10 tips for making your home a comfortable place to be

For some buyers, one of the most exciting aspects of home ownership is the newfound opportunity to entertain! Welcoming family and friends into your home to spend time together is a special part of being a homeowner.

To create a memorable and relaxing experience for your guests, there are so many ways that you can make your home a welcoming place. Take a look at these tips and start planning that awesome get-together!

Ambiance

Set the mood with a great playlist, choose your tunes to match the type of party you’re hosting and aim for pleasant, subtle background music that doesn’t inhibit conversation. Lighting is also important, light a few candles and use dimmer switches if you have them to obtain a cozy glow throughout your home.

Comfort

Comfortable seating is key. Cluster a few chairs together for pre-dinner socializing, clear off the couches and armchairs and think about investing in a few comfortable stools for the kitchen if space allows.

Make a statement!

Make a statement in your dining room with interesting window coverings and a spectacular light fixture. The dining room is also a good room to go bold with colour. Shades of red have traditionally been popular in the dining room as they are said to increase appetite and stimulate conversation. Other options include burgundy, orange, raspberry, terra cotta and gold.

Be prepared

Set the table the night before the party. Fresh flowers are a nice touch to any dining room table! Prep as much as possible in advance so that you can spend time with your guests. After serving the first drink, set up a bar area and encourage guests to help themselves. This will ensure everyone who wants another drink has one while giving you more time to tend to the meal and entertain.

While there are lots of things you can do to prepare for the evening, make sure you still have time to relax! Remember that you will set the mood for the evening. Be sure to have fun, laugh off the little hiccups and enjoy yourself!