By
eHow Parties & Entertaining Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Keep in mind the personality of the guest of honor. Some people are excited to turn forty and see it as a positive. Others may worry about aging. Don't go overboard with banners and jokes about being over the hill or getting old.
Step2
Consider a theme. Determine what type of celebration the guest of honor would enjoy. Keep their personal style in mind when selecting a theme. A theme party will make a fortieth birthday even more memorable. Some ideas to consider are a Caribbean theme, a costume party, a murder mystery party or a surprise party.
Step3
Select a location. If you are having a theme party select a location that fits the theme. Consider unique locations such as a boat or spa. Keep in mind the distance most guests will have to drive to attend the party. Be sure there is adequate parking and include directions in the invitations.
Step4
Create unique decorations. Put up banners and posters that highlight events that occurred in the birth year of your guest of honor. For example hang up movie posters and album covers from his or her birth year. Get a baby picture from the guest of honor and enlarge it. Place white matting around the picture for guests to sign.
Step5
Play a game of birthday trivia or tell the story of his or her life. Ask guest to share stories about the birthday man or woman. Encourage stories from childhood through adulthood. If the guest of honor is a good sport about getting older tell a few jokes about turning forty.
