When was the last time you invited someone to your home? I love having people over – the more, the merrier. But some people find it very stressful, they are worried that the house isn't big enough or clean enough, that they don't have the proper serving ware, that they can't cook fancy party food, that someone will be offended if not invited, that it's too expensive.

You know what? None of those things matters. People are coming to spend time with YOU, not to do a white glove inspection or set up a photo shoot for Architectural Digest. If people are offended that you don't have a sculptured tablescape, I just figured out how to cut your guest list!

One or two friends, a simple meal of soup, salad, bread, and a store-bought dessert makes for a wonderful evening (and Olive Garden's business model!). Or go big and make spaghetti (in this case, buy extra napkins.)

I use a folding table in the living room since I don't have a dining room. No one has died from not eating at a fancy wooden table. We've been known to sit on folding chairs. Also, not fatal.

And no one can invite everyone to every party. If people are offended by that reality, that's their problem. And it speaks to the benefit of having many small events. Ultimately, everyone gets their turn. And you can even plan them as potlucks to cut the expense.

So now what's your excuse?