Reaching your 16th wedding anniversary is a significant milestone, marking over a decade and a half of shared experiences, growth, and enduring love. By now, you might think you know everything about your partner, but finding that perfect anniversary gift can still feel like a delightful challenge. Whether you’re searching for a special something for your spouse or for a cherished couple in your life, we’re here to inspire you with thoughtful 16th Marriage Anniversary Gifts.
Tradition offers guidance, suggesting wax as the traditional material for a 16th-anniversary gift. While candles readily come to mind and remain a wonderful choice, wax opens up a realm of creative possibilities, from waxed apparel to luxurious beeswax beauty products. For those who lean towards modern interpretations, silver holloware presents a sophisticated alternative. This encompasses a variety of silver tableware beyond cutlery, including elegant bowls, refined coffee pots, and stylish candleholders.
16th Wedding Anniversary Symbols
- Traditional Gift: Wax
- Modern Gift: Silver Holloware
- Anniversary Flower: Statice
- Anniversary Gemstone: Emerald
Whether you decide to honor tradition with wax or embrace modernity with silver, or even incorporate the symbolic flower or gemstone, we’ve curated a diverse selection of gift ideas. Explore below for inspiration for him, for her, and elegant silver options for couples. Happy gift hunting!
Wax Wedding Anniversary Gifts
Embrace the charm of tradition with wax-themed gifts for your 16th wedding anniversary. Wax, the traditional symbol for sixteen years of marriage, represents the enduring flame of your love and the warmth you’ve built together. From the soft glow of candles to the practical elegance of waxed items, discover our curated selection of wax anniversary gift ideas for him and her.
16th Wedding Anniversary Gifts For Him
1. Soul: The Joyful One Candle 440g – Eym
Infuse his space with uplifting aromas with the Soul: The Joyful One Candle from Eym. This all-natural, three-wick candle is expertly blended with mood-boosting neroli, vibrant orange blossom, and exotic ylang-ylang. Designed to inspire joy and tranquility, this candle’s sophisticated, understated packaging will complement any décor. As an added bonus, neroli is known for its aphrodisiac properties, making this gift both thoughtful and subtly romantic.
2. Scented Candle Layering Collection – Experimental Perfume Club
For the man who enjoys exploring new scents, the Scented Candle Layering Collection from the Experimental Perfume Club offers an olfactory adventure. This unique trio includes three distinct scents: cardamom, tonka sesame, and cedarwood absinth, designed to be enjoyed individually or layered to create bespoke fragrances. This thoughtful wax anniversary gift is perfect for the man who appreciates personalized experiences and discovering his signature scent profile.
3. Ripple Green Candle Set – Bristol Museums Shop
Elevate his home décor with the artistic Ripple Green Candle Set from Bristol Museums Shop. These striking green and yellow ripple candles serve as sculptural centerpieces, adding a touch of modern art to any room. Beyond being a fitting wax gift, their emerald green hue subtly nods to the 16th-anniversary gemstone, making it a doubly symbolic and stylish present.
4. Beaufort Waxed Jacket – Barbour
For a gift that blends fashion and practicality, consider a waxed cotton jacket, a sophisticated twist on the traditional wax anniversary theme. Barbour, renowned for its iconic waxed jackets, offers timeless style and exceptional quality. The Beaufort jacket, a classic choice, is particularly well-suited for spring weather, offering both protection and style. This is a durable and stylish gift he’ll appreciate for years to come.
5. This Works Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle 220g – Marks & Spencer
Gift him the luxury of restorative sleep with the This Works Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle. Infused with a calming blend of lavender and chamomile essential oils, this candle creates a tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation and deep sleep. This thoughtful wax anniversary gift shows you care about his well-being and provides a practical solution for stress relief and improved sleep quality.
6. Diptyque Figuier Candle 300g – Liberty
Transport him to a sun-drenched fig orchard with the Diptyque Figuier Candle. This luxurious scented candle captures the essence of fresh fig trees, with complex notes of fig wood, bark, leaves, and sap. Encased in a glossy green version of Diptyque’s signature packaging, this sophisticated wax gift adds a touch of elegance and a captivating aroma to his surroundings.
7. Personalised Anniversary Candle – Marigold Charms
Create an intimate and memorable 16th anniversary celebration at home with the Personalised Anniversary Candle from Marigold Charms. This charming candle can be personalized with a special message, making it a truly unique and heartfelt gift. Ideal for a cozy evening in, this little candle adds a personal touch to your anniversary festivities.
8. Malin + Goetz Leather Candle 260g – Cult Beauty
Appeal to his refined taste with the Malin + Goetz Leather Candle. This sophisticated candle boasts a luxurious and distinctive leather fragrance, balanced with warm notes of amber and sandalwood. Masculine and elegant, this wax anniversary gift is perfect for the man who appreciates complex and intriguing scents.
9. Paul Smith Early Bird Candle 240g – Selfridges
Bring the invigorating scent of a fresh morning rain into his space with the Early Bird Candle from Paul Smith. This vibrant candle evokes a sense of renewal and energy. The striking blue jar adds a pop of color, and the contrasting lid cleverly doubles as a coaster. This is a stylish and aromatic wax gift that will brighten his day.
10. Blundstone Waxed Suede Chelsea Boots – Toast
Combine style and practicality with these Blundstone Waxed Suede Chelsea Boots from Toast. These boots, crafted from waxed suede, offer both warmth and weather resistance, perfect for unpredictable climates. Stylish and durable, these Chelsea boots from the renowned Australian brand Blundstone are a gift he’ll be thrilled to receive and wear throughout the seasons.
16th Wedding Anniversary Gifts For Her
11. Hot Spell Candle 200g – Bella Freud
While a Bella Freud jumper or cushion might be on her wish list, the Hot Spell Candle offers a touch of Bella Freud’s signature style at a more accessible price point. Inspired by summer heat, this candle is both sultry and sophisticated, with a hint of fruitiness from grapefruit and lemon, balanced by ginger and musk. This wax anniversary gift is a luxurious treat that captures a vibrant and alluring essence.
12. Mon Cheri Hand-Painted Candle – Bable London
Add a whimsical touch to her home décor with the Mon Cheri Hand-Painted Candles from Bable London. These exquisite taper candles, adorned with a charming cherry print, are perfect for dinner parties or adding a decorative accent to any room. These hand-painted wax candles are not just sources of light but also pieces of art, making them a unique and delightful anniversary gift. If cherries aren’t her style, Bable London offers a variety of fun and lovely designs.
13. Venus Body Candle – Etsy
For a truly unique candle experience, consider the Venus Body Candle from Interlude Candles, an independent brand on Etsy. These stunning Venus bust candles are more than just average candles; they are sculptural pieces that add an artistic flair to any space. Available in a range of scents and colors, you can customize this wax gift to perfectly suit her taste and décor.
14. Emerald Huggies – By Rae Jewellery
While silver is the modern 16th-anniversary material, these Emerald Huggies from By Rae Jewellery beautifully incorporate the anniversary gemstone. These delicate gold huggie hoops, adorned with sparkling emeralds, are a classic and versatile addition to any jewelry collection. Whether worn alone or layered with other earrings, these emerald huggies offer a touch of elegance and gemstone symbolism for your 16th anniversary.
15. Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Candle 2.1kg – John Lewis
For a truly extravagant wax anniversary gift, the Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Candle is an exceptional choice. This four-wick candle, in a statement size, exudes sophistication and fills any room with its beloved peony and blush suede fragrance. A luxurious and long-lasting gift, the elegant jar can be repurposed as a plant holder once the candle is finished. For an extra sentimental touch, this is especially perfect if she had peonies in her wedding bouquet!
16. Burning Rose Candle 240g – Byredo
Byredo candles are synonymous with chic, minimalist aesthetics and luxurious fragrances, making the Burning Rose candle a failsafe anniversary gift for her. This cult-favorite candle features a rich floral scent with notes of violet and rose absolute, grounded by sumptuous leather and dark woods like birch and ebony. A sophisticated and highly desirable wax gift, Byredo candles are always a welcome indulgence.
17. I Do Candle 265g – Anthropologie
Set a romantic and nostalgic mood with the I Do Candle from Anthropologie. Designed to evoke warm memories of your wedding day, this candle features a heady floral fragrance with notes of peony and musk. This sentimental wax gift is perfect for cozying up together and reminiscing about your special day, creating a beautiful ambiance for your 16th anniversary.
18. Wild Flowers Candle 300g – Liberty
Challenge floral scent conventions with the Wild Flowers Candle from Liberty London. This sophisticated fragrance transcends traditional sweetness, offering an elegant and edgy floral experience with notes of wild rose, delicate jasmine petals, and grounding cedarwood. This wax anniversary gift from Liberty’s own range is a testament to modern floral elegance.
19. Bee Lovely Nourishing Collection – Neal’s Yard Remedies
Pamper her with the Bee Lovely Nourishing Collection from Neal’s Yard Remedies for your 16th wedding anniversary. This luxurious set provides much-needed TLC with hand cream, body lotion, and bath & shower gel. The collection also features the brand’s versatile Bee Lovely All Over Balm, enriched with nourishing beeswax and invigorating orange oil. This beeswax-infused beauty set is a thoughtful and pampering wax anniversary gift.
20. Santa Rosa Candle 280g – The White Company
The White Company candles are a consistently popular gift choice, and the Santa Rosa candle is no exception, making it a reliable wax anniversary gift. This latest fragrance from the brand is an uplifting floral delight, blending notes of tuberose, orris, and jasmine. A beautiful and well-received gift, The White Company candles are known for their quality and appealing scents.
Modern Silver 16th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
For a contemporary take on your 16th anniversary, explore the world of silver holloware. Silver, the modern symbol for this anniversary, represents the enduring strength and lasting brilliance of your marriage. Holloware, encompassing non-flat tableware, offers a range of elegant and functional gifts. Discover our selection of modern silver 16th wedding anniversary gifts, from champagne flutes to stylish home décor pieces.
Silver Holloware Gift Ideas
21. Vera Wang Love Knots Toasting Flutes – Wedgwood
Elevate your 16th-anniversary toast with the exquisite Vera Wang Love Knots Toasting Flutes from Wedgwood. These stunning, silver-plated flutes from the Vera Wang Love Knots collection are the perfect vessels for celebratory bubbly. Their elegant design and silver finish make them a sophisticated and symbolic silver holloware gift to commemorate your milestone.
22. Arthur Price Silver Plated Cocktail Shaker – Selfridges
For the couple who enjoys crafting cocktails at home, the Arthur Price Silver Plated Cocktail Shaker is an essential and elegant addition to their barware. This silver-plated copper cocktail shaker is not only functional but also beautifully presented in a gift box, making it a sophisticated and ready-to-gift silver holloware option.
23. Penguin Home Professional Cookware Set – Amazon
Upgrade their kitchen with the Penguin Home Professional Cookware Set. This five-piece set, crafted from heavy-duty stainless steel with a mirror-shine finish, is both practical and stylish. A durable and high-quality silver holloware gift, this cookware set is perfect for couples who enjoy cooking together or for the aspiring chef in your life.
24. Georg Jensen Bloom Bowl – John Lewis
Add a touch of modern elegance to their home with the Georg Jensen Bloom Bowl. This mirror-finish stainless steel bowl features a beautiful curved shape and comes in three different sizes. Versatile and stylish, this silver holloware gift can be used for serving dips and snacks, as a fruit bowl, or simply as a decorative centerpiece on a coffee table or sideboard.
25. Hammered Champagne & Wine Cooler – Culinary Concepts London
For couples who love to entertain, the Hammered Champagne & Wine Cooler from Culinary Concepts London is a stunning and practical gift. This silver holloware cooler, featuring elegant leather handles, adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering. A perfect anniversary present for those who enjoy hosting, this cooler keeps drinks chilled in style.
26. Vera Wang Treasure Box – Wedgwood
Another exquisite piece from Vera Wang at Wedgwood, the Treasure Box is a delicate and charming silver holloware gift. This silver-plated trinket box, adorned with a beautiful pearl lid, is perfect for storing rings, jewelry, or other small treasures on a sideboard or bedside table. Elegant and functional, this treasure box adds a touch of Vera Wang’s signature style to their home.
27. Sterling Silver Honeypot Lid – Fortnum & Mason
For a truly unique and thematic 16th-anniversary gift, the Sterling Silver Honeypot Lid from Fortnum & Mason cleverly combines both silver and wax elements. This adorable sterling silver lid, topped with a decorative gold bee, fits any of Fortnum’s 200g and 275g honey jars. Pair it with a jar of their signature honey for a luxurious and delightful breakfast upgrade.
28. Mirrored Cobra Pitcher – Georg Jensen
The Mirrored Cobra Pitcher from Georg Jensen is a sleek and chic silver holloware gift. Its fluid shape and calming Nordic design make it a beautiful and functional piece. Perfect as a carafe for wine or water, this stainless steel pitcher adds a touch of modern Scandinavian style to their home. Make it extra special by pairing it with a bottle of their favorite wine.
29. Alessi Moka Espresso Coffee Pot – John Lewis
For the coffee aficionados, the Alessi Moka Espresso Coffee Pot is a perfect 16th-anniversary gift. This modern and stylish coffee pot is crafted from stainless steel and comes in three sizes. Its graphic shape and functional design make it a welcome addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen, offering a touch of Italian design and excellent espresso at home.
30. Silver Plated Sugar & Creamer Set – Newbridge Silverware
Elevate their tea or coffee ritual with the Silver Plated Sugar & Creamer Set from Newbridge Silverware. The simple elegance of this set ensures it complements any style of tableware. This silver holloware gift transforms their everyday cuppa into a special occasion, adding a touch of refinement to their daily routine.
31. Personalised Silver Armada Dish – Hersey Silversmiths
The Personalised Silver Armada Dish from Hersey Silversmiths is both a functional serving piece and a beautiful ornament. Crafted from solid silver, this dish can be personalized with a special message, names, or dates. This customizable silver holloware gift is a lasting keepsake that can be displayed or used, making it a truly personal and cherished anniversary present.
32. Personalised Napkin Rings – Hersey Silversmiths
Elevate their table settings with Personalised Napkin Rings from Hersey Silversmiths. Another exceptional silver holloware gift option from this renowned silversmith, these napkin rings can be personalized with names, dates, or a meaningful message. These custom napkin rings add a touch of sophistication and personalization to every meal, making them a thoughtful anniversary gift.
33. Silver Plated Heart Tea Infuser – Fortnum & Mason
For the tea enthusiast in your life, the Silver Plated Heart Tea Infuser from Fortnum & Mason is a delightful and charming gift. This adorable heart-shaped strainer pairs perfectly with a box of Fortnum’s loose-leaf tea for an elevated tea experience. Beautifully packaged in the brand’s signature eau de nil colored gift box, this silver holloware gift is both elegant and thoughtful.
34. Silver Plated Elephant Candle Holder – Jonathan Adler
Step beyond classic silver candle holders with Jonathan Adler’s playful and modern animal-inspired designs. The Silver Plated Elephant Candle Holder is a standout piece, offering a contemporary twist on traditional silver holloware. Mix and match with other animal candle holders for an eclectic display or pair it with the matching elephant serving bowl for a coordinated and whimsical set.
35. Silver Plated Champagne Stopper – Mappin & Webb
Indulge them with a luxury item they might not buy for themselves – the Silver Plated Champagne Stopper from Mappin & Webb. This elegant silver holloware piece is a sophisticated addition to their barware, perfect for preserving celebratory champagne in style. Remember to include a bottle of bubbly to complete this thoughtful and luxurious anniversary gift.
What Gift is for 16th Wedding Anniversary?
The 16th wedding anniversary is traditionally associated with wax gifts. This encompasses a wide range of items, most notably candles, wax melts and burners, and even wax seals for a touch of old-world charm. However, the versatility of wax allows for more creative interpretations. Consider waxed cotton clothing or accessories like stylish bags or jewelry for a fashionable twist. Beeswax beauty products, known for their nourishing properties, also make thoughtful and luxurious wax-themed gifts.
In modern gifting traditions, silver holloware is the recognized symbol for the 16th anniversary. Silver holloware refers to silver tableware that is not flatware, opening up a diverse range of gift options. Elegant choices include wine coolers, sophisticated serving dishes, refined coffee pots, and decorative napkin rings. While sterling silver and silver-plated pieces are classic choices, the “silver” theme can also be interpreted more broadly. Stainless steel holloware and metal gifts with a mirror finish are equally appropriate and offer a modern aesthetic. The color silver itself is strongly linked to the 16th anniversary, allowing for flexibility in material choices while still honoring the symbolic tradition.
To make your 16th anniversary truly unforgettable, consider complementing your thoughtful gift with a romantic getaway. Explore romantic hotels for a delightful escape and create lasting memories together.
