We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 23 Best Wooden Anniversary Gifts for Your Fifth Anniversary and Beyond

collage of best wooden gifts

Brides / Kristin Kempa

What do love and trees have in common? They’re both solid and stable, can withstand challenging weather, and with nurturing and care, they thrive and grow. That’s why wood is a beautiful and meaningful anniversary gift. As the traditional fifth-anniversary gift, wood is symbolic of a solid, sturdy, and enduring marriage. This layer of meaning imbues the gift with a powerful, poignant aspect that helps mark this important milestone in your marriage. 

Wood comes in many forms, from artwork to tabletop serving pieces, accessories, furniture, and even scents. While it’s a fantastic material, it also means that finding that special something made of wood can be both easy and overwhelming. We’ve narrowed it down to some of our very favorite gifts that will make this anniversary feel even more special.

These scalloped trays are hand-carved in Japan using traditional techniques. Treated with a maple dye and water-resistant coating, they're perfect for serving drinks or styling on an ottoman or side table. Choose from one of two sizes in a charcoal black or natural brown finish.

With a matte finish that shows the organic woodgrain, these classic vessels feel rustic and modern. Because the wood is left with minimal treatment, they don't hold water but are ideal for displaying driftwood pieces or a few springs of faux cherry blossom branches.

These wooden heart dishes are perfect for holding anything from rings and jewelry to salt and pepper. They’re hand-carved from wild olive wood by Kenyan artisans using traditional techniques. The best part is that the purchase of these bowls supports economic growth and fosters traditional artisan skills in rural communities in East Africa.

If a wooden bowl sounds like a lackluster gift, think again. These stunning bowls are hand-carved from New England ash wood and come in various sizes and shades. So, if you're looking for salad bowls for dinner parties or everyday meals, these can be a great option.

The PakkaWood set from exceptional Japanese knife maker Shun features three classic knives, honing steel, and a storage rack. Built to last, this is one present that the chef in your life will use for years.

Whether you’re looking for a fifth-anniversary gift or a unique spin on a couple’s portrait, this gift will do the trick. This custom artwork features a favorite photo printed on woodgrain, and the resulting effect is muted, rustic, yet modern.

This wooden ring holder is chic, modern, and made to keep your precious jewels safely stacked and on display. Crafted out of durable walnut wood with a shiny brass base, it will look like a modern sculpture on your vanity.

If game night is their thing, this deluxe Scrabble set will be a winning gift. Complete with a wooden cabinet and gold foil-stamped details, this game will get the party started.

Was your partner all about the coffee bar at your wedding reception? This stunning espresso machine is the perfect gift for an aspiring at-home barista. The sleek white exterior is finished with handsome wood details for a gift that’s as rich and smooth as the coffee it makes.

Buying something for your home is a special way to mark another year of wedded bliss, and this cool black wood fruit bowl would make a perfect choice. The pedestal bowl, made of mango wood, is a stylish way to display fruit. You can also feel good knowing it is made with FSC-certified wood from responsibly managed forests.

For a unique twist on the wood-themed gift, this Tom Ford Oud Wood fragrance is a perfect choice. This earthy scent has a beautiful blend of sandalwood, rare oud, and rosewood, along with Eastern spices and amber giving it a rich smell of luxury. The distinctive bottle will also make quite a stylish statement displayed on your bathroom vanity.

These unique scalloped serving dishes are made of mango wood and are both beautiful and functional. These food-safe bowls can be used to hold fruit and vegetables or to serve nuts and chips.

If your loved one is a fan of charcuterie, then this wooden serving board is a fabulous anniversary gift. For those who don’t like charcuterie, it can also be used for flatbread, wings, and more. Measuring 17.5 inches across, this beautiful board is handmade by Amish artisans with locally sourced wood.

This stunning wood inlay box was handcrafted from maple wood in Sorrento, Italy. There are five beautiful colors and designs to choose from, such as this geometric motif. Its velvet interior makes it the perfect place to hold wedding mementos or other keepsakes. If you are going the extra mile, you can include a special piece of jewelry, such as an anniversary diamond band.

These striking black wood salad servers are made of polished stainless steel and midnight mango wood handles—and are budget-friendly as well. You can gift these alone or with the matching black wood salad bowl

If you are looking for a unique and fun gift, then this square turntable checks all the boxes. You can gift it alone or with a favorite vinyl record. It is made of green oak plywood for a vintage look but is designed for optimum performance. Please note that you do need to buy external speakers separately.

This four-piece aperitif set from the Parisian homeware label Sabre makes for a delightful anniversary gift. Made of stainless steel with light wood handles, this set includes a bottle opener, a kitchen knife, a cheese knife, and a butter spreader. You can gift this alone or with a set of cutting boards.

Surprise your loved one on your anniversary with a romantic picnic, starting with this picnic basket filled with their favorite goodies. Handwoven from natural wood, this basket includes a fully removable cooler that is made of a water-resistant canvas.

Made of oak and porcelain, this gorgeous grinder makes a beautiful addition to your table or countertop. It grinds salt, pepper, or other dried spices quickly and effectively—and you can even adjust the degree of grinding to your personal preference. It is available in two colors (white and gray), as well as two sizes.

A pair of wooden mules reflects the theme and will make for a special keepsake gift. These are designed with a plush sole for plenty of support and have a classic style.

This salad fork and spoon in bamboo and sterling silver add exquisite elegance to your dining table. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying an intimate dinner date at home, you and your spouse will treasure this vintage-style set.

Add a modern touch of wood to your home with this driftwood wall art. The worn, natural driftwood is authentic and will make for a lasting piece sure to spark conversation.

Gift your spouse an earthy scent to show your love. Jasmine and moss create a woodsy floral fragrance that's sure to please.

What to Look for in a Wooden Anniversary Gift

  • Type of Wood: High-quality materials are essential when you're looking for a wooden anniversary gift that will last. Walnut, pine, ash, and chestnut are good wood types to keep an eye out for. Beautiful, grain-filled woods like acacia or olive are ideal for kitchen tools and cheese boards.
  • Design: Is the gift recipient a lover of modern, Scandinavian, or midcentury design? Or are you on the hunt for something more rustic and organic? The beauty of wood is in the versatility of the material—there's something for everyone.
  • Sentiment: An anniversary is celebrating your commitment to each other, so make sure you put some thought behind the fifth-anniversary gift. A wooden anniversary gift for the home is also something that can be enjoyed for years to come.
FAQ
  • Which year is wood considered to be the traditional anniversary gift?

    Wood is the traditional gift for the fifth anniversary—it's symbolic of marriage's strength, stability, and enduring nature after five years. Although it’s traditional to give a wooden gift on the fifth anniversary, wood is a beautiful gift for almost any anniversary because its meaning carries significance that applies to any long-term relationship.

  • What’s the best way to care for wooden anniversary gifts?

    Most wooden items can be cleaned with a damp cloth and warm, soapy water. If you’re cleaning tabletop goods—such as salad bowls, cutting boards, spoons, or utensils—washing them by hand with warm, soapy water and towel drying them will provide the best results for cleaning and preserving your wooden items.

  • What is a traditional wood gift for the fifth anniversary?

    Because it symbolizes strength and stability, wood is the traditional gift for the fifth anniversary, but as far as which wooden gift is the best depends on personal preferences. Whichever wooden anniversary gift you decide on, make sure you put some thought behind a gift that is both meaningful and functional.

Why Trust Brides

Brides contributor Elizabeth Maclennan has been scouring marketplaces worldwide and on the web, hunting down that just right object for over 15 years as a prop stylist. With a discerning eye, she considers quality, function, and design when vetting products.

Related Stories