Entertaining tip #1: How to help your guests relax

During entertaining week, I'd love to share a few great hosting tips I've heard over the years. First up...

The Barefoot Contessa wears slippers when hosting a dinner or cocktail party. That way, she figures, the mood will feel instantly relaxed. Isn't that genius? Would you do it?
(Photo of Jake Gyllenhaal for no other reason than he is cute and looks relaxed:)