The best way to introduce our cat to a new puppy

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After considering for years I have finally decided I am ready to introduce a dog to the family.

She is a Lhaso Apso and we be 8 weeks when I bring her home. We have a 3 year old cat also.

What is the best way to introduce them both to create the least stress for them both?

Our cat has a cat flap so can come and go as she pleases. And I was thinking having a big crate for our puppy will help for when I'm not in the house and at night. Plus baby gates. So the pup has somewhere to go and the cat can go upstairs if she wants space.

Do things like introducing the smell of the pup before we bring her home help?

The first thing I'd say is not to introduce them - you'll be letting them get to know each other as it happens. Be prepared for the cat to sulk greatly. Make sure the cat can get safely out (ours are fed in the kitchen and their cat flap is from the utility room, so we have a baby gate on the kitchen), and never leave the dog unattended where the cat is - using a crate well is a good way to do this, and also lets the cat have time when the house is theres.
But then you leave them to get on with it - never allow the dog to bark, snap, or put a paw on the cat.

Sorry I guess introduce was the wrong choice of words.
Our pup will never be left alone with our cat until fully trained and both are very used to each other.

I just want to make it as comfortable as possible for them to get to know each other.

Our puppy and cat are gradually introducing themselves. We do see a lot less of our cat but hopefully this is temporary. The cat is spending most of her time in the garden or upstairs. I think the first week she was waiting for the puppy to leave but now she is gradually accepting her. The puppy gets so excited when ever she sees the cat, I would suggested keeping puppy on a lead or holding her when cat is around. We're a month is so it definitely takes a while.

I know it will take time. I'm happy to be patient.

Will getting a blanket that smells of her in the house before we get her help? Or would that make it worse?