Celebrating your "champagne" Anniversary (number 40)

A few months after her 38th birthday, the charming Gina Tanner jokingly suggested that one of our band’s open parties be in honor of her 40th birthday. She danced the night away, had a blast, and by the way, she looked stunning. When asked why she chose that particular night to celebrate, 19 months before the actual date, she replied, “Because in a few years, when everyone sees tonight’s photos, they’ll say ‘Wow! fantastic for 40! ‘”

Traditionally, large parties have been held to commemorate silver and gold anniversaries. Recently, however, I have noticed that several couples followed Gina’s lead and jumped the gun in their 50s, for a full decade. And I have to tell you, I think they are onto something! Here’s why I think they have the right idea and why I think there should be a special designation for such 40th anniversary gatherings:

1. More parents of the couple will be present. 40th anniversary honorees are typically in their sixties. Many of these couples have 1, 2 or plus parents who are not only alive, but encouraged enough to fully participate in the celebrations. But only a couple of the 50th anniversary parties I’ve played at had a parent still active enough to join. By having your big event at the 40-year mark, you have a good chance of getting one of those treasured “4 generations in one photo” memories, with your beaming mom or dad in the shot.

2. More couples will be healthy in their 40s than in their 50s. Enough talk.

Now if you’re going to make a big fuss over your 40, doesn’t it deserve a special designation? In fact, he already has one: it’s officially his “ruby” anniversary. But it seems to me that a commemoration halfway between silver (25) and gold (50) should somehow combine those two tones. I suggest “champagne”. It is a perfect bridge in the color spectrum and also connotes a bubbly and elegant festive experience.

Well then, here is his 40th – his “Champagne Anniversary”. You know, maybe I should patent this. It could really get trendy! Of course, if you do, Gina will celebrate. put up with on the 38th. (For me to see much younger in the photos.)

Copyright 2008 by Dave Tanner, Inc.