Whether you’re preparing for a holiday, dinner party or movie night, there are some simple things you can do to prepare your home for the event to help ensure your guests have a fabulous time. Here are our 10 tips to make the most of your space and your furniture!

Tip #1: Take a good look at your home. Does it reflect who you are today and what you want to present to your guests? Or does it look more like who you were 5, 10 or even 20 years ago? This could be a great opportunity to upgrade to a new sofa or dining room furniture that’s more in line with your current design sensibility.

Tip #2: Accessories create visual interest and are a great way to punch up your room. Arrange accessories either symmetrically for a more formal look or asymmetrically to show off your creative side. Highlight a special accessory by placing it on or against a contrasting color.

Tips #3: Want an inexpensive idea for centerpieces and other party decor? Bring nature indoors with arrangements of leaves, stones and fresh flowers.

Tip #4: Create visual interest by mixing sizes, scales and textures – this works for furnishings, accessories, artwork and more. However, keep an eye out for anything that might make guests uncomfortable, such as side tables that are too low or small to reach when seated. If you love those items, repurpose them elsewhere or temporarily put them away.

Tip #5: Move furniture around to open up your floor plan and give guests the space to move freely.

Tip #6: Continue your party’s theme from room to room to give an uninterrupted flow to the ambiance.

Tip #7: Hang artwork that expresses who you are and encourages conversation.

Tip #8: Don’t decorate around an item you don’t like. If you’ve always winced at the sight of your sofa, table or carpet, this is the perfect time to make a change.

Tip #9: Opt for a buffet, especially if you are short on space at the dining room table. Your guests will appreciate the casual atmosphere to crowding in an area that is too small.

Tip #10: And when all is said and done, this is your home and your party. So don’t be afraid to go with what feels right to you, even if it’s the opposite of everything you hear or read.

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Categories: Design Tips, Dining Room Furniture, Living Room Furniture