It’s that time of year again, and many of us have mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety when we consider how much work it can be to host our family and friends. A study revealed that hosts typically spend 4-6 hours cleaning their homes before welcoming guests, with most feeling anxious about clutter. Organized spaces can help you spend less time stressing and more time enjoying your guests!
I encourage you to embrace the joy of the upcoming holiday season and approach this time with your family and friends with a strategic plan and some thoughtful organization. This month we will talk about how to do just that and make hosting easier and more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Set the Stage Early
Plan Your Space. Walk through each area your guests will use such as the living room, kitchen and guest room. Consider what small changes you can make that will make a big impact such as open spaces, fresh flowers, dedicated space for your guests.
Declutter the Common Areas. You don’t have to conduct some deep purge, just put things away. You can do that easily by using your existing storage or attractive baskets to remove any unnecessary clutter such as mail and your gym pass and headphones that live on the kitchen island. This will leave plenty of free space for food, drink and your guests as they make themselves at home.
Entryway Organization. Create an inviting entryway for guests by providing room in your coat closet or a few free hooks, a shoe rack and a spot for guests’ keys and bags as they arrive. This considerate gesture will make guests feel welcome right away.
Guest Space Refresh Before Hosting
I recommend organizing the guest spaces in advance so you can avoid last-minute stress.
Freshen Up Guest Rooms. Give your guest rooms a good clean out and freshen them for holiday guests. Consider what would make you comfortable if you were away from home and place those items in your guest rooms. Some examples are:
Sleeping mask & ear plugs
Bottled water
Sewing kit & ironing board
Extra blankets & pillows
Luggage rack or a space for luggage
Clock
Books from your “already read” list
Guest Bathrooms. Here are some thoughtful items to include in your guest bathrooms to cover all the bases in case something is forgotten.
Stock with extra toiletries & towels
Clear space for guests’ personal items
Makeup wipes and/or makeup washcloth
Bathrobe & slippers
Organize for a Stress-Free Kitchen
Despite all the planning, 70% of hosts admit they forget at least one key item for their holiday event. Staying organized can help you avoid that last-minute run for cranberry sauce!
Inventory Check. Review your pantry and kitchen tools to make sure you're ready for holiday cooking. Use your recipes to create your grocery list so you are less likely to forget a critical ingredient. Buy all your shelf-stable items in advance of the holiday, so you are less likely to forget items. Ask your guests about any special dietary preferences or restrictions and add those things to your shopping list.
“To Go” Food Storage. Ask your guests to bring some of their own food storage containers so you can send them home with leftovers or have extras on hand.
Create a Cooking Zone. Make a plan for designated cooking and serving stations which will keep things running smoothly from meal prep to the turkey carving.
Set the Table Ahead of Time. Set the table a few days early so it is done and you can enjoy its beauty before the big day. This will minimize the mad dash to get everything done on the big day.
Set Up the Buffet or Drink Station. If you have the space, organize a dedicated area for self-serve drinks or snacks to encourage guests to help themselves and relieve some hosting duties. You can convert this on the holiday for day of use as well.
Remember to organize for fun, not perfection. It’s important to point out that hosting is about connection, not having a “museum-level” home. With just a little planning and organization, you can focus on enjoying your guests rather than inviting stress about the details. So, get ready and have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday doing what truly matters … making memories with your loved ones and being thankful.
Get your house in Good Order, and follow me on Instagram and Facebook (@goodorderllc) for inspiration. Subscribe to my blog for more tips like these.
— SCG