Hosting your first dinner party can be very stressful, but careful planning and preparation can make it a success. The guest list must contain the right mix of people; everyone should feel comfortable. Good talkers and good listeners are both important, and while they don’t need to agree on everything, you don’t want them to have fistfights, either. Then you need to plan the menu, which should steer clear of problem areas: for vegans, no pork chops; for guests with shellfish allergies, no lobster; for teetotallers, no tequila. In addition, make sure your home is clean and neat, and check that you have enough chairs, dishes, glasses, napkins, and silverware. Leave enough time to socialize with your guests—and save a little energy to clean up when it’s over!