How to Become a Perfect Holiday Host

December 13, 2023

How to Become a Perfect Holiday Host

Being able to entertain guests is one of the pleasures of property ownership. 

So many wonderful memories with family and friends can be created under your own roof.

These tips will help you deck your home in festive decorations. 

Just remember to tone it down if you're selling your home right now as big trees, lots of tinsel and lights won't sell your home.

Color coordinate

If you research the products available at local retailers and online sites, you'll quickly see you don't need to restrict yourself to the traditional red and green. Coordinating gold and silver is a great, light and bright approach. Whatever your choice, make sure everything matches.  

Keep traditions

A wreath on the front door and stockings hanging by the fireplace are two Holiday must-haves. But, all decorations hung near heat sources, whether an open fire or space heater, should be done with the greatest caution.

Tree choice

With guests coming, you'll want to maximize the available space in your home. Don't choose a tree that will dominate your living area. If in doubt, measure the allocated space so you don't find a tree that's far too large for your home.

Soft lighting

You can have a wonderful winter atmosphere with strings of colorful lights. Always check the quality of wire insulation before hanging them. Also, consider the safety aspect of connecting additional lights. Be careful to avoid overloading your electricity board. 

Makes scents

Use essential oils to give your home Holiday fragrances like vanilla, cinnamon and pine. Scented candles offer similar benefits. Electric candles also emit scents if you're worried about having naked flames in your home.

Snacks and drinks

Stock up on both, as they're critical to being a successful host. You should have plenty of non-alcoholic beverages for kids and adults alike. 

Guest room

If you're having folks staying over, it's a lovely idea to have fresh linen, towels, and new pillows. You can even make up a small basket of travel-sized toiletries.

Music playlist

Many hosts love to have music playing in the background. So, why not create your own favorite playlist of Christmas tunes and hymns to add to the atmosphere?

Fun times

If you're worried your guests might get a little stir-crazy, ensure you have some board games within easy reach. Also, arrange trips, including a day at the movies and long walks.

Recent Blog Posts

Do Canceled and Expired Listings Reveal Different Market Conditions in SLO County?

Amber Johnson  |  November 10, 2026

Learn what each listing outcome may mean, what it leaves unanswered and how price range, location and timing affect the comparison.

How Should You Price Your Home to Sell in SLO County?

Amber Johnson  |  November 9, 2026

House exterior during an inspection, with a worker checking an open ground utility hatch and an agent observing.
What Should Buyers Check Before Buying an Arroyo Grande Home with a Septic System?

Amber Johnson  |  November 9, 2026

Review inspection findings, service records, capacity, access and local requirements before relying on the system.

A wooden boardwalk crosses a marsh beside calm water, with a visitor and ducks in view.
Is Los Osos a Good Fit if I Want Birdwatching in My Weekly Routine?

Amber Johnson  |  November 8, 2026

Compare access, timing, seasonal conditions and home-to-trail logistics before building regular birdwatching into life in Los Osos.

Home inspector points out exterior details to a woman beside a stucco outbuilding.
What Should Buyers Check Before Buying an Oceano Home with a Detached Studio?

Amber Johnson  |  November 8, 2026

Verify the separate structure's records, condition and permitted use before counting on it.

A couple studies a map on a leafy downtown sidewalk.
What Is Everyday Life Like near Broad Street in San Luis Obispo?

Amber Johnson  |  November 7, 2026

Compare specific homes by their street setting, daily routes and access to the places you use.

Family gathers around a map at the kitchen table, with backpacks nearby and wooded hills outside.
Is Cambria Practical for a Household with School-Age Children?

Amber Johnson  |  November 7, 2026

Test school logistics, activities and daily routes from the specific home you are considering.

Pick Your North County Saturdays
3 Ways to Spend a Saturday in North County SLO

Amber Johnson  |  November 7, 2026

Bedroom with an open organized closet as a woman reviews a clipboard.
How Should I Market an Atascadero Home with Limited Closet Space?

Amber Johnson  |  November 7, 2026

Show usable storage honestly and help buyers see how the home's layout fits daily life.

Let's Talk

You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.

Follow Us