The secret to a successful party is orchestrating the occasion so it doesn't stretch your resources, and you feel comfortable and in control. Here are some pointers:

Limit the size of your gathering so you can manage your party easily. If you live in a small house or apartment, consider several intimate parties rather than a large open house. Plan festivities that fit your budget and schedule. If you don't have the time or money to prepare a full-blown, sit-down dinner or a lavish buffet, consider a single-course affair such as a soup supper, dessert party, or appetizer buffet.

Choose decorations and tableware that fit your lifestyle. If you enjoy collecting elegant crystal and china or heirloom Christmas tableware, use your holiday gatherings to show off your treasures. But if informal is more your style, feel free to create a festive atmosphere with informal fabrics and china, or paper and plastic dinnerware.

Select your guest list carefully. Don't try to repay all your social obligations at once. Include a variety of ages and a good mix of listeners and talkers. Invite guests by mail or phone or, if everyone is online, you can send out "e-vites," or e-mail invitations. Make sure your written invitations include all the important information: date, time, place, type of party, address, phone number, and an RSVP request. Include a map showing how to get to your home. For phone invitations, try to call everyone on the same day, so no one feels invited as an afterthought.