DIY “Reasons We Love You” Milestone Birthday or Anniversary Gift

a close up of a small glass jewelry box with a decal that reads "40 things we love about you" and several slips of paper and a pen sit next to it

Want a meaningful, easy DIY gift that will make your loved one feel so cherished? Whether you’re celebrating your anniversary, best friend’s 30th, your husband’s 50th, or your mom’s 70th, this sweet “Reasons We Love You” gift is as sentimental as it gets—and it’s simple to create.

It’s one of my favorite DIY gifts to give because it’s custom, affordable, and guaranteed to make them smile (and maybe cry a little… in the best way).

🎉 This is perfect for:

  • Milestone birthdays (30, 40, 50, 60—you get it!)
  • Special Anniversaries
  • Spouses, parents, siblings, besties, or even coworkers
  • Gifts from a group or as a party guest book alternative

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. Thank you for supporting The Savvy Swaréy. Learn more.


How It Works:

It’s simple. You write down the number of reasons you love someone that matches their birthday year. (So for a 60th birthday? 60 reasons!) You can either come up with the list yourself or crowdsource it by asking close friends and family to submit a few of their own. You can even make it interactive by having guests write theirs at the party!

There are two fun ways to make this gift:


🎁 Option 1: The “Reasons We Love You” Gift Box

a DIY "Reason we love you" gift for a 40th birthday party

This is what I made and used for a friend’s 40th birthday party guest book, and it was such a hit.

Supplies You’ll Need:

✔️ A small keepsake box (this one is just like the one pictured! Or grab this one in a black finish instead.)
✔️ Vinyl“40 Reasons We Love You” decal (I used my Silhouette machine to cut out this decal I made, but if you DON’T have access to one, you can also use these paint markers and hand write the message onto the lid!)
✔️ Mini slips of paper (I cut strips of notebook paper for a nostalgic look!)
✔️ Pens or markers
✔️ A little sign or frame with instructions: “Leave a note with a reason you love [Name]!”

How to Set It Up:

  1. Prep the Box: Use a vinyl decal (or just a Sharpie) to write “[X] Reasons We Love You” on the lid.
  2. Cut Paper Slips: Cut up strips of paper or use printable templates
  3. Set Up a Station: Put out the box with your paper slips and pens at the party entrance, gift table, or bar.
  4. Watch the Love Pile Up: Guests can write a reason or two and drop it in the box throughout the party.
  5. Give It as a Gift: Wrap it up at the end of the party or surprise the birthday honoree with it later.

🖼️ Option 2: The Fill-In “Reasons We Love You” Giftable Poster

poster sitting on a mantel with several blank hearts and a caption in the middle that reads "30 Reasons We Love You"

Looking for something a little more display-worthy? Try the sign version! This “Reasons We Love You” giftable poster option is ideal for a milestone birthday party guestbook! Or, if you love this as an anniversary gift, fill it all in and display it somewhere for your better half to discover!

Supplies You’ll Need:

✔️ Printable “Reasons We Love You” poster (find the right one for your milestone birthday here!)
✔️ Quality markers or fine-tip pens
✔️ Optional frame or easel for display

How to Set It Up:

  1. Print Your Poster
  2. Display It: Set it out on a table or easel near the party entrance.
  3. Invite Guests to Fill It In: Leave a little note encouraging people to write a reason they love the birthday girl or guy.
  4. Frame It After the Party: It becomes the sweetest piece of wall art for their home or office.

Why I Love This “Reasons We Love You” Gift

  • It’s personal and totally custom.
  • It’s a feel-good moment your recipient will remember forever.
  • It doubles as a party activity (and even a guestbook!).
  • It costs under $10 if you’re crafty with materials.

Want More DIY Birthday Party Ideas?

Check out this 40th birthday party guide for decor inspo, food ideas, and even more thoughtful party planning ideas for milestone birthdays!


🎉 Before You Go…

Grab my printable party planning checklist to make hosting an epic milestone celebration a breeze!

Leave a Reply

Discover more from The Savvy Swaréy

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading