I get REALLY annoyed if my food isn't put out. My mum did this - I'd baked so much for DS's birthday but was really ill, so Mum got food out ready. She didnt put out ANYTHING that I'd made - chocolate fudge, cakes, flapjack... DH was lucky that the birthday cake he made was out. Mum was going to make a birthday cake! At least it was at my house so I could eat it, but I didn't want it, I wanted it out!

As for taking home - only if the hostess OKs it. We do this at book club, too much food. So I usually bring something back, either wine or food. I don't mind leaving a half-bottle of wine as I don't drink much these days and if someone can enjoy it, good for them. It was only a few quid, not bank-breaking wine.

I love bring a part of a meal ideas - one person brings a starter, the hosts do the main course, another person brings a pudding. Full meal, part of the price, less washing up! And a great night in with friends. Your food will be served too, and because you're catering for just 6 people (or +children, you know the numbers beforehand anyway) there's little in the way of leftovers. Problem solved!