By: Simmone Clock of Homes by Simmone
Image credit: Erin McGinn | Source
The season of gathering is here! Whether you're hosting a friends-giving, family from out of town, a secret Santa exchange, or a full-blown New Year's Eve party, I'm guessing your home will be more crowded than usual this time of year. Let's be honest, hosting can be equal parts exciting and stressful, and every host wants their guests to feel comfortable and catered to. I personally LOVE to host and have found that it doesn't have to be stressful if your home is set up for it. Here are some simple ways to create a home that makes hosting and entertaining a breeze! But be warned, your family and friends are gonna want to keep coming back for more.
Gradually Clean in Advance
Starting off with a tip that is actually more for you than your guests. Self-care people! When your house is clean, it's one less thing to worry about (even subconsciously) and it gives you a blank canvas to prep your home for company. In the days leading up to your big event, gradually start cleaning your home. Vacuum, sweep, clean bathrooms and the kitchen, and get bedrooms ready in advance by washing bedding and making beds if needed. DO NOT do all of this the day of or even the day before. I've been there and I never seem to give myself enough time. Hello anxiety! If you have an event on a Friday evening, start your prep on Monday to ensure the only thing you will have to worry about is having too much fun!
Make Functional Modifications
Based on how many people you'll be hosting and what the purpose of the gathering is, you might want to make some modifications to your home to make things more functional. Think about if seating needs to be added- try these stylish and affordable Target poufs that can be easily moved around and work in almost any setting! - and if things need to be put away to allow more space. Consider switching up the layout temporarily to make room for your guests. For parties, make space in your closet for shoes and coats and bring out the bar cart!
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Set the Mood
Setting the mood is absolutely key to put you and your guests at ease. I always light candles, put music on and make sure that there is appropriate lighting. Starting a fire and switching on accent lighting as opposed to overhead lighting automatically makes your home feel cozier and more intimate. It's also fun to have games, snacks and drinks ready to go! How do you want your guests to feel during their stay? You call the shots!
Work With What You Have
Unless there is a theme, there's no need to go out and buy new décor, place settings, or serving utensils. Get creative with what you have and only buy what's necessary. I've dug deep into cabinets and closets to find platters, vases, and old decorations that I totally forgot I had. Pro-Tip: Create an aesthetic that fits the home you have! If you have a specific color scheme in your living or dining room, use that as inspiration and save yourself the worry of trying to fit a theme completely new. Comfort over perfection wins every time!
Have Fun!
Hosting doesn't have to be stressful! Think about the little things that you appreciate when visiting family and friends and come from a place of giving. Make it fun by pouring yourself a glass of wine and turning up the music while you make those final touches. I'm confident that you'll start enjoying hosting and your home will become a place that people love going to!
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Hi! I'm Simmone
I'm so glad you're here! I am an interior designer, realtor, owner of Homes by Simmone and completely obsessed with all things home. This blog is an exciting way to share my knowledge and grow my small business. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more!
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