What is the Meaning Behind Wood for the 5th Anniversary?
Reaching the five-year mark in a marriage is a beautiful milestone worth celebrating. Over half a decade, couples share countless moments of joy, navigate challenges, and grow stronger together. That’s why the 5th wedding anniversary holds such deep significance—and why its traditional symbol, wood, is so meaningful.
But why wood? What does it truly represent, and how can you honour its symbolism with a thoughtful and lasting gift?
In this post, we’ll explore the historical origins of the 5th anniversary tradition, the rich symbolism of wood, and meaningful gift ideas (from us, Liel and Lentz) to celebrate the journey so far.
The Tradition of Anniversary Symbols: A Brief History
The custom of giving specific symbolic gifts for each anniversary dates back centuries. Although it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origins, many historians trace the tradition to medieval Europe, where certain anniversaries were marked with specific materials—such as silver for the 25th and gold for the 50th—to signify the value and strength of a long marriage.
The tradition became more widely known and codified in the Victorian era, when sentimentality and ritual were highly valued. In the early 20th century, American etiquette experts and gift companies popularized the idea further, assigning specific materials to each anniversary year.
By the 1920s and 1930s, lists of traditional anniversary gifts were published in magazines and etiquette guides. The material for the 5th anniversary was wood, signifying the durability and strength of a couple’s bond after five years of commitment.
The Symbolism of Wood
Wood is a natural material with powerful connotations. For centuries, it has symbolized stability, growth, and deep roots—making it an especially fitting emblem for a marriage that has matured over five years.
1. Strength and Stability
Just as a tree weathers storms over time, so too does a relationship. By the fifth year, couples have often experienced both highs and lows, and the relationship has been tested and strengthened. Wood represents the solid foundation that has been built over those years—a marriage that can withstand life’s elements.
2. Growth and Maturity
Trees don’t grow overnight; they require care, time, and patience. The same is true for a successful marriage. Wood represents organic growth, symbolic of how a couple continues to grow together—learning more about each other, developing mutual respect, and evolving individually and as a team.
3. Connection to Nature
Wood is deeply rooted in the natural world, symbolizing authenticity and simplicity. In an era of fleeting digital communication and fast-paced living, wood reminds us to slow down and appreciate what is real, grounded, and enduring. A five-year marriage is no longer about infatuation—it’s about connection, compromise, and trust.
4. Endurance and Longevity
Some of the longest-living trees in the world have existed for thousands of years. In this way, wood also represents longevity and legacy. Giving a wood gift on your fifth anniversary honours the endurance of your love—and your shared hope for a future that is just as lasting.
Meaningful Wood Gift Ideas for the 5th Anniversary
With so much rich symbolism behind wood, choosing the right gift becomes an opportunity to tell your love story. Here are some thoughtful and creative ideas:
1. Handcrafted Wood Jewelry
Jewelry is always a meaningful anniversary gift—but wood jewelry adds a layer of symbolism that makes it truly unforgettable.
At Liel and Lentz, we specialize in modern wood jewelry handcrafted in Canada, combining natural materials with fine metals and gemstones. To put it plainly: we make wood jewelry that's actually cool.
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For Her: The Gold Bar Inlay Pendant, Gold Ring Inlay or 5 Blue Sapphire Round are beautiful choices. These pieces symbolize strength, warmth, and love, wrapped in a modern aesthetic.
Engravable Gold Bar Bracelet
Gold Ring Inlay
5 Blue Sapphire Round - White Gold
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For Him: Our Men’s Wood Bracelets—including designs with semi-precious stones—are perfect for husbands who appreciate understated luxury with a story behind it.
2. Engraved Wooden Keepsakes
Personalized wood gifts, such as engraved plaques, love letters on wood, or custom wood art, are timeless. Add your wedding date, a special quote, or coordinates of a meaningful place to make it even more personal.
3. Functional Wooden Art or Decor
From beautifully carved bowls and serving trays to minimalist wooden clocks or wall art, functional wood pieces for the home blend symbolism with style. These gifts serve as daily reminders of the strength and beauty of your relationship.
4. Heirloom-Quality Furniture or Boxes
For couples who love meaningful home items, a handcrafted wooden jewelry box, keepsake chest, or even a small piece of furniture like a side table made by a local artisan can become a treasured legacy item passed down for generations.
The Deeper Meaning: Why Tradition Still Matters
Some couples opt for modern anniversary gifts—but there’s something special about embracing tradition.
Giving a wooden gift is more than following a checklist. It’s about honouring the journey you’ve taken together. It speaks to the solid bond you’ve formed, the growth you've experienced, and the commitment that continues to deepen.
In a world of fast consumption and fleeting attention, wood reminds us of the things that last: love, trust, and time.
Celebrate with Meaning
At Liel and Lentz, we believe that your 5th anniversary should be celebrated with a gift that’s as meaningful and enduring as your relationship.
That’s why our wood jewelry collection is handcrafted with intention—merging natural elegance with lasting quality. Whether you choose a heart-shaped pendant, a pair of earrings, or a sleek bracelet, each piece tells a story that connects you to nature, tradition, and each other.
Ready to Find the Perfect Wood Gift?
Explore our 5th Anniversary Collection and discover handcrafted wood jewelry for her and him—designed to last a lifetime.
Honour the strength, depth, and beauty of five years together—with wood, and with love.
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