18th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

Last updated: 3rd Jun 2024

Celebrating your 18th wedding anniversary is such an exciting time. It’s a wonderful milestone which means you’re also just two short years away from reaching 20 years of marriage. 18 is often seen as a lucky number, and if your marriage was a person, it would now legally be allowed to drink in the UK – incredible!

To celebrate this amazing stage in your marriage, it might be nice to treat your other half to a gift. But what sort of thing should you buy them now that your marriage is officially old enough to apply for a credit card? Well, did you know there’s a traditional and modern gift for celebrating your 18th anniversary, as well as a traditional gemstone and flower? It’s true, and it means by sticking to these unofficial rules, you bring your gift-giving skills to the next level thanks to the deep level of symbolism and meaning behind them.

Deciding the perfect gift can be tricky, so the traditional and modern gifts not only show how much you care, but can also make your decision so much easier.

In this post, we’re going to explore all the traditional and modern gift-giving traditions when it comes to your 18th wedding anniversary. We’ll also offer you 50 suggestions for gifts to give you a head start and find something your partner is bound to love.

For more information about the different anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 to 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary?

The traditional and modern 18th wedding anniversary gifts

Couples have been giving each other traditional gifts for their anniversary from as far back as the Victorian era, with modern gifts being created at the start of the 20th century. Now, couples can choose whether or not to give one or the other – or sometimes even both. Both traditional and modern gifts are filled with history and meaning, so which you give is entirely up to you.

For many different anniversaries, there are separate traditional and modern gifts. However, when it comes to your 18th anniversary, both the traditional and modern gifts are the same. This lessens the choice, but the meaning behind your gift is still so special.

Traditional 18th anniversary gift – Porcelain

The traditional 18th anniversary gift is porcelain, a type of ceramic made by potters and fired in a kiln to give it that shiny and luxurious finish. It represents how you’ve worked hard over the past 18 years to keep your marriage strong and how you need to continue preserving something beautiful and delicate into the future.

Porcelain is a versatile material and is used to make lots of different things, so despite its close link to expensive pottery, you shouldn’t actually have too much trouble finding something for your other half.

Modern 18th anniversary gift – Porcelain

The modern gift for your 18th anniversary is also porcelain, which means you don’t have quite as much variation when it comes to a gift. But, the meaning behind it is lovely, so even just a small token porcelain gift should be more than enough to get you in your partner’s good books.

18th anniversary gemstone – Cat’s eye

The traditional 18th anniversary gemstone is cat’s eye, which is the name given to a gemstone that has chatoyancy. A gemstone is chatoyant when it contains a band of reflected light, which gives it that distinct appearance reminiscent to a cat’s eye.

Genuine cat’s eyes are pretty rare, and the rarest chatoyant stones are incredibly expensive. But, thankfully, even if you have a smaller budget, you can find alternatives so you can still treat your partner something containing cat’s eye.

18th anniversary flower – Sunflower

The traditional flower for celebrating 18 years of marriage is the sunflower, which was also the traditional flower when you celebrated your 3rd wedding anniversary. Sunflowers are big and bold blooms that are one of the symbols of summer. They represent a long and happy life, which makes them the perfect gift for this special occasion.

How do you choose a gift for an 18th wedding anniversary?

Your 18th wedding anniversary is a big deal and you may struggle to figure out what to give your partner to mark this amazing occasion. Do you go for something simple but loving, like flowers, or traditional and packed with historical meaning? It’s not a necessarily obvious choice, and it can depend on different things. Here are several points to think about when choosing the perfect 18th anniversary gift:

Are you excited to stick to the traditional or modern gift themes? If so, you’ll want to make sure you choose something linked to one of the themes rather than go off-piste.
Do you have a set budget? Porcelain can be rather pricey, as can a high-quality and rare cat’s eye gemstone. Sunflowers are far more affordable but just as thoughtful, so this may be something to consider.
Is a personalised gift important to you? Many people love to give their partners a personalised gift to mark an anniversary, which is obviously easier to do with some gifts than others.
What kind of thing does your partner love? Even though it’s both the traditional and modern gift, porcelain is actually a fairly old-fashioned gift by today’s standards, so this might play a big part in your decision.

If a couple in your life will soon celebrate their 18th wedding anniversary, you might be on the hunt for the perfect gift to let them know how much you care. As part of that, you may wonder if you can give them a gift linked to the traditional and modern themes, or if it’s something only the couple should do. Well, the great news is, you’re more than welcome to join in on the fun! So, if you’d like to give the couple a gift linked to porcelain, sunflowers or cat’s eyes, then you absolutely should. They’d no doubt be hugely appreciative of such a thoughtful and generous gesture!

50 ideas for an 18th wedding anniversary gift

When it comes to your 18th anniversary, because the traditional and modern gift themes are the same, you don’t have quite as much choice as you did on other anniversaries. For example, on your 3rd anniversary you had a choice of five, but here you only have a choice of three.

Even so, that doesn’t mean there aren’t loads of options out there – you’ve faced a similar anniversary before, such as on your 10th anniversary.

But, if you’re still not quite sure what sort of gift to treat your partner with to mark 18 years, we’re here to help. Below are 50 18th anniversary gift ideas so you can let your other half know just how much you love them.

20 traditional and modern gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary

With your 18th anniversary, because the traditional and modern gifts are the same, you do have a little less choice when it comes to finding something for your partner in the form of porcelain. But, that doesn’t mean you’ll struggle – porcelain is a type of ceramic that can be molded into a million and one things. That means, whatever your partner is into, you should still be able to find something in keeping with the theme. Here are 20 ideas to get you started on your hunt for something perfectly porcelain.

1. Personalised and framed ceramic hearts

Because porcelain is such a versatile material, it can be personalised really easily. So, why not immortalise your and your partner’s names – and even the names of any kids or pets you may have too – with a lovely framed set of ceramic hearts?

2. Personalised Emma Bridgewater pottery

Emma Bridgewater is one of the biggest names in pottery and creates everything from bowls and plates to cups and vases. Take your gift to the next level with a piece of personalised Emma Bridgewater pottery, the ultimate on-theme gift for your 18th anniversary.

3. A handmade porcelain sunflower seed

This might seem like an unusual choice, but bear with us. In 2010, the Tate Modern was home to an art installation that consisted of millions of porcelain sunflower seeds. The installation is now gone, but you can give one of those porcelain seeds to your partner, complete with a frame. The perfect gift that’s memorable, unique and covers two of the traditional themes. It’s not often you get the chance to give your other half something that was once displayed in the Tate Modern!

4. Circle of Love white porcelain figurine

For a touch of contemporary art, treat your partner to the Circle of Love white porcelain figurine, which features a couple together in an eternal embrace. It’s fabulously striking and modern, and would look great on a shelf, in a cabinet or on a sideboard as a permanent reminder of your 18th anniversary.

5. A set of porcelain roses

Roses are a well-known symbol of love, and they might have been high on your list of gift options until you decided to stick to the 18th anniversary themes. Well, why not do both? A set of porcelain roses means you can give your partner a perfectly on-theme gift with the added bonus that they’ll never wilt!

6. Magic Forest porcelain cufflinks

If your partner often wears suits for work or special events, then they can never have too many pairs of cufflinks. And for a subtle, on-theme anniversary gift with lovely meaning, treat them to Magic Forest porcelain cufflinks, designed to look like a pair of fabulous birds.

7. A set of porcelain coasters

Porcelain might be known for being delicate, but it can also sometimes be quite hardy. A set of porcelain coasters is a great example of this and makes for a practical and on-theme gift.

8. Contemporary porcelain earrings

For jewellery that will really make your partner stand out from the crowd, look no further than a pair of contemporary porcelain earrings. These earrings are like no others and go perfectly with a sleek, modern outfit. Who knew porcelain earrings could look so incredible?

9. A striking porcelain lamp

Part lamp, part vase, this striking porcelain lamp is available in three sizes, and thanks to dozens of holes pierced into the side, it casts brilliant light around the room. Just remember, if your partner does use it as a vase then they can’t put water in it!

10. A porcelain silver dipped necklace

Porcelain isn’t exactly the most common material for making necklaces, but when combined with silver you might wonder why not. This porcelain silver dipped necklace is as beautiful as it is unique and even comes packaged in a glass bottle. Nothing about this necklace is ordinary.

11. A porcelain vase

For a sleek and modern gift, you might consider giving your partner a porcelain vase. It might have a simple design, but that means it will work with a wide variety of flowers and go with practically any decor. For double brownie points, give this amazing vase to your partner with their favourite flower already inside.

12. An item of antique porcelain

Porcelain has been used to create luxury homeware for centuries, which means there tend to be loads of incredible porcelain pieces available in antique shops both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. A lot of antique porcelain also looks wonderful, so have a browse and see what you can find. We bet there are some antique shops not too far from you, or you can browse sites like Selling Antiques to see what they have in stock.

13. A porcelain rabbit figurine

What could possibly be cuter than a bunny rabbit? Well, how about an adorable porcelain rabbit figurine holding a heart? This lovely ornament oozes love and affection and is the perfect 18th anniversary gift for the animal lover in your life.

14. A porcelain picture frame

You might not expect porcelain to work as a material for making picture frames, but it really does work. This porcelain picture frame has an elegant embossed design and your favourite wedding snap (from 18 years ago – wow!) would certainly look amazing inside it.

15. A porcelain Christmas ornament

Are you going to celebrate your anniversary during the lead-up to Christmas? Even if you’re not, if your partner loves the festive season, a porcelain Christmas ornament is a brilliant way to give them an on-theme gift which they can hang on the tree every year and which will always carry extra special meaning.

16. A matching couples’ mug set

For a gift that’s romantic, on-theme and just a tad bit cheeky, a matching couples’ mug set is full of character and lets you give a gift that matches your mischievous side.

17. A porcelain scented candle

A candle is usually a sure-fire winner when it comes to a romantic gift, and allows you to create a great atmosphere during a snuggly night in. This Moonlight crush candle lets you set the mood and fits with the theme because the lid is made out of porcelain.

18. A porcelain wall clock

Another unexpected use for porcelain is a clock, which can actually make for a bold and unique look. Give your other half the gift of time they’ll never see coming with a porcelain wall clock.

19. A porcelain teapot

If your partner loves a good cuppa, make every tea time classy with a porcelain teapot. It has a simple design and is also fairly affordable, so makes for a brilliant token gift.

20. A tiny toilet (which is actually a flower pot)

There’s no way we could create this list filled with porcelain gift ideas and not include a toilet in some way. This tiny ceramic toilet actually doubles as a pot for a succulent plant, so it’s funny, on-theme and rather thoughtful!

5 affordable gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary

Porcelain can often be quite pricey, which means with a smaller budget it can be difficult to find your partner something that’s linked to the 18th anniversary themes. Difficult – but not impossible! With a little creative thinking, there are still ways to give your partner a gift closely linked to one of the 18th anniversary themes while also making sure you don’t spend too much. Here are five suggestions if you’re hoping to give a little token gift for the big day.

1. A porcelain heart pebble

Possibly the best token gift there is linked to the theme of porcelain, a small porcelain heart pebble is dinky and affordable yet makes a big statement.

2. A porcelain trinket dish

Does your partner have small items of jewellery or other trinkets but doesn’t have anywhere to keep them safe or together? A porcelain trinket dish is small, sleek and doesn’t cost much at all.

3. A porcelain heart anniversary card

If you’re thinking about getting your partner a card as well as a gift, you could combine the two and give them a porcelain heart anniversary card. As the name suggests, it includes a tiny porcelain heart on the front which makes it ideal for such a special milestone.

4. A personalised porcelain photo mug

For a fabulous on-theme gift that’s personal to your partner and affordable, a personalised porcelain photo mug ticks a lot of boxes and is a brilliant low-cost option.

5. A porcelain 18th anniversary ornament

Featuring a very sweet personalised message, this porcelain 18th anniversary ornament is a wonderful keepsake your other half will want to display for years and years.

5 DIY gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary

To give your other half a gift that’s truly one of a kind, you could make them something using your own fair hands. You might think that making something out of porcelain would require special equipment – and you’d be right! But, there are a few sneaky ways around it so you can still have some creative fun and have a great gift to present to your partner. Here are five suggestions for DIY, on-theme 18th anniversary gifts.

1. Paint your own ceramic figure

Get artistic and paint your own ceramic figure, which could be anything from a lion to a teapot. There’s so much choice you’ll definitely find something your partner will love.

2. A DIY paper sunflower

Sunflowers are big, bright and colourful flowers that are full of life. They’re also surprisingly simple to make out of paper, and don’t require experience or special tools. Check out a DIY paper sunflower video tutorial for help on how to get started.

3. Mini porcelain flower pot decorating

For the ultimate DIY 18th anniversary gift, you could pick up a mini porcelain flower pot decorating set and scribble your own fun design. Then, for the icing on the cake, plant a sunflower seed before giving it to your other half.

4. Decorate a ceramic vase

Let your creativity loose by decorating a ceramic vase. Whether you go for something bright and cheery or stylish and modern, the choice is yours. It makes for an even more perfect gift when given alongside a lovely floral bouquet.

5. Design your own porcelain bowl

Another simple but effective DIY gift is designing your own personalised porcelain bowl. You could give your partner a one-off, or design a whole set. Read this handy porcelain bowl tutorial for everything you need to give it a go.

5 experience or activity gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary

To make your 18th wedding anniversary one you and your partner will never forget, you could give them a gift which lets you spend the day doing something fun, exciting or unique. There are plenty of brilliant ways to tie whatever you get up to closely with the traditional and modern themes. So, to spend time doing something a little different, here are five ideas for experiences and activities.

1. A pottery experience day

If your other half has always fancied giving pottery a go, now’s the perfect excuse to try it! The two of you can let your hair down, get your hands dirty, and throw down some clay to make something unique during a pottery experience day.

2. A pottery factory tour

Denby is a well-known maker of pottery and has been creating tableware and kitchenware in their Derbyshire factory for more than 200 years. Spend time learning how the experts do it with a pottery factory tour that tells you everything there is to know about this fascinating craft.

3. A fine porcelain painting course

For a gift that’s truly unique, spoil your partner and help them gain a new skill with a fine porcelain painting course. This four-week course will teach them everything they need to know about hand-painting incredible porcelain pieces.

4. Sunflower camping

If your anniversary is during the summer, spend time sleeping among nature with a sunflower camping experience. Just imagine how romantic it will feel to fall asleep beneath the stars while surrounded by tens of thousands of beautiful sunflowers – bliss!

5. Pick your own sunflowers

Every summer, farms around the country offer pick-your-own experiences, so why not tie your anniversary into one and spend time with your other half picking your own sunflowers? They’re available up and down the country, like this one at Overfarm in Gloucester.

10 18th anniversary gifts that contain cat’s eye

Jewellery and accessories always make for a beautiful and long-lasting gift that your partner can wear for all sorts of occasions. For your 18th wedding anniversary, the traditional gemstone is cat’s eye, a striking stone that is perfectly named as it often does look exactly like a cat’s eye. Many different types of gemstone can contain this amazing effect, but it is rare which means it can be tough to find a genuine cat’s eye. However, cat’s eye jewellery is out there, and here are 10 suggestions for jewellery containing this alluring gemstone:

Earrings
A ring
A necklace
A bracelet
A broach
A locket
A watch
An anklet
A hairpin
Cufflinks

As beautiful as it is, because of its rarity it can be difficult to find the perfect cat’s eye piece for your other half. Not to mention expensive. There are affordable not-so-genuine alternatives, but they don’t tend to have that iconic cat’s eye look. Some high street jewellers may have a small range of cat’s eye jewellery, or you can browse local jewellers to see if they have something for you to take a look at. At Bridebook, we work with a range of fabulous jewellers, so take a look and see if they have something your partner will love.

5 floral-inspired gifts for an 18th wedding anniversary

Flowers are always a fantastic choice of gift on your anniversary, and marking 18 years with a floral arrangement is going to get you in your partner’s good books. The traditional flower for your 18th anniversary is the gorgeous sunflower, one of the symbols of summer. Sunflowers are big, bold and bright, and are an inspiration for loads of different gift options. Here are five suggestions if you’d like to give your other half something floral.

1. A bouquet of sunflowers

Bring life to any room and a smile to your other half’s face. There’s no way we couldn’t kick off this list without including a bouquet of sunflowers!

2. Sunflower seeds

In the UK, it’s surprisingly simple to grow sunflowers in your garden or a pot, so sunflower seeds make for a thoughtful token gift. After sowing in the spring, they shoot up so fast that within a couple of months, you could have gorgeous blooming sunflowers that are taller than you.

3. A ceramic sunflower pitcher vase

Not only do sunflowers look great in a vase, they also look great on a vase. A ceramic sunflower pitcher vase not only fits the floral theme, but also the traditional and modern themes of your 18th anniversary. A triple-hitter and the ideal gift.

4. A beautiful sunflower necklace

For a beautiful piece of jewellery that your partner can wear with a selection of outfits to practically any occasion, a sparkly sunflower necklace is as lovely as it is thoughtful.

5. LEGO sunflowers

LEGO isn’t just for kids anymore, and by giving your partner a LEGO sunflowers set, you can spend time on your anniversary building them together, then display them at home and never have to worry about watering them.

Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook

At Bridebook, we’ve helped more than two million couples plan their dream wedding thanks to our range of tools, tips, information and inspiration.

Browse other similar articles…