Holiday help needed!

Hi lady chefs: I'm in a mild panic: I'm hosting Christmas night at our ahem, cozy, abode. We're anticipating 17 people! I don't have room for a sit-down meal and I've informed the family of this. The actual invite says "there will be plenty of food, but not a formal sit-down meal." SO, here's my dilemma: What should I serve?! I want to have a buffet of food that folks can easily eat in their laps -- like cocktail party food. However, it needs to be fancy enough and substantial enough to pass as dinner. All of Kevin's family are good cooks and are willing to contribute dishes. But what should I tell them to bring? What should be the main protein? Any ideas for fully loaded cocktails to get everyone tipsy so they don't notice the food? Comment here or shoot me an e-mail if you have suggestions! Lori lbotterman@tribune.com or here!