Merriam Webster tells us that the word anniversary is made up of two parts. The first part is the Latin, “anniversarius,” meaning returning annually. It is the second half of the word, “versus,” that gives the word its depth.
Versus adds dimension because it means, “to turn.” Whichever wedding anniversary one is celebrating, it is the turning to look back at what has happened during the year or years that makes the anniversary important and special.
It is always wise to consider the recipients of the anniversary cards you are sending. For instance, if you are unsure about the “state of the union” yet you want to acknowledge it, keep your selection on the light side. Perhaps a little humor will remind the couple of what made them laugh and enjoy each other’s company.
Of course, if the anniversary couple is obviously blissful, you can feel free to send an anniversary card that extols the virtues of love and marriage. There again, you will find a range. You know how much schmaltz the traffic will bear. Symbols such as flowers, wedding bells, and doves will epitomize the serenity and beauty that long lives together make possible. The greeting you choose can take these themes further or just cut to the chase by saying Happy Anniversary.
Even if the couple celebrating their 50th anniversary is known to be slightly quarrelsome, they will hopefully think, “All in all we have had a good life together.” What is important is that you don’t just count the years, but you acknowledge the years with wedding anniversary cards.