Congratulations on your 16th anniversary! Such special occasions as this call for a celebration with all of your friends and family members.
But most importantly, celebrate the love you share and celebrate your spouse. Make the day special, and give him or her some wonderful, romantic, and thoughtful 16th anniversary gifts.
But after 16 years of marriage and celebrating your wedding date, plus Valentine’s Days, birthdays, and holidays, the perfect anniversary gift can be hard to find. That’s why we have put a comprehensive list together that includes all the best traditional gift themes along with modern theme ideas, too.
The hardest part now will be deciding on which great gift idea to give! (So maybe try two?)
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All About the 16th Anniversary
Every anniversary year has some unique tradition, some special symbolism, some gift motif laden with meaning. Read on to see where year 16 fits into the anniversary gift themes.
16th Anniversary Themes
Table of Contents
- 10 Best 16th Anniversary Gifts
- Traditional 16th Anniversary Gifts
- Modern 16th Anniversary Gifts
- 16th Anniversary Gifts for Her
- 16th Anniversary Gifts for Him
- Gifts for Couples
- Unique Gift Ideas
This is part of our series on Anniversary Gifts by Year.
What is the traditional 16 year anniversary gift?
Traditional 16th wedding anniversary gifts are made from wax.
Why is wax the traditional 16th anniversary gift?
Wax represents the burning passion of your true love. Flaming hot, right?
What is the modern 16th anniversary gift?
The modern 16th anniversary theme is silverware, and specifically silver hollowware (things like bowls, cups, sugar bowls, etc.).
Examples of modern gift ideas are serving trays, bowls, and even silver-themed home décor items. Whether you choose sterling silver or silver plate is entirely dependent on the the gift and your budget!
Why is silverware the modern 16th anniversary gift?
The silver holloware symbolizes unity because you’ll enjoy it together for your 16th anniversary and years to come.
What is the 16 year anniversary stone?
Peridot is the traditional 16-year anniversary stone.
Why is peridot the sixteenth anniversary stone?
Peridot is a stone of lightness and beauty, and symbolizes peace, harmony, and love. What a great way to describe your marriage!
It could also be rooted in history; the story goes that Napoleon once made a gift of Peridot for Josephine as a symbol of undying love and admiration.
What is the 16th anniversary flower?
Statice flowers are the traditional 16th-anniversary flower.
What is the 16 year anniversary color?
Going along with the modern themes, silver is the 16th-anniversary color.
10 Best Sixteenth Anniversary Gifts
Let’s take a look at some of our top picks! Any one of these ideas would make a great choice of anniversary gift.
We’ll start with our favorites, followed by more traditional anniversary gifts, modern anniversary gifts, plus suggestions for him, for her, and for both of you.
1. Personalized Heart Carving Candle
The personalized log candle is made from soy wax and engraved with your and your beloved’s name. “Our Love Log Candle” is a way to preserve the tradition of when couples would carve their names into a tree to represent strong, everlasting love.
These candles are 100% soy wax and made completely by hand, and we think they’d make the perfect gift on your anniversary.
2. 16 Years of Love Wax Stamped Anniversary Card
A handmade waxed stamped card is the perfect way to say “Happy 16th Anniversary” to your husband or wife. The wax seals have “16 years of love” on them. A beautiful sentiment for a special anniversary.
Each card is hand crafted, so every single one is unique.
Related: 101 Best Anniversary Messages, Wishes, & Quotes
3. Wax Molds to Make Your Own Romantic Candles
Order these silicone molds, and make your own candles together. A truly enjoyable way to celebrate your special day! Learn and experience a new (and rather romantic) craft together.
This candle-making kit is well made and sturdy enough to use over and over again. A wonderful project for you to do as a couple!
4. Best. Couple. Ever. Personalized Bird Feeder
Our attractive bird feeder is made from aromatic cedar and a transparent acrylic front panel, which is perfect for engraving a special, personal message.
The two of you will enjoy watching the birds gather and eat while you sip a morning cup of coffee together. This is the best gift for a nature lover.
5. Personalized Message Candle
Add your personalization to the sweet sentiment of this candle. You can even add your own image or logo.
This handmade soy wax candle is a fantastic 16th anniversary gift idea. Once your candle has burnt down you can simply wash the glass jar out and place flowers in it.
6. Personalized Silverware
That special couple is sure to enjoy a personalized dinner set. They will think of you every time they use this impressive table setting.
These stainless steel utensils can be laser engraved with a name, initials, word, or date of your choice. A gift to last for years to come.
7. I Love You to the Moon & Back Candle
Imagine a handmade soy wax candle releasing its scent in your home. Choose from numerous fragrances to enhance your home. Personalize this 16th-anniversary gift with your beloved’s name to make it extra special.
These candles have a pure cotton wick and are in a recyclable glass jar with a pewter lid.
8. Silver Foil Heart Snapshot Framed Print
You can create a unique collage with your favorite photos. Just supply the pictures you want and let the pros at Minted do the rest!
You’ll also get to choose the size, molding, and color theme. This is a gift that will be treasured forever while looking great in your home.
9. Personalized Initial Flatware Pouch
These flatware pouches are a classic look for your dinner party. Just tuck a napkin behind the silverware to complete the look.
The sophisticated pouch is the perfect touch for any dinner party.
10. Photo Engraved Silver Necklace
A personalized photo engraved necklace is a must-have for your anniversary. Your wife will adore this piece of jewelry for years to come and wear you close to her heart and love you for this thoughtful gift.
Traditional 16th Anniversary Gifts (Wax)
More of our favorite wax-themed gift ideas.
11. Exotic Candles
From the German words fern (far) + Weh (pain, pining). These words literally translated mean a longing for faraway places, something like our term “wanderlust.” These beautifully scented candles bring inspiration from faraway lands to your home.
Enjoy and incredible burn time as these candles take you on a journey without ever leaving home.
12. Wax Tablets
These hand-made wax sachets are perfect to place in a closet, lingerie drawer, or as a hanging ornament for an incredible aromatic sensation.
Each tablet is made from solid wax with all-natural ingredients: soy wax, beeswax, dried botanicals, and essential oils.
13. Custom Wax Stamp and Seal Kit
A custom wax stamp kit is an old-fashioned way to seal your letters, invitations, and Christmas cards as well.
This is a thoughtful gift that will be used over and over again throughout the years.
14. Colorful Fuchsia Wax Candle
A hand-made wax and Fushia candle is a perfect combination for your anniversary gift! This candle is sure to provide a beautiful glow and soft scent to any atmosphere.
You can set this on any desk, shelf, or table and it will give a beautiful fragrance to any room.
15. Beautiful Fragrance Wax Warmer
An elegant wax warmer is a great way to add fragrance to any room. With this 2-in-1 fragrance warmer, you can melt both waxes and candles on the warming plate. Within minutes, you will start to smell the fragrance of your choice.
Modern 16th Anniversary Gifts (Silverware)
Here are some ways to upgrade your silverware with the contemporary 16th anniversary theme.
16. Fine Silverware Set
72 pieces of beautiful stainless steel is a fantastic gift for the couple who is celebrating their 16th anniversary. It includes a carrying case along with polished and elegant gold-plated crests.
Each piece has a decorative etching engraved into it, making it a gift that will be treasured for another 16 years – and beyond.
17. Silverware Bookmark
A cute silverware bookmark is a perfect gift for the avid reader in your life. Add your own message that will be hand stamped into this unique bookmark. A gift that any recipient is sure to appreciate and use for ages.
Related: 21 Best Gifts for Book Lovers, Librarians, and Bibliothecaries
18. Silverware Shine
Wright’s silver cleaner makes your silver shine like new. The finest ingredients keep your silver looking beautiful for many years to come.
The unique anti-tarnish formula leaves behind a protective coating that delays tarnish from forming on your treasured silverware, serving platters, and more.
19. Personalized Coffee Spoon
Such a cute way to remind them of your love! Give your beloved their own personalized coffee spoon.
Your sweetheart is sure to think of you every time they stir sugar or creamer into their coffee. Use your loved one’s name or even a cute nickname on the handle of their spoon.
A thoughtful way for you coffee lovers to celebrate your anniversary!
20. Custom Silverware Caddy
A custom silverware caddy is a nice way to wish the special couple a “Happy Anniversary.” This caddy will suit any kitchen or dining room décor.
The caddy will hold forks, spoons, knives, and napkins. Make it extra special by adding their family name to this thoughtful gift.
16th Wedding Anniversary Gifts for Her
From the classy to the comical, there’s a little something here for anyone. We’ve included a couple of gifts from both the traditional and modern themes, too, in case you wish to incorporate those into your gift giving.
21. Peridot Diamond Cluster Ring
Any woman would love this exquisite peridot and diamond cluster ring. Because this ring is hand-crafted, no two rings will ever be the same.
Wish her a happy 16th anniversary with this fantastic piece of jewelry and it will be a day she will never forget. This piece can be passed down for generations.
22. Her Nutella Spoon
Who doesn’t love to indulge in a big scoop of Nutella? Give her permission to enjoy a guilt-free spoonful with her very own Nutella spoon!
Have her name engraved in this high-quality spoon, and she will appreciate this gift for years to come.
23. Elegant Black and White Floral Silverware
A beautiful black silverware set with a mirror polish finish is the perfect setting for any dinner party or casual dinner at home. This stainless steel set adds class and charm to any table setting.
These lightweight yet sturdy utensils will last for years.
24. Waxed Canvas Tote Bag
Your wife will definitely appreciate a lightweight, durable, handcrafted tote bag. These are the perfect size for daily use, and the waxed (get it?!) canvas is an extremely strong fabric that is organic and vegan.
Here’s big plus, too: the bag is waterproof! It’s perfect for use at any occasion. Your bag will have some marks and scratches which add character, giving it a well-worn, rugged look.
25. Organic Crème Lipstick Made with Wax
Your search for the perfect lipstick is over now that you have found Brazen Crème Organic Lipstick. These luxury colors will keep her smiling all day.
Bamboo packaging is a sustainable product that can be crushed and composted. The inner casing can be recycled with regular household recycling.
Plan the Perfect Day: 101 Romantic Things to Do on Your Anniversary
16 Year Anniversary Gifts for Him
And now for the gents in your life, you can spoil him with one of these awesome 16th wedding anniversary gifts.
26. Beeswax Soap for Men
Luxurious handmade soap is a thoughtful anniversary gift for him. Beekeeper soap is made with all-natural ingredients, making it great for any guy.
Ground bee pollen is the key ingredient to this much sought-after soap. It provides a gentle layer of exfoliation, and more: it enriches your skin with all bee pollen has to offer.
27. Peridot & Tourmaline Necklace
A simply stunning piece of jewelry for your man. The sophisticated look features peridot and black tourmaline set in gold or silver. This is a gift your husband will proudly wear.
Choose the best chain length from 18 to 24 inches. Bonus: it’s a piece that can be passed down from father to son.
28. Personalized Silver Mug
A personalized metallic coffee mug is sure to capture his attention. Have his name or a cute nickname laser engraved onto this ceramic mug. It is sure to bring a smile to his face each time he uses it (which will be often).
29. Silver Goal Book Journal
This Italian leatherette softcover journal is a very thoughtful gift because it shows that you’re in tune with his thoughts, hopes, and dreams. This one has a perpetual calendar with lots of room for notes, ideas, and goals.
Pages are made from high-quality vellum for smooth writing. Packed with lots of extra features that will come in handy.
30. His Peanut Butter Spoon
To be honest… who doesn’t enjoy a scoop of peanut butter? He’s sure to enjoy it even more now that he has his own personal spoon that is designated to the peanut butter jar.
Personalize this cute gift with his name and give him the “OK” to indulge.
16 Year Anniversary Gifts for Couples
If you’re looking to score a great 16th wedding anniversary gift for the happy couple together, then these would be excellent options.
31. Lovebirds Bamboo Wood Cutting Board
Our cutting board is a great gift for anyone that spends time in the kitchen. This cutting board is extra special because you can engrave the names of your favorite couple on it.
They will enjoy using it and displaying it in a place of honor. It is made from solid bamboo and is quite durable.
32. Plant a Tree in Their Name
Dedicating a tree in someone’s name is one of the longest-lasting gifts you can give. Their tree will be planted in a part of our national forests that need help due to fires.
Do good for people in your life that matter by giving a tree. This tree gift will help to re-forest and provide homes for creatures.
The recipient of your gift can go online and learn about their tree. They can even use a map to find it and plan a trip to visit the forest in which it is planted.
33. Statice Flower Ring His & Hers Set
These handcrafted resin rings are inspired by nature, featuring statice flowers to align it with that special 16th anniversary theme. Choose from gold or silver flakes to enhance the beauty of each ring.
Each set of floral rings are made with real flowers, blue flower petals, and pink. Honor your beloved with this unique ring and they will be proud to wear it.
34. Letter Peridot Keychains
A real peridot stone is encased in resin. You can choose gold or silver glitter on a sturdy chain. This nice-sized key ring will fit into his pocket, and she will find her keys easier in her purse.
35. Romantic Surprise Vacation
How about instead of a thing, give the gift of an experience. Giftory offers you the best experience gifts for each other no matter what your passions are.
Plan a getaway for you and your beloved. Anything is possible — from skiing to shopping, to romance and so much more. Your spouse will appreciate a surprise of a lifetime.
Related: Romantic Scavenger Hunt Ideas
Unique Sixteenth Anniversary Gifts
Finding a 16 year wedding anniversary gift that you think will speak to the happy couple is no small feat! If you’re looking for something creative and unique, this is the perfect place to find one.
36. Statice Flower Wreath
Surprise your loved one with this handcrafted dried flower wreath. perfect to hang on a wall or your front door.
Handmade from fresh garden flowers including sweet Annie, eucalyptus, strawflower, marigold, and purple statice.
37. Peridot Candle
Enjoy a handmade peridot soy wax candle for your anniversary. Light this candle for a warm glow that will enhance any room. Peridot symbolizes strength and is sometimes called the “evening emerald” for its light green color.
Once upon a time, people believed that the peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele, and had the ability to bring healing, wealth, and growth – which are things every marriage needs! Healing for any conflict, a wealth of love and intimacy, and growth in the depth and beauty of your relationship.
38. “Love You” Wax Melts
The “Love You” Soy Wax Melt Kit is a great gift for your special someone. The artist infuses each melt with mica powder for shimmer, glitter, and sparkle.
You can choose from numerous fragrances to find the perfect scent.
39. Silver Snack Bowls
Your bowl is made from durable stainless steel with a mirror finish outside and matte inside. Fill with candies or nuts and enjoy a snack with your beloved.
Sure, it’s not silver, but it still looks great! Fill to the brim, and enjoy.
40. Peridot “Tree of Life” Meditation Tool
A beautiful piece of décor for any office or home. Made from peridot, grey moonstone, copper, gold pieces, and resin. The peridot will soothe taught nerves. The moonstone can open you up to other worlds and the universe. A piece of art that everyone can enjoy.
Each piece is hand-made, so no two are the same.
This article is part of our series on Gifts By Anniversary Year.
We are sure that you will have found the perfect gift for your special someone. Enjoy gifting your spouse of 16 wonderful years with the perfect anniversary gift.
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