How to Make a Big Impression through your Home’s Curb Appeal

Let’s face it. A day will surely come when you will have no choice but to entertain some pretty important “high and mighty” people or your special someone in the comforts of your very own home. This can be both exciting and terrifying at the same time. Why? Well, because you’ll be so consumed with the mere thought of how to make a good lasting impression while remaining your cool and collected unpretentious self. You go through a lot of pressure with what some people say “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

If your vibe as a homeowner is nothing like James Bond nor Nigella Lawson, then, inviting people to your home can be stressful. But, good news, with the right tricks up your sleeve, you can turn this around. With time, practice and putting great effort and thought when it comes to staying on top of everything about your home, you should be just fine. Just follow these practical tips.

Of course, the first thing to do is clean your house – as in, REALLY clean up every nook and cranny in every room.

Be sure to sweep or mop the floors, dust all surfaces, do the dishes and have them dried and stored properly, make the bed, pick up your stuff and put them back where they belong (be organized), vacuum, declutter, and throw out the garbage. Be sure that you have toilet paper, soap and a dry hand towel in the bathroom, too. Do what real adults do. While you’re at it, make your home smell great. You can either start lighting up a scented candle 30 minutes before your guests arrive or get your hands on some room diffusers. You can also have some fresh plants and flowers around your home. These make your home smell and feel fresher, bringing everything seen to life.

Show the best side of who you are with a signature piece of furniture, art or decoration.

The last thing you want is to have your home looking and feeling like a showroom. Be sure to add a personal touch with at least one statement piece- something that represents who you are and shows your impeccable taste and style. This statement piece sets the tone of your space. It can be an antique, a wacky piece, some photos, or a really personal keepsake. Whatever it is, be sure that it says something about you by itself.

Play good music.

Yes, your playlist will do wonders for you. Again, this depends on your personal preferences and having to know who your guests are. To be on the safe side, you’ll never go wrong with soft music like lounge jazz, funk, or the music of Billie Holiday. Music has long been known to set the atmosphere, so choose your tracks wisely. What you can’t say in words can be felt with music.

Be sure to restock your pantry, have beverages ready, and prepare a home cooked meal that you will later on serve with your special occasion dinner wear.

Nothing says you care about the people you invited to your home better than preparing things in the kitchen yourself. When your guests arrive, you would want to offer them a drink in your unique set of mugs or punch glasses. Serve food and appetizers in a set of matching dishes that are definitely not plastic. Do away with junk food and instead have some fresh vegetables, fruits, some gourmet cheese, some wine, and other snacks that have been leveled up a bit. Get in the zone and impress yourself!