The end of 2017 is quickly approaching, and for some, the year has been an absolute whirlwind! Fortunately for us, we have a reason for revelry - the holiday season is upon us! This year, many will be hosting the holidays in their new home, which can serve as a great occasion to show off your new digs. Here, we have put together some tips and tricks to consider as you ready your house to accommodate your guests and prepare to celebrate.

 

Organize and Declutter

            So, have you recently moved into your new home and some things haven’t quite found their place? Now is the time to get on top of it! According to a recent survey conducted by the fine folks at Duck Brand Tape, it takes nearly 183 days to fully unpack from a move! Since the holiday season is the time for giving, think about what you use and consider donating the items you don’t. Gently-used clothing and appliances can be donated to local charities, like the Salvation Army or St. Vincent de Paul thrift stores. Once your house is organized and free of clutter, you’re ready to begin the cleaning process! There’s nothing quite like hosting in an impeccably tidy home, and you’ll be sure to wow your guests. If you have stainless steel appliances, be sure to thoroughly clean them - this process will remove fingerprints and other debris. Opt for a lemon-oil based treatment for hardwoods, which will effectively clean the surface. It will also condition the wood for cold winter months (with low humidity) and prevent cracking.

Decorate, Decorate, Decorate!

            What would the holidays be without a little decor? While certain decorating styles might be a little too extravagant for the stylish homeowner (blow-up reindeer, Santa figurines, etc.), there are understated and elegant ways to prep your home - both inside and out. Starting from the house’s exterior, consider a wreath of fresh spruce laurels - and illuminate it with a modest spotlight from the ground. This will add a dash of holiday cheer without overdoing it, and the evergreen aroma will let your guests know they’re stepping into a festive haven. Inside, the most important design decisions involve the dining room. First, be sure that your table is adequate for hosting your guest; you don’t want your family and friends crammed around a tiny kitchen table! Pick a dining room table that reflects your own personal style, and jazz it up with holiday accoutrements. The crown jewel of an elegant tablescape is the centerpiece, so be sure to focus plenty of attention on your choice. Candles exude ambience and can go a long way! They add a classy focal point for your dinner guests while also serving as an moody light source.

Ready the Guest Rooms

            If you’ve upgraded from your modest starter home to a spacious new spot, it’s time to put all that room to use. By giving your guests adequate room to decompress from the festivity overload that tends to come with the season, they’ll be able to unwind and relax. Having a quality mattress or futon for your houseguests goes a long way ; it’s tough to get a good night’s sleep while dodging old springs on a vintage mattress! Flannel sheets are not only festive, they’re downright useful on a Canadian winter night. Consider purchasing a quality pair of flannel or thermal sheets, that way you can count on them lasting for years. A good down comforter can also help for a cozy night’s sleep, as well! Be sure to leave your guests a towel - this can free up room in a suitcase for those traveling to you! By providing adequate space and comfy dwellings for your visitors, you can help make their holiday a breeze.

 

            Whether you love hosting or dread it, the holiday season can be daunting and chaotic. But, by ensuring that your home is prepared for your guests, you can establish your prowess as the host(ess) with the most! Through this process, you can simultaneously exhibit your beautiful dream home and gear in for happy, healthy holiday!