Want tips on readying your home fast for impromptu guests—from instant bouquets to (yes) beautifully plated takeaway pizza? If you’re like us, you’ve had well-meaning friends shoot you a text announcing that they’re “in the neighbourhood. Can we drop by in 15?” The only reasonable reaction? Becoming totally flustered. The house is far from presentable, you’ve nothing to drink except flat diet ginger ale and no applaudable nibbles let alone…quality cheese!

This, some say, is increasingly the reality. Since the pandemic, entertaining has become less formal and more spontaneous. People are just excited about being able to gather in any way they can. Such drop-by visits call for a special kind of prep.

Here are our top tips on turbo-prepping for guests who’ve given you, say, 15 minutes notice. As you’ll see, the advice goes well beyond “fluff the cushions.” Caveat: No one expects you to squeeze every single strategy here into the tiny window you have for hospitality design. Pick and choose what works for you.

FORAGE BRANCHES

Snip a few from your garden and toss them into heavy-bottomed vessels. 

EMPTY THE SINK

Empty the dish drainer, too. It tidies your kitchen in a flash.

GET THE MUSIC RIGHT

Sonos to a crowd-pleasing Spotify Radio channel. The go-to for Haley Weidenbaum, a Los Angeles interior designer: “French Dinner Mix.” As soon as music is playing, it’s a party.

LIGHT YOUR CANDLES RIGHT AWAY

So the scent can spread and settle. 

THROW A TABLECLOTH OVER IT

This is a special occasion. Putting a cloth on a sideboard create a soft landing for a makeshift bar while a cloth on a dining table, indoors or out, sets a welcoming tone.

START DECANTING

Pour anything you have to drink into a glass pitcher or decanter to “quickly elevate the vibe. Prep an ice bucket to pull from the freezer as guests arrive.

PERFECT THE OBJECTS PEOPLE WILL NOTICE

Change the loo roll. Pile up the soap.  Make sure the loo is fresh. It’s really the only thing that matters to guests. eable refresh. Grab a tray, line up your glasses, or tea cups, with a pile of plates and napkins. It instantly looks festive.

DIM THE LIGHTS

Turn off overhead lighting and turn on pendants, lamps and wall lights. Think “moody and inviting” versus “stark and bright.

OPEN WINDOWS

If the weather is nice, the fresh air will help filter any staleness, and softly blowing curtains look romantic.

ORDER TAKEAWAY

It is an acceptable move given the circumstances. Some of our favorite parties are ‘catered’ by the local takeaway joint. Serve it on a pretty plate or cool ceramic, which is much more inviting than plopping down a bag or box. 

FLIP THE SOFA CUSHIONS

Plump any cushions and spritz common areas with room spray for a noticeable instant freshness.

Remember, 15 minutes before guests arrive is not the moment to redecorate. An imperfect house can put visitors at ease.