The best anniversary cards

Anniversary cards split neatly in two: the ones you give your partner, and the ones you give a couple. They need completely different tones, and most people buy the wrong one.

Here's how to choose, plus our picks for both.

For your partner

• Funny works if you've been together long enough to take the mickey out of each other.
• Romantic works better written by hand than printed - buy a simple card and do the words yourself.
• Reference the year, not just the anniversary. What actually happened in it?

For a couple

• Keep it warm and short - you're a guest at their milestone, not a co-star.
• Milestone years (25th, 40th, 50th) deserve a bigger card that can sit out on display.
• Sign from your whole household so they know who to thank.

Milestone years worth marking properly

• 25th - silver, and the first one where people throw a party.
• 40th - ruby, usually a family meal rather than a party.
• 50th - golden, and the one where a keepsake beats a card alone.
• 60th - diamond, and often the one with grandchildren involved.

Shop all anniversary cards

How to write it so it lands

• Date the card. Couples keep them and love seeing the run of years.
• For a milestone, buy the bigger card - it ends up on the mantelpiece for weeks.

Where to shop next

• Anniversary card messages
• 50th wedding anniversary cards
• Anniversary gifts
• Best birthday cards for mum
• Best birthday cards for dad
• Best 60th birthday gifts
• Best 50th birthday gifts
• Planning the party? Birthday party ideas
• How to make a balloon arch
• Photo booth prop ideas
• All guides

Frequently asked questions

What do you write in an anniversary card for a couple?

One warm line about them together, and something specific if you were at the wedding. Keep it to three sentences.

Should a first anniversary card be different?

Only in tone - first anniversaries suit something light and forward-looking rather than nostalgic.