It’s the end of the year which means the holiday season. Yep, that time of the year when family and friends come around, it can be a weekend, a week or those impromptu overnight visits. You have to be prepared and be the host that can rival any BnB, and we’re taking away the stress and getting you ready with a checklist.
DEEP CLEAN AND DECLUTTER
Our grandparents’ deep cleaning in time for Christmas used to include even painting the house, oh the memories. But that’s a bit much, we mean a deep clean on the carpets, upholstery, floors and windows. Clean every room from top to bottom, especially items that haven’t been used in a while and don’t forget the outdoors. Also, fix anything that might need fixing and throw out what isn’t working. You can use this time to declutter and make sure your home is clean, tidy and welcoming for your guests.
GUEST AREA ARRANGEMENTS
If you have enough guest bedrooms or extra beds for everyone joining, great! It’s minor things like freshening up the guest bedroom; add last-minute things for extra comforts like a diffuser, a plant, and an extra pillow or blanket.
If you don’t have enough beds for everyone, then you have to make sure to have extra linen and blankets ready, an easy solution is an air mattress as you can pop them out as and when you need them. Or rearrange sleeping arrangements and kids give up their rooms for guests and share one bedroom or bed, you know the drill. Another important item for your home-to-BnB transition this holiday is the bathroom. Make sure you’ve considered your extra guests; essentials like toilet paper, soap, and fresh towels.
THE MENU
It wouldn’t be the holidays without gathering for a meal, and we do everything big during the festive season. Having extra mouths to feed doesn’t have to be stressful, things are expensive and it’s fair to ask family or friends who will be staying over to contribute financially. This way you can bulk buy groceries in line with your menu to make life easier for everyone. A simple menu for the time together will streamline the process of thinking about what to make each day. You can enjoy each other’s company and make meal preps an occasion with family and friends. Brainstorm some fun, easy meal ideas and we all know a braai is right up there with homemade burgers. It’s the holidays and you should be relaxing, so spending time in the kitchen shouldn’t feel like a chore for anyone.
DECORATE
If you like Christmas decorations for the holiday spirit then go right ahead. This can include a tree, wreaths, lights, and other festive decor. Consider adding some personal touches that make your home feel cosy and inviting. Not into Santa? Then make your home beautiful in a way that’s distinctly you. Get your favourite crockery out, change cushion covers, make the outdoor areas look beautiful, and add flowers and diffusers to make your home smell amazing. Another little detail that can be decorative yet functional with visitors around is clear jars on the kitchen counter. Fill them with sweets, biscuits and fruit so people can nibble during the day, yet it creates a nice focal space.
ENTERTAINMENT
The holidays are fun in the sun. Plan outdoor activities with your guests like picnics at a nearby park, and braais and if you live near the beach then the perfect beach day. Some home entertainment options like board games, and movies, and now, with all the streaming services make sure the Wi-Fi is great and all services are paid or your streaming landlord hasn’t kicked you out. Planning some activities is great, especially for kids but you can always just sit back and relax. It is the holidays after all.
By following these steps, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests during the December holidays, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and has a memorable visit. Oh, but lastly, don’t stress too much about the preparations; focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones. Sure we want them to enjoy the 5-star treatment but it’s been a long- year, you’re not a BnB owner and if things don’t go according to plan, cut yourself some slack.
