Entertaining at home is kind of like exercise: you’re so happy that you did it, but that doesn’t stop you from dreading it the next time around. Who should you invite? What should you serve? Will you ever find a playlist that won't unexpectedly veer into gangster rap or Kidzbop?

In this episode we discuss ways to take the stress out of having people over:lowering your standards (okay, easier said than done, but give it a shot)sticking with what works- nail down a few go-to dishes, and then make them every timehaving buffets instead of sit-down dinnershosting potlucks (although Amy claims these can actually be *more* work for the host)figuring out what music you’re going to play before the doorbell ringsAnd here’s some useful links for more ideas- and more reassurance:

The Simple Dollar: How to Organize a Cost-Effective and Fun Dinner Party

Laura Gaskill for Forbes: 8 Stress-Busting Tips For Hosting Small Gatherings

Nancy Mitchell for Apartment Therapy: Why Doesn’t Anyone Have Parties Anymore?

Teddy Wayne for NYT: The Death of the Party

GfK: Half of Americans entertain guests in their homes at least once a month

Isadora Allman for Psychology Today: On Entertaining and Being Entertained

Tony Naylor for The Guardian: The new rules of dinner parties: don't be on time – and bring more booze than you need

Having people over is always worth the effort. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the potluck!

Photo by Kelsey Chance on Unsplash

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