Remember when you first saw him standing at the altar, all dashing and handsome, waiting for you to say, “I do”? Fast forward a few years, and now you’re planning his 40th birthday. Yes, he’s gotten a bit greyer, possibly grumpier, and maybe still doesn’t know how to load the dishwasher properly, but he’s the love of your life. And let’s face it, even when he leaves his socks all over the house, you wouldn’t have it any other way (well, maybe you would, just a little).
So, how do you find a birthday gift that says, “I love you, but seriously, can you stop with the socks?” Something thoughtful, personal, maybe even a little funny? Look no further! Here’s a list of 10 40th birthday gifts for him that are as thoughtful as they are useful – and if they happen to give him a chuckle or two, even better.
1. Because He’s Aged Like Fine Whiskey
Your man has aged like a fine wine – smooth, a little bold, and occasionally makes you dizzy. A personalised whiskey decanter is the perfect gift to remind him of those quiet nights you’ve spent sipping together, sharing stories, and arguing over the best way to hang towels (yours is the right way, of course).
Engrave it with his name or a cheeky line like “40 & Still Smooth.” Every time he pours a drink, he’ll be reminded of how lucky he is to have you by his side (and maybe he’ll even toast to you – hey, a girl can dream).
2. Because Even He Needs Pampering
Let’s be honest: turning 40 comes with a few more aches and pains. And if your husband’s idea of relaxation is sprawling on the couch with a remote, why not upgrade his downtime with a professional massage? Book him a spa day where he can relax, unwind, and maybe even learn to relax those shoulders he claims are “just fine” (even though they crack every time he moves).
And hey, a couple’s massage could be a sneaky way for you to get pampered too. Win-win, right?
3. For the Man Who “Never Needs a New One”
You’ve seen that wallet he’s been carrying around since the early 2000s – it’s barely holding on. Well, he might say it “still works,” but you know better. Time for an upgrade! A customised leather wallet, engraved with his initials or a message like “Still the Best After 40,” will help him keep it together – literally.
You might have to sneakily replace the old one while he’s not looking, but trust me, he’ll thank you for it (eventually, once he realises he can’t keep losing his cards).
4. Because He’s Not 20 Anymore
At 40, every shave counts. Gift him a double edge razor that’ll make his morning routine feel more like a spa treatment and less like a wrestling match with his 5 o’clock shadow. Not only will it give him that smooth, clean shave you both appreciate, but it might also save you from those “ouch, I missed a spot” moments.
Maybe throw in some high-end shaving cream too, so he knows you care about both his face and his ability to finally get all the stubble off.
5. For the Man on the Go (and Possibly Hiding from Chores)
Whether he’s off to the golf course, a camping trip, or just needs a quick “pick-me-up” during family gatherings, a personalised flask is both stylish and practical. You can engrave it with his name, a funny inside joke, or maybe something like “Not for Use During Dishwashing” – you know, just to give him a little nudge.
A customised hip flask for our client
It’s the perfect gift for the man who’s always on the go but likes to keep a bit of luxury (and possibly whiskey) within arm’s reach.
6. Because He’s Your Mr. Fix-It (Sometimes)
Is your husband the type to insist he can fix anything with duct tape and a screwdriver? Well, upgrade his tool game with a Swiss Army Knife. It’s versatile, practical, and ready for anything – much like the man himself (on a good day).
He’ll love showing off his fancy new tool, and who knows? Maybe he’ll actually use it to fix that squeaky door that’s been driving you crazy for months.
7. Shaking Things Up Ever Since Your Wedding
Does your husband fancy himself the next James Bond? Gift him an engraved cocktail shaker so he can shake (or stir) his favourite drinks in style. Whether he’s into martinis, margaritas, or that “special” cocktail he invented that definitely needs work, this shaker will make him feel like a pro.
Personalise it with his name, your anniversary date, or something playful like “Shaking Things Up Since [Wedding Year].” At the very least, you’ll get a decent drink out of it – or an entertaining show as he tries to remember the recipe.
8. Because The Audacity to Make You Happier is More
Okay, so this one’s for the bedroom, but it’s thoughtful and useful. “She Comes First” by Ian Kerner is a guide that’ll make sure your man knows what really matters in a relationship. (Hint: it’s not about who controls the TV remote.)
Give him a gift that celebrates intimacy, love, and connection, while also letting him know you appreciate his efforts in every part of your relationship. Trust me, it’ll be a win-win for both of you.
9. Because He’s the King of the Grill (in His Own Mind)
Does your husband turn into a grill master every summer, flipping burgers like he’s on a cooking show? Then a personalised BBQ tool set is perfect for him. Engrave it with his name, or something fun like “Master of the Grill – Not of the Kitchen.”
Get smoking hot with our personalised bbq tools set
He’ll love showing off his new tools, and maybe (just maybe) this will be the year he stops burning the sausages. Plus, it gives you more time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the delicious BBQ without having to lift a finger. Genius.
10. A DIY Memory Book – The Story of Us
Last but definitely not least, how about a walk down memory lane? A DIY memory book filled with photos, stories, and love notes is a heartwarming gift that’ll remind him of every special moment you’ve shared – from your wedding day to that disastrous camping trip where you forgot the tent poles.
Add in funny memories, photos of the two of you over the years, and maybe even a few blank pages for future adventures. It’s a beautiful way to show him how much your journey together means, and it’s guaranteed to get a smile (and maybe a tear) out of him.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the gift itself – it’s about the thought, the love, and the memories you share. Here's to celebrating him in style – and maybe getting him to load the dishwasher properly for once. Happy 40th!
