Milestone Birthdays Archives

11 Ideas for Throwing a Life-changing 40th Birthday Party

A 40th birthday marks a turning point in life. It’s a moment when we reflect on how far we’ve come, and how much more we want to accomplish. And if, as the saying goes, life begins at 40, a 40th birthday party offers a great way to usher in this exciting new phase of life.

Whether you’re throwing a 40th birthday party for a loved one or hosting your own big 4-0 birthday bash, we’ve got plenty of unique ideas to celebrate the start of a new decade and commemorate a big milestone.

I love to host parties that are really meaningful to the birthday recipient, and some of our favorite things from childhood can really bring a party to life.

dawn lopez

Founder of the Cutefetti blog

Nostalgic 40th birthday ideas (with a grown-up twist)

1980s-themed party

For that ’80s baby turning 40, there’s a certain heartwarming charm to reliving the era of neon, cassette tapes, and classic arcade games. “I love to host parties that are really meaningful to the birthday recipient, and some of our favorite things from childhood can really bring a party to life,” explains party expert Dawn Lopez, creator of the Cutefetti blog.

One way to throw an ’80s-themed birthday party is to go all-in on the era: Play hits from the decade by Madonna or Bon Jovi, add lots of bright decorations, and ask guests to dress up in iconic outfits of the era, such as leg warmers, oversized sweaters, and acid wash jeans.

Lopez suggests going deeper into childhood memories for a 40th birthday party theme. She likes to focus on someone’s favorite superhero or cartoon character from back in the day. “See how you can bring elements of the characters and story to life through fun foods and decorations.” You could also incorporate elements from a popular ’80s movie or video game.

40th birthday ideas with Two young people playing retro video game and holding controllers

40th birthday ideas with Closeup of diverse group of friends sharing pepperoni pizza at house party

Recreate your favorite childhood party place

Did you, or the guest of honor, spend every weekend at the arcade? Or did an ideal Friday night consist of eating pan pizza at an iconic chain restaurant or hanging out at the local video rental spot? Then throw an instant pizza party that’s even better than you remember, with pizza kits that come with a bottle of wine as bonus! (For a truly nostalgic experience, serve cola too.) You could also pick up some old school DVDs and candy to recreate those all-night movie marathons you used to have in your best friend’s basement.

Want to make a big impression? Serve up plenty of sweet treats in the form of a breakable chocolate pretzel pizza (which comes with its own mallet for busting). That’s sure to be a smashing birthday moment worth capturing.

Was the roller skating rink your second home? Lopez suggests finding a retro roller skating rink and serving themed food items. “It would be cute to serve roller skate-shaped cake, cookies, and snacks,” she says.

‘Intriguing’ 40th birthday ideas

Make turning 40 into a mystery

Grab a murder mystery game kit and assign characters beforehand so everyone can dress the part (or just wing it on the spot by supplying some props). Of course, you’ll also want to serve up snacks and drinks. A mystery cookie box and bloody marys sound appropriate. Add a classy touch with myriad mocktails, from Espress0% Martini to Sansgria, for those skipping the alcohol.

Fortune-ate at 40

Bring an air of mystique to your 40th birthday party by inviting a psychic to tell everyone’s fortunes, or DIY the future-casting with a set of tarot cards. Gift tarot-themed plant seed packets and tarot card mini journals as favors, and decorate with some tarot-themed items like candles and diffusers.

40th birthday ideas with Friends warming themselves by the bonfire, camping

Camp out under the stars

There’s nothing like escaping into nature to usher in a new beginning in life — and what better way to do it than with friends and family to celebrate turning 4-0. Get together around the campfire, tell spooky stories, and treat everyone to s’more making with your choice of ingredients presented beautifully on a customized wooden board. Pair it with s’mores-flavored popcorn and some chocolate-, marshmallow-, and graham-themed gourmet snacks.

Enriching 40th birthday ideas

Take an online workshop

Learning something new can be an invigorating and bonding experience among loved ones. And the best part is you don’t need to have any skills or prior experience to dive into a new hobby or interest. Whether it becomes a life-long passion or merely a one-time adventure, exploring a culinary, craft, or specialized skill can be a way to broaden your horizons when turning 40. Try your hand at a virtual group lesson, such as flower arranging, pasta making, succulent growing, or mixology.

Host a Bob Ross paint party

Take the classic paint party and make it epic with everyone’s favorite ASMR art instructor. Heck, you don’t even need to do any painting! (Although if you want to, we’ve got you covered.) A Bob Ross-themed 40th birthday party decoration package is sure to do the trick. Throw in “Bob Mob” for the lawn and a wine and light bites package, and you’re sure to have plenty of “happy little trees.”

40th birthday gift ideas

th birthday ideas Magnificent Roses Preserved Kaleidoscope Roses — Magnificent Roses Preserved Kaleidoscope Roses

th birthday ideas Time For Cake — Time For Cake!

th birthday ideas Happy Birthday Bath Spa Gift Set For Women — Happy Birthday Bath Spa Gift Set For Women

Transportive 40th birthday ideas

Choose your own 40th birthday adventure

You don’t need to travel far to find an adventure. Turning 40 means trying new things, so get out and do something new, such as an escape room, rage room, or VR lounge. For those that want to get the heart pumping, visit a trampoline gym or play laser tag. You’ll come home invigorated from the experience, and hungry from all the energy you expended, which is why an instant Italian dinner — with all the comforts of spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, and apple crostata already made and ready for you to enjoy — is the perfect birthday meal.

Your favorite book or movie birthday

At 40, you probably have very specific tastes and fandoms when it comes to your entertainment choices. Bring that pop culture obsession to life with a party that celebrates a favorite book, movie, or TV series. How about a Mad Hatter tea party or “Lord of the Rings”–inspired feast with plenty of dishes featuring “po-tay-toes“? For the Jane Austen fan, recreate the splendor of a gorgeous English garden by filling the space with springtime blooms and a stunning centerpiece. Serve up traditional English muffins, offer Regency-style dance lessons, and invite guests to dress in Bridgerton-style outfits.

40th birthday ideas with Group of happy friends congratulating young black woman at retro themed birthday party

Escape to another era

Time travel to the past with a 40th birthday party set in an iconic era. Picture turning your home into a roaring 1920s speakeasy with flapper attire, a posh cocktail-making station (don’t forget to offer some mocktails as well!), and indulgent delights, such as caviar and chocolate truffles. Or create some “disco fever” with a 70s-themed birthday bash. Invite guests to sport their best bell-bottoms and platforms, and add a disco ball, funky music and, of course, smiley faces.

No-school snow day for big kids

Remember those magical days when school got canceled for snow and all you did was watch cartoons, have snowball fights, and retreat in the house for hot chocolate breaks? Recreate those unforgettable times by inviting friends to come over in their best pajama outfits and fixing up a cereal bar with all your favorite childhood breakfast treats (including cereal cookies!), along with some adult beverages.

Lopez says, “I love the idea of throwing a sleepover-inspired party — basically, a celebration that brings the birthday person right back to their childhood. I once threw an old school party to celebrate friendships and served up a retro waffle bar and handed out friendship bracelets. It was SO much fun.”

12 First Birthday Gifts Designed to Delight Kids and Parents Alike

Gifts for a 1-year-old’s birthday are some of the most meaningful to pick because they celebrate such a memorable milestone. Moving from being a baby into toddlerhood is a big moment for the little one in your life, full of growth and learning. That’s part of what makes choosing a first birthday present so much fun.

Things that make noise, things that they can build up and knock down — this is where babies can have some agency.

Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek

Professor of psychology at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institute

The right present can help contribute to the birthday baby’s quest to explore and play. Beyond the cake smash and festivities of a first birthday, there’s a lot to celebrate in your little one’s development. This is the age of new abilities, and many firsts will occur in the coming months, such as walking, speaking, and self-feeding. It’s a big world, and in the second year of life, a toddler is ready to interact with it.

Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, a professor of psychology at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institute, says that although technology may have changed the toy offerings over the years, the classics still provide the enrichment toddlers crave. “What they really need are things they can touch, things they can smell, things they can hear, and things they can see.” A mom and grandmother herself, Hirsh-Pasek is the co-author of The New York Times bestseller “Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us About Raising Successful Children” as well as “Making Schools Work: Bringing the Science of Learning to Joyful Classroom Practice.”

The best toys, Hirsh-Pasek suggests, are simple things like plush animals, construction toys, and items babies can play with to experience cause and effect. “Things that make noise, things that they can build up and knock down — this is where babies can have some agency.”

Best 1-year-old birthday gifts

If you know a baby who’s about to celebrate their first birthday, getting a thoughtful gift from this curated collection is the perfect way to mark the milestone. Get ready to wrap with confidence knowing the new toddlers will enjoy discovering these presents on their first birthday, offering them plenty of playtime fun for months to come.

First birthday gifts under $25

Soft lamb toy with teether

With its soft, furry body and chewable ears, Bahbah the Lamb from Tikiri Toys makes a great new friend for the birthday toddler who will love its cute and cuddly design and charming huggable face. The perfect companion for a little one’s imaginative journey, it will also provide welcome relief during fussy teething times with its natural rubber teether head.

Personalized baby hooded towel

Let your tot indulge their imagination in some pretend play after bath time with the Woodland Adventure Personalized Baby Hooded Towel. Choose from a fox, owl, bear, deer, or raccoon, with the animal of choice appearing on the hood in a charming design that allows any child to live out their nature-inspired make-believe. Each towel is personalized with the child’s name both across the hood and within the adorable forest critter pattern motif.

First birthday gifts under $50

Plush llamacorn

Shimmering in rainbows and comforting pastels, the Gund®Sparkles™ Llamacorn is as mythical as it is endearing, with a sweet smile and cuddle-worthy soft plush unicorn-llama hybrid body. It’s sure to inspire plenty of magical moments and sweet dreams for the birthday child.

Personalized plush teddy

Remember that stuffed animal you loved as kid? The one that was so soft and squishy and was always there to give a warm and comforting hug — or just carry around wherever you went? Give that same memory to that new toddler with the My Big Day Personalized Plush Teddy Bear. It includes an adorable bib that comes customized with your choice of six color motifs along with the recipient’s age and name, making it an instant keepsake. Birthday baby not a fan of bears? How about a kindly dinosaur instead?

first birthday gifts plush Tummy Time Ocean Buddy

Tummy time toy

With all the crawling, sitting, standing, and walking the little one will be doing, gift them a friend who will be right by their side for all the play and exploration. The Tummy Time Ocean Buddy is a whale of a gift that’s big enough to be a snuggle buddy or an interactive toy thanks to its seahorse and starfish plushie friends. There’s even a teething star attached for those moments when gums need soothing.

Personalized playmat

Encourage tummy time play and the safe exploration of playthings with the Transportation Village Personalized Playmat. With its colorful “town” graphics, toddlers are whisked off to an imaginary community that makes a big world feel like it’s easily within their reach. Parents will also appreciate this mat offering a safe and sanitary floor environment that can be set up in seconds and is easy to clean.

first birthday gifts Personalized Kids Keepsake Box

Personalized keepsake box

Think of the fun you’ll have stocking the Woodland Adventure Personalized Kids Keepsake Box full of mementos from baby’s first year. It’s a priceless gift that anyone would love to enjoy looking through over the years. Or, build your own time capsule of iconic items from current times. In a decade or two, it will make a monumental gift to open!

Tree kit

Want a gift that will be remembered for years to come? How about planting a tree with the Seeds of Life Tree Kit?! Let little ones learn about gardening and ecology from an early age as they watch a grown-up give a baby tree a start on life in the included elegant pot. Then, when the seedling is big enough, it can be planted in the ground to grow along with the birthday baby.

Personalized plush playsets

Ready to pack in the first birthday fun? How about not one but multiple gifts all wrapped into one fun first birthday present? The My First Mini Tackle Box Personalized Playset by Baby Gund® includes a host of adorable fishing-themed plushies, from a pretend rod to a too-cute plushie worm, all stored in a super-soft “tackle box.” Not into fishing? How about a personalized soft toolbox for the tiny builder that includes a saw crinkle toy, screwdriver rattle, wrench squeak toy, and hammer with sound. You can also pick a personalized sports bag, complete with multiple plushie sports balls, or an extra-soft and toddler-friendly My First Purse, which, of course, includes all the essentials, such as a plush compact mirror, crinkly credit card and keys, and mini plushie “cell phone” rings.

First birthday gifts under $100

Animated Mother Goose Plush & Book

Introduce your little one to some of the most cherished nursery rhymes of all-time with the Animated Mother Goose Plush & Book. Not only will the tot be visually stimulated by the gorgeous illustrations from famed children’s author Tomie dePaola, but he or she will be mesmerized as the Mother Goose plush recites all the classic poems aloud. And what’s better for a 1-year-old than an interactive story time experience?!

first birthday gifts Personalized Blanket with Plush Puppy

Personalized baby blanket with plush puppy

Every toddler needs a special blankie that will be there for them from playtime to naptime — and it’s even better when it’s custom embroidered with their name on it. The Embroidered Satin Trim Baby Blanket with Plush Puppy Set allows you to personalize with not only a name but one of 33 thread colors and 18 unique fonts for a truly personal present. Pick between blue or pink, and each set includes the cutest color-coordinated plush puppy with irresistible puppy-dog eyes that just beg for a hug. Best of all, the entire set is machine washable and safe for all ages.

30th Birthday Ideas: The Absolute Best Ways to Ring in the Big 3-0

They say life begins at 30, and for good reason. Reaching this birthday milestone can feel like you’re bidding farewell to a more carefree phase of your life and stepping into true adulthood…which sounds like a cause for celebration!

Past milestone birthdays, such as your 21st, were probably thrown for you. But when you turn 30, you have every right to plan this bash yourself. Far from being a turning point to dread (my youth is gone!), turning 30 ushers in a time to get amped for all the wonderful opportunities life holds now that you’re a little older and, hopefully, a lot wiser. And what better way to welcome such a momentous milestone than with a birthday celebration that’s uniquely you?

The best way to plan a 30th is to ask yourself what you love.

taylor jones

Owner, Prop My Party OKC

Invites signal a 30th birthday done right

You might be thinking, “Do I really NEED invitations to a birthday party?” In your 20s, life may have been filled with random parties that mostly came together over group texts. But this is your time to feel grown up, so it’s worth the splurge to classy up the experience and set the tone for an affair that’s a tad more formal.

Another reason is much more practical: weddings. Does it feel like everyone around you is getting married or engaged? That can mean plenty of weekends already eaten up by pre- and post-wedding affairs within your social circle. Invitations provide that tangible way to lock loved ones into your celebration date. Plus, it’s a fun way to give guests a preview to your theme and any instructions for the event, such as dressing as their favorite Pokémon (although we’re totally not suggesting that as a party theme…or are we???).

Give props to your 30th b-day

You only turn 30 once, so why not maximize the experience with the right decorations. Giant “3-0” numbers really drive home the point, lest anyone forget the age you’re turning. These can be anything from giant homemade cardboard cutouts to big rented pieces with Hollywood-style light bulbs. Or you could hire a designer to make them theme specific. Taylor Jones, owner of Prop My Party OKC, suggests travel-friendly inflatable numbers when hosting a destination party, like she did recently for her own 30th celebration in Palm Springs (in hot pink no less).

th birthday ideas tay day — Photos courtesy of Taylor Jones

If you’re sticking close to home, props can act as standalone party decorations that fill up a space. Oversized “3-0” Mylar balloons are an absolute must for decorating and posing with. Balloon arches, honeycomb paper spheres, and custom floor signs all create the perfect place for guests to gather for photos. Add a clever saying like “Talk Thirty to Me” for Instagram-worthy photo ops. Customize everything to the color scheme for instant visual pop. Jones recently designed the decor for a Barbie party, which included a pop-up toy shop (complete with doll box to pose in) featuring self-serve walls of sprinkled waffle cones and pink glasses of Champagne and rosé.

Turning 30 calls for a transfixing theme

The most important part of planning a 30th birthday may be choosing a theme, as that will likely dictate many other party elements, from decor to food to entertainment. Jones advises going with a theme that reflects a personal passion. “The best way to plan a 30th is to ask yourself what you love. We all have saves on Pinterest that we one day want to happen. Well, go find those pins and do it! You’ll be happy you did.”

Here are five themes to consider.

1. “13 Going on 30”

Did you love the Jennifer Garner movie “13 Going on 30″ growing up? Here’s your chance to reverse roles and relive your younger years. “This is such a vibe right now. Bringing elements of the movie to life in a fun way, such as ‘I wanna be 30 and flirty and thriving,’ playful purples, yellow, and lime green, and Razzles, of course,” Jones explains. For bonus points, make it a pajama slumber party and deck out a living room with inflatable beds. In the morning, serve up a scrumptious grown-up brunch with a heat-and-serve eggs Benedict bar complete with sparkling wine and sweet treats.

2. ’90s and ’00s nostalgia

Were you a Nintendo kid or Yu-Gi-Oh! player? Whatever your pre-teen passion was, here’s your chance to replay it in grand style. Host a gaming night or your own book fair, or just dip Dunkaroos (yes, they still make them!) while binging on classic cartoons (SpongeBob!) from your favorite era. Dig up some Tamagotchis or Furbies, break out the Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and enjoy a blast from the past. Need party favors? Lip Smackers and Goosebumps, of course!

3. Dirty 30 for real

Whether it’s glamping in the backyard or just serving up a “dirt and worms” cake, embrace this fun play on words by getting back to nature for your 30th. You could even add in camp crafts from your younger years, such as making friendship bracelets or playing paper fortune teller games.

Want to keep the camp theme but skip the dirt altogether? Host s’more making inside with a kit that has everything you need to make your own ooey gooey dessert sandwiches.

4. A tasteful 30

Embrace the new all-grown-up you with something super sophisticated, such as a wine tasting, French-themed dinner party, or vintage-inspired soiree — whether that’s a proper Regency-style royal tea party or recreating a boozy Roaring ’20s speakeasy. Think lots of candlelight, fresh flowers, and monochromatic colors for an elevated table setting. Don’t forget to ask guests to dress up in their glitziest evening attire.

30th Birthday Ideas: A Picnic with Friends

5. Recreate your favorite TV show

Whether it’s “Saved By the Bell” or “Succession,” trick out your celebration with the colors, sayings, and costumes that make each TV series unique. Play up on your “aging” with a “Golden Girls” sunny Florida get-together, or make it “The One Where You Turned 30″ with a “Friends” theme, complete with trivia about the show.

Permission to be extra with 30th birthday entertainment

A photographer might not be one of your first ideas when planning an epic 30th birthday party, but do not overlook this pro in your plans, Jones advises. “Finding the perfect photographer is huge,” she says. “There are different styles of photography, so finding someone that completes your vision is really important.” You’re sure to have wonderful memories to document, and you won’t have to worry about getting everything captured.

Beyond that, lean into your theme when it comes to keeping guests entertained, whether that means renting a bounce house or ball pit, or putting up a projector screen to watch favorite movies from your youth.

th birthday ideas retro cookies — Photo courtesy of Mindy Cruz

Renting a Champagne cart can also make for a fun, interactive way to serve up party fare. Jones, who supplies carts for many of her parties, says these can be customized with wallpaper or paint to match the party theme. She’s turned hers into everything from a bouquet bar to gelato cart to mobile smoothie display, so the possibilities go beyond just a fancy way to serve bubbly.

Don’t forget the favors

Any proper adult party has to have favors. Chicago baker Mindy Cruz of Mindy’s Cookies and Sweets says cookies can make an awesome — and yummy! — favor that guests will appreciate taking home. “Over the past few years, custom cookies have really grown in popularity as an option for dessert tables and party favors. As an added bonus, they do well outdoors, unlike cakes and cupcakes.” Design ideas for 30th birthday custom cookies can include the birth date circled on a calendar graphic, a cute saying like “Thirty & Flirty,” or the word “Thirty” spelled out in different styles.

Consider favors that guests will get real enjoyment out of post-event. Keep the “Dirty 30″ theme going after the celebration is over with take-home gifts of mini succulents, help them maintain the feel-good vibes at their next party with mini bottles of bubbly — wrapped in personalized labels to remind them of the fabulous time they had at your bash, of course — or give them a sweet sendoff with ice cream cone cake pops.

Golden Birthday Celebration Ideas: How to Make the Most of This Magical, Once-in-a-lifetime Day

Golden birthdays are a unique milestone in everyone’s life, but they’ve only recently taken on party-worthy status. If golden birthdays have been filling up your social feed and you’re curious to learn what the buzz is about, this fully gilded guide will teach you everything you need to know about these monumental moments.

golden birthday table decorations — *Photo courtesy of Kelly Willis Rodgers*

What is a golden birthday?

What even is a golden birthday, you might ask. Good question! Simply put, it is when your birthday date matches your age. For instance, if your birthday is Feb. 21, your golden birthday is the day you turn 21. If your birthday is May 15, then your 15th birthday is your golden birthday. Pretty simple, right?

If your birthday falls at the beginning of the month, you’ll have to ask your parents if they celebrated your golden birthday, since you probably would have been too young to remember it. As you can see, golden birthdays are limited to the 31-and-under crowd. But even if you’re older than that, you can still get in on the golden fun — you just have to get a little creative with it.

What’s the backstory on golden birthdays?

Although golden birthdays have recently become a social media trend and parties seem to be popping up all over the place, the concept of golden birthdays actually dates back decades. Back in the 1950s, before Instagram influencers set the tone for trendy parties, romance novelist and mom Joan Bramsch started celebrating the golden birthdays of her five kids.

In the decades that followed, the appeal of this festivity fizzled to the point that many of us never enjoyed a golden birthday party of our own. But, like so many reasons to host a special party (gender reveals and cake smashes and alt bashes), social media has brought the concept into prominence.

Why celebrate a golden birthday?

Every birthday offers a great reason to celebrate and honor someone special in your life, and a golden birthday year is no different. The best reason to make a golden birthday special is that it’s a day that happens only once in someone’s lifetime. Plus, who doesn’t love being awash in golden balloons and decorations, and hopefully getting an extra piece of birthday cake for the occasion?!

For kids, when every birthday already feels like a big milestone, adding in a golden birthday aspect is easy, says party planner Jane Sheriff, creative director of Darling Celebrations and a mom of three. When you get a little older, and birthdays tend to take on less significance, the act of recognizing the uniqueness of the day can make the occasion feel a bit more momentous. “For adults, a golden birthday is the opportunity to throw a big celebration in a year they might not otherwise really celebrate,” she says. And that’s reason enough to embrace the golden glory of this special year.

Glowing party ideas

Making a golden birthday extra special is easy — you just need to add a few dazzling touches. Sheriff says to think gold and sparkly. That’s what mom Kelly Willis Rodgers of Nashville, Tennessee, did for her daughter Poppy’s golden (seventh) birthday. Pairing white and pastels with gold touches, she went with gold mini disco balls throughout the tablescapes along with starburst balloons and plenty of gold tinsel for the “Golden Girl” party theme.

“Balloons, banners, streamers, and tableware are all good, cost-effective ways to bring the gold theme to life,” Sheriff says. You can quickly gild your party space with gold touches, from party plates and napkins to tablecloth and utensils. “A gold balloon arch makes a great statement piece,” Sheriff says. You can also make a big impression with a golden balloon drop, which would be especially memorable at a golden birthday surprise party for an unsuspecting guest of honor.

golden birthday balloon decorations — Photo courtesy of Kelly Willis Rodgers

Fun golden birthday activities

Enhance the gold theme of any party with a round of trivia in which all the questions and answers relate to something gold. With regard to music, compile a playlist of all “gold” songs (think “24K Magic“). Ask guests to dress in gold attire from head to toe and pile on as much bling as they can. Sheriff says she recently celebrated a family friend’s golden (18th) birthday with a gold-themed dance party. “We asked all the guests to wear gold. We had a gold dance floor and a gold glitter ball.”

Here are four other ideas for dazzling golden birthday party activities.

1. Golden treasure hunt

Hide gold items or use clues with a golden theme to add a fun, physical activity to either an indoor or outdoor party setting. Prizes, of course, can be made “golden” by simply wrapping them in gold foil.

2. DIY golden crafts

Keep with the gleaming theme by offering guests glittering craft projects, such as painting gold picture frames, making “gold” jewelry, or covering cardboard trinket boxes in gold foil for a chic look.

3. Make your own photo booth

Set up a ring light tripod with a phone and outfit guests with plenty of gold-themed props, from oversized gold “jewelry” to giant faux gold bars.

4. Go for the gold

Give young party guests with plenty of energy the chance to compete in a mini version of the Olympics. Everyone gets a gold medal for participating!

Golden delicious party fare

From golden beets and butternut squash to yellow curry and golden honey cakes, menu options that match a gold theme abound. And what party is complete without a scrumptious dessert bar? Fancy it up by using edible gold dust or spray to give a glow to cupcakes, cookies, and donuts. For grown-ups, a champagne toast will add the necessary touch of glam a golden birthday deserves.

golden birthday desserts — Photo courtesy of Kelly Willis Rodgers

golden birthday golden birthday cake — Photo courtesy of So Sweet Cakes

All that glitters: A special golden birthday cake

One of the best ways to enhance the spirit of the celebration, Sheriff says, is with a gorgeous golden birthday cake. “Go for a tiered or layered cake for a special birthday like a golden birthday. You can decorate with gold leaf or edible glitter, or add gold food coloring to your icing to make something really special.”

Many bakeries now offer golden birthday cakes, such as So Sweet Cakes in Northridge, California. This one (pictured above) is fit for a king or queen, complete with gold bars, gold roses, and, of course, the number cake topper all decked out in gold.

Gracious gift ideas

“If your budget allows, then the perfect golden birthday gift would be solid gold jewelry!” Sheriff exclaims. “A gold initial necklace or gold bracelet are both great ideas, or anything that the recipient could keep as a keepsake gift would be a good choice.” For any lover of chocolate, the classic gold ballotin box of Godiva chocolates matches the theme perfectly. And don’t forget to wrap your gift in gold wrapping paper, Sheriff reminds.

Miss your golden birthday? Try these glowing milestones instead

If you’re like most of us, you’re probably bummed that you missed out on your golden birthday. But take heart…you have options! Check out these three variations on the golden birthday.

1. Double golden birthday

A birthday ad showing gift ideas for October birthdays.

Double the date of your birthday and you’ll have the age when you’re ready to celebrate. Example: For a March 20 birthday, celebrate when you turn 40.

2. Triple golden birthday

Same math applies here as with a double golden birthday. Just multiply your birthdate by three and you’ll know when it’s triple golden birthday time.

3. Platinum birthday

Think of this as the reverse of your golden birthday. It’s the birthday that corresponds to the date you were born, only inverted. Example: Your birthday is June 24, so your platinum birthday is held when you turn 42.

First Birthday Party Tips Every New Parent Should Know

Throwing a party for your child’s first year on Earth is a great way to celebrate their burgeoning young life and reflect on how special the past 365 days have been. But just how far should you go to plan your child’s first birthday party?

Susan Newman, Ph.D., social psychologist, parenting expert, and bestselling author, says the most important thing for first-time parents is to ignore any outside pressure and just concentrate on themselves.

“Parents should shed the influence of what others think they should do for this early birthday and focus on what they want to prioritize,” she says. “The first few birthdays are really more for the parents, because children won’t remember them, so just try to have fun and make memories.”

Picture of vertical animated birthday ad

If you’re looking for first birthday party tips for your little one’s big bash, here are five things to consider.

1. Decide who to invite

When it comes to a guest list, you may want to keep things intimate and manageable, especially if there will be other little kids in attendance. Once you account for family and close friends, consider the groups your baby is in, such as daycare or toddler gym classes.

The first few birthdays are really more for the parents, because children won’t remember them, so just try to have fun and make memories.

Susan Newman, Ph.D.

Social psychologist, parenting expert, and bestselling author

“If you want to plan a lowkey party that’s focused on your child, try limiting the number of guests,” Newman says. “Maybe just invite grandparents, parents of your kid’s friends, friends of the family, and young cousins. If you do decide to invite other youngsters, be sure to include enough cake, cookies, and treats for their enjoyment, too.”

Remember to keep your budget and the party space in mind. Too many revelers may overcrowd the event, drive up the cost, or unnecessarily complicate the planning. In other words, start your list with definite invitees, and then add slowly from there.

2. Choose a location

Hosting your baby’s first birthday at your home, especially if you have enough room to accommodate the guest list and give kids of all ages room to ramble, is an excellent idea. This simplifies the logistics of the party and can help save money.

“If you want your 1-year-old to really enjoy their first birthday, hold the party somewhere comfortable and familiar to them so they can feel at ease and focus on the fun,” Newman says.

a photo of first birthday party tips with balloon decorations

Choosing a party space that is not your home also has its advantages. An outdoor park, for example, makes it easy for larger groups to gather without feeling cramped, gives kids plenty of room to play, and often includes tables and/or pavilions that you can use for decorations and food. If you go this route, be sure to get any necessary permits before hosting the party.

Restaurants and dedicated play spaces are also good options. While they can be a little pricier, they do not require much prep, and cleanup is taken care of (we can hear every parent reading this exhaling in relief).

a photo of first birthday party tips with a mom taking a picture of her baby eating cake

3. Set realistic expectations

Let’s be honest: One-year-olds are unpredictable. You never know what they’re going to do next. So, the last thing you want to do is pressure your child into doing what you think he should do instead of letting him do what he wants to do.

“You’ll probably want them to blow out candles and smash the cake. If they do, that’s great, but if they don’t, that’s OK, too,” Newman says.

That’s why, Newman says, you need to have a camera handy at all times — so you can document everything that happens.

“It’s going to be super fun later in life to show your child the first birthday party they won’t remember,” she says. “They’ll love to see themselves sticking their fingers in the cake or seeing who was there.

“And, of course, you’ll want to remember, too.”

4. Keep guests fed and hydrated

No party is complete without tasty treats and refreshing beverages. While a birthday cake is an obvious inclusion — preferably one for the guest of honor to destroy and one for everyone else to enjoy — providing other snacks to satisfy hungry partiers is also must.

Further, you could forgo the cake entirely and serve cookies instead. Serving a cake isn’t the end all be all, Newman says, and smaller children might enjoy cookies more anyway.

a photo of first birthday party tips with a baby eating a heart-shaped cookie

Beyond sweets, the children at the party are sure to go for more kid-friendly options and drinks — think finger foods, fruit, and drinks with straws — while adults may require more nuanced selections.

5. Don’t forget to have fun

You may be a little limited in terms of party activities — there’s only so much you can do with a room full of 1-year-olds — but a little creativity can go a long way.

Consider having photo props on hand so that parents can take fun, memorable pictures with their children. This keeps the kids and the parents engaged. You can even print the photos out on site so partygoers can have keepsakes to take home with them.

Embroidered My First Mini Sports Bag by Baby Gund®

A first birthday party is also a great time to start traditions. In Newman’s case, she baked a cake for her son’s first birthday in the shape of a car, because that’s what he was into at the time. As her son’s interests changed, she made cakes for future birthdays in the shapes of soccer balls and bowling pins.

Newman says, “This is a wonderful time to start your own traditions that are special to you now and will be special to your children later.”

Why Every Birthday Is Special and Deserves to Be Treated Like a Milestone

From winning gift ideas to card message suggestions, “Birthdays Reimagined” provides tips to help you make your loved one’s birthday wishes come true. Birthdays are a chance to celebrate, commemorate past years and what’s to come, and connect with friends. Make your birthday matter with these expert tips.

Every year, we all have a special day when we’re showered with gifts, well-wishes, greeting cards, and congratulatory social media posts. Children look forward to their birthdays and all the presents, games, and cake that come with it. For adults, the pomp of birthdays sometimes diminishes as life gets busy. But the day is no less special.

Children and adults alike enjoy good times, and that is especially true on birthdays. Birthdays, whether your own or someone else’s, are a great reason to have fun, entertain, socialize, and make memories.

“Your birthday is a celebration just for being born,” says Pauline Wallin, Ph.D., a psychologist in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. “You don’t need to do anything to earn it, and no one can take it away from you.”

Each anniversary of your birth marks a unique moment in time — the day when you came into the world — and is a reminder that you have been given one more year of this wonderful gift of life. That alone is reason to treat it as a joyous occasion.

While birthdays connect us to our past, they also can serve as temporal landmarks. These moments help us move forward by encouraging us to make a fresh start and take action toward future goals and aspirations. Rather than being about numbers, birthdays are about life and constant renewal, and each one should be celebrated with alacrity.

“The fact is, every birthday is special, whether the birthday boy or girl is turning 8 or 80,” says Jim McCann, 1-800-Flowers.com’s founder and executive chairman. “Birthdays are an opportunity to connect with the people in our lives and reflect on accomplishments, learnings, and memories.”

Getting older = getting better

Sure, a birthday means you’re another year older — but that’s even more reason to celebrate. You have one more year of lived experience to your credit, and with it comes extra wisdom, learning, and personal growth.

In fact, celebrating another year can help promote a healthy attitude toward aging. “In some cultures, such as Greek, Native American, and several in Asia, older people are considered wise and given great respect, so this can be a good aspect to focus on as we get older,” Dr. Wallin says.

a photo of why every birthday is special: friends celebrating a 60th birthday

Birthday celebrations and acknowledgments also can promote mental health and emotional well-being. “It’s a feel-good moment when someone takes the time to recognize your birthday,” says Deborah Crowe, an executive and business coach based in London, Ontario. “Who doesn’t like to be recognized on their special one day out of 365?”

In children, birthdays can be good for building self-esteem. “Birthdays are focused on the individual, which can make a child feel special,” Dr. Wallin says. “And as an adult, having happy memories of childhood birthday celebrations can be good for your mental health.”

Here are five ways to make sure you treat every birthday as the milestone it deserves to be.

1. Take time to reflect on the past year

Use a birthday as a time to take stock of the honoree’s life. Look back on what they’ve achieved since their last birthday, the hurdles they’ve overcome, and where they hope to be when their next birthday rolls around.

Capture your thoughts in a letter or express them at the party or over a phone call. “You have the power to affect how someone feels,” McCann says. “Pick up the phone, send a text, or share a memory, and let them know how much you are thinking of them on their special day.”

2. Show gratitude by giving back

Birthdays can be a great time to reflect on many blessings in our lives and what we’re grateful for. If your birthday is coming up, use it as a chance to give back, such as requesting donations to your favorite charity in lieu of gifts. This is something Dr. Wallin herself has done. If a friend’s birthday is coming up, ask about a favorite charity you can contribute to.

3. Celebrate in a way that pleases you

a photo of why every birthday is special: cutting a cake at a birthday party

However you choose to celebrate, do it in a way that makes them happy. If a big, all-out bash is not their thing, you can mark the occasion in a more quiet, low-key way. “I tell people to focus on making the day enjoyable for themselves,” Dr. Wallin says. “Simple pleasures like buying flowers or plants are easy to do and don’t require a lot of preparation.”

4. Remember others on their birthday

As nice as it is to have our birthdays remembered, it’s even better to remember someone else on their birthday — even if it’s just saying (or singing) happy birthday to them. “It’s a very small effort that is usually much appreciated, and it’s also a good way to keep in touch with people you don’t see or talk to very often,” Dr. Wallin says.

5. Give a gift

Gifts are a wonderful added perk to having a birthday. Whether giving to a friend, family member, employee, colleague, or even yourself, here are five gift ideas to inspire and delight.

a photo of why every birthday is special: birthday gift basket

Gourmet gift basket

Who doesn’t love tasty, sumptuous food? These are items we tend not to buy for ourselves, so receiving a basket with yummy cheeses, pâtés, jams, and teas is sure to please the birthday person for weeks to come.

a photo of why every birthday is special: birthday tulips

Flowers

There’s nothing like a fresh floral arrangement or a plant basket to lift one’s spirits and remind the recipient of your love and well wishes.

a photo of why every birthday is special: birthday strawberries

Sweets

Chocolate-covered strawberries, cheesecake bites, or candy-covered cake pops will please the sweet tooth of any birthday recipient or party guest. They are also perfect for a work celebration.

a photo of why every birthday is special: personalized beer mug

Something personal

A personalized framed photo, mug, glassware, T-shirt, or bottle of wine that reflects the recipient’s unique personality shows extra thought and care on your part. Additionally, Crowe says, “giving personalized gifts to staff on their birthdays shows the employer has spent time getting to know their employee outside the scope of work and is present and interested in their lives.”

a photo of why every birthday is special: birthday candle

Candles

In addition to giving off light and warmth, candles can symbolize support and love. You can choose from an array of candle shapes, sizes, and scents — or gift your friend or co-worker a special birthday candle.

Don’t rely on others to make your birthday special

If someone forgets to send you a card or gift, or even give you a call, let it go. “My advice, which I follow myself, is it’s up to you to make your birthday special,” Dr. Wallin says. “If others remember, that’s a bonus, but if they don’t, it does not mean that you’re not important to them. Your birthday is not a test of how much your family and friends care about you.”

Instead, let this motivate you to become better at remembering others on their birthday. Go out of your way to treat them on their special day as you would want to be treated on yours. No matter what age a person is turning, treating their birthday like a milestone is something that never gets old.

The Ultimate Guide to 30th Birthday Gifts

The series “Birthdays Reimagined” provides tips to help you make your loved one’s birthday wishes come true. In this article, we provide 30th birthday gift ideas for this milestone event.

Most milestone birthdays are fun and fueled by excitement. Few are as significant, however, as turning the big 3-0 — the biggest milestone since the fabled 21st birthday. With the honoree (theoretically) having accumulated years of adult responsibility, the gifts you buy for a newly turned 30-year-old should reflect the momentousness of the occasion.

An experiential gift is always a wonderful idea. This can be a thought-provoking gift, a gift that is personal, or a gift that keeps on giving.

Valerie Ghitelman

Vice president of product development, sourcing, and design

1-800-Flowers.com

Thirty is often viewed as a transformational stage in life, the age at which people officially arrive at adulthood. The part of a 30-year-old’s brain where decision-making and critical thinking happen is now fully developed. “It helps us cope with complex ideas and big emotions, and we see this play out in our values and life choices,” says Amanda Craig, Ph.D., licensed therapist, and founder of Manhattan Marriage and Family Therapy. And big emotions call for thoughtful gifts.

Certainly, photo albums, flowers, and birthday cakes never get old when celebrating a milestone. But to make your soon-to-be tricenarian feel extra appreciated, consider other thoughtful gifts, including “gifts that encourage relaxation and provide wellness opportunities,” says Valerie Ghitelman, vice president of product development, sourcing, and design for 1-800-Flowers.com. Affirmation journals, calming candles, body products, and gift cards for a therapeutic massage, facial, or spa day are ideal for encouraging self-care — a necessity when it comes to managing thirtysomething life responsibilities.

For those who prefer doing things, experience-driven gifts, such as an excursion to a favorite museum or concert, help facilitate connection and keep relationships strong. Says Ghitelman, “An experiential gift is always a wonderful idea. This can be a thought-provoking gift, a gift that is personal, or a gift that keeps on giving.”

Explore our curated selects of 30th birthday gifts designed to suit all types and tastes.

12 best 30th birthday gift ideas

The classicist

Flowers

For those with traditional tastes, birthday flowers are a classic gift that will always be met with joy. (Tip: Send the delivery to their office. Coworkers will witness their happy reaction and more people will know about the birthday girl’s day.) Flowers are also a safe bet for the person who is a challenge to shop for.

The do-gooder

th birthday gift ideas Smile Farms Birthday Party in a Box

Cookies & treats

For the goodhearted humanitarian, send the Smile Farms Birthday Party in a Box. This festive gift includes a variety of yummy cookies and confections, as well as a mini birthday cake with candles. Twenty percent of the net proceeds from this purchase supports Smile Farms, which provides employment opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities.

The golfer

Golf club cover

For the golf enthusiast, the Monogram Personalized Golf Club Cover will add style to the most basic set of clubs. This durable quality club cover features a zipper closure and fits up to a 460cc driver. Personalize it with a name or monogram with a choice of thread color.

The mixologist

Smoked cocktail set

For the mixologist, snap up this Personalized Smoked Cocktail Set, which comes with a glass smoking stand, a custom-etched glass infuser carafe, a silicone stopper, and 20 smoking pellets. Then say cheers to 30 years!

The tea drinker

Tea infuser set

For the tea drinker, the Organic Numi Tea Infuser Bottle Gift Set makes for a truly thoughtful gift. This package includes a glass infusion bottle and six tea bags each of four different flavors of tea: Breakfast Blend Black, Aged Earl Grey, Moroccan Mint, and Jasmine Green.

The worrywart

LED glass keepsake

For individuals worried about turning 30, give something illuminating, literally, with a personalized message written on a LED light strip. Your thoughtful message is a wonderful way to help your loved one stay optimistic and positive during this transitional time.

The optimist

Money tree

For the optimist, no gift could be better than a Money Tree bonsai plant, which is believed to bring luck and prosperity to its recipient. It also looks pretty snazzy in any setting. Bonus: It’s easy to care for!

The history buff

Birthday history canvas

For the history buff, the Day You Were Born Personalized Birthday History Canvas is. a personalized chronicle that features researched historic information from the day and year of birth, including headline news, top songs, movies, sports facts, and, gasp, cost of basic items.

The animal lover

th birthday gift ideas Max Milo Dog Owner Snack Attack Box

Dog & owner snack box

For the dog person, a suite of treats for their beloved fur baby — and themselves! — will most definitely leave a warm and fuzzy impression on their animal-loving heart.

The morning person

th birthday gift ideas Good Morning Breakfast Meal

Breakfast feast

For the morning person, a Good Morning Breakfast Meal timed to arrive a few days before your recipient’s birthday means they’ll be starting their 30s with a fabulous gourmet meal.

This breakfast feast may extend into lunch with its delish selection of cheesy bacon grits, sausage and cheese casserole, maple hickory-smoked bacon, Belgian waffles, English muffins, pear syrup, strawberry preserves, and ground coffee.

The chocoholic

Fondue set

For the chocolate lover, it doesn’t get better than the Max Brenner Fondue Tower Set with Chocolates. Make a point to be present at the gift opening of this tasty tower that comes with a three-tier ceramic fondue tower, two dipping forks, and a variety of milk, dark, and white chocolate melting thins so you can partake in this chocolate feast. There are two forks for a reason.

The health enthusiast

30th birthday gift ideas with Birthday Pears & Apples Gift Set

Fresh fruit

For the health-conscious, the Birthday Pears and Apples Gift is a thoughtful way to send birthday wishes to someone who always eats their apple, or pear, a day. This display of the best picks from the orchard also comes with one signature gold-wrapped pear, fruit’s version of couture.

And don’t forget to include a card that emphasizes their past accomplishments. “We now get to see the fruit of a 30-year-old’s labor from K through 12, college, trade school, entry-level positions, and low-paying jobs,” Craig says. “Happy birthday! You are about to embark on a great stage of adulthood.”

Celebration Ideas for Every Milestone Birthday

From winning gift ideas to card message suggestions, “Birthdays Reimagined” provides tips to help you make your loved one’s birthday wishes come true. In this article, we provide gift ideas for every milestone birthday.

Milestone birthdays signify important life achievements that are worth commemorating. Whether the milestone year is 21 or 50, these birthdays are the ones we tend to celebrate in creative, unforgettable ways.

According to researchers at The Wharton School, recognizing temporal landmarks such as a birthday or new year are motivational because they provide an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. With such a powerful opportunity to reflect and remember the occasion, it’s no wonder people look to honor these milestones in big ways! Below, we’ve listed memorable celebration ideas for each major milestone birthday.

Fun ideas for throwing an 18th milestone birthday bash

The 18th birthday is the first big milestone in our lives. With it comes many adult perks, such as being able to vote, purchase a car, and establish credit. “It’s the one in which western culture bestows young people with rights they will enjoy for the rest of their lives,” family therapist Kyle King says. “They are excited to flex some of their new independence and privileges.”

One way to celebrate this new independence is with a sophisticated party to mark the occasion. Encourage attendees to get dressed up in formal wear and if you can, try renting out a party venue to make the day extra special. You could even plan a “bon voyage” cruise-themed party as you watch your childhood years sail away, with a cruise-themed menu and snacks.

Picture of birthday roses — Passion for Purple Roses

milestone birthdays bday slay — B-day Slay

Picture of birthday flowers — Floral Embrace

18th birthday gift theme: Flowers

Flowers are a perfect gift for an 18th birthday. As full adulthood approaches, childlike interests lose favor to more sophisticated enjoyment. Roses, lilies, and orchids are classic selections. And you can never go wrong with a birthday bouquet. Receiving a birthday flower delivery also introduces an 18-year-old to a lifelong pleasure that happens when you receive a delivered gift.

Go all out for a 21st birthday

Twenty-one is a milestone that grants new privileges, so it’s usually honored by indulging in these fresh abilities. Celebrate with a wacky scavenger hunt for the honoree to complete that night. To feel luxurious, rent a limo on the way to a casino or 21-and-up nightclub! If a big bash isn’t ideal, then an evening of sophisticated cocktails with friends at home can make the night special. You could hire a mixologist (or buy a mixologist kit) and keep the night intimate as the honoree celebrates their new freedoms, complete with a Girls Night In Rosé Gift Basket.

21st birthday gift theme: Alcohol

Most everyone agrees that full adulthood and being able to legally drink are why the 21st birthday matters. Customized champagne flutes are more elegant than shiny SOLO cups, while a wine-related gift introduces pleasures found in more grownup tastes.

milestone birthdays Truffles Red Wine Personalized Wine Box with Tools — Truffles, Red Wine, and Personalized Wine Box with Tools

Celebrate 30 in style

If your honoree is feeling particularly old at this milestone, you can throw an “over the hill” party. Ask guests to dress in black to “mourn” their youth and bring gag gifts like fake teeth. If they’re not up for the joke, the 30th birthday can also be a time to celebrate the refining of tastes and interests. Organize a dine-around your local city, where you try a different course at each restaurant. Or you could find a private chef to cook an intimate meal at home for a sophisticated touch. If your honoree would rather their 30th still feel youthful, you can throw a classic slumber party, full of cheesy movies, pajamas, and plenty of snacks.

milestone birthdays Chocolate Obsession Cookie Flavor Box — Chocolate Obsession Cookie Flavor Box

milestone birthdays Birthday Balloon pc Chocolate Box — Birthday Balloon Chocolate Box

milestone birthdays Neuhaus Assorted Chocolates Discovery Collection — Neuhaus Collection Discovery Box

30th birthday gift theme: Chocolate

Chocolate for the 30-year old who loves decadence in a delicious package. Give a box of super chocolatey cookies or a selection of fine chocolates, such as the Neuhaus Collection Discovery Box, which includes pralines of various flavors and fillings.

Get festive for the 40th

A fun way to honor the 40th is by throwing a 1940s big band-themed party. Guests can dress in 40s-era clothing and the party can feature swing music or vintage movie classics. For a more low-key event, try an at-home spa weekend for your closest friends. You could host a wine tasting, mani/pedis, or even hire a masseuse. Complement the weekend with a Lavender Spa Basket for a luxurious experience.

40th birthday gift theme: Self-care

Indulge the 40-year-old with self-care goodies to relieve the exhaustion that comes from active living. Ideas include spa gifts, candles, or cozy comfort gifts like tea and blankets to encourage relaxation.

Picture of lavender spa gift set — Lavender Spa Basket

Picture of Birthday Party scented candle — Birthday Party Candle

milestone birthdays Relax Nurture Tea Gift Basket — Relax & Nurture Tea Gift Basket

The best ways to bring in the big 5-0

Aside from the 21st birthday, the most popular birthday for adults to celebrate is their 50th. According to Matt James, an award-winning professional event planner, most people turning 50 prefer a tasteful party, with good food and good company, rather than a cheap joke-shop-style theme party. He recommends activities that celebrate the person, not just the age, such as a personalized crossword puzzle or even a piñata bust created to their liking. If your honoree wants to skip the party route, then create a to-do list with 50 tasks to complete over the year. Or, select a destination 50 miles away and spend the day exploring the area for a peaceful retreat.

milestone birthdays Candy Covered Cake Pops with Drizzled Berries — Candy Covered Cake Pops™ with Drizzled Berries

50th birthday gift theme: Food

Who would ever turn away a gift basket of food favorites? From healthy fresh fruits, foods that satisfy a sweet tooth, or a variety basket, food for 50 is the ideal celebratory gift. Food gifts also have a dual function if the recipient wants to have an impromptu celebration with friends and family.

Celebrate 60 to the max

Each decade that passes provides even more reason to cherish time with loved on. A 60th birthday (or even 70th or 80th) should be full of smiles and laughter, celebrating old friends and new family members alike. You could arrange a birthday around old childhood favorites, including a Vintage Candy Dispenser with Treats. If the honoree is up for it, try childhood activities like a bike ride, ice skating, or a visit to a local amusement park. For an at-home event, surround the special person with stories and memorabilia from their youth, taking time to share stories.

60th birthday gift theme: Flowers and plants

Most 60-year-olds are empty nesters, and with that extra time allotted from not shuttling kids to sporting events, there’s more opportunity to care for flowers and plants. Adding both beauty and enjoyment to home life, plants are a natural, uplifting gift that’s sure to be enjoyed.

Making a 90th birthday milestone memorable

At such a special milestone, this birthday can be commemorated by planning an event where new or distant family and friends have a chance to reconnect with the honoree, either in person or over video. You could have attendees write a short note honoring their life, or even gift a Personalized Message in a Bottle. If you can, take a visit back to a favorite childhood location or neighborhood and hear old stories. If you’d just like to provide some company and conversation, an outdoor lunch at a new café or restaurant can offer a lively afternoon.

90th birthday gift theme: Puzzles & games

Nonagenarians have the gift of wisdom. Develop their mind with classic puzzles and games. Games also encourage leisure time with the ones you love, which is more engaging than digital entertainment.

Picture of Yahtzee — Yahtzee Vintage Bookshelf Edition

Honoring the ultimate milestone birthday: 100 years old

After 100 birthdays, there’s less value in material gifts, and the gift of time and love from family and friends can be more valuable. Center the theme of the party around their life. Create a pictorial timeline of the honoree’s milestone moments, and ask friends and family to contribute photos and videos for a “this is your life” presentation. And allow guests time to toast with their fondest memories, or you could even roast them with funny jokes and stories. Make sure to eat lots of cake and honor the day with a beautiful arrangement.

100th birthday gift theme: Personalized gifts

Celebrate centenarians with a personalized gift. Examples include one-of-a-kind keepsakes like engraved gifts, jewelry, and photo albums that include pictures of life’s greatest moments.

milestone birthdays Engraved Family Photo Album — Engraved Family Photo Album

milestone birthdays Grandma Personalized Colored Heart Clock — Grandma Personalized Colored Heart Clock

milestone birthdays diamond keepsake — You’re A Perfect Gem! Diamond Keepsake

4 Fun Ways to Ring in Your 21st Birthday

Birthdays are magical. They’re the one day a year when you can shamelessly celebrate yourself and bask in the glow of love from friends and family.

And milestone birthdays — whether it’s a first birthday, 40th, or 50th — are particularly special. eaching any of these benchmarks is notable, and a nod to the future, says sociologist Andrew McIntosh, a professor at Lehigh University and Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

“In our younger years, milestone birthdays serve two purposes: recognizing growth and acting as a send-off to the next stage of life,” McIntosh says. “This is a process called ‘anticipatory socialization,’ where the rituals of acknowledgement, celebration, and age-appropriate presents all point toward future opportunities and expectations.”

But the king (or queen) of milestone birthdays is the legendary 21^st, for obvious reasons. Ideas for a typical 21^st birthday celebration range from a night out with friends to a party thrown at a venue or at home.

st birthday ideas with girlfriends celebrating st birthday

When planning a shindig for this monumental occasion, budget certainly comes into play. “It’s a little chicken and egg when it comes to spending on parties,” says Lissy Carr, founder of her eponymous company Lissy Carr Events in White Plains, New York. “People aren’t necessarily sure what they want or how much things cost.”

Once you decide what you’d like to do — a chic night at a club or more low-key backyard barbecue — you can then set a spending limit and decide how you want to allocate the money.

One expert opinion: Focus on having a good time. “Everyone remembers if the party was amazingly fun — or wasn’t; no one remembers if the chicken was cold,” says Debbie Rosmarin of ET Events, an East Coast-based events group.

Here, our experts offer four ideas for celebrating a 21^stbirthday, the unofficial beginning of adulthood.

Mixology 101

As everyone knows, 21 is the legal drinking age in the United States, and the element of imbibing is definitely a big part of 21^st birthday celebrations. Take it to the next level by hiring a bartender to teach you and your friends the art of making craft cocktails.

You can do this either virtually — which, Carr says, is a more budget-friendly option — or in person. If you go the latter route, Carr suggests renting a bar or fun venue and hiring an expert mixologist so everyone can learn to make a tasty signature drink — one that is representative of the guest of honor, of course.

Group gift idea: Hamilton Portable Cocktail Bar

st birthday ideas with Whiskey Glass Set — Whiskey Glass Set

Individual gift ideas

st birthday ideas with Personalized Ice Bucket — Personalized Ice Bucket

st birthday ideas decanter set — Decanter Set

Inflatable entertainment for ‘big kids’

Any parent will tell you how excited an 8-year-old gets for a bouncy house party or ball pit, but why should that kind of fun be reserved for only little ones? At 21, you’re still a kid at heart, so go ahead and celebrate your birthday like one. “You can rent a bunch of inflatables or games,” says Rosmarin, who names obstacle courses, boxing rings, and jousting pedestals as options.

Add cornhole, wiffle ball, a keg, chicken wings, and pizza, throw on a celebratory playlist, and you’ve got yourself a day to remember. “You’re giving people things they don’t do at home,” she says.

Another plus of the backyard bash? It nicely accommodates younger siblings and non-drinkers.

Group gift idea: Backpack Chair with Cooler

st birthday ideas with Happy Birthday Engraved Beer Mug — Happy Birthday 25 oz. Engraved Beer Mug

Individual gift ideas

st birthday ideas with Personalized Beverage Tub — Personalized Galvanized Beverage Tub

st birthday ideas Simply Chocolate Birthday Sweets Basket — Simply Chocolate Birthday Sweets Basket

Destination birthday

If you’re a parent looking for ideas for your child’s 21^st birthday, consider renting a home — possibly in a locale your son or daughter has always dreamt of visiting — and taking a few days to celebrate as a family.

If getting out of town is too difficult, or expensive, consider “getting away at home.” Take the birthday guy or girl to a favorite sports venue, Carr suggests, to watch their team crush the opposition (hopefully). Go big and rent a luxury suite with catered food, or buy really good seats and get the classic stadium concessions combo of hot dogs and beers.

Movie theaters are also a fun, family-friendly option, she says. They’re closer to home and add a sense of nostalgia, as many of them offer a list of older movies from which the birthday guy or gal can choose. Some more modern theaters even serve liquor and can put together a customizable menu for a decidedly adult experience. (Of course, you can still act like a kid and get soda, popcorn, and candy!)

Group gift idea: Gourmet Specialty Snacks Basket with Wine

st birthday ideas with Personalized Skinny Can Holder — NFL Personalized Insulated Skinny Can Holder

Individual gift ideas

st birthday ideas with Football Bow Box — Football Bow Box

st birthday ideas with Movie Night Gift Bin — Movie Night Gift Bin

Outside the box parties

Don’t forget the guest of honor’s favorite hobbies and interests, Carr reminds. Anyplace in the business of fun is always a good idea, such as an arcade geared toward adults (the name rhymes with “Crave and Fluster’s”) or a go-kart racing venue. There are even sleepaway camps that cater to the older set, if you’re celebrating in the summertime.

Alcohol isn’t for everyone; some people prefer drinks with less punch, so to speak. Recently, one of Carr’s friends celebrated her birthday by having a docent give a private tour of a local museum and then going to tea afterward. “People felt so special, and it was something different,” Carr says.

If your 21-year-old loves to play sports, you can host the party at the local tennis club or ball field. Or, invite all their friends to their favorite yoga or Zumba class.

Group gift idea: Fresh Market Bouquet Subscription with Clear Vase