A 50th wedding anniversary (or “golden anniversary”) is a milestone worth celebrating. It represents half a century of long-lasting love, growth, and shared memories.
Gold has long been the symbol of a 50th anniversary, representing durability and enduring value. It’s a classic touch, but the real focus is finding a gift that reflects your story together.
“Anniversaries aren’t just about celebrating the years but the memories behind them. Personalized photo books make those moments unforgettable.”
—Leslie Albertson, Director of Brand & Creative
Discover unforgettable gift ideas that will help celebrate the years behind you and the memories still to come.
1. A bouquet of golden anniversary flowers
For a classic 50-year anniversary gift, consider a fresh floral bouquet. The traditional flowers for a 50th anniversary are yellow roses, symbolizing friendship and joy, or violets, representing faithfulness.
You can create a striking arrangement using these blooms, with golden ribbons or accents to match the anniversary theme. Remove extra leaves, trim stems at an angle, and refresh their vase water daily to help the blooms last longer.
Ask the florist to use a gold-toned vase they’ll be able to re-use and enjoy.
2. A golden anniversary guest and memory book
A guest book makes a special memento from a golden anniversary celebration. Choose one with gold lettering or subtle gold accents to match the theme. At a party, friends and family can use it to share messages, stories, and well-wishes.
Alternatively, the couple can use it as a memory book that loved ones fill out as a collaborative project. They'll end up with a collection of personal notes and shared moments to look back on together.
“Memory books have a way of growing in value over time. They turn into a keepsake couples revisit again and again, filled with the voices of the people they love most.”
—Raffi Apelian, Senior Content Marketing Manager
Consider gifting the book ahead of the event. Include a nice pen and a small sign to encourage guests to write something meaningful.
3. Elegant gold home décor accents
For a thoughtful 50-year anniversary gift, consider gold-toned décor that the couple can enjoy every day.
Bring personality into their home with unique pieces, such as an acrylic print of a favorite photo (Mixbook makes it easy to create one), a vase for fresh flowers, or candle holders to create a romantic atmosphere.
A gold-finished clock also makes a meaningful gift, symbolizing the time they’ve shared and the years ahead. These pieces bring a subtle sense of celebration into the home without feeling over the top.
Pick something that matches their current decor style so it feels personal and easy to display.
4. Gold-themed drinkware for celebrations
Celebrate in style with drinkware that adds a golden touch to every toast. Pieces like champagne flutes with gold rims are a classic pick for marking 50 years together.
They're both beautiful and practical, adding a festive feel to future gatherings and serving as a reminder of this milestone.
To round out the gift, consider a monogrammed ice bucket or a set of gold-accented coasters. Plus, you can pair the drinkware with a bottle of the couple’s favorite celebratory beverage.
5. Commemorative gold coin or medallion
If you're looking for a unique 50th anniversary gift for your husband, consider a collector's item. This could be a high-quality gold coin, minted in a significant year, or a beautifully crafted gold-plated commemorative plate.
Either way, it’ll honor your shared journey and become a meaningful item he’ll hold onto.
To mark the occasion, you can personalize many options with initials, a wedding date, or a simple “50 years” message. Research reputable mints or dealers for quality and authenticity.
6. Golden anniversary sundial or garden plaque
A personalized garden plaque or sundial makes a thoughtful gift for a couple who love spending time outdoors. They’re beautiful pieces for homeowners or gardeners and make a lovely addition to any outdoor setting.
A sundial or plaque marks the time the couple spent together and the memories they've made along the way. For a personal touch, consider custom engraving with the couple’s names and anniversary date.
7. Luxurious gold pen set
A gold pen set makes a refined and practical gift for a 50th anniversary. This special writing tool will make a statement, perfect for a spouse who values craftsmanship and classic design.
Engrave the pens or the case with their initials or anniversary date.
8. Custom photo album or memory book
Few gifts feel as personal as a photo album that highlights 50 years of memories. Each image of your wedding and family gathering through the years becomes part of a living timeline that honors your love story.
Gather photos from different family members and include handwritten captions or scanned mementos for an extra personal touch.
“We’ve found that anniversary photo books resonate most when they mix big milestones with everyday memories. That balance is what makes the story complete.”
—Raffi Apelian, Senior Content Marketing Manager
Mixbook’s 50th wedding anniversary photo book features gold accents and layout ideas for “then and now” portraits, family memories, and more. With customizable text and layouts, it’s an easy way to create a keepsake you’ll revisit and share.
9. Personalized family tree artwork
To honor the incredible heritage you’ve built in half a century, commission a family tree painting to capture your love expanding through generations.
It serves as a reminder of your deep roots and the life you’ve grown together, and is a great personalized gift for marking this milestone.
Ensure all family names and relationships are accurate, and consider a design style that matches your home.
10. Custom-engraved valuables
For the perfect 50-year anniversary gift or even a special 10-year anniversary gift, choose something that you can engrave with a name, date, or short message. Choose a classic font that looks fancy yet legible, and keep the message concise and meaningful.
For the item itself, a stylish watch can mark the memories of your journey, while a locket offers a spot for a photo that stays close to the heart. A thoughtfully crafted box could be a special place for souvenirs. A personalized cutting board adds a personal touch to everyday tasks.
Whatever you decide on, engraving turns simple items into personal reminders of the life you’ve shared.
11. "The story of us" custom illustration or comic
For a one-of-a-kind gift, think about a commissioned painting or short comic book that tells the story of your love. The artwork can highlight key moments from your life together, from your meeting to milestones you've reached since then.
Unlike standard gifts, this idea turns your relationship into a narrative you can display. To make it personal, share specific anecdotes or photos with the artist. You could also pair the illustration with a Mixbook photo book, using the artwork as the opening page and surrounding it with photos and captions.
“As a designer, I love it when couples combine custom art with their photos, as it brings a new dimension to their story.”
—Leslie Albertson, Director of Brand & Creative
12. Handwritten letters in a keepsake box
Handwritten letters from friends and family make a deeply personal anniversary gift. Collect stories, memories, or loving messages in advance, and place them in a keepsake box.
To make it easier for contributors, provide simple prompts like “What’s your favorite memory with the couple?” or “What have you learned from their relationship?” Involving children and grandchildren adds a generational perspective that makes the collection even richer.
For lasting preservation, scan the letters and include them in a Mixbook photo book alongside family photos. This way, the couple has both the original notes and a printed versions they can revisit without worrying about wear and tear.
13. Custom map art of meaningful locations
Custom map art is a creative option for a unique piece of art that tells your story. Think about where you first met, the exact spot you said "I do," or your first home together.
Couples often choose maps that tie back to their biggest milestones or the cities that defined different chapters of their lives. Over time, it becomes a keepsake that represents everything those places mean to you.
Opt for a style that has a personal resonance, like a star map on a certain date or city map cutouts.
14. A piece of music or poetry
A commissioned song or poem can make a memorable anniversary gift by putting your story into words or melody. If you’re a musician or poet yourself—even better!
Share details about your relationship, personalities, and meaningful moments so the piece feels personal and authentic.
You can debut the piece at an anniversary celebration, frame the printed lyrics or verses, or record the song for future generations to enjoy.
For couples who value mementos, include the poem or sheet music in a Mixbook photo book alongside photos from the time it represents.
15. The New York Times anniversary book (or similar historical snapshot)
A collection of newspaper front pages from key moments in your marriage is a deeply meaningful gift idea. Include headlines from milestones that shaped your life together, like your wedding day, first anniversary, or even the birth of your children.
This compilation gives a charming peek back at history as your romance unfolded.
Try choosing a book that allows space for notes or captions so you can add your reflections alongside the headlines.
16. Masterclass subscription or local workshop series
How about gifting the joy of learning something fun and new together? Think about an experience that sparks shared passions, like a hands-on cooking class or dance lessons.
It's a great way to make fresh memories and spend quality time together, proving that even after 50 years, there’s still more to discover together. To make the gift more thoughtful, choose a topic you know your spouse has expressed interest in, or one that encourages a shared activity.
17. Professional photo session (couple or family)
You can’t go wrong with gifting a professional photo shoot that captures gorgeous new portraits of you, your spouse, or even the extended family.
You could even inspire them with some classic engagement photo poses for a sweet nod to their beginning.
Find a photographer whose style and skills you admire and discuss location ideas that hold meaning.
“We always recommend scheduling photo sessions during golden hour, just before sunset. The light has a natural warmth that makes photos look both flattering and timeless.”
—Leslie Albertson, Director of Brand & Creative
18. Donation to their favorite charity in their name
If you’re looking for a meaningful, non-material gift for your anniversary, consider donating in your name to a cause that matters to you. Giving back to something you believe in is a powerful way to celebrate 50 years.
This kind of gesture reflects your values and is a way to celebrate by giving back. Create a printed card or certificate explaining the donation and why you chose that specific organization.
19. Gourmet food and wine hamper with a "golden" touch
A gourmet hamper filled with high-quality snacks and sweets makes a great, indulgent gift that’s easy to enjoy. It's a perfect way to celebrate 50 years, but also works as a four-year anniversary gift, since that’s the year for fruit.
Be sure to include items with gold packaging, artisan treats, and a celebratory bottle of champagne or sparkling cider. Also, consider any dietary preferences and include a mix of sweet, savory, and celebratory items for balance.
Tips for choosing the perfect golden anniversary gift
Finding the right 50-year anniversary gift can feel like a big task, but it really comes down to celebrating your journey and choosing something meaningful. The best gifts have a personal touch and reflect the couple and the life they’ve built.
Some quick advice to help you nail that amazing gift:
- Reflect on their journey and personalities: Think about what makes the couple who they are. What are their shared hobbies? What stories do they always tell? What makes them laugh? That reflection often leads to the most personal gifts.
- Consider practicality vs. sentimentality (or a blend): Do they enjoy everyday items, or do they prefer meaningful mementos like a saved copy of their wedding save-the-date card? Sometimes, the best gift is a lovely blend of both.
- The value of a personal touch: A handwritten note, a thoughtful inscription, or simply knowing you put genuine thought into their gift makes all the difference. It's that extra bit of love that elevates any present.
- Don’t forget a beautiful card: Even with the most amazing gift, a lovely card is a must. You can grab a custom card and fill it with your own heartfelt message.
- Presentation matters: A little effort in wrapping or presentation goes a long way, so make it look special (because it is).
Why gold for a 50th anniversary?
The tradition of gold for the 50th anniversary goes beyond its shine. Known as the “golden anniversary,” this milestone is all about honoring a bond that’s stood the test of time.
Gold itself is special, symbolizing strength, preciousness, and timelessness. A love that has lasted 50 years has proven its incredible resilience.
Make their golden anniversary unforgettable with Mixbook
Reaching 50 years together means a lifetime of shared moments, inside jokes, family traditions, and quiet support. The best gifts reflect that journey and the bond you’ve built together.
With Mixbook, you can turn those memories into something tangible. Effortlessly create beautiful photo books, custom anniversary cards, or other personalized photo gifts that honor everything you've shared.
Explore how you can use Mixbook to turn those golden memories into lasting masterpieces.
