Preparing your home for Christmas guests

The festive season is all about joy, celebration, and creating memorable moments with loved ones. If you're hosting Christmas guests this year, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring their comfort and making your home feel extra special. 

Here's how you can prepare your home for Christmas guests:

• Deep clean and declutter

Before you bring out the decorations, take time to deep clean your living spaces. Vacuum carpets, polish mirrors, and wipe down surfaces to give your home a fresh, inviting feel. Decluttering is equally important-clear away unnecessary items to make space for guests and their belongings.

Focus on the kitchen and bathrooms, as these areas will see the most traffic. Scrub appliances, clean countertops, and stock the pantry with essentials. In the bathroom, provide fresh towels, extra toilet paper, and festive hand soaps to add a touch of holiday cheer. A quick spritz of a seasonal room spray or diffuser can also create a welcoming ambiance.

• Create a festive atmosphere

Your holiday décor sets the mood for Christmas gatherings. Begin with the entrance-hang a festive wreath on the door, frame it with twinkling fairy lights, and place a seasonal welcome mat. Inside, let your Christmas tree take centre stage, adorned with ornaments that complement your chosen colour scheme.

For the dining area, a holiday centrepiece made of candles, pinecones, or fresh greenery adds an elegant touch. Don't forget the smaller accents: garlands draped over mantels, stockings hung with care, and a hint of sparkle in unexpected corners. Thoughtful, cohesive decorations can transform your home into a holiday haven.

• Prepare guest bedrooms

If guests are staying overnight, their comfort should be a top priority. Start with crisp, clean linens on the bed, along with a variety of pillows to suit different sleeping preferences. Provide lightweight throws or breathable cotton sheets for a comfortable night's sleep in the summer heat.

Thoughtful extras make a world of difference. A bedside lamp for nighttime reading, a carafe of chilled water, and a basket with travel-sized toiletries can make guests feel at home. To add a festive touch, consider leaving a small wrapped gift, a Christmas card, or a lightly scented sachet on their pillow. If space is tight, spruce up your sofa bed or set up a cosy corner with an air mattress and a fan for added comfort.

• Stock up on essentials

Avoid the stress of last-minute errands by stocking up on household basics well before guests arrive. Ensure you have plenty of toilet paper, tissues, and cleaning supplies. Don't forget the festive staples-ingredients for light, summery dishes, a variety of beverages, and refreshing snacks.

In the kitchen, plan meals that embrace the season, like fresh salads, braai dishes, or seafood platters. For drinks, set up a festive refreshment station featuring chilled sparkling water, lemonade, or iced tea, with options to add fresh fruit or mint for a summery twist. A self-serve cocktail or mocktail bar with ingredients like prosecco, rosé, and tropical juices can add a celebratory touch, perfect for the warm weather.

• Enhance comfort and entertainment

Creating a comfortable and entertaining environment ensures your guests feel at ease. For a summer Christmas, focus on outdoor spaces. Arrange seating in shaded areas with plenty of cushions and outdoor rugs for a relaxed vibe. Set up portable fans or misting devices to keep everyone cool, and have citronella candles or bug spray handy to ward off insects.

Entertainment is key to keeping the holiday spirit alive. Create a playlist of upbeat Christmas classics and consider outdoor-friendly activities like lawn games, a poolside braai, or a festive picnic. For families with children, set up a craft station for decorating ornaments or making festive cards. If the evening cools, gather everyone for stargazing or an alfresco movie night with a portable projector.

• Focus on safety

Safety should remain a priority amid the celebrations. Clear walkways of any decorations or cords to prevent tripping, especially with elderly guests or children around. Ensure that outdoor areas, such as patios or decks, are in good condition and free of hazards like loose boards or uneven surfaces.

For outdoor gatherings, check that umbrellas or shade structures are securely anchored, particularly if there's a chance of windy weather. If you're using braai grills, outdoor heaters, or candles, keep them at a safe distance from flammable decorations and ensure a fire extinguisher is nearby. Providing sunscreen and insect repellent is another thoughtful touch to ensure your guests stay comfortable and safe in the summer sun.

• Add personal touches

What makes a holiday gathering truly special are the personal touches that show thought and care. A personalised place setting at the dining table with fresh flowers or tropical greenery, a handwritten note for each guest, or a basket of seasonal treats like locally made goodies can create a sense of intimacy and warmth.

For guests visiting from afar, incorporate local traditions or prepare a meal featuring regional summer specialties, such as fresh seafood, grilled dishes, or tropical fruits. Serving a chilled beverage or signature summer cocktail can also add a festive yet refreshing touch.

As the holiday season unfolds, we at Knight Frank want to extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May this festive time be filled with joy, laughter, and treasured moments spent with those who matter most. Thank you for being part of the Knight Frank family. We look forward to another year of helping you find homes that inspire and bring you closer to what matters most. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!