The 48-Hour Countdown!
Simple Staging Tips for a Stress-Free Host
We are officially in the home stretch! With just a couple of days to go, your "To-Do" list might still feel a mile long. But here's a secret: your guests won't notice if the baseboards aren't scrubbed - they'll notice the glow, the scent, and the mood. Here are our favorite "cheat codes" for hosting and decorating as we head into the 23rd of December.
1. The "Mood Lighting" Audit. In the design world, we say "overhead lighting is the enemy of intimacy." Tonight, walk through your home and turn off every big ceiling light. Ensure every room has at least three sources of "low" light - a Christmas tree, a floor lamp, and a few candles (or high-quality LED flickers).
- Pro Tip: If you have a TV in the main hosting area, put on a "Fireplace Yule Log" YouTube loop. It instantly adds warmth and movement to the room.
2. The Five-Minute Entryway Refresh. The entryway is your home's first impression. You don't need a full redesign; you just need to clear the clutter. Take five minutes to move the everyday shoes, mail piles and heavy coats to a bedroom closet.
- Style Tip: Add a small bowl of oranges or a sprig of pine to your entry table, with a delicious smelling candle. It looks intentional and welcoming the moment the door opens.
3. Style the Senses. If you missed our post on Stovetop Potpourri, now is the time! On the morning of the 24th or 25th, get your simmer pot or candles going early. It creates a scent memory for your guests that lingers far longer than the meal itself. It also hides the smell of whatever you might be frying or roasting in the kitchen!
4. The Grab-and-Go Drink Station. Don't spend your entire party bartending. Set up a self-serve drink station on a sideboard or even a kitchen counter. Group your glassware, a bucket of ice, and a festive garnish (like pomegranate seeds or rosemary sprigs).
- Decor Tip: Drape a simple garland or a string of beads around the base of your drink dispensers to make the station feel like part of your holiday decor.
5. Fresh Over Perfection. If your floral arrangements from two weeks ago are looking a little sad, don't panic. Pluck out the wilted flowers and leave the greenery. Sparse architectural greenery in a clear vase looks modern and "intentionally" minimalist. It's better to have a simple jar of fresh pine than a drooping bouquet of roses.
The Golden Rule of the 23rd: If it isn't done by tonight, let it go. Your home is a place for gathering, not a showroom. The best "decor" you can provide your guests is a relaxed, happy host.