When unexpected guests are on their way and you’ve only got an hour to prepare, the idea of getting your home ready can seem daunting. However, with a little ingenuity and a few quick tricks, it’s entirely possible to make your space welcoming and presentable. Recently, I sat down with Emily Lawson, a seasoned interior design enthusiast and self-proclaimed hostess aficionado, who shared her secrets for sprucing up a home in under 60 minutes.
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As I arrived at Emily’s quaint suburban home for the interview, I was greeted by an inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm lighting that instantly put me at ease. Emily, with her affable smile and effortless charm, seemed like the perfect guide to talk about last-minute hosting tips.
Tidy Main Spaces with the ‘Laundry Basket Method’
Emily’s first tip was her go-to method for a quick clean-up: the ‘Laundry Basket Method’. “It’s my lifesaver,” she laughed. “When you’ve got limited time, you need to be efficient. I grab an empty laundry basket and dash around the main rooms, picking up anything that’s out of place or doesn’t belong there. It’s amazing how much clutter you can gather in just a few minutes!”
By gathering misplaced items in one place, Emily explained, you save time on putting things back immediately and can focus on creating a tidy environment. “Once the guests leave, I can sort through the basket and decide where things should actually go,” she added.
Tackle the Bathroom
Next, Emily stressed the importance of a clean bathroom. “Guests will almost always use the bathroom, so it’s non-negotiable,” she emphasised. Her routine involves a quick wipe of the sink and toilet with disinfecting wipes, clearing personal items, and replacing the hand towel with a fresh one. “A scented candle or a spritz of air freshener can also work wonders,” she suggested. “It makes the space feel more inviting and cared for.”
Air Out Your Space
Emily’s third tip was to refresh the air inside. “Even if it’s just for a few minutes, opening the windows lets in fresh air and can make a huge difference,” she explained. For cooler days, she recommended lighting a fragrant candle or using a room spray. “And if you have the time, brewing a pot of coffee or baking a quick batch of cookies can create a welcoming aroma that’s hard to resist.”
Layer Your Lighting
Creating the right atmosphere was next on Emily’s list. “Lighting can transform a space instantly,” she said. “Switch off the harsh overhead lights and use lamps or candles to create a softer, more inviting glow.” Emily’s preference is for unscented candles, especially if she’s serving food, to avoid clashing scents. “It’s all about setting a cosy mood,” she added, with a twinkle in her eye.
Set Out Some Tasty Snacks
No gathering is complete without a few nibbles, and Emily had some straightforward suggestions. “You don’t need a full spread,” she assured me. “A few bowls of nuts, some cheese and crackers, or even a simple veggie platter with hummus can go a long way.” Her golden rule? “Make sure no one leaves hungrier than when they arrived.”
Have Some Drinks Ready
Emily also recommended having a selection of drinks on hand. “A self-serve drink station is perfect,” she noted. “Have a couple of wines ready—uncorked, if possible—along with some fun non-alcoholic options. It’s about giving your guests choices without them needing to ask.”
Add Some Good Music
Finally, Emily underscored the power of music in setting the mood. “Music is one of those things that can really elevate a gathering,” she said. “Have your playlist ready to go, and if you can, play it through a speaker rather than your phone for better sound quality.” She smiled, adding, “When the right song is playing, people are far less likely to notice any little imperfections around the house.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I couldn’t help but admire Emily’s ability to effortlessly create a warm and inviting atmosphere, even at short notice. With her practical advice and infectious enthusiasm, she made it clear that hosting doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming.
So, next time you find yourself in a last-minute hosting pinch, remember Emily’s tips. With a little preparation and creativity, you can transform your space into a welcoming haven in just an hour or less.
Sarah Dale
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