When so much in life moves fast and relationships can feel fleeting, there’s something profoundly beautiful about a love that stands the test of time. Celebrating couples who’ve shared 40, 50 (that incredible Golden Anniversary), or even more years together — whether they’re your grandparents, parents, or longtime loved ones — is about more than tradition; it’s about honoring resilience, devotion, and joy. At WKF Weddings in St. Louis, Missouri, we’re here to help you make their milestone moment shine, with inspired party themes, floral magic, and meaningful gift ideas to match the depth of their story.
Year One: Paper & Petals – The Romance Is Just Beginning
The first year of marriage is a beautiful chapter — filled with laughter, learning, and the little moments that slowly become your shared story. It’s when holiday cards feel extra special and calling each other “husband” or “wife” still brings a giddy smile to your faces. Celebrate this milestone with bold, joyful carnations in playful pairings, or decorate exclusively with roses for timeless luxury. Embrace the traditional paper theme by setting up a space where loved ones can leave heartfelt notes, advice, or memories. For an extra meaningful element, let guests hang their messages on a Paper Wishes Tree — a growing tribute to love as it blossoms in full.
Year 10: Spark & Shine – A Decade of Devotion
Ten years of marriage is no small feat — it’s a decade of shared dreams, growing stronger together, and holding on through all of life’s seasons. Tin and aluminum, the traditional symbols, reflect that strength and resilience, while daffodils celebrate joy and renewal. Decorate with arrangements of cheerful yellow blooms paired with lush greens in metallic or aluminum vessels for a sweet nod to tradition. Add meaningful elements like silver-toned photo displays or tin lanterns, and bring the memories flooding back with a playlist of their favorite songs from the year they said “I do.”
Year 25: Silver & Steadfast – The Legacy of Your Love
A 25th anniversary is more than a milestone — it’s a celebration of every little moment, challenge, and triumph that’s shaped a quarter of a century together. Irises capture that beautifully, symbolizing gratitude, passion, strength, hope, wisdom, and the faith that keeps love growing year after year. Let their purple and yellow tones guide your floral palette, softened by elegant eucalyptus and timeless white roses. Infuse the day with silver details that reflect the journey — from shimmering candle holders to mirrored signs engraved with lyrics or quotes that still make your heart skip. After all, 25 years of love is something that shimmers.
Year 40: Ruby Red & Resilient – Still Shining Brightly
Reaching the 40-year mark is a testament to love’s resilience, depth, and devotion. The ruby captures that journey — radiating inner fire and lasting passion. Gladiolus blooms echo that story with their symbolism of strength and sincerity. For this milestone, let rich red flowers do the talking: fill the space with gladiolus, orchids, roses, and ranunculus for a scene that feels timeless and powerful. Layer in personal elements — love letters, photos from their wedding day, and a vintage cake topper — and let every detail reflect your passion. Don’t forget the ruby sangria!
Year 50: Golden Glow – A Celebration of Forever
Reaching the Golden Anniversary is a rare and beautiful milestone — a journey marked by unwavering commitment, shared memories, and epic moments. Celebrate with flowers rich in meaning: yellow roses for lasting joy, violets for deep faithfulness, and hints of gold to reflect a love that’s stood the test of time. Add accents in centerpieces with orchids and gold-dipped leaves, and weave in special details like bud vases, floral crowns, or heirloom accents. Tell their story through a Golden Timeline — framed memories, handwritten notes, or a heartfelt slideshow. And yes, make sure that cake is as sweet as the life they’ve built.
Vow Renewal: Say “I Do” All Over Again
A vow renewal is a powerful way to honor a love that’s grown stronger with time — no matter how many years have passed. Multicolored roses reflect the harmony and depth that come from sharing life’s highs and lows together. Choose soft, joyful blooms in rainbow or pastel hues, and include flowers that represent key moments from each chapter of your journey. Add personal touches by writing updated vows, incorporating pieces of your original ceremony, or involving children, grandchildren, and longtime friends. It’s not just a party — it’s a beautiful reflection of who you are.
Anniversaries offer a beautiful pause — a chance to look back on the shared laughter, lessons learned, quiet moments, and lasting connection that define you as a couple. Be it year one or year fifty, each milestone deserves to be honored with heart and intention. At WKF Weddings, we’re honored to help you mark the occasion with floral creations that reflect the journey — and the love — behind every celebration.
