In the party spirit!

A FORMAL dinner party is by far the most stressful way of entertaining on New Year's Eve, but with careful planning it can appear almost effortless.

Start by making lists the guest list, shopping list, wine list. Consider drawing up a schedule of work this may sound a bit like a military operation, but it's so worth it and will avoid any last minute panic attacks before your guests arrive.

If you are entertaining single-handedly, I reckon six to eight people is the optimum number.