With the festive season already upon us, an inevitable stream of guests will be merrily coming and going from our homes. As a host, it is important to create a welcoming atmosphere for those who take the time to visit; and how the home is presented is an important representation of you and your family. Whether you are hosting a gathering or having guests stay, you want to ensure you are putting your best foot forward and being a gracious host. Unfortunately, it isn’t always apparent on the best way to provide a welcoming atmosphere. I have provided some of my top tips on how to welcome guests through decorative elements.

How to create a welcoming atmosphere this festive season

Front door etiquette

Before the guests arrive, the path to the front door is all a part of the welcoming experience. Place plants and lanterns outlining the path to make it inviting. Once they reach the front door, ensure to have a welcome mat expressing your happiness for them to be there and also allows for guests to wipe their shoes before entering the home. If you wish for guests to remove their shoes, try placing a shoe rack at the entrance, and for an added touch, it is always nice to offer slippers in this instance.

Overnighter

For those guests staying with you, it is important to provide a feeling of a “home away from home”. Spoil your guests to make them feel special and ensure they are comfortable. Use flowers to create a fresh scent in the room and provide magazines for their reading pleasure. Keep the room neutral in color and design in order for it to suit everyone’s tastes. Try to stick to lighter colors to have the room feel open and inviting. It is all about the small details, so provide a water jug and glass in the room, as well as spare toothbrushes and towels for small but nice touches. For an added bonus, provide little details that represent the guest staying with you, such as their favorite flower or snack placed within their room.

Open it up

When people enter, you want the welcoming atmosphere to feel open and inviting. Place a mirror in the hallway so guests can check their reflection. It will also open up the entryway and make it appear larger. Natural elements always make a home more appealing so try placing flowers or other decorative ornaments, such as a bowl of fruit, on the entry table for an added touch.

On display

If you are having a gathering, be the host with the most and have a beverage cart readily available for guests to take from or make it easier for you to serve, as well as a variety of snacks laid out around the room. When hosting a dinner, ensure that the dining table is set up prior to guests arriving. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, and sometimes simply placing a tablecloth with placemats and flowers is enough to transform the table and have guests feel as if you have gone out of your way to host them for the evening.

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Keep it personal

Your home is a reflection of your personality and style. Ensure that this is portrayed throughout your home as guests will enjoy seeing your unique take on design. If you love art, create an art collection across the walls for guests to glance at. Always be true to yourself and your guests will feel the love that went into the home and ultimately be more at ease with the welcoming atmosphere you created.

About the Author – Medy Navani

Medy Navani is the founder and creative director of Design Haus Medy. He has become renowned internationally for the design of prestigious private homes and the creation of stunning bespoke interior design concepts. His design ethos hinges on “less is more”, using chic designs with contemporary furnishings.