How to Spruce Up Your Home Before a Holiday Party

Holiday parties are a tradition in many households, and hosting one can be a fulfilling experience. Perhaps you’ve spent weeks preparing for this party, meticulously mapping out each and every aspect. Maybe it’s been a truly last-minute affair. Regardless, you probably want things to be just a little more festive, to add a little more atmosphere to your event. There are many suggestions as to how you can spruce up your home right before your holiday party.

Take a look around and decide which rooms you want to use for the party, and close the doors to any other rooms. Focus only on the areas that will be used by your guests. Check to make sure that these areas are clean and clutter free, and then remove anything breakable. Also remove anything that might be in the way, and add more seating if you have to. Make sure your kitchen is clean (if you're looking to add some holiday scent, use pine scented cleaner), and put any used dishes in the dishwasher. Clear out your hall closet to make room for the coats and boots of your guests.

Once your home is clean and prepared for guests, analyze your décor. If you have any unused strings of lights, pull them out and find places for them. They can be draped over doorways, wrapped around banisters, or simply placed on a mantel or window pane. Garland, which is relatively inexpensive, can be used in many of the same ways. Combine lights with garland for a truly sparkling effect.

Candlelight is warm and inviting, so gather up some candles and start placing them in strategic locations such as on the mantel, tables, sideboards, or anywhere else you can think of. If you have wall-mounted or hanging holders, especially if they’re particularly festive, use them if you can. Try adding glass beads or crushed glass at the base of the candles for added ambiance. If using scented candles, make sure the scents all complement each other. Keep scented candles off the dinner table, as they could interfere with enjoying your meal.

Exchange your regular throw pillows for more festive ones. These can be found at your local craft or discount store, and do much to enhance your décor. Consider a holiday throw as well, and perhaps a wreath or two scattered through the party areas, especially on doors. If your tree looks a little bare, add a few ornaments before guests arrive, and don't forget to plug in the lights. If you have pictures on the wall that you don't want to take down, consider making them more festive. Picture frames are easily wrapped to look like presents, and will almost certainly get some interesting comments from your guests.

Add some scent to your home. This can be done in a variety of way. Try using festive scented candles, air fresheners, or throw a batch of cookies in the oven. The right scent during your party will make your guests feel relaxed and welcome in your home.

Turn your attention to the outside of your home. Add a wreath, mistletoe, holly, even some jingle bells to make your front door seem a little more festive. Sprinkle some holiday sequence or red and green sparkles on the snow outside your door. If you have holiday lights on the exterior of your home, the sparkles will reflect the light and look very cheerful.

Ultimately, a holiday party is a chance to spend some time with your guests and enjoy yourself. Complete your last-minute sprucing up, and then take pleasure in your evening with friends and family.