I like to actually be hungry and wanting to eat when I sit down to this wonderful meal. Here are a couple of ideas: have a warm soup or appetizer course earlier in the day and then go for a walk with guests before coming back for the last round of cooking, and enjoy only drinks (for kids, cider and maybe some raw veggies) in the hour or two before the meal. And because the aromas of a long day of cooking can also reduce your appetite, try to get a breath of fresh air just before the meal (not always possible, but I find it worth striving for!).