I am having a Holiday Party next sunday for 20. I just finished making CI's Manicotti, a triple recipe. Four pans are now in the freezer and ready to be baked next weekend.
I decided on this because it could be made ahead and frozen, and it can serve a crowd. I have family members bringing the bread/rolls, salad and desserts. Just the appy's and beverages left to do the day of the party. I'm thinking just beer and wine, maybe a pitcher of Manhatton's (my drink of choice). Ya gotta keep the cook happy ya know!
I have to say, I am streaching to let others bring part of the meal. I usually don't allow it. I want everything just so, and they never bring the right bread or the salad I wanted, and God forbid they bring the wrong dessert..lol.
However, as I get older and tireder (Is that a word?) I am relinquishing some of the duties so I can still entertain and be able to enjoy the party too. Anyone else have this problem? I may struggle a little knowing the rolls and desserts are coming from Sam's Club and not homemade, and the salad may come out of a bag etc. But don't worry I shall persevere! I hope!
Laurie
) I take shortcuts too. Its more about quality time spent with friends and family and less about quantity of time spent preparing food. 
But for smaller events, dinners and such, I am "allowing" others to bring salads, etc. It's difficult to let go, but as everyone says, it's about the friends more than about the food.