Pre-planning your 1st Anniversary

We thought we would start our blogs with nothing to do with Anniversaries and talk about the wedding!!

Why I hear you ask; well as if you’ve not got enough on your plate at the wedding there are some great things you can do during the run up to the wedding day and immediately after to help make the 1st (and future) anniversaries more memorable.

Remembering simple things and jotting them down either on paper, in a blog or in your wedding planner will really help, believe me after a year of what will be an extremely busy one likely to be full of change and acclimatisation to becoming one half of a ‘couple’ there will be some details that you wished you had remembered.

We’ve put a basic list below of some of the things people forget as an aide memoire; use it as a list to store the details against.

First Song Danced to as a married couple.
Last song Danced to at the Wedding Celebration
The Menu for the Wedding Breakfast meal.
The Band or DJs Name
The Official’s name (or their formal title)
All your Guests

Is there something you wish you could remember from the actual wedding day? Let us know and we’ll add it to the list as a useful reminder for other couples. Writing this 24 years on from the original wedding I can say the item I struggle with the most is the actual guest list.

Planning your 1st Wedding Anniversary.

The first anniversary is a significant milestone in any couple’s life. It marks the completion of a year filled with love, growth, and memories. As such, it deserves a celebration worthy of the occasion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of planning your 1st anniversary, ensuring that it is a memorable and special event.

Understanding the Significance of the 1st Anniversary

Before diving into the planning process, it is essential to understand the significance of the 1st anniversary. Traditionally, the first anniversary is known as the ‘Paper Anniversary.’ This name stems from the idea that paper symbolises the blank canvas on which a couple writes the story of their life together. It also represents the delicate nature of a relationship at this stage, reminding couples to nurture and care for their partnership.

With this in mind, incorporating paper elements into your anniversary celebration can add a touch of tradition and symbolism. However, it is also important to remember that your anniversary should reflect your unique relationship and the memories you have created together.

Setting a Budget and Prioritising

As with any event, setting a budget is crucial for ensuring that your 1st anniversary celebration remains within your means. Consider factors such as the type of celebration you wish to have, the number of guests, and any special gifts or experiences you want to include.

Once you have established a budget, prioritise the elements that are most important to you and your partner. This may include a special dinner, a weekend getaway, or a thoughtful gift. By focusing on what matters most, you can allocate your resources effectively and ensure that your anniversary is truly memorable.

Choosing a Date and Location

The actual date of your anniversary may not always be the most convenient for a celebration. In such cases, consider choosing a date close to your anniversary that works best for you and your partner. This flexibility will allow you to plan a celebration that suits your schedule and preferences.

When selecting a location, consider the type of celebration you wish to have. If you prefer an intimate affair, a romantic dinner at a favourite restaurant or a weekend getaway may be the perfect choice. Alternatively, if you wish to celebrate with friends and family, consider hosting a party at your home or a local venue.

Planning the Celebration

With a budget, date, and location in mind, you can now begin planning the details of your 1st anniversary celebration. Here are some ideas to help you create a memorable event:

Incorporating Paper Elements

As mentioned earlier, paper is the traditional symbol of the 1st anniversary. Incorporating paper elements into your celebration can add a touch of tradition and sentimentality. Some ideas include:

Creating a memory book filled with photos, ticket stubs, and other mementos from your first year together
Writing love letters to one another and exchanging them during your celebration
Crafting paper decorations, such as origami flowers or paper garlands, to adorn your event space

Personalising Your Celebration

Your 1st anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate your unique love story. Personalise your event by incorporating elements that reflect your shared interests, memories, and experiences. Some ideas include:

Choosing a theme based on a shared hobby or passion, such as travel, music, or a favourite film
Creating a playlist of songs that hold special meaning to your relationship
Incorporating dishes from your wedding menu or a memorable vacation into your anniversary dinner

Honouring Your Relationship

Take the time to reflect on your journey as a couple and honour the growth and love you have shared. Some ways to do this include:

Revisiting your wedding vows and discussing how they have shaped your first year of marriage
Sharing your favourite memories from the past year and discussing your hopes and dreams for the future
Participating in a meaningful activity together, such as planting a tree or volunteering at a local charity

Gifting Ideas for Your 1st Anniversary

Gifts are a lovely way to express your love and appreciation for your partner on your anniversary. When selecting a gift, consider the traditional paper theme or choose something that holds special meaning to your relationship. Some gift ideas include:

A personalised photo album or scrapbook filled with memories from your first year together
A custom piece of artwork, such as a painting or illustration, that represents your love story
A book of love poems or a novel that holds significance to your relationship
A surprise weekend getaway or experience, such as a hot air balloon ride or cooking class

Wrapping It Up: The Final Takeaways

Your 1st anniversary is a momentous occasion that deserves a celebration as unique and special as your love story. By understanding the significance of the event, setting a budget, prioritising your desires, and incorporating personal touches, you can create a memorable event that honours your first year together. Happy planning, and here’s to many more years of love and happiness!

Can’t go without letting you know we have many 1st anniversary gifts available to help make your wedding anniversary special, check them out.