The Welcome Mat

The first few minutes spent receiving your guests set the tone for warm hospitality. Make it seamless with these welcoming tips for hosts.

Greet each guest at the door, look them in the eye, hug them. You might not get to chat with everyone, so give a guest your undivided attention upon arrival.

Portable coat and shoe racks are inexpensive, and often collapse for storage: placed in a foyer or hallway, they keep the door clear.

Avoid rummaging through a coat-heaped bed by removing family items from entry hooks, closet, mudroom or foyer, clearing them for guest use.

If you have a no-shoe house, tell guests in advance so they can wear appropriate hosiery or bring slippers. A basket of slippers at the door for guests to help themselves is also a nice touch.

Set the table the day before, so you have one less thing to stress or worry about.