You might love welcoming friends and family into your home. Whether for an elaborate evening meal, a simple afternoon coffee, or a DVD night; these occasions give you the chance to catch up with your loved ones, and to show off your hosting skills. However, before you open your doors, it’s important to make sure your property is in tiptop condition for receiving guests.

Make sure your rooms are spic and span

Firstly, make sure your home is clean.Nothing is more off putting to visitors than dust, grime and suspect smells. Give yourself enough time to clean your kitchen and bathroom areas thoroughly, and focus your attention on the other areas of your home where guests may go, like your lounge. Don’t forget to empty the trash too, and if you have time, you could even give your pets a bath to keep any unsavoury animal odours to a minimum.

Clear the clutter

Clear any clutter too. This will help ensure your home looks welcoming, spacious and stylish. Start by removing any debris from your driveway and front porch area. You might also need to remove some coats and shoes from your porch to ensure there’s plenty of space for your guests’ apparel.

Set the scene with the perfect lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the perfect ambiance for different occasions. For example, if you’re relaxing in your living room, try to steer clear of bright ceiling lights. Instead, create a cosier, more intimate atmosphere with the help of floor and table lamps. Meanwhile, if you’re trying to set a romantic scene, some candles will come in handy.

Stock up on supplies

Ahead of any social event, it’s important to stock up on supplies. You don’t want any awkward situations where your food runs out or your drink runs dry before people have had their fill. Try to do your shopping in advance to avoid last-minute panics, and make sure you know if any of your guests have special dietary requirements.

As long as you’re organized when you’re preparing your property for social events, you won’t struggle to impress your guests.

Image byemily @ go haus goused under the Creative Commons license.