Ways to Celebrate Your Boyfriend Turning 21
A 21st birthday carries special weight: it's widely regarded as the threshold into adulthood, and it's the age at which your boyfriend can legally consume alcohol. Even though 18 already allows voting and military enlistment, the 21st year stands out. Choose a gift that suits this occasion and makes it stick in his memory.
By Taylor Miller
Give your boyfriend a gift set of 21 imported beers to mark his 21st birthday.
There are several reasons a boyfriend's 21st birthday stands out as a significant milestone. While 18 is the age when someone can vote or join the military, many people still view 21 as the true entry into adulthood. On top of that, reaching 21 means your guy is now legally permitted to drink. Commemorate this landmark with a gift he'll remember.
Romantic
Date night at a bar
Handing a guy a bouquet of 21 red roses might make him uncomfortable, but if he's the type who welcomes that kind of gesture, it's worth doing. You can also weave the number 21 into other romantic presents. One option is a collage laying out 21 reasons you love him. Writing a personalized poem is another route — put into verse either the 21 reasons for your love or 21 cherished memories you've made together. A further romantic idea: frame 21 photos of favorite spots, trips or keepsakes such as concert or movie ticket stubs. Another possibility is a collection of 21 colorful index cards, each acting as a date coupon he can redeem with you. The date choices could span from sharing champagne for two beneath the stars to a night at the roughest dive bar in town.
Functional
Functional gifts like an mp3 player
For a guy stepping into official adulthood — and frequently into the working world — functional 21st birthday gifts tend to fit well. Make a functional gift feel personal by choosing an engraved wrist watch or clock. When you're in a longer term relationship and have the funds, electronic items and gadgets are an option for his birthday. Among the ideas: a digital camera, electronic organizers, or current handheld devices such as a Kindle or an iPod. Where possible, personalize the device itself, or give the device's case a custom touch. Should your guy be a writer or an artist, consider a personalized 21st birthday writing journal, or a selection of 21 different paint colors, markers or other art supplies.
Fun
Fun personalized gifts
Fun 21st birthday presents suit a boyfriend who enjoys partying and is excited about being able to drink legally at last. You could assemble your own gift sets built around 21 different imported beers or 21 quirky shot glasses. Add a personal angle with an engraved 21st birthday beer stein or a set of mugs. Cosmopolitan.com highlights a personalized beer keg made of chrome-plated steel that you have engraved. If your boyfriend likes a guys' night of beer and poker, a personalized poker set — also featured in Cosmo — is another possibility. For a different style of fun, have a personal image or a cheeky phrase custom printed on boxer shorts and wrap them up for his 21st birthday.
