We’re all familiar with the major wedding anniversary traditions, but where did they come from? Our modern customs are often linked to ancient symbols and beliefs.
In this blog, our East Yorkshire wedding venue uncovers the secrets behind our most-loved anniversary symbols.
First Wedding Anniversary: Paper
Paper is often misinterpreted, with many people believing it relates to money. In truth, paper fibres are firmly bonded together, symbolising the strong connection of marriage. Paper can also represent your new marriage as a blank sheet or a new start.
Fifth Wedding Anniversary: Wood
Building on from paper, wood represents an even stronger marriage with more wisdom. Your bond has become even more solid with deeper, entwined roots. In Wales, this date was traditionally accompanied by a gift of intricately carved wooden spoons.
Tenth Wedding Anniversary: Tin
Used to store things, tin preserves items and keeps them safe. It is also frequently used as plating, as it prevents other metals from corroding. This means that tin can prolong the life of what it holds, symbolising a long and happy marriage.
15th Wedding Anniversary: Crystal
Crystal was chosen for its clarity, luxuriousness and transparency. After 15 years of marriage, you and your beloved are sure to see each other clearly. Crystal also sparkles beautifully in the light, symbolising how your marriage will continue to gleam for years to come.
20th Wedding Anniversary: China
A centuries-old tradition, china has many associations. Its beauty represents the value of a happy, 20-year relationship. It is also delicate, demonstrating a bond that has been carefully looked after and treated with love and respect.
25th Wedding Anniversary: Silver
A precious metal that lasts forever when properly cared for, it’s no wonder that silver marks 25 years of marriage. This tradition began when the Romans crowned their wives with silver wreaths on their 25th anniversary, representing the value of marriage. Silver is also thought to represent wealth and magic, bringing luck to those who wear it.
30th Wedding Anniversary: Pearl
Cultivated over many years, pearls represent wisdom in many cultures, but also a dedication to your beloved. A symbol of hidden beauty, this precious object is found inside an oyster shell. They reflect that after 30 years you and your partner may have changed on the outside, but it’s the inside that counts.
40th Wedding Anniversary: Ruby
The colour of love, a red ruby is the perfect symbol of a long-standing marriage. Traditionally used to enhance romance and devotion, rubies reflect the still-burning flame in the hearts of couples who have been together for 40 years.
50th Wedding Anniversary: Gold
One of the most precious metals, gold symbolises prosperity, strength and elegance. It is also thought that when the Romans reached 50 years of marriage, they crowned their wives with a gold wreath. After a lifetime together, there is no better symbol of happiness than this.
Looking forward to celebrating these major milestones with your beloved? At Carlton Manor, we know how important your wedding day is to symbolise the start of your life as a married couple.
