Well you knew this was coming. The beauty of cooler fall temperatures and leaves beginning their vibrant change brings the inevitability of family coming soon to camp out at your place. Yes, its about to be the season of hosting.
If youre used to the last-minute scramble of urgently Googling carpet cleaners the day before Thanksgiving or making up guest beds at 3am on December 24, well, maybe you just like the adrenaline rush. Or, maybe you just need to plan ahead. We get it.
If you, and your house, are far from ready, you dont have to worry. Youve got time to make it host-ready. Follow these tips for the things you need to get your space all nice and ready.
Something cozy
A well-dressed bed is a prerequisite for a good host. If your bedding is looking a little ragged, its time for a refresh. It doesnt have a cost a bunch either. Hit Target or IKEA their down comforters start at just 49, or keep your eyes out for a Macys sale and combine with coupons from the local newspaper to get the best prices.
Something warm
Out-of-town guests coming from a warmer climate to a cooler one may not come prepared for the weather shift. A few throw blankets laying around will help. But you can be the best host ever by stocking up on gloves, scarves, and slipper socks for your guests. You can get them for a couple bucks at Walmart or the Dollar Store.
Something sweet smelling
When it comes to being a good host, places like Bath amp; Body Works is your friend. Put together a basket of holiday-scented items including a candle, soap, and body wash and leave it in the guest baths. Your visitors will appreciate the gesture. And, you can ensure everyone will smell good around the breakfast table
Something playful
Holiday gatherings are the perfect time to break out the games and involved the whole gang in a good time. Check out a few good options here. Or, buy a few packs of cards and a plastic poker chip set and start a Texas Hold Em tournament.
Something tasty
Yes, the holidays are time for all your favorite family recipes. But theyre also time for snacks and more snacks, and dont forget the post-dessert dessert. When you think youve bought more than enough chips, grab two more bags. If youre sure no household could ever go through all that lunchmeat, grab another family-sized package. And while youre at it, dont forget to stock up on toilet paper. Lots and lots of toilet paper. Costco, here we come
Something chef-y
Hows your kitchen look? No, really. Hows your kitchen look? You still have time to make some updates before three generations of >
Something warm 2
If you live in a cooler climate, youll want to make sure you keep it toasty inside. Be sure to check your furnace and fireplace ahead of time to ensure they are working properly. Then, dress up your fireplace accordingly, with festive dcor and an upgrade inside that you can enjoy all winter.
Something clean
About those carpets. Taken a good long look lately? You might want to do that now. Yeah, they get dirty. Its normal. But no one wants to stay in a home that has stained, filthy floors. Tends to make them wonder what else might not be so clean. Where the stains are so bad you cant make a dent, cover them with runners and throw rugs for a temporary fix.
Something for you
Why should your guests get to have all the fun? If youre tidying up your house anyway, think about bringing in something that will also give you some joy the rest of the year. Like a new couch maybe. Or a new flat screen TV. After all, you earned it after all that hosting.
