I just remembered what I did for my husband when he turned 50 (good for ages 20 +) and although it sounds expensive I found a way around it. Instead of everyone getting a gift for my husband people put that money towards all of us renting a yacht in Vancouver, B.C. and we toured the beautiful harbour lights of Vancouver. The cost included 3 people catering and the finger foods were out of this world. Had a wet bar and everyone brought their own bottle. It was fantastic, the party was a blast and everyone was talking about the experience for months later.
Marcy
Lots of jokes about being over the hill, use black ribbons, black plates/cups/plasticware, black balloons, black everything! That's just one idea.
There are so many choices. Please go onto www.google.com
Type in: Party ideas for a 40th birthday party
There are all sorts of great ideas and all you have to do is pick the right one to suit the person's personality.
Have fun! Marcy