for a three-piece set that adds a regular-sized duffel bag or a four-piece version that includes a hygiene kit.

ThirdLove The Sleeping in Set

A pair of cotton pajama pants, a matching button-up sleep shirt, and a soft sleep mask are just what you need for a good night’s sleep. Select the black pair for a classic neutral, or go with the Sedona stripe print for a preppier look. The sleep mask comes in a soft blush hue.

Linoto Linen Sheet Set

Linoto 100% Linen Sheet Set — Courtesy of Linoto

Up your bed game with a brand new sheet set. This natural linen bedding is smooth, relaxed, and durable. Plus, it comes in over 30 colors, so you’re bound to find something that goes with your bedroom decor. Each sheet set includes a flat and a fitted sheet or two flat sheets with two pillowcases or two pillow shams.

Indochino Heywood Navy Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, and this is one of the best you’ll find on the market. You can customize this baby to your husband’s unique measurements and specifications. That means it will fit him like a glove, looking so good he’ll want to wear it rain or shine.

Anthropologie Agate Cheese Board in Blue

We love a good cheese board, especially when it’s as pretty as this one. Made of agate in dyed blue, it revels in its bohemian beauty while shimmering at the edges thanks to brass electroplating. Just make sure to wipe it clean with a soft cloth after every use to keep it in prime condition.

Party Bloomm Why I Love You Book

Sometimes the best gifts are sweet little somethings. This miniature book includes fifty prompts for you to fill out and show your spouse just how much you love them. From where you love to vacation together to your favorite photo of them, just fill in the blanks to make their heart melt.

Staub Compact Cocotte

For the at-home chefs, a sturdy cocotte will make dinner that much better. Staub specializes in enameled cast iron cookware, and this cocotte is no different. It retains heat, keeping your stews and soups warm, and has a base that’s safe on many heating surfaces. Plus, an enamel coating is extremely durable and available in six different bold colors—but we think the navy is the way to go for this anniversary.

Allbirds Navy Men’s Tree Loungers

Breathable and comfortable, these slip-ons will soon become your spouse’s shoe. Made of responsibly sourced eucalyptus tree fiber, they’re silky and smooth on top. Cushioned with foam and a castor bean oil insole, they’re like a cloud to walk on and reduce sweat and odor.

Rorence Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle

Tea time gets tastier with the Rorence Tea Kettle. Made of stainless steel, it’s resistant to rust and dents, while a heat-resistant glass lid fits snugly and gives you a clear look at the contents inside. The handle is also heat-resistant, and non-slip to boot, making the kettle easy to handle. Stylish in its navy hue, it’ll sit pretty on the stovetop.

Sofia's Findings Personalized 3 piece Whiskey Decanter Set

A personalized whiskey decanter with two matching whiskey glasses is just what the bar cart ordered. A curved stopper and eye-catching monogram lend an air of stately elegance. The decanter holds up to 27 ounces, while the whiskey glasses hold up to 10 ounces.

A.M. Thorne 6-Prong Diamond Studs

Every lady needs a nice pair of diamond studs, and it’s likely a new set might be in order by the time your 45th anniversary comes around. Each diamond is .22 carats and 3 millimeters, enveloped by a six-pronged yellow gold setting. Order well in advance, as these beauties require an eight to ten week lead time.

Amazing Items Personalized Water Bottle in Navy Blue

Stay hydrated on those morning runs with this insulated water bottle. Made of stainless steel with double-walled insulation, this water bottle will keep your drink cold for a full 24 hours or hot for half that time. Customize it with a laser engraved name to give it that sweet anniversary sentiment.

Uncommon Goods MLB Game Used Baseball Bat Handle Openers

When your guy opens up an ice-cold beer to watch the game with, he’ll be able to bring a bit of extra luck for his team with this MLB bat handle opener. It’s made from real game-day bats used by MLB players and comes with a story card that indicates which game the bat was played in.

What to look for in a 45th-Anniversary gift

The Traditional and Modern gift, sapphire

If you're looking for a present that's specifically made for this anniversary, you can't go wrong with sapphires (or something else with a deep blue hue or finish). That being said, personalization is key when it comes to a good anniversary gift, so don't worry if your gift doesn't fit the theme but feels perfect for the recipient. Think about the things your partner loves best and gift them something that they'll appreciate for years to come. And don't forget that a heartfelt card or letter goes a long way, so make sure to include one in your gift exchange.

FAQ

What are some other creative or unique anniversary ideas?

Wedding planner Trista Croce of BTS Event Management said couples should celebrate their anniversary in a way that reflects their relationship. “A fun night to reflect on your wedding day is a great way to go,” she says. “Think about having a nice dinner together, or enjoy a small cake or dessert that mimics what was served at the wedding. Croce also adds: "I think re-watching clips or looking at photos from the wedding is a great thing to do on an anniversary, as well as re-reading your vows to each other.”
Do you have to follow traditional and modern anniversary gift themes by year?

Croce says that couples don’t need to follow anniversary themes if they don't want to. “It's ok to throw out traditions," she says. "Or anything that puts a celebration or a couple in a certain box of expectations.”

Meet the Expert

Trista Croce is the owner of BTS Event Management, a creative event management company based in Phoenix, Arizona.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Hillary Hoffower has over six years of experience writing for the wedding industry, covering everything from bridal fashion trends to wedding decor. She has an eye for design and quality that she takes into consideration when selecting gifts. She prefers gifting sapphire in a piece of dainty jewelry.

27 "Something Blue" Jewelry Pieces for Your Wedding Day