Now that you have your dining table picked out, the rug under it and the table setting atop it, it’s time for a couple of quick tips on dealing with the guests that will be eating around it! The holidays inevitably bring extra people into our houses and there are a few things that drive me crazy (I say this with love if my family is reading!)–the number of glasses sitting in my sink, coats thrown on every surface and towels hanging on the edge of every door. But, this year I’m happy to say that I’ve armed myself with a few tips that should keep my house a little more organized when we have guests.
First, those “dirty” glasses. I swear they’re all in that sink because everyone’s forgotten which one is theirs so they just grab a new one. The solution? Assign everyone a glass and clearly mark it. Even on a daily basis my kids each have a glass that they must use ALL day long. I bought two different looking glasses (a rocket ship and a butterfly) and assigned a glass to each of my kids. After using their cup, I simply rinse it out and leave it on the counter for the next time they want something to drink. I can’t tell you how big of a difference this has made in comparision to all the cups we used to go through. So why not do this when you have a large gathering at your house? Although, I would make them look a little nicer than a plastic rocketship glass! Check out this great tutorial from Martha Stewart about using contact paper to etch initials or monogram on a glass. Looks so pretty and will have you running the dishwasher far less!
Now onto those coats and towels. My answer: Command Hooks. I’ve blogged about these before (in this post)Ā andĀ hands down, these are one of my favorite household tricks. When you’re expecting extra guests hang these up by the back door and you instantly create more hanging space for all those coats. Or, add themĀ to the back of the bathroom door so there is more room for guests to hang their towels. These hooks can be easily removed when your guest leave. They come in various finishes and sizes and hold different weight limits so make sure you choose appropriately.
Ā Do you also find yourself doing way more laundry when you have guests because everyone forgets who used what towel so instead in it goes to the laundry and out comes a new one? Taking a cue from the monogrammed glasses, I love this idea–sew a ribbon loop to each towel and assign a color to each person so they’re clear which towel is theirs. A plus? With a quick glance you’ll know who the culprit is who didn’t hang up their towel.
Feel saner already? I do! Get ready, because those holiday guests will be here before you know it.
