The holiday season is a time for celebration, laughter, and quality moments with loved ones. As the festive spirit takes over, your home often becomes the hub of activity, hosting planned gatherings, unexpected visits, and sometimes even overnight guests.
Preparing your space for these occasions doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of forethought and organization, you can create a welcoming environment that will make friends and family feel truly at home.
Whether you’re expecting a full house or the occasional drop-in, these tips will help you get your home guest-ready for the holidays. From organizing your guest bedroom to stocking up on treats, these strategies ensure your home looks and feels as inviting as possible.
1. Declutter and Beautify the Entryway
Your entryway is the first impression guests will have of your home, so make it count! Start by decluttering the space. Store out-of-season items, organize shoes, and tidy up coats and scarves. Adding extra hangers to the closet will ensure your guests have space to hang their belongings without feeling like they’re intruding.
This simple task will ensure your guests feel at ease and appreciated as soon as they enter your home– there’s nothing less welcoming than seeing your jacket crammed into a space that’s already overstuffed.
For a festive touch, consider adding a seasonal wreath to your door or placing a small, decorative table by the entrance with a bowl for keys and a vase of fresh flowers. Stylish woven baskets can also serve as temporary drop zones for shoes, hats, and gifts, keeping the space both functional and tidy.
2. Create a Cozy Guest Bedroom
If you have a dedicated guest bedroom, now is the time to transform it into a cozy retreat. Remove any items that don’t belong there—like office supplies or storage boxes—and make sure the room feels intentional and inviting.
A comfortable bed with fresh linens is non-negotiable. Add extra pillows and a soft throw blanket for a luxurious touch. If space permits, clear out a portion of the closet or dresser for your guests to unpack.
Even if you don’t have a guest room, you can make guests feel special by setting up a cozy corner in the living room with essentials like a robe, slippers, and a water bottle.
Read our full guide to de-cluttering your spare room ready for guests!
3. Refresh and Organize the Bathroom
A clean, well-stocked bathroom is key to making guests feel comfortable. Start by decluttering personal items, such as toiletries and medications, and storing them elsewhere. Use baskets or organizers to create designated spaces for your guests’ items.
Switch out old towels for fresh, plush ones and keep them neatly folded on a shelf or the bed. Stock up on extra toilet paper and consider adding small touches like luxury hand soap or a scented reed diffuser.
Don’t overlook the downstairs powder room, as it’s likely to be the most used space during gatherings. Keep antibacterial wipes nearby for quick cleanups and ensure the soap dispensers are full.
4. Organize the Kitchen for Entertaining
The kitchen often becomes the heart of the home during the holidays, whether for preparing meals, mixing drinks, or sharing snacks. To avoid chaos, organize your kitchen in advance.
Take inventory of your cooking and serving supplies. Do you need extra platters, bowls, or glasses? If so, consider borrowing or renting what you’re missing. Rearrange cabinets so frequently used items are easy to access, and make room for extra groceries by decluttering the pantry. Read our full Kitchen organization guide here!
Don’t worry about involving your guests in the meal prep. Hosting doesn’t mean all the pressure has to fall on your shoulders. Ask loved ones to bring a dish or pitch in with washing up. This also creates a fun and communal atmosphere with everyone pitching in!
5. Stock Up on Snacks and Treats
Holiday gatherings often involve impromptu snacking, so it’s wise to stock up on non-perishable treats like crackers, nuts, and chocolate. Dedicate a section of your pantry to these items so they’re easy to find when needed.
For long-stay guests, consider creating a personalized snack station with their favorite foods. Consider designating a separate storage space for guests filled with their favorite snacks. It will make them feel at home and eliminates any awkwardness about rummaging through cupboards, they can also add their own snacks or treat they may have brought with them.
6. Set Up a Drinks Station
A self-serve drinks station can take the pressure off the host while making guests feel at ease. Whether it’s a bar cart or a section of your kitchen counter, stock it with spirits, mixers, ice, and garnishes.
If you’re hosting overnight guests, consider a morning coffee and tea setup. Group your coffee machine, kettle, and mugs together, and add canisters of coffee pods, tea bags, sugar, and biscuits.
7. Prepare Linens and Towels
Clean, high-quality linens and towels are a small detail that can make a big impact. Check your linen closet to ensure everything is in good condition. If not, it may be time to invest in a new set. Wash them a couple of times before guests arrive to ensure they’re soft and fresh.
If your guests are staying for more than a few nights, place a laundry basket in their room to collect used towels and linens. This will help keep the room tidy and makes it easier to manage laundry while you have guests.
8. Deep Clean and Add Seasonal Touches
A thorough cleaning session will set the stage for a welcoming home. Focus on high-traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms. Dust, vacuum, and mop all surfaces, paying attention to details like baseboards and windowsills.
To add a festive flair, incorporate seasonal decorations. A Christmas tree, string lights, and scented candles can instantly elevate the holiday atmosphere. For guest rooms, small touches like a holiday-themed throw pillow or a stocking hung at the end of the bed can make guests feel extra special.
Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday
While the eight steps above cover the essentials, here are a few additional tips to keep your holiday hosting stress-free:
- Create a Pre-Guest Checklist: This can include everything from last-minute vacuuming to setting out fresh flowers. Having a list ensures you won’t forget anything in the pre-guest hustle.
- Plan Activities: If your guests are staying for several days, plan a mix of activities and downtime. Consider board games, local outings, or festive movie nights.
- Stay Flexible: Even with the best preparation, unexpected hiccups can occur. Staying adaptable will ensure you enjoy the season no matter what.
Make It Personal
Finally, adding personal touches can transform a good hosting experience into a memorable one. Consider leaving a handwritten note in the guest room, providing their favorite tea or coffee, or decorating the dining table with name cards for a formal dinner. These little gestures show thoughtfulness and make your guests feel cherished.
Creating a warm and inviting home is all in the details. They may seem small, but they leave a lasting impression.
Getting your home guest-ready for the holidays doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By starting early and focusing on creating a warm, organized, and comfortable environment, you can ensure your friends and family feel welcome and appreciated.
With a little planning, your home will be the perfect backdrop for holiday memories filled with laughter, love, and joy. So, light that candle, fluff those cushions, and get ready to celebrate the season with the people who matter most!