You’d be forgiven for thinking it was only five minutes ago that we were enjoying the Holidays and New Year.
But as the chocolate eggs and bunny rabbits in the supermarket will have been reminding you for weeks now, Easter is around the corner.
It’s a wonderful time of the year when spring is in the air and Americans come together for church services, street parades of festive floats and elaborate costumes, and community egg hunts.
And let’s not forget the Easter egg roll on the South Lawn of the White House.
For many homeowners, this is a wonderful moment to host friends and family. If you love bringing your loved ones together, you’ve no doubt started making plans.
For those who find hosting a little stressful, I’ve put some ideas together for you.
Clean and organize: Ensure your home is clean and tidy before guests arrive. Focus on high-traffic areas. Pay extra attention to the entryway, living room, dining area, and bathrooms. These are the spaces your guests will use the most.
Surface Cleaning: Dust, vacuum and mop all surfaces. Pay attention to often-overlooked areas like baseboards and light fixtures. Clean windows inside and out to let in natural light and create a brighter atmosphere.
Create comfortable spaces: Arrange seating areas to encourage conversation. Ensure you have enough seating. Add throw blankets and pillows to seating areas for extra comfort.
Bathroom essentials: Stock up on extra toilet paper, hand soap and towels.
Kitchen capers: Start with an empty dishwasher to make cleanup easier after the meal. Clear countertops to provide ample space for food preparation and serving. Set out serving dishes, utensils, and platters in advance. Ensure you have extra trash bags.
Menu Planning: Traditional Easter dishes include roast lamb or ham, alongside fresh spring salads and seasonal vegetables. Ask your guests about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance.
Do the prep: Do as much food preparation as possible in advance to minimize stress on the day. A grazing table with cheeses, fruits, and small snacks is ideal if your guests arrive before the main meal.
Self-serve: Set up a drinks station to encourage guests to help themselves rather than have you run around after them.
Going outdoors: If the weather permits, tidy up your garden by weeding and pruning. The outdoor areas must be safe for kids. Put away any gardening tools that have been left out.
Staying inside: For indoor decorations, spring pastel hues are perfect for tablecloths, napkins, and decorations. Fresh flowers will bring a vibrant touch.
DIY decorations: Crafting Easter egg garlands, painting eggs or creating bunny-themed centerpieces can be a fun activity for everyone.
Don’t forget: Organize an Easter egg hunt, especially if children are invited.
Have a wonderful time!