How To Optimize Your Entryway Space Before Guests Arrive

When it comes to getting ready for guests, we focus on the main spaces: the living room, dining room, kitchen, and guest bathroom. But there's one space that's often neglected: the entryway. If you're like most of us, remembering to spruce up the entryway only happens minutes before your guests ring the doorbell. Luckily, there's a quick, three-step routine that you can do right now to optimize your entryway before your doorbell cam picks up the first sign of your guests.

If you're wondering if it's even worth polishing up your entryway — guests are only going to be there for a moment, right? — The answer is unequivocally yes. Your foyer, entrance hall, or just the space beyond your front door affects how guests see your home. Taking some time (or a few moments, if that's all you have) to create an organized, welcoming space can help guests relax. And, even better, the three ways that make your entryway feel even more inviting — inspect, tidy, and decorate — are flexible enough to be done in less than five minutes if needed. So, follow these simple steps to polish your entryway before your guests hit the driveway.

First, inspect your entryway like a guest. Walk outside, take a deep breath, then step through your door. Use all your senses to view the space. What catches your eye? Is there a spot to hang your coat? What does it smell like? Is it easy to move through the space? This can be an eye-opening experience, so don't judge yourself; this is all fixable.

Next is the second step: Tidy. Those things that caught your eye in the first step? It's time to put them away. If the clock is ticking down, grab a big box and tuck all the clutter away to tidy your entryway up in a pinch. Leave a few hooks free for guests to store their belongings. Dust tabletops, scrub away fingerprints on the light switches, and vacuum.

Finally, decorate. If your home smells stale, open the windows a bit for fresh air. Set out a candle or, for the old-school way of keeping your home smelling fresh, potpourri. Keep the scent light so it doesn't overwhelm guests when they walk in. Next, think about lighting. If it's daytime, open the curtains to let natural light in. In the evening, use lamps to create a soft glow. Avoid using overhead lights if possible (this will also hide any dust you missed), but if not, lower the dimmer switch. Last, add a touch of greenery for vibrancy. Maybe an evergreen bow from your yard, a few cut flowers in a bud vase, or even a fake plant to help pull the space together.