This story was originally titled "5 Ways to Celebrate a Summer Birthday" in the July 2007 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!

Why wait for a surprise? Go all out with a posh venue, fancy invites and catering, or keep it simple. Here's how.

1. Send e-vites with RSVP buttons – try www.evite.com. This saves loads of time.
 
2. Keep it casual. Serve appetizers and ï¬�nger foods so everyone can help themselves – no worries about serving or cutlery.
 
3. Pop a few candles into cupcakes and bust out the "Happy Birthday" song.

4. Loot bags are fun – no matter how old you are. Stuff them with mints, coffee shop gift cards, herbal tea packets and lottery tickets.
 
5. Pay your kids or the neighbour's teens to clean up for you when the party winds down – it's your little gift to yourself.
 
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