What to engrave on birthday bench

[Articulates]

A group of us have clubbed together to buy a garden bench for a friend’s 40th (we know he wants one). I’m supposed t be arranging to have something engraved on it but am struggling to think of what to say- can I just say Happy 40th? Or will that look ridiculous? Or something like “for Ben on his 40th”? What would you put?

Where is the bench going? Is it related to anything other than his birthday?

Hello. It’s going in his garden.

Keep it simple: "For Ben, with love from your friends"

I would put something about friendship rather than his birthday.

e.g. remember your friends whilst you rest here.

How about a quote about gardens?
"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow." Audrey Hepburn.
"A garden is a friend that you can visit anytime." Unknown.
"Gardeners, I think, dream bigger than emperors." Mary Cantwell.
"My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece." Monet.

There are loads! You could have a simple flower shape engraved at each end, too.