7th anniversary gift
If you want to go whimsical, here’s a sheep (wool) pen holder.
Fun, unique seventh anniversary gift?
July 13, 2017 10:01 AM Subscribe
My wife and I have a tradition of getting each other anniversary gifts that creatively combine elements from the “traditional” and “modern” lists of presents. But this year, our seventh anniversary, is a stumper for me. The day approacheth rapidly, and I would love some suggestions!
So, for example, the “traditional” gift for a first anniversary is PAPER, and the “modern” gift is CLOCKS. So my wife got me this book on how to make a paper clock. Last year, for our sixth anniversary, I played fast and loose with the ideas of IRON (traditional) and WOOD (modern) to get her an attractive wooden card-catalog drawer with metal accents.
This year is our seventh anniversary, and I’m flummoxed about how to combine the modern and the traditional gifts in a fun, interesting way.
Traditional: WOOL or COPPER
Modern: DESK SETS / PEN and PENCIL SETS
DESK SETS? That’s unbelievably esoteric, which means it’s somewhat limiting. I mean, how creative can you be in buying someone something as specific as a desk set? Furthermore, she doesn’t need one at all, even a jokey one.
There’s plenty of wiggle room with WOOL and COPPER, but I’m not sure which directions to go with these ideas.
I’d be happy with gift ideas that combine DESK SET with either WOOL or COPPER; or even something that combines WOOL and COPPER. (Hey, they’re our rules, so we can bend them.) But I’m having trouble coming up with anything that draws from any two of those categories.
I can’t afford to spend too much – maybe $150, tops. I live in the North Bay, CA, and would be happy to buy local, but online ordering is 100% OK, too. I’m open to any kind of gift – funny, artsy, unique, vintage, whatever. Deadline is sooner than I care to admit!
Thank you in advance, gift-givers of MeFi!
Maybe a fallback choice if nothing more interesting shows up but copper pens and fountain pens do exist. This one is $130.
posted by TWinbrook8 at 10:09 AM on July 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
Wool Pencil Socks (this is actually a link to buy the wool and pattern to knit the socks yourself, which is a pretty great gift if you have the time/patience)
Or, instead of a copper pen (which is a great idea btw) get her a “copper pin”. Copper jewelry is a thing right now. I bet you could find a lovely copper pin or broche on Etsy.
posted by pearlybob at 10:12 AM on July 13, 2017
Kind of desk-y/office supplies-y etsy stuff:
I was looking at wool pens on etsy (search wool pen on etsy), when i learned that a particular style of felting needle is a felting pen. Felting is of course done on wool. Maybe there’s something there you could work with. I think getting her a felting needle if she doesn’t felt would kind of suck, but maybe some sort of crafting kit, would be along the same lines of the paper clock book. There are a bunch of felted desk items on etsy (again, search wool desk). Maybe she could make her own of those.
posted by If only I had a penguin. at 10:19 AM on July 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
Copper makes me think of circuitry. If she happens to have an iPad Pro, an Apple Pencil has copper electronic components. Alternatively, some other sort of electronic desk set ?
posted by zamboni at 10:25 AM on July 13, 2017 [9 favorites]
Or maybe a nice copper mug or pencil cup with a fancy (“wool”) pen it in? I’ve got three mugs on my desk right now, each holding a large variety of office supplies, so they totally count in the spirit of the desk set rule, at least.
Alternatively, the copper pen in a nice wool pencil case?
posted by PearlRose at 10:25 AM on July 13, 2017
A really pretty vintage copper desk set. Not useful, but it decorative and not huge.
This shop has a number of different patterened copper pen-holder/ business card holder sets.
Maybe something about something office-related made of fancy wool felt? For example, an iPad cover, pencil case, or satchel.
posted by beyond_pink at 10:44 AM on July 13, 2017
These are AMAZING: felted wool caddies. They do not need to be used on desks and she has a lot of sizes and variations.
posted by DarlingBri at 10:45 AM on July 13, 2017
Perhaps try thinking of copper as the color instead of the metal? If she does any kind of yarncraft, you could look into copper-colored wool for felting, copper-colored wool yarn for knitting/crocheting, etc (easily found on Etsy). Or anything made from such.
What about desk toys? There’s this copper spinner (and many others like it), this weird floaty desk toy thing that comes in copper, and this copper top. Put ’em together to make a little desk toy set?
Cute little mailbox that might be extra cute holding papers on a desk.
posted by brook horse at 10:46 AM on July 13, 2017
Another wool desk set.
A copper desk set — and just about everyone can use a pencil cup and business card holder IMO.
This copper pennanular pin, along with a light wool scarf/shawl. That particular seller has a variety of colours/patterns in the silk/wool blend.
posted by angiep at 10:47 AM on July 13, 2017
On our 7th anniversary, my husband and I curled up and watched the classic movie “Desk Set” while drinking Moscow Mules out of copper mugs.
posted by galvanized unicorn at 11:03 AM on July 13, 2017 [12 favorites]
If you want to go whimsical, here’s a sheep (wool) pen holder.
Best answer: I have it! I have it!
It occurred to me that pennies are copper(ish). So I googled penny desk and as I hit search I realized what I would find. You probably don’t want to buy or make one of those without consulting her, but how about doing the same thing with a lap desk? I would get a nice wood one like these.
If you want to incorporate some wool, either add a felted pencil cup *or*, use different colours of pennies to incorporate an image of the sheep into your penny design. If you look at the penny desk image search you’ll see various examples of pictures or patterns made from different penny shades.
posted by If only I had a penguin. at 11:07 AM on July 13, 2017 [7 favorites]
Response by poster: Thank you, everyone, for the excellent suggestions. I will start going through them right away.
Please, keep ’em coming!
posted by Dr. Wu at 11:27 AM on July 13, 2017
What about some interesting pencil art (either OF a pencil or rendered in pencil) in a copper frame?
posted by LKWorking at 12:00 PM on July 13, 2017
I like the idea of a tablet cover, phone cover, lap desk, stylus, etc, as the modern equivalent of a desk set, and those are the kind of thing you could easily find crafty versions of involving wool or copper. But I can see how it wouldn’t be appropriate/useful if she (like me) doesn’t really use that stuff.
So my best idea: Give her something made of wool or copper, but also give her a DVD of Desk Set(1957) with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn.
posted by aimedwander at 12:01 PM on July 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
Here’s another idea: sheep bookends!
posted by stillmoving at 12:02 PM on July 13, 2017
Response by poster: I have it! I have it!
Indeed you do, If only I had a penguin . indeed you do. Your suggestion is terrific. I’ve gone ahead and contracted with an Etsy vendor for a custom, penny-and-plexiglas-topped laptop desk. As it happens, my wife needs a laptop desk, anyway – and the pennies are a stroke of genius. Thanks for this great idea.
Thank you everyone. This really helped!
posted by Dr. Wu at 1:30 PM on July 13, 2017 [10 favorites]
That’s great. I hope you’ll post pictures.
But I think the traditional way to make penny desks/tables is to pour acrylic over the pennies so they end up encased, not to put a sheet of plexiglass over. I think the acrylic would look nicer..plexiglass tends to scratch and I would worry that given that there would be air left under the plexiglass between the pennies it could get moist and fog up or who knows what.
posted by If only I had a penguin. at 9:07 PM on July 13, 2017
Response by poster: Yup, the artist will be using epoxy. I gave her the option, and she said that she thought epoxy would look the coolest, so we went with that. Thanks for taking the time to call that to my attention!
posted by Dr. Wu at 11:43 AM on July 14, 2017
7 Year Anniversary Gift: A Complete Guide
Are you on the lookout for the perfect 7 year anniversary gift? Seven years together is a special time in any couple’s life, so you should, of course, celebrate with seventh anniversary gifts.
Hitting a successful seven year anniversary of your wedding date isn’t always the easiest thing. Take time to celebrate how far you have come in the past seven years with your partner and how far you will continue to go.
Don’t let anyone tell you it isn’t a big deal. This anniversary is a meaningful time in your marriage, especially because of how symbolic the number seven is.
The number seven has a deep meaning in many religious and superstitious beliefs. It is also believed to represent perfection, making it the perfect time to celebrate your marriage over the years.
This Special Milestone Is Worth Celebrating
The seventh anniversary is an important milestone in marriages. It’s also an excellent year to share your journey with family and friends.
All in all, seven represents perfection, giving it a deeper meaning than just being the seventh year you have been married.
It is a special time in your marriage that is definitely worth celebrating with your partner. Further, this is a time to appreciate each other for staying true and committed to building a life and potentially a family together.
So don’t shy away from it. This is your seventh year anniversary, so toast to the good years together!
Seven Year Anniversary Gifts
When celebrating your anniversary, it only makes sense to share gifts with your partner as part of the celebration. The traditional seventh anniversary gifts are copper and wool.
Copper represents protection and love, and a wool anniversary gift represents comfort and warmth.
Alternatively, a modern seventh anniversary gift would be a stationery or desk set. This represents the pride you have in the work both do and how much you, as a couple, have put into having a successful marriage.
Either way, your seven year anniversary gift should be a thoughtful gift imbued with love and deep meaning. Let’s take a look at the best seventh anniversary gifts you can give your partner.
Cookware Set
It’s been seven years of using the same cookware set; you might as well use your 7th wedding anniversary as an opportunity to gift your home a new Copper cookware set, give your kitchen a new look, and make cooking more enjoyable.
A Wool Jacket
A wool jacket is a great wool anniversary gift for your partner. Find a wool jacket that fits your partner well, has a nice design, and is comfortable.
You can also pick one with your partner’s favorite color. Additionally, getting a matching wool jacket isn’t a bad idea, either.
Diamond Earrings
Earrings are another great gift idea you should consider. Purchasing a diamond says a lot, and there are a variety of styles you can choose from.
Choose between 18k or 14k gold made from recycled metal.
Stationery Holder
Another great gift idea is a stationery holder. This is a nice wedding anniversary gift to give your partner as a way of showing that you love and honor them.
Place it on your office desk or your work area to remember the love you share with your partner.
You can also get a stationery holder that allows you to attach your family picture.
Knitted Blanket
Your partner would love a cozy knitted blanket to keep the cold away on a snowy day. Choosing a color your partner loves would let them know that you pay attention to the things they like, which will strengthen the bond you share with one another.
Memorable Photo Frame
Frame your partner’s favorite photo. Use a photo taken during the proposal or when you first met prior to dating.
How about a picture of your first date? This will bring back such beautiful memories, and you will cherish how long you have been married even more.
Diamond Necklace
We have various diamond necklaces you can choose from for a seventh anniversary gift. This could be the perfect piece to celebrate this special moment with your other half.
Stylish Copper Cufflinks
Copper cufflinks give a clean, crisp, and minimalist look to any outfit. They come with a sleek design that works with any shirt style and any special occasion. This is definitely an appropriate 7th anniversary gift!
Wool and Leather Catchall Tray
A catchall is a very functional accessory for your spouse if they constantly lose their keys or important items. A catchall can keep car keys, receipts, notes, and other important items. Take it further by personalizing the catchall with your spouse’s initials or special date.
Copper Coffee Mug
If it is a copper anniversary gift you want for your spouse, a good choice would be a copper coffee mug. These mugs have a shiny metallic hue that gives them a lovely look. This is also an ideal mug to keep your coffee at the perfect temperature. Get a matching set so you and your spouse can enjoy coffee breaks together!
Scented Candle
A scented candle is a very good anniversary gift. You can choose from a wide range of fragrances such as raspberry, roses, grapefruit, and violet. However, it is best to choose a scent that you and your partner would both love. A scented candle gives the house a nice smell and a relaxing atmosphere. You can also have it on the table when you have an in-house date; it brings more romance to the day, making it extra special.
Sweet Box of Doughnuts
You don’t always have to go for the typical seven year anniversary gift; sometimes, it can be difficult to come up with gift ideas to celebrate your anniversary. If your partner loves sweet things, get them a pack of sweet doughnuts! And make it a creative one: send a message of appreciation spelled out with the doughnuts, place the pastries in a lovely package and watch them gush over, or think of something else unique! And of course, you are not exempted from sharing the gift with them!
A Bottle of Wine
Wine will always be at the center of any celebration, making it one of the best things you can present to your spouse on this special occasion. Select a bottle from a wide range of some of the best wines in the world. You can choose a wine from the same year you get married to make your anniversary feel extra special.
Pajamas Set
For a lady of silk, pajamas might just be what she wants at the moment; shop for luxurious pajamas that will give her a good night’s rest. You can also buy more than one so she can change into the one she wants depending on her mood. For a man, comfy pajamas are just as acceptable. Pick a set that fits his tastes.
Stylish Table Center Piece
A gorgeous table centerpiece is another thoughtful anniversary gift for your other half. It can be placed on your table to give it a gorgeous look. You can step it up by adding your partner’s favorite flowers.
Cocktail Shaker
If you want to give your partner something that will always be a part of your anniversary celebration, a cocktail shaker is a perfect gift idea. With it, you can make each other’s favorite cocktails whenever you want and have fun trying out new ones with your friends and family. Personalize the shaker with your partner’s initials to make it more special.
Soft Wool Socks
You might not know this, but socks are among the most ideal seventh anniversary gifts you can consider. Socks are comfortable and can be worn throughout the year, especially during the winter.
It isn’t bad to select designer socks that can be worn with stylish shoes to give your partner’s fashion game a better look. Add a gift voucher if you feel the socks aren’t enough for your partner.
Wrapped Bouquet
Giving your partner flowers will always bring a smile to their face and joy to their eyes. Your partner would love a wrapped bouquet with a romantic, stunning arrangement to celebrate seven years of being married.
You want your anniversary celebration to end with more spark in your marriage, and a wrapped bouquet can give you just that.
Comfortable Wool Slippers
Get your partner a comfortable pair of wool slippers that are soft, warm, and relaxing. They are perfect for walking around the house on a lazy weekend. A new pair would definitely be appreciated!
A Good Wool Scarf
Wool anniversary gifts are a must-get for your partner; an easy choice is a good wool scarf. Your partner will definitely need a wool scarf for those long romantic walks and to protect themselves during rainy seasons. Wool scarves work for whatever season you find yourself in; they are so lightweight and easy to carry around. They have also become fashionable and can be used with your everyday outfit.
Wool and Cashmere Spray
Wool and cashmere need a lot of care, and if you would be giving your partner either of these as an anniversary gift, it is a good idea to include a wool and cashmere spray. It would be a way of showing that you really want to make it easy for them to keep their gift in good condition. These sprays smells really nice, and they are such a thoughtful way of saying you want to be helpful to your partner.
Desk Organizer Set
If you want your partner to have a more organized desk, then a desk organizer is a thoughtful seventh wedding anniversary gift; they can have their pen and notepad placed in the same place. A desk organizer comes with different compartments for your pen, marker, notepad, or paper clips. You can also get it in different colors and personalized with their initials or a special date.
Personalized Stationery
For any stationery from writing paper to envelopes, have them customized with your partner’s initials and make giving notes more interesting. Personalized stationeries can feel very personal to your partner; you can use the envelopes to send sweet notes and words of encouragement to each other.
Leather Photo Album
Since you have spent 7 years together, get a photo album filled with your many cherished memories. Get photos of your and your partner’s favorite moments together and fill up an album with them; it will be a lovely surprise for your partner as you both go through it with joy in your hearts.
Linen Sheet Set
This practical gift is the perfect way to celebrate seven years of marriage. Cuddling in this new sheet might not be entirely different from the past, but it would definitely bring a fresh and new feeling to years of being together.
7 Year Anniversary Gift: What Else to Know
7 year anniversary gifts are usually copper, wool, desk sets, and stationeries, but don’t let anyone put you in a box. Explore more sentimental and romantic gift options that will leave a lasting impression.
Focus on gifts that will offer a good time and remind both you and your partner why you fell in love in the first place. And most importantly, why you are willing to spend the rest of your lives together.
All in all, always go for an anniversary gift that would add meaning to your relationship. Ditch the traditional gifts if they are not for you. Stick to something with more sentimental value.
A special gift with meaning is probably the best way to go for your seventh wedding anniversary gift.
Desk sets and stationery are the modern seventh anniversary gifts. They might seem unusual, but they symbolize your pride in the work you have done together as a couple.
It is ok to choose this option instead of being romantic and sentimental. Either way, the goal is to remind your partner of how special they are to you and how much they mean to you. The intention behind your anniversary gifts is all that matters.
Click here to discover more about traditional anniversary gifts for other milestones.