Celebrating a 40th ruby wedding anniversary is a momentous occasion that deserves a special touch. Decorations play a significant role in setting the tone and creating lasting memories. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you create the perfect atmosphere for this milestone celebration.

Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Anniversary Party Centerpiece Sticks - Table Toppers - Set of 15
Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Anniversary Party Centerpiece Sticks - Table Toppers - Set of 15

Understanding the Ruby Theme

Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Anniversary Party Picture Centerpiece Sticks - Photo Table Toppers - 15 Pieces | Michaels
Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Anniversary Party Picture Centerpiece Sticks - Photo Table Toppers - 15 Pieces | Michaels

The 40th wedding anniversary is traditionally marked by the gemstone ruby, symbolizing love, passion, and a deep connection. Incorporating this rich, red stone into your decorations not only adds a luxurious touch but also represents the enduring love and commitment of the couple.

Color Scheme: Red and Gold

Happy Ruby Anniversary
Happy Ruby Anniversary

Ruby's deep red hue is the primary color for your decorations. Pair it with gold to create a sophisticated and elegant look. This combination also signifies the wealth of experiences and shared history that the couple has built over four decades.

Venue Decorations

a welcome sign with red roses on it
a welcome sign with red roses on it
  • Table Settings: Use red tablecloths or runners with gold accents. Consider using ruby-red glassware and gold cutlery to tie the theme together.
  • Centerpieces: Create striking centerpieces using ruby-red roses, gold candles, and greenery. Alternatively, use glass bowls filled with ruby-red gemstones and gold-painted pinecones or acorns.
  • Lighting: String up fairy lights or use red and gold lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider using red and gold balloons to decorate the ceiling or walls.

Ruby-Inspired Decor Ideas

Here are some creative ways to incorporate the ruby theme into your decorations:

Ruby 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Sign: Photo Display, Editable Template (Digital Download)
Ruby 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Sign: Photo Display, Editable Template (Digital Download)

Ruby-Red Wedding Cake

Ask your baker to create a wedding cake with ruby-red buttercream or fondant. You can also incorporate gold accents, such as edible gold leaf or gold-painted chocolate pearls, to complement the cake's design.

Ruby and Gold Photo Booth

40th Ruby Wedding Anniversary Foam Board
40th Ruby Wedding Anniversary Foam Board

Set up a photo booth with ruby-red and gold props. Encourage guests to dress up and take fun photos, creating lasting memories and a unique keepsake for the couple.

Ruby-Themed Favors

40th Wedding Anniversary Surprises You’ll Love
40th Wedding Anniversary Surprises You’ll Love
Ruby Anniversary Welcome Sign with Photo, Celebrating 40 Years, 40th Anniversary Sign, Printable File, W1430-7
Ruby Anniversary Welcome Sign with Photo, Celebrating 40 Years, 40th Anniversary Sign, Printable File, W1430-7
25 Memorable 40th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas - Our Secondhand House
25 Memorable 40th Wedding Anniversary Gift Ideas - Our Secondhand House
Lights | Ruby Red 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Foam Board | Zazzle
Lights | Ruby Red 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Foam Board | Zazzle
1pc Artificial Silk Rose Bouquet, Silk Daisy & Dandelion, Wholesale, Suitable For Wedding, Home Party Decor, Tabletop Centerpiece, Valentine's Day, Gift, Birthday, Graduation, Autumn Decor
1pc Artificial Silk Rose Bouquet, Silk Daisy & Dandelion, Wholesale, Suitable For Wedding, Home Party Decor, Tabletop Centerpiece, Valentine's Day, Gift, Birthday, Graduation, Autumn Decor
15 Creative Ruby Anniversary Ideas For 40 Years
15 Creative Ruby Anniversary Ideas For 40 Years
Photo Anniversary Welcome sign, 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Sign, 40th Anniversary Decoration, Ruby Welcome Poster Photo sign, Editable
Photo Anniversary Welcome sign, 40th Wedding Anniversary Welcome Sign, 40th Anniversary Decoration, Ruby Welcome Poster Photo sign, Editable
My Parent's Ruby 40th Anniversary | All Things with Purpose
My Parent's Ruby 40th Anniversary | All Things with Purpose
40th Happy Ruby Wedding Anniversary Banner - Set of 2 Glitter Decorations with Red Heart Bunting, Perfect for 40th Anniversary Party Celebrations, for Happy Anniversary Decorations
40th Happy Ruby Wedding Anniversary Banner - Set of 2 Glitter Decorations with Red Heart Bunting, Perfect for 40th Anniversary Party Celebrations, for Happy Anniversary Decorations
Ruby Anniversary decor
Ruby Anniversary decor
40th Anniversary Party Games Married in 1986 Ruby Wedding
40th Anniversary Party Games Married in 1986 Ruby Wedding
12 Timeless Ideas for a 40th Anniversary Celebration
12 Timeless Ideas for a 40th Anniversary Celebration
Crisky Red 40th Anniversary Cocktail Napkins for Ruby Wedding Party Decoration, 3-Ply Disposable Beverage Dessert Napkins, 50 Counts
Crisky Red 40th Anniversary Cocktail Napkins for Ruby Wedding Party Decoration, 3-Ply Disposable Beverage Dessert Napkins, 50 Counts
Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Party Round Candy Sticker Favors - Labels Fits Chocolate Candy (1 sheet of 108)
Big Dot of Happiness We Still Do - 40th Wedding Anniversary - Party Round Candy Sticker Favors - Labels Fits Chocolate Candy (1 sheet of 108)
we still do cake topper in red glitter
we still do cake topper in red glitter
a large sign that says 40 with balloons around it
a large sign that says 40 with balloons around it
Personalised Ruby Wedding Anniversary Card - Word-Filled Heart Design - Standard
Personalised Ruby Wedding Anniversary Card - Word-Filled Heart Design - Standard
Ruby 40th Anniversary cake topper display
Ruby 40th Anniversary cake topper display
a red cake topper that says, you still do
a red cake topper that says, you still do

Give guests small potted ruby-red plants, like amaryllis or azaleas, as party favors. Alternatively, package ruby-red candies or chocolates in gold foil and tie them with a red ribbon.

Personalized Decorations

To make the celebration truly unique, incorporate personalized elements that reflect the couple's shared history and interests:

  • Memory Lane Display: Create a display of photos or mementos from the couple's 40 years together. This can be a touching and sentimental addition to the decorations.
  • Custom Signage: Design custom signs or banners with the couple's names and the anniversary milestone. You can also create a sign that lists the number of years they've been married in different languages.
  • Love Letters: Ask guests to write love notes or words of wisdom on cards or small pieces of paper. Collect these and present them to the couple as a keepsake after the celebration.

Table Decorations: The Ruby and Gold Table Plan

Here's a table plan to help you create a cohesive and elegant look for your 40th ruby wedding anniversary celebration:

Table Element Ruby Gold
Tablecloth/Runner Ruby-red Gold accents
Centerpiece Ruby-red roses, gemstones Gold candles, painted pinecones
Glassware Ruby-red Gold rim
Cutlery -- Gold
Napkins Ruby-red Gold napkin ring
Chair Covers Ruby-red Gold sash

By incorporating these ruby and gold decorations, you'll create a stunning and memorable celebration for the 40th wedding anniversary. Don't forget to have fun and enjoy the special day with the couple as they celebrate their love and commitment.