We’re just a little over a week away from Christmas, and while this is an exciting time, it can also be busy and nerve wracking. This can be especially true if you’re the one who will be hosting family. There may be a lot to do around the house before you welcome friends and family in the door. But where do you start? Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is here to help. Here are seven tips to get you ready for hosting the holidays.
1.) Create a Welcoming First Impression
When hosting, the first thing that you want to do is make everyone get in the holiday spirit. You can boost curb appeal with simple seasonal touches like a fresh wreath, soft outdoor lighting or a cleared, well-lit walkway. By making decorating the outside, it creates a welcoming environment that sets the tone before guests even step inside.
2.) Declutter with Purpose
Inside, you can start by decluttering. Make room for guests by clearing entryways, countertops and high-traffic areas. Throw out excess things you don’t need. A tidy home not only feels calmer during the holidays but also showcases your space beautifully. Put out some holiday themed cookies or candy as a sweet treat for your guests as they walk in.
3.) Design Comfortable Conversation Zones
It’s important to make sure that rooms are comfy for your guests. Rearrange furniture to encourage gathering in certain rooms. Create small seating areas that invite conversation while keeping walkways open for easy movement throughout the home.
4.) Use Festive or Warm Lighting
The holidays are all about lighting. If you have a Christmas tree up, have it lit. Make sure to gave some classy lights around the house to add to the mood. Use a mix of overhead lights, lamps and candles to create a soft, inviting glow. Warm lighting instantly makes a space feel more comfortable and festive.
5.) Prepare Guest-Friendly Spaces
Have plans for things like where people will put their put their coats and shoes. Whether it’s a coat station near the door or a refreshed powder room with extra towels and soap, small details help guests feel cared for and at home.
6.) Keep the Kitchen Functional and Festive
The kitchen is often the heart of holiday gatherings. It’s going to be the spot that many gather to eat hors d’oeuvres, grab a drink or simply talk. Make sure to clear counter space for serving, prep in advance when possible and add subtle seasonal décor to keep the space both practical and inviting.
7.) Add Personal, Seasonal Touches
Display family traditions, favorite scents or meaningful décor pieces. It is the holidays and traditions are so important. Relax, have your favorite foods and sweets with your favorite people. Everyone will notices all of the thoughtful touches that make your house feel like a home—and that’s what the holidays are all about.
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services proudly provides real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance services across 14 states. As the largest family-owned and -operated real estate brokerage in the United States, Howard Hanna operates more than 500 offices with 15,000 sales associates and staff. Recognized as the most innovative brokerage, Howard Hanna provides solution-based programs and platforms to empower their agents to provide more resources for homebuyers and home sellers, resulting in their agents achieving a sales success rate that is 53% higher than agents at the top 1000 brokerages nationally. Since 1957, Howard Hanna has helped agents build the skills and experience needed to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of real estate. Learn more at www.HowardHanna.com.
