Dine without the whine

Your guide to throwing the perfect holiday dinner party.

Does the phrase "holiday dinner" send your household into a frenzy? Beyond addressing the big issues of the day (namely, how big the bird should be), there are all kinds of little concerns. Suddenly, friends and family arrive, and an entire year's worth of overlooked repairs and forgotten chores come back to haunt you. It's OK. Make like wine and ... chill.

First, focus on the furniture. Look at your home as guests will see it. If the dining room set has been around since the Watergate scandal broke, it could probably use a makeover. Rather than spend thousands having it refinished, just apply a wood product. Howard Products Restor-A-Finish has long been a favorite of antiques dealers. Lightly rub some into the wood with an ultra-fine grade of steel wool, and working with the grain, remove rings, whitish stains and small nicks. (Caution: First test your technique on an inconspicuous section.)

Once you've cleaned up the furniture, make sure you provide enough seating so your company can sit back and talk, comfortably. A good host knows how to facilitate conversation. Ask a guest her opinion on a particular current event or how she likes her new job.

A nice touch: Buy plenty of disposable plastic food containers and send your guests home smiling with delicious leftovers. Elderly people and parents will especially appreciate this, and they won't have to feel guilty all year about not returning the dish.

Cheers.