A dinner party does not need matching plates or a menu that keeps you in the kitchen all night. Start with the people, choose a few dishes you can manage, and leave yourself time to sit down.
Start with the evening you want
A long dinner, snacks and a bottle, or something people can assemble themselves? Choose the shape of the evening before choosing recipes. Ask about allergies and dietary needs early.
Build a menu you can actually host
Choose one dish that needs your attention at the last minute. Let the rest be ready ahead, served at room temperature where food safety allows, or brought by a guest. Write down the oven and hob space each dish needs.
Buy for the table you already have
Count chairs, plates and glasses before shopping. Borrow what you will use once. Save purchases for the things you find yourself missing every time you host.