What to Do: Ask each person to help with a specific task geared to his talents, personality, and availability. Spell out exactly what you need in advance and how much time it will take, says event planner Patty Sachs.

What Not to Do: If you’re nervous about handing over control, don’t ask someone else to do the jobs you’re most concerned about (say, styling the pièce de résistance decoration or finalizing the invitations). You’ll only be more frustrated if it doesn’t turn out as you had hoped. And don’t assign someone a job if showing her how to do it will take longer than doing the task yourself.

Sample Script: “I loved the centerpieces you made for your last party. Would you be able to do something similar for the spring gala?”