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First anniversary questions for couples
A first anniversary is a good moment to look back at your year and ahead to the next. These twelve questions are for couples marking a first year, whether dating, living together or married. Each of you answers on your own, then you share. A printable sheet is near the end.
How do we use these questions?
- Answer apartEach of you writes your answers alone, about ten minutes.
- ShareSwap papers or read your answers aloud.
- Keep themDate the sheets and put them away to read next year.
What are the questions for looking back on the year?
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01
What is your favorite memory from this year?
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02
What moment surprised you most about us?
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03
What is something small I did that you still think about?
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04
What did you learn about yourself this year?
What are the questions about right now?
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05
What do you love about our everyday life right now?
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06
What is one thing about me you understand better than you did a year ago?
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07
What is something we do together that you would like to keep?
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08
What has been the hardest part of this year, and what helped?
What are the questions for the year ahead?
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09
What is one thing you would like us to try this year?
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10
Where would you like to be on our next anniversary?
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11
What is one small ritual we could start?
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12
What is something you are looking forward to that has nothing to do with work?
Can I print the questions?
Yes. The sheet has all twelve, with a space for each of your answers and a line for the date.
Download the anniversary sheet (PDF)One page, US Letter
What are some ideas for the day?
- Cook or order the meal from your first date, or the closest thing you can find.
- Go back to a place that matters to you. Take one photo of the two of you.
- Write a short letter each. Swap them at the end of the evening.
- Keep it simple. A walk and a conversation is a good anniversary.
If you want more to talk about, try How to stay connected when life is busy or a weekly check-in.
Where does Eterna fit?
Eterna’s Our Story is a private feed where the two of you can keep photos, voice notes and milestones, a good place to keep this year’s memories. Eterna is an iPhone app, and Book 1 is free.
Frequently asked questions
What are good questions to ask on a first anniversary?
Questions that look back, such as “What is your favorite memory from this year?”, and questions that look ahead, such as “What would you like us to try this year?” The twelve above cover both.
Should we exchange gifts?
That is up to you. Many couples choose something small and personal over something expensive. The questions can be the gift.
How do we do this if we are far apart?
Each of you answers the questions on your own, then read your answers to each other on a call.
What if one of us is not sentimental?
That is fine. Start with the lighter questions, skip any that feel like too much, and keep it short.
How long does it take?
About 30 minutes: ten for answering apart and twenty for sharing. Take longer if you are enjoying it.
Eterna does the hiding and the showing for you.
Your partner can’t see your answer until you’ve both answered. Then The Reveal shows them side by side.
