(Because nothing says “holiday spirit” like panicking 24 hours before guests arrive.)

The holidays always sneak up on us. One minute we’re plugging along, minding our own  business, drinking a pumpkin spice latte… and the next, someone texts “Can’t wait to see you  this weekend!” and suddenly we’re standing in the hallway doing our best Kevin McCallister  impression— 

(Insert a visual of Kevin in your mind with his hands on his cheeks in full panic … because it’s  all of us.)

But take a breath. Fortunately you don’t need a full home makeover to whip the house into shape. Just a few strategic moves, a little planning, and maybe a cocktail (see tip #3). Here are my five go-to tips for getting your home guest-ready without losing your sanity… or let’s face it,  your holiday joy.

1. Fresh Bedding: Because Your Guests Deserve Better Than
Your 2014 Sheets

Let’s be honest—most of us wait way too long to upgrade bedding. If your guest sheets have lost their will to live or your pillows are flatter than your energy by mid-December… it’s time.  Fresh bedding instantly says, “We love you! Please come back!” instead of, “Sleep at your own  risk.” We stumbled upon this great bedding company at market that does beautiful monograms and who do you think ordered some fresh new bedding.

We reminisce back to these beautiful guest rooms designed for our clients just for occasions like this. And both had to be extra cozy because they have two grown children and fighting over the good room right off the bat isn’t very becoming “holiday”  behavior.

2. Declutter & Style (a.k.a. Hide the Chaos and Pretend You
Live Like This All Year)

Before getting to the deep clean, do a quick designer-style sweep:  

Remove the mystery piles- it’s amazing how quickly these little mounds of visual clutter appear.  Fluff the pillows you haven’t touched since August.  

Pull your accessories together so it looks like you “effortlessly” styled the room (don’t worry,  your secret is safe). This is the fastest way to look polished—and it’s oddly satisfying. And if you feel the pillows are past the point of fluffy return then a quick trip out to gather a few fresh replacements may be in order. Homegoods to the rescue!

3. Stock the Bar + Pick a Signature Cocktail (Your Holiday
Survival Strategy

Nothing sets the tone like greeting guests with a good drink.  

Choose one signature cocktail—something that says, “I have my life together,” even if the rest of the house says otherwise.  

A well-stocked bar also conveniently shifts attention away from any corners you didn’t get to declutter. Win-win. 

Here’s a great festive pomegranate martini recipe.

4. Add Festive Décor: Twinkle Lights and Flowers Fix
Everything

Already have your holiday décor up? Great. Now add just one layer of greenery, twinkle lights,  or fresh florals so no one can tell how long those bins have been sitting in your basement.  A little glow makes every home feel magical… and distracts from anything you didn’t clean.  (Mood lighting is a gift.) I like to grab some fresh greenery when I’m out getting my tree. It makes everything so festive when you sprinkle it around.

5. Snacks & Meal Prep: Because Hungry Guests Are Dangerous

Plan ahead so you’re not sprinting to the grocery store mid-visit.  

Have snacks ready. Prep a few meals. Hide something indulgent for yourself because it’s the holidays and you’ve earned it.  

Your guests will think you’re effortlessly put-together. You’ll know the truth. And that’s fine.  One of our favorite go-to munchies is a yummy, warm, oozing baked brie.  

(Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe; Food Styling: Brett Regot via The Kitchn)

Hosting doesn’t need to be stressful, dramatic, or emotionally scarring. With a few intentional touches (and a batch of your signature cocktail), your home will feel warm, inviting, and ready for the chaos—er, magic—of the season.

XOXO,

Erika