Ultimate 5th (Wood) Anniversary Gift Guide

Five years is a milestone worth marking.

The traditional gift for a 5th anniversary is wood. Which makes sense. It’s strong, natural, and lasting.

There’s a “modern” list that suggests silverware instead, but wood carries a warmer meaning - but I would say that, wouldn’t I? I’m sure a silversmith may disagree…

Anyway, here are a few ideas, from small gestures to pieces you’ll use every day.

Wooden Bud Vase

A hand-turned bud vase doesn’t take up much space. However, it makes a room feel more personal.

Place one on a shelf, desk, or windowsill and it’s there as a quiet reminder.

I make these in oak, ash, sycamore, and sometimes English walnut.

Each wood looks and feels slightly different.

Oak is heavier and solid, sycamore is lighter and softer in tone. None of them are identical.

Wooden Bowl

A bowl is something you’ll both use - for fruit, bread, or just as a centrepiece.

Over time it picks up marks, which only adds to the story of it being used.

All bowls I make are made from British Hardwoods.

Focusing on beautiful grain, completely natural, and mean no two bowls are ever the same.

Three-Legged Stool

For something more substantial, a stool makes a practical and thoughtful gift.

It’s the kind of piece that moves around the house - pulled up when needed, used daily without fuss.

I build these by hand, which takes longer than smaller items, but it means they’re strong and built to last.

The three-leg design also means it won’t wobble, even on uneven floors.

A Bespoke Piece

If you’d like something more personal, a commission can add meaning. I’ve worked with wood from family gardens, turning it into keepsakes.

It takes more planning, but it’s a one-of-a-kind option.

Why Choose Wood

Wooden gifts don’t need to be grand to carry meaning. They’re useful, tactile, and each one is slightly different. For a 5th anniversary, that feels appropriate.