Are you hosting guests at home this year? Fantastic! Other than the menu that you have planned for them, have you thought of your guests? How will they feel welcomed, what will they be thinking once they get inside your house? And also, what will make their night memorable? Here are 10 rules to follow to make sure that your holiday party is THE holiday party.

 

1. Make sure there’s space for coats

You think that there’s enough space in the entryway and in the wardrobe, but once your guests walk in, will you start looking for hangers and start doubling up coats? Don’t! Take time to clean out the closet, by putting your own coats temporarily in your room and by leaving enough space and hangers for your guests. If you’re hosting many people at once, maybe even bring out an extra rack or even put them in the guest bedroom.

2. Prepare a rug for your guests’ boots

More than once have I encountered guests scattering their boots messily in the entryway because there was no other place to store them. If you want to keep things organized, prepare a few rugs for boots and place them in the shape of a square. You can also cover the boot racks with little stones or even with a garbage bag.

3. Clean the washroom

Your guests will definitely have to visit your bathroom at least once during the night. If you don’t have time to clean up the entire house, at least dedicate some time to the bathroom. Make sure there’s enough toilet paper and extras, and that they are visible! Remove your bathrobes and towels and add a single hand drying towel. You can even leave one-use drying sheets, as long as you make sure there is a garbage can near.

4. Prepare a few hygiene items

It’s always better to have foaming handsoap or one that comes out of a pump, rather than a bar of soap. It’s also always nice to have a platter on which you can find floss, mouthwash, paper cups and any other items you think would be useful.

5. Invite them to drink

If you prepared a welcome cocktail, make sure to offer them to your guests the second they come in. You could also ask them what they would like to drink, if you make sure to keep a variety of drinks in the cooler behind (red or white wine, champagne, water, etc.).

6. Atmosphere is key

Light up a few candles, dim down the lights and make sure you have a playlist looping the entire night.

7. Think about allergies

Also ask your guests if they have food allergies or if there are things that they do not eat. Don’t forget about your pets! Keep them in a room apart with everything they need in order to avoid problems with your guests.

8. Make sure the table is ready before the night starts

A hostess that has time for her guests is way more memorable (in the good way!) than if she is busy with last minute details. Make the table prior to the event, set up the chairs for your guests before they get there and get all the cups and drinks you’ll need. That will also allow you to relax during the night!