Sweater weather is on its way!  As we tuck indoors during this chilly season, our thoughts on home entertaining turn to cozy fires and comfort food like hearty pastas, oven roasted vegetables and grilled meat.  When it comes to this type of dining, who better to ask than chef Marc Murphy who is known for his rustic Italian and French cuisine and his easy going style.

With cooler days ahead and tougher financial times to come, it’s no surprise that potluck dinners are making a swift comeback. With the chicest social types embracing the concept of hosting a party where their guests get a hand in the entertaining, the potluck dinner has been elevated from its simple bring-your-own-dish status to a creative group dining experience.

Of course, The Lazy Hostess loves the idea of easy home cooking with any army of sous chefs in tow so here are some fresh ideas and tips for hosting the modern day potluck: