Celebrating a 50th wedding anniversary is a major milestone! After 50 years of marriage, parents deserve to be honored and celebrated. However, life can get busy and the anniversary date can sneak up. If you are looking for some last minute 50th wedding anniversary gift ideas for parents, there are still thoughtful options even with little time left.
Gifts that Celebrate 50 Years of Marriage
A personalized photo album filled with memories from throughout their marriage is sure to be cherished. Include photos from their wedding day, honeymoon, traveling adventures, family milestones, etc. This shows them how much their lifelong partnership means to you.
Experience Gifts
Typically an important milestone like a 50th wedding anniversary calls for a special experience. Even if you have to throw something together last minute, look for experience gifts like:
- Dinner at a fancy restaurant - Make reservations at their favorite upscale restaurant that they rarely splurge on.
- Weekend getaway - Book a night or two at a charming bed and breakfast nearby. Include tickets for a show, massage, or other activity they can do together.
- Vows renewal ceremony - Offer to arrange a private vow renewal ceremony with close family and friends. Handle the details like flowers, cake, decorations, photographer.
- Photo shoot - Schedule a professional photo shoot to capture their love after 50 years of marriage.
Custom and Personalized Gifts
Even if you have to rush order, custom and personalized gifts can still feel thoughtful. Here are some quick options:
- Custom canvas print of their wedding photo
- Personalized cutting board with their names and anniversary date
- Photo blanket with collage of family photos
- Mugs or ornaments printed with their wedding date and anniversary years
A gift like a custom photo book highlights your parents' lasting marriage. Personalized gifts like mugs and prints also commemorate their commitment without needing weeks to arrive.
Sentimental Keepsakes
Sometimes the most meaningful gifts don't require elaborate planning. Sentimental keepsakes are always appropriate for landmark anniversaries:
- Framed anniversary message - Handwrite a heartfelt message congratulating them on 50 years together.
- Vintage photos from their wedding day - Make copies of original photos and have them framed.
- Scrapbook or time capsule - Make a scrapbook of memorabilia like wedding invitations, old cards, newspaper clips, etc.
- Memory jar - Fill a glass jar with notes of favorite memories, sayings, songs, etc.
These last minute ideas still make your parents feel celebrated on their momentous occasion. The sentimental value reminds them what an achievement 50 years of marriage truly is.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an appropriate last minute gift for 50th wedding anniversary?
Last minute 50th anniversary gifts should celebrate the milestone, like personalized photo albums, engraved jewelry or glassware, sentimental scrapbooks, or experience gifts like dinner, getaways, or vow renewals.
How much should I spend on a last minute 50th anniversary gift?
For major milestones, plan to spend at least $100-200 on gift ideas like jewelry, weekend trips, or events. But sentimental, homemade gifts can be just as meaningful.
What if I don't have time to shop for a gift?
If you are really short on time, choose experience gifts like dinner reservations or custom gift cards for date nights. Or make a meaningful DIY gift like a memory jar or framed anniversary message.
Should I give one big gift or multiple smaller gifts?
For important anniversaries, one well-thought-out personalized gift often carries more meaning than a bunch of little gifts. Or you could do multiple coordinated gifts that tell a story, like a photo book with matching framed photos.
Where can I find 50th anniversary gifts with quick shipping?
Online retailers like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, and Zazzle have thousands of custom, personalized gifts you can rush order. Or choose e-gift cards and digitally delivered options.
Conclusion
Celebrating 50 years of marriage is an amazing accomplishment. Let your parents know how special it is with thoughtful last minute gifts on their big day. Focus on gifts that highlight their lifelong commitment like personalized photo books, engraved jewelry, sentimental scrapbooks, or gifting them experiences. With a little creativity, even last minute anniversary gifts for parents can express your admiration for their decades of partnership.
