What are some creative or unique anniversary ideas?

Surprise your partner with a romantic evening out at the place of your first date —it’ll be fun to see how much it’s changed (or hasn’t) over the years. If that’s not possible, book a weekend away where you took your first couple’s trip to bring back all the memories.

Do I have to stick to the traditional or modern anniversary themes?

Definitely not! While the theme of ruby can help guide your gifting search, the important thing is that you give your partner a special gift that you know they'll actually use and love.

The 19 Best 40th Anniversary Gifts in 2023

Brides / Lecia Landis

It may not yet be half a century, but 40 years together is a long time worth celebrating—and commemorating with a gift! Traditional and modern gifts for this wedding anniversary are ruby, a guideline that makes picking out something special a little bit easier. Opt for a gorgeous piece of ruby jewelry, cufflinks, or even something with a "ruby" hue like a cozy blanket or pajama set.

Of course, you don’t need to abide by the 40th-anniversary theme when looking for the perfect present. A personalized gift, like a memory book, is always a no-fail option. And after all these years, why not treat yourselves to something practical that you’ll both get a lot of use out of? A fancy new coffee maker or an elegant decanter may be just what you need to brighten up your mornings and evenings together. To help you find the perfect gift for your beloved spouse, we've researched the best options available with these features in mind.

Read on for the best 40th-anniversary gifts.

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for in a 40th Anniversary Gift
FAQ
Why trust Brides?

4.8

Uncommon Goods

View On Uncommon Goods

With 40 years together, there have been enough moments to fill a book! The New York Times Custom Anniversary Book captures the most historical moments that happened every year on your anniversary, with a personalized cover stamped with your names in gold. It makes for a classic—and super personal—coffee table book.

Price at time of publish: $150

PictureThisGiftCo 40 Years of Music Personalized Print

Etsy

View On Etsy

This one is for the music-loving couple. A personalized poster featuring a music album icon for each of the 40 years you’ve been married will add some flair to the living room wall. You can even request specific album covers, and the release date and album length are accompanied underneath each.

Price at time of publish: $22

Mark & Graham

View On Markandgraham.com

If you’ve gifted your husband a watch or two (or three) over the years, now give him something to keep them all in. This watch box is made from sustainably sourced acacia wood, with five slots for watches in a linen lining inside. Add a custom touch by getting it laser-engraved with his monogram on top.

Price at time of publish: $119

Nordstrom

View On Sephora View On Voluspa.com

The best kinds of candles are those that look good while smelling dreamy. The Volupsa candle does both, and while you can’t go wrong with any of the scents, we suggest the Goji Tarocco Orange for its ruby-colored jar. Containing a cold-pressed tarocco orange and sun-dried goji berry blend, it smells delightfully fresh.

Price at time of publish: $34

Angara

View On Angara.com

Choose from yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold as the base for this stunning ruby bracelet. Nine petite rubies are set on a delicate chain—it's a timeless piece that she'll be able to pair with any outfit.

Price at time of publish: starting at $810

Nordstorm

View On Nordstrom View On Belk.com View On Belk.com

Are we right in guessing your spouse’s cufflink collection mostly consists of neutral silvers, blacks, and golds? Add a splash of color with this square pair, which alternates ruby-hued enameled stripes with a silver-tone plate. Subtle etchings add a bit of texture for an even sharper look.

Price at time of publish: $60

Sunday Morning

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Soft, warm, and snug—what more could you want from a scarf? This one is handcrafted in Spain out of mohair, soft wool from Angora goat that’s durable, resilient, and less itchy than typical sheep’s wool. The cherry-red style can be dressed up with a blazer for a night out or dressed down with a sweatsuit for a daily coffee run.

Price at time of publish: $45

Amazon

View On Amazon

A ruby red satin robe is sexy, chic, and the perfect thing to wear on your anniversary night. Three-quarter bell sleeves with two mesh panels bring an unexpected design to this kimono-style robe. It has both inside ties and an exterior tie for double security, creating a V-neck when the robe is closed.

Price at time of publish: starting at $20

Uncommon Goods

View On Uncommon Goods

A set of whiskey tumblers takes on special meaning when they come engraved with a memorable location. Whether it’s where you first met, got engaged, tied the knot, or live now, pick an address that means the most to you as a couple, and Uncommon Goods will bring it to life with a map of the locale. You can even add the name of the location alongside or on the bottom of the glass.

Price at time of publish: starting at $48

dan-yell

View On Dan-yell.com

Forget diamond necklaces—this gold chain featuring a chili pendant with three sparkling rubies brings something different to the standard jewelry collection. The necklace length adjusts from 16 inches to 18 inches, making it versatile for different necklines. We love it for dressing up a basic sweater or for adding a bit of glimmer to a dress.

Price at time of publish: starting at $300

Nordstorm

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This oval platter instantly glams up any tablescape. A geometric marble design with gilded edges puts a modern take on an old-world feel, and its neutral palette means it’ll fit right in with nearly any other tableware. It’s sure to make a statement, whether serving up the main course in the center of the table or offering drinks during cocktail hour.

Price at time of publish: $172

Toss by Daniel Stuart Studio Pleated Knit Throw

Wayfair

View On Wayfair

Thick, heavy, and ribbed, it’s easy to fall asleep curled up in this soft knit blanket. At 44 inches wide by 70 inches long, it weighs 2.4 pounds. It’s oversized, which means there’s ample room for both of you to share during an at-home date night. Grab some popcorn, turn on Netflix, and get ready to cozy up.

Price at time of publish: $413

4.5

Mr. Coffee CafÃ© Barista Espresso and Cappuccino Maker

Amazon

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Treat yourselves to an elevated cup of joe in the morning. This coffee maker does it all—brew espresso, cappuccino, or latte, depending on your mood. It even comes with a recipe book to really switch things up, whether you want to make an espresso martini or a raspberry cappuccino.

Price at time of publish: $200

View On Neiman Marcus View On Chicgeeks.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Upgrade their MacBook with a luxurious faux crocodile case. With a rich crimson color, it gives off a low lustrous sheen that’s bold and striking. Made of durable rubberized plastic and faux leather with a cut-out for the Apple logo, the case will keep your laptop free of bumps and scratches.

Price at time of publish: $95

Crazy Lady Women's Fuzzy Cross Band House Slippers

Amazon

View On Amazon

Float around the house in a pair of fluffy slippers that feel like a cloud. An x-strap design with an open toe keeps feet warm without overheating, and a cushion of high-density terry cloth foam offers comfort on the bottom of the foot. It’s complete with a rubber sole that prevents any slipping and sliding around on wood floors.

Price at time of publish: $17

REI

View On Nordstrom View On REI View On Vuoriclothing.com

Whether your husband wants to wear them for his morning run or for lounging around the house, these performance joggers are sure to get a lot of use. A zippered side pocket offers a place to store keys and a credit card, and a fitted cuff creates a smoother running experience. Made of moisture-wicking fabric, they also soak up sweat easily. Buy them in oxblood so he’ll think of your 40th anniversary whenever he puts them on.

Price at time of publish: $98

Crate & Barrel

View On Crate & Barrel

A hatch decanter is a must for the bar cart. With a diamond pattern, this one looks like it’s made of crystal, but is actually made of dishwasher-safe glass. It’s a timeless look that will never go out of style and will stand out among all the whiskey bottles and tumblers. The decanter holds up to 32 ounces of liquor.

Price at time of publish: $45

Angara

View On Angara.com

This delicate piece of jewelry was made for those who are elegant yet bold. Three ruby stones sit in a prong setting in a yellow-gold band. They’re beautiful enough to make a subtle statement, but not so flashy that they’ll overpower the hand. You can also choose a silver, rose gold, white gold, or platinum band.

Price at time of publish: $936

Nixon

View On Nixon.com

Give a gift that represents how your love has stood the test of time. Some watches have so many bells and whistles that they can get a bit overwhelming. Opt for simplicity with this gold number featuring a striking ruby-like face. It’ll add a subtle pop of color to any outfit without being overly distracting.

Price at time of publish: $125

What to Look for in a 40th Anniversary Gift

Traditional and modern theme

If you want to stick close with the ruby theme, opt for a ruby gift that you know your spouse will adore. We love the Angara Prong-Set Ruby Station Bracelet or the Stripe Square Cufflinks as a special, wearable gift. You can also get creative and go with something that's made with a ruby hue, like the TOSS by Daniel Stuart Studio Knitted Throw Blanket.

Something thoughtful and practical

If you're looking for something outside of the traditional and modern gift guidelines, you should look for anniversary gifts that speak to your spouse's personal hobbies and interests. Or, you might consider something personalized that shows how much you truly care. We suggest the New York Times Custom Anniversary Book for something more personal or the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Maker for a practical item you both can enjoy.

FAQ

What are some creative or unique anniversary ideas?

Surprise your partner with a romantic evening out at the place of your first date—it’ll be fun to see how much it’s changed (or hasn’t) over the years. If that’s not possible, book a weekend away where you took your first couple’s trip to bring back all the memories.
Do I have to stick to the traditional or modern anniversary themes?

Definitely not! While the theme of ruby can help guide your gifting search, the important thing is that you give your partner a special gift that you know they'll actually use and love.

Why trust Brides?

Brides contributor Hillary Hoffower has over six years of experience writing for the wedding industry, covering everything from bridal fashion trends to wedding decor. She’s always on the hunt for the perfect gift for any occasion. If her future husband is reading this, she would like a pair of ruby earring studs on her 40th wedding anniversary.

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