The no-stress dinner party checklist

Great dinner parties aren’t about perfect food. They’re about a host who isn’t stressed. Here’s how to get there.

Two weeks out

• Pick the date and send the invite with a reply-by day.
• Ask about dietary needs in the invite, not the night before.

One week out

• Plan a menu you’ve cooked before — or one with a make-ahead main.
• Share what guests can bring, so you don’t end up with four desserts.

The day before

• Shop, prep and set the table.
• Send one reminder with the time and address.

On the night

Have one drink ready to hand to people as they arrive. Put on music before the doorbell rings. Then sit down — your guests came to see you, not your kitchen.