I'm hosting friends for dinner but worry that I'll mess it up

The Indy's agony aunt Victoria Richards is here to help

- Victoria Richards

Dear Vix, I'm having a dinner party with some friends – friends I’ve known for a really long time - but I’ve got myself in a state worrying about it. I’m stressing about the menu and whether the food will be “good” enough for them; I’m nervous about showing off my tiny flat - which is cute and cozy, but not exactly a palace - and I’m anxious that I won't be a good host.

They all earn more than me and are used to the “finer” things in life - but I don’t have a clue about what wine to get and stuff like that I don’t even have matching plates! I’m so worried I won't measure up. It’s honestly getting me so worked up, I’m losing sleep over it.

I really want to impress them, but I’m just so panicked I will fall short. The worst-case scenario is that they tease me and judge me and laugh at me and then talk about me behind my back. Please help.

Anxious Host

Dear Anxious Host,