Neat 40th Birthday Idea

Traditionally, 40th birthday parties have an over-the-hill theme, with grim reapers and tombstones dominating the decor. For a friendlier alternative to this party theme, throw a party that reflects on the life that your loved one has led over the years.

Slideshow

• With friends and family gathered around, take a walk down memory lane with a slideshow of the birthday honoree, from baby pictures to today. Include photos from milestone experiences such as big vacations, graduations, moves, marriages and children. This turns the 40th birthday party into a meaningful experience, not a mocking one.

Music

• Play music from past decades that was popular when the birthday honoree was growing up. Rent a dance floor or a karaoke machine so party guests can jive and rave, singing their way through the best of the oldies.

Food

• Rather than serving a cake shaped like a tombstone, serve food that was popular when the birthday honoree was young. Have bowls of candy that was all the rage, and other foods that were associated with the decade or year your loved one was born in. You might also serve traditional family favorites that your loved one grew up on.