Is it OK to invite people to your own birthday celebration, or should someone else do this for you?

It's perfectly OK to host a party for yourself. Just keep in mind that as the host, all expenses are yours, birthday or no. If you're expecting other people to pay for their own dinner, then they should be organizing the event.

I don't think that there are any etiquette rules against throwing yourself a little shin-dig. Especially something informal with just friends and family. I would word the invitation just like if you were throwing it for someone else, put it in 3rd person. Here are a few wording ideas:

Join Michelle

for dinner and drinks

as she celebrates

her 30th birthday...

Here is a great invitation idea:

http://www.impressinprint.com/products/16480/30st-...

or something a little more sassy

http://www.impressinprint.com/products/13125/zebra...

It's perfectly reasonable to invite people to your own birthday dinner if you're the one hosting it. Keep in mind though, that when people are given an invitation, they expect the host to pay, so if that's not what you're planning, let them know beforehand the average cost of entrees at the restaurant you choose. Have fun!

You are 30 and can invite whoever you wish. The invite must come from you. Make sure you only invite known friends.

Are you planning to pay for everyone? Be careful using the word "invite" because people will assume you are going to pick up the check.

Of course its okay. That way you make sure that everyone you want there gets a invitation. Its your day, celebrate it the way you want.

I know how you feel. It seems vain or needy or something to do that. Like, "Hey, come acknowledge me"! If you have someone who can do it for you, then go ahead and let them. But I have taken charge of my own parties before.

If it is party you can invite whomever you want

A surprise BP is another matter!