Don't over-do it. If you let your imperfections show, your guests will feel more comfortable.

Pay attention to mood. Think about the music, lighting, and where you're placing the food throughout the house so the party flows and the guests still have a place to land.

Do enough "pre-game" preparation. Anything you can do ahead of time is going to make you that much more at ease.

Serve dinner in a timely manner. It is inappropriate to have your guests arrive and wait hours for their meal. Serve dinner within 30-45 minutes of their arrival.

Avoid heavy-handed management. Don't force introductions and conversations. The party will flow organically. Let surprises happen.

Use off-beat party starters. When guests arrive, put them to work, filling ice buckets, pouring drinks and helping with other last-minute tasks—it helps guests mingle. Serving dinner buffet-style is another informal way to keep the party moving and people talking.