How to Always be Prepared for Last-Minute Guests

[@joannmoon949]

A few years ago I had a student whose family was from Syria. His mom invited me to their home for a social visit. She served tiny cups of Turkish coffee and wonderful homemade treats. We talked about her life and family in Syria and she shared with me how it was part of their culture to have guests over frequently to socialize and she missed that very much. It is a very sweet memory for me and I felt so honored to have that experience.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

I love this so much

[@thekingsdaughter4233]

I understand that there's a shift in those cultures now, too... 😞 everyone working outside the home/away from home; and there isn't time to leave the door open for visitors (and serve dainty cakes and little sips of coffee/tea for hours on end). As an introvert, I find it fascinating that they have little cultural signals to indicate that a visit is not working right now, or needs to come to an end because of other commitments. Such as pouring the cup full instead of only half; or serving coffee instead of tea. Everyone understands the signals; and no one feels offended. 😊👍

[@fancynancy2888]

I love those cultural signals to end a visit! It is a better and subtle social cue than my parents' mentioning to guests that they have work early in the morning. 😄@@thekingsdaughter4233

[@ziyodagazieva4323]

Thanks for sharing your experience! That is how I was raised in Uzbekistan we would have unexpected guests once or twice a week. I don’t blame American culture, I have gotten so busy since I moved here, raising kids, going to college and working full time is no joke. I hardly have anytime to say hi to friends or family over the phone. I think it is also about the season of time. I believe when I get older and have more free time I would be able to keep on doing those traditions I was taught to do 😉

[@sunnygem21]

​​@@thekingsdaughter4233 that's very interesting. It reminds me of the ladies in the book Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell. There were rules about "calls" that everyone knew.

[@christinehucks6997]

Thank you. This is encouraging as we get settled in our new home.

[@elizabethtallman3280]

The main thing is to greet your guest with joy and not be flustered but just concentrate on your guest and not worry about how your house looks, in other words make them feel comfortable about coming over and not guilty about visiting you!

[@mortigan]

Very well said! 😊

[@Petra_T_J]

Amen to that❤😊

[@wendylevy9266]

I always smile at your videos, Jennifer. One thing I learned is that guests may feel like they are putting you out if you ask them if they want a drink or snacks. Putting them out without asking and taking some yourself makes them more comfortable to take some for themselves.

[@nancymiller4678]

Interesting point! I think I will change my words to say I was about to have …. would you stay and join me?

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Yes, just putting the items out and taking some for yourself makes your guest feel very comfortable.

[@moodymoody6456]

In our culture, it is unacceptable to ask your guests what they prefer to drink or eat. you should serve what you have starting with coffee and dates .you should insist on them to drink and eat what you serve. I am from Saudi Arabia.

[@silvaemilyanwhite]

My aunt (also my coworker) and my manager once stopped by my mom’s during their lunch break to drop off something on a hot day. Apparently my mom quickly served up some iced sparkling water and mixed in honey, and garnished with mint… to this day, my former manager (who’s since become a family friend) still talks about that little, simple hospitality. So I think it’s very important to offer spontaneous guests something a little special. I’m Armenian, and that’s a big part of our culture.

[@brianamartin5303]

One thing I'd add- cookie dough freezes so well and you can actually scoop it in individual balls onto a parchment paper lined cookie sheet as if you were going to bake, and then flash freeze it before bagging it for longer freezer storage! This way, when you go to bake, you just preheat the oven and toss on a few frozen cookie dough balls. My husband loves this too because if he wants something sweet, he can just bake one or two cookies instead of a whole batch and not risk over indulging. Thought I'd share! Thanks for all your lovely content, it's helped me so much!

[@elliebee6448]

I like to have my guest bed made at all times with clean sheets, just in case. I also have the guest bathroom ready with folded towels and a basket full of travel sized toiletries. It’s come in handy many times!

[@dsmith9796]

About 8 years ago my husband had a screened in porch built for me on the front of our house in SC. I had always wanted one - now I entertain on that porch 8 months out of the year!! I have girlfriends who are welcome to drop over anytime - I always say to them "I was just about to have a drink, I'll get you one too". that way they never feel like they are making work for me.

[@toniwadsworth7577]

Our 1820’s built home has an itty bitty guest bathroom which is located underneath the staircase. If you are over 5’10”, you will have to duck your head to get in and out of it. We call it our “ Harry Potter bathroom”. It has a toilet , sink , and a small stained glass window. The bathroom is large enough to turn around in but just barely. I made a little sign for this bathroom. It reads : We are not responsible for items lost in this room. Singed , The management. 😊 Tip: Humor goes a long way.

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Cute sign and I am sure your guests love it.

[@The_Stylish_Maker]

This was a great video. I really enjoyed it. I go a step further with my cookie dough - I roll it into tiny balls and freeze it on a tray. Once it's frozen I pop the little balls into a plastic bag in the freezer. That way, you an actually only bake the exact number of cookies that you need. Thank you for sharing.

[@sukispencer9804]

I have a friend who always has even the most simple treats in nice serving platters laid out already whenever I visit her. It shows she’s prepared to receive guests and thought of their comfort before they arrived. I always loved it and do it with my guests now (have a nice platter ready BEFORE they come). They are always so surprised and happy!

[@roseom2878]

I am so in love with your content and lifestyle. I have neglected all the things I have been taught growing up, and I have become too casual. Slowly incoporating more formal ways at home.

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you! ♥️

[@christaballerinarukavina6034]

Speaking of having cookie dough on hand, I always have Sweet Lorens in my fridge.The cookies are even pre-formed, so I just pop a couple of them in the toaster oven.They are gluten free, dairy free, plant based, and allergen friendly, so perfect for guests. The dough is even safe enough to eat raw. I'm partial to the Oatmeal Cranberry flavor, but they have other yummy ones like Pumpkin Spice and brownies (which I put a dollop of keto whipped cream on top of).

[@iriswelch3553]

My family is from Europe. Hospitality is a given! My mother would often comment that when you went to an American home, you wouldn't get so much as a glass of water! As for your guest bathroom, clean, fresh flowers, excellent! Great video, love this!

[@CG-mj8tk]

Yes I agree. Hospitality is a lost cause here in the states. It’s so sad.

[@nancymiller4678]

Let’s bring genuine hospitality and the joy of guests back!

[@adrianaj682]

Absolutely agree! I am a European and have been living in America for over 15 years. It has been my experience that most cultures are used to entertaining guests and making them feel welcome… except for Americans. We have hosted many friends over the years, but very rarely got invited to their homes, even though friendships continued. Anyway, I always stock up a few items to prepare appetizers/ finger food. Jennifer has already mentioned cheese, crackers, olives, fruit. I also keep hummus, vegetables and dip, baguette+cheese spread+smoked salmon, ingredients for mini open face sandwiches etc. .. and please, do offer your guests a glass of water. I doubt they will be offended🫣❤

[@janet-mariarodriguez9349]

I’m Southern and we’re usually very hospitable. 😊

[@CG-mj8tk]

@@adrianaj682 I have had same experience. People love to come over and stay for a while…even some invite themselves. I try to be hospitable always. But like you we RARELY almost never get invited. Strange. It’s always been this way for us as well. I would say just it’s me but like I said before…often some invite themselves over and stay quite a bit 🌼

[@Petra_T_J]

I loved the last tip: welcoming atmosphere ❤ It reminds me when we visited two different families,we had not seen for a long time, around Christmas time many years ago. The first home was quite messy with small children running around, but from the moment the host and hostess greeted us with joyful, warm hugs and expressed their pleasure having us over, we did not even see the mess. It was such a delight and we felt so loved. We missed coming back alreday when we were leaving. The other home was perfectly clean, every detail well considered. The couple, our friends, who lived their did nit have any children. One of the first comments when we arrived was them apologising because thei had not cleaned for a long time. I immediately could sense how stressed and nervous they felt. They served us wondrful dinner. But during the whole visit we felt like we were a burden to them. I was afraid our small children would make a mess. And felt sad that the hosts thought they should have cleaned the house more even when everything was already so perfect. I guess it is needless to say that during the years we have frequently visited the first family, while many years have passed since we saw the second one. It was a good lesson for me too. The most important thing is to see and welcome your guests, make them feel at ease and enjoy their company. That overcomes every imperfection there might in our surroundings. Thank you for a great video Jennifer!❤

[@alannaball1566]

Something I really appreciate about you is how you make sure to nonchalantly state the obvious just in case it isn’t obvious to some of us, so that we can nod and go “ah, of course” and carry on as if we’ve always been doing that. It creates such a warm and welcoming environment that is so very classy.

[@mrc1111-x5y]

You had me giggling with the sheer panic look! That’s me with even the thought of having people over!😂😳❤️

[@DominiqueFrancon]

Your guest bathroom that needs updating looks pretty great to me. Clean and simple is fabulous.

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

agreed ❤

[@juliecarns]

Yes, it looks lovely!

[@jmsl_910]

my guiding principle is that if a "guest" makes me anxious about dropping in... she's not really part of my tribe. it's like a choosing wand!

[@nancymiller4678]

I had a friend text me at the last minute last summer and ask to come over to talk with me about some thing that was on her mind. I of course said yes, but my house was not up to my standard… So when she came, we sat out on the front porch, which was not pristine, had cobwebs and such, but it was expected since it was outdoors, and we had a lovely chat for about an hour. I highly recommend the front porch or back deck idea if you feel that your home isn’t presentable for guests; however, as Jennifer said they’re here to see you not your house. I honestly think we need more of this and not being afraid to have people to see us how we really are - it’s OK to not be perfect. Let’s build relationships not perfection!

[@lesliec.7796]

I had a very similar experience this past spring with a parent of one of my children’s friend. (That’s a mouthful, ha!) Anyways, we had recently moved into this house and with two very young children who are never still, there wasn’t a clean space to retreat to. When I realized she was coming, I decided for us to stay on the porch, although I never felt completely right not inviting her inside. Our porch needed a wash, alas, it was very comfortable, and we had a great conversation which is the main thing! 🤍

[@christiana_mandalynn]

I love these tips. Currently I have 4 young children, am pregnant with our 5th, and just began homeschooling out of necessity and so it’s has been *very* difficult to keep my house tidy! However, I try to follow these basics: 1. Look presentable always. 2. Keep my hallway free of clutter. (This is difficult because our hallway into our home goes on forever! And all the shoes and backpacks and coats and roller blades wind up here. But if my hallway looks tidy, it is such an inviting feeling. 3. Keep my kitchen countertops clean and clean. (We do have one “drop zone” counter that is messy but the rest I try to keep wiped down. The appearance of clean counters makes the rest of the home look tidy, even it it’s not. 4. Living room is picked up, no toys strewn about, and the pillows actually on the couches. 5. Keep a small basket on the stairs to quickly do a 10-minute tidy and then you can take the basket upstairs or downstairs with all the things to put them away later!

[@daphblue]

Thank you for posting this. We bought an 1890 Victorian home from a nice old man who winters in Florida. He stopped by one night when I was taking out our trash (we had no idea he bought a new home in town with his new wife). He said he would come by one night he saw both of our cars here to drop off the original blueprints for the house, and to tell us more about the history. I sure would like to have something on hand to bring out, and a clean home for his surprise visit.

[@fertilehomestead8879]

My husband passed away suddenly two weeks ago leaving behind our family of nine kiddos. I haven't been up to being a hostess and our house, I don't care right now. I still have them over, but I definitely forget about them. I know all of this stuff, but I just can't right now. Now, they are not coming over to see a house clean, but most of the time they are finding things to clean for me and something to do to help me. That is really hard for my type A personality. This trial is crushing me on all sides. Please pray for me!

[@ninajohnson6578]

I always make sure what ever I serve is on something pretty with a cloth napkin.

[@maureencaldwell2975]

Loved this video! My great-grandmother always used to keep a frozen pound cake in her freezer because, “You never know who will stop by.” 😊 I appreciated these great suggestions!

[@blaklena]

For olive a good tip is to keep some simple black and green olive in brine at home and 5-10 minutes before you serve them, you add some olive oil, lemon juice and zest, thin slices of garlic and maybe a few peppercorns or some cut grilled peppers in oil if you have some. That is how it is often served in Turkey. Also simple homemade garlic or herb butter from the freezer with some nice bread, French and Swiss style, with the olives and some nuts...😋

[@rolson1695]

This was super helpful, Jennifer. More content like this for us inexperienced (and nervous!) when it comes to hosting would be fantastic!

[@lhs1221]

I cannot tell you how much I love and appreciate this video! ❤ I especially like how you have both savory and sweet ideas for the snacks. Some of my friends from the Middle East, Turkey or South Asia often present guests a beautiful wooden compartmentalized bowl with dried fruits and nuts to graze on. I keep mini samosas in the freezer (store-bought) and they heat up very fast in the air-fryer. Doing a 2 minute vacuum before a guest comes also makes the sitting room look much better.

[@MargaretQ]

I love to make sure to light candles in kitchen, main living areas - empty all the waste bins they may encounter and tidy up my entry hall. Love this advice and the focus on being confident and joyful

[@unabellavita6541]

We always host people over at our house. It happens at least 1-2 times a week! I don’t mind it, the issue I have is that we NEVER get a reciprocating invitation. It feels very one sided. I was raised that the polite thing to do was to reciprocate the invitation if you’ve been invited to someone’s house. It’s gotten to where I’m scaling back as a result.

[@sophiem156]

I’ve been through this and totally understand. The polite thing to do is definitely to reciprocate. However, I also think the most gracious thing to do (in all social situations, really) is to do nice things without the expectation of a return. Some people just don’t enjoy hosting OR have a home/financial situation that prevents them from doing so comfortably. Does that mean they should decline your invitations? Maybe, but consider that you might feel snubbed (or they believe you would feel snubbed) if they did so. I’d also consider that if you’re inviting the same couples or people over frequently they may just not have the time or energy to match that. Though obviously that shouldn’t stop them from having you over at least occasionally, I agree. The other thing might be … maybe you like them more than they like you 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@unabellavita6541]

@@sophiem156It doesn’t sound like we’re too far apart in our conclusions of the situation. It is not an expectation per se but more about discerning and choosing to invest the time, energy and resources into cultivating relationships with people who value, appreciate and reciprocate how you care for them. If someone values a relationship with you, they will not treat you as a friendship of utility, a good friend will not just make withdrawals but also deposits into the relationship. It’s important and healthy to have boundaries in every relationship.

[@madelinekimbro2440]

Loved the fresh baked items in the freezer idea! I rarely have people over simply because things are in such disarray. This gives me the prompting I needed to get busy and tidy up!!

[@karenschmoutz6785]

Your guest bath looked quite nice. Clean, tidy, and sweet-smelling are far more important than a magazine-ready space. Lovely video as usual!

[@mimiandthemuse]

I usually run around the apartment trying to tidy up in a hurry. I vacuum and clean my kitchen and living room. I put on the kettle and bake a banana chocolate chip loaf or something. Lol. All last minute

[@alyssajenaway3781]

In Australia it's tradition for house wives to whip up scones for guests from scratch. As the old saying going "10 minutes to make, 10 minutes to bake". They are quick and easy and taste great not the sort of thing you could freeze though they have to be made fresh.

[@laurahart2250]

It's the same in New Zealand, my mum could whip up a batch of cheese scones in 5 minutes flat! I rely on having fruit and cheese and crackers on hand at all times.

[@irismikhaeil3223]

Yes sp true🇦🇺

[@minnowx7099]

Yes, I am in NZ too! Scones are definitely the go-to! However, my Grandmother was the epitome of style - when her youngest daughter’s MIL visited from Switzerland for the first time she had scones but also homemade raspberry jam to go with the scones - at this stage she was in her early 80s. They were very impressed! She did not reveal she had bought 1 punnet (200g) of raspberries to make just that one pot of jam for her guests - my grandmother had true style 😀.

[@alyssajenaway3781]

@@minnowx7099 Home made jam is a must!

[@LCmonman]

How delightful! 😊

[@lynstewart4484]

Quick tip for the grapes...cut that big bunch into small bunches with a pair of scissors

[@grandmalaura8170]

I have also found Trader Joe's to be a good source for little specialty items to keep on hand. I also like to pick up some of their frozen appetizers to pop into my air fryer at a moment's notice. This has proven to be helpful if someone has come over for a meal, but cooking seems to be taking longer than I had anticipated. With a quick appetizer, (even some chips and salsa,) it suddenly seems as though things are going according to plan.

[@kmorewood573]

So appreciated this video! Thank you so much! (Ideas for simple dinner parties, lunches, or ladies tea at home would be so lovely to see, as well.)

[@cathy5812]

I love this so much, Jennifer! Your videos always give me confidence as a homemaker. I get so nervous having people over because I overthink things and then feel awful later because of what I may have forgotten or worried that I didn't make my guests feel welcomed. But I'm definitely going to play this again whenever I'm preparing for company to come over. You really laid everything out so well and so simple. Thank you so much, my friend!

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you so much!

[@juliegoodwin6850]

Couldn't agree more🥰

[@amandazplace5663]

Thank you, Jennifer, for all the great ideas! I've had a very embarrassing situation happen numerous times. It's happened to friends, as well. I've invited someone over for lunch, usually Sunday. We lose track of time enjoying each others' company. Before I know it, they are still at my house at the supper hour!😮 Obviously, I can't just tell them it's time to leave. I've learned to always have some kind of meat or fish that goes straight from freezer to oven. A frozen vegetable recipe that's a bit "extra" as well. Then, it's just a side dish of rice to make and at least I look like I expected they might stay for supper. You could pre-slice a loaf of some kind for easy thawing and serve with icecream for dessert. ♥️🇨🇦

[@lauragb3677]

Love this topic! Great ideas for nibbles. My guest bathroom and bedroom are always clean and ready for guests, which has come in handy so many times. Not having clutter keeps a house tidy too. The FlyLady is a great resource here and even has suggestions for quick crisis cleaning!

[@DebraofSENC]

Love the Flylady! So inspiring, too.

[@angieallen4884]

Perfect, as always. Great reminders about hospitality.

[@Barbara-pz8ky]

Great ideas…I also freeze cookie dough but take it a step further and scoop them into balls ,flatten a bit and freeze on a tray…then when frozen pop into freezer bags and they are ready to bake…

[@janjentz1053]

I think you covered everything beautifully. I do like to keep pantry items and homemade treats in the freezer. If by chance I haven't had time to bake and freeze, I love keeping frozen mini quiches and mozzarella sticks and a couple frozen sweets that I have purchased.

[@MustardSeedish]

I actually think you look adorable in a messy bun. It's that time of year that I get college students come over for movie nights. I love to spoil them with popcorn and something sweet. You have given me good ideas here. If I have unexpected guests, I throw things in a laundry basket and put it in another room. I make sure the bathroom doesn't have anything gross in it and the trash is taken out in case we have become accustomed to the smell. LOL!

[@kellieliacopoulos8005]

Oh Jennifer, this topic was SO charming and lovely!! Not to mention helpful, haha!! Thank you!! I will see you tomorrow, but for now...I'm off to Trader Joe's to stock up, haha!!! :) With love, Kellie

[@karendavidson5455]

I just love this video a great reminder. I was just visiting my in-laws and I noticed how much she keeps in her fridge for visiting guest. I was so impressed by it.

[@krissykimono]

I am so glad to have seen this. I have some family that would like to visit my new home. I feel like I’m always spinning my wheels on planning for company whether it be a short visit or something more long term. And the holidays are right around the corner as well. Thank you for another fabulous video.

[@bettyzak2588]

These are all great tips. I would also add that you should smile and be polite even if you just had an argument with your husband 😂😂 honestly, it happened to me that my hosts were angry at each other and I could feel it and it was the worst.

[@jandkhilbert]

Great tips! I'm feeling more elegant with each video 😊

[@lindan2488]

What simple, but great ideas! One I definitely will use is the sparkling water. I love making simple things a little bit elegant and for some reason that one never occurred to me. That will be first on my next shopping list, especially with the holidays coming up. Thank you Jennifer!

[@jackiebowen6239]

I like serving sparkling water in champagne flutes. Feels elegant and the bubbles last longer! (obviously, it needs to be already chilled in the fridge)

[@GinaPp]

I love hosting! We have people over all the time. I grew up with house full of guests very frequently, so hosting is second nature.

[@virgierutledge3004]

Love your video. I believe that having a regular cleaning routine is the secret. We have the same rule for Guest bathroom. Always clean. People should learn from others and reciprocate small welcoming gestures and treats. This would help our stressful world. I have had people say to me Hospitality is your Gift. yea..........

[@lesliec.7796]

This was such a treat to watch! I love this kind of content on hospitality, and your warm and welcoming spirit is inspiring. As always, thank you!✨

[@21972012145525]

One thing I’d like to say is to take advantage of Saran Wrap and aluminum foil when you know you have guests coming. That way many things can be plated and prepped in advance.

[@jmsl_910]

you are a gem jennifer you are amazingly CALM!! & do it w grace & style #inspirational

[@lolajacomino6574]

Hi Jennifer, love your realistic video. You just reminded me of someone I know who confessed that sometimes when she has a mess in her house and someone calls her to pass by she gets all the cloth and put it in the washing machine and the dryer. 😂 she also fills black bags with whatever is out of its place. Instead of spending the time taking things and put them where they belong. I think is funny but it solves a fast picking up moment 😂😂😂😂😂

[@melindaferreira9879]

I deep clean 1/ per week, tidy daily, we have drop ins fairly consistently so i utilize all these on the daily..

[@jerrigomez5869]

Hello, unplanned guests is exactly the reason why I decided to start always dressing presentably everyday. I really didn't like the feeling of being caught looking a mess. This has extended to trying to always look at my house like a guest would. You are correct, they are not there to judge me, but I still want them and me to feel comfortable. Thanks for the suggestions. If you were to serve the nuts and olives, would you have little appetizer plates for this? Would guests be given a fork? I have never done that. Thank you again.

[@21972012145525]

I would do nuts, crackers,olives, cheese, grapes, sparkling water. Toothpick or small dessert forks (I think $ tree has these) would be good and yes an appetizer plate or even the plate underneath a teacup is sufficient

[@annette0027]

So timely! We have out of town guests stopping by tomorrow and I was just trying to make a list of snacks to buy!

[@mrsramales]

I love all your tips and offerings. Always delicious, simple and elegant. Jennifer you elevate everything to the beautiful! I love your piano room!! And your clean beautiful guest Bathroom 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@lolgriffin3243]

Such a great idea to have some things on stand by! I struggle with hospitality so this is a great help.❤

[@LifeWithFlowers]

Being prepared is a wonderful feeling. Great video.🌿

[@arishasewnarain2278]

You should really write a cookbook. Everything you make looks so lovely.

[@kelliduncan492]

I've never been invited to a house where it wasn't chaotic & uncomfortable for me. So I always try my best to make sure my guests feel wanted & comfortable. I now have a hard time accepting invites, I'm trying. Thank you for this video, they help me so much ❤

[@LB-ku6ry]

Oh my word. I’m so sorry. That’s stressful. It’s really nice to be taken care of as a woman and be able to sit and enjoy a friends company. Yes, the hostess is taking care of you, but I’m guessing that you would do the same for her. It’s a beautiful respite. Again, I’m so sorry. If you were to come to my house and it was planned, I would have unscented 🐝 wax candles, antique chandeliers lit but not to light and not too dark. Your favorite beverage and nibbles. Beautiful and classy music. My goal is to allow my friends to relax and have peace. Come on over!

[@kelliduncan492]

@@LB-ku6ry aw thank you. I'm usually the hostess because I haven't had the greatest experiences being a guest not no one's fault it was just too chaotic for me personally & just felt uncomfortable & out of my limit. I don't have many friends that are into the things I'm into. I usually stick to myself.

[@LB-ku6ry]

@@kelliduncan492I don’t have many friends that are into what I’m into either. Thankfully, there are people out there like this channel that we fit with! 😊

[@meenalgupta5775]

Love from India, Jennifer.. In India Guests are always welcome.. We always keep cookies, savory puffed rice -corn mixtures, dryfruits in our pantry for anytime arrivals.. And if someone informs in advance, homecooked delicacies are also made. But personally, i believe that serving fruits and dryfruits is more appropriate, as people have become so diet consious nowadays.. Sparkling water is great choice 👍

[@21972012145525]

In my experience in india, many people (even middle class) has someone to come a cook and clean, therefore hospitality is easier. That’s a luxury here in America.

[@meenalgupta5775]

@@21972012145525 Most homemakers cook themselves especially in middle class, but yes, they may hire help in cleaning

[@minnowx7099]

So my winning formula for welcoming guests is to offer them a champagne cocktail - a champagne flute, 2 sugar cubes, a liberal dose of angostura bitters, a capful of brandy, top with any dry sparkling wine. The wine can can be cheap at the rest glams l it up - I offer this to any guest who arrives after 5pm - and is a sure fire winner. It is now my signature and guests ask for one if it is not offered straightaway sometimes even at 3pm 😂. I stole this from my English FIL who was a lieutenant colonel in the British Army and knew how to entertain in style! After two they no longer notice any mess that might be lurking in the forgotten corners …

[@rebeccaharris4823]

Thank you for saying that you don't like your bathroom. I have guests in my home every week and I also cannot stand my bathroom, but I try keep it clean.

[@emilyevilsizor6680]

I started keeping a package of dutch stroopwafel wafer cookies in the pantry for those just in case moments.

[@happyhomeinholland]

Wow Jennifer this has to be my favourite video! I love hosting but worry about these things sometimes. We do have quite a lot of last minute guests in the summer 😊 i offered my SIL a drink a few weeks ago and she said she knew I would offer drinks and snacks. We were their 3rd stop that morning and they hadnt had anything before. That made me feel good for once😂

[@gwendolyneholman4230]

Simply, "thank you", my sister.❤

[@ulivaryofficial]

I really enjoy watching your tips-related videos. I've learned about some aspects of guest hospitality that we weren't aware of before. I truly appreciate this, as it has given us more confidence in welcoming guests. I really hope to face unexpected guests with even more pleasure next time.😊

[@kathleenkalt3852]

I take it very personally when my husband uses the guest bath.🤣

[@lisag.6599]

This was very nice! I was thinking about how you handle interruptions in your day, since you recently did the video on time-blocking. But I'm sure you're very gracious about interruptions. There's a story about St. Frances of Rome: she was reading some holy book, and her husband interrupted her a few times. She was not resentful, and after a few interruptions, when she went back to the book, the words on the page were in gold. xo

[@gwenstanley7527]

Thank you, Jennifer! Those were great tips; very helpful!

[@kathryn5742]

Jennifer, LOVE your cozy, welcoming front room! And all the food ideas are wonderful! Thank you! I have a question about your piano. Is it new, a family heirloom, a Craig’s List find, painted? I’m on the hunt and love yours. Any info so appreciated. Keep up your awe inspiring work! ❤️

[@brandimullins3627]

Would love a tour of your piano room!!!

[@crterwil]

What a great idea about the frozen cookie dough.

[@lindaleclair8938]

I didn't know that about cookie dough in the freezer! I will definitely use this tip!

[@misswittank9224]

As a British person, it is almost automatic to offer someone a cup of tea when they walk in the door.

[@bethtoft2755]

Jennifer, great video! Where do you tend to find your beautiful paintings? Do you buy in galleries or online? I'm in Chic Society if you've already addressed this in a Vodcast. :-)

[@TanyaDuncan]

I have found when you just want a few cookies, they bake up beautifully in an air fryer.

[@s.sflower]

Nice tips 😊

[@aurig-su6gy]

Lovely ideas! Can you share your chocolate chip cookie recipe? They look scrumptious!

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

What a lovely video, Jennifer! Thank you for giving us so much homemaking inspuration.

[@whatwouldpicarddomakeitso9607]

Thank you for sharing . Lovely video,thank you . 🇬🇧💛🤍

[@heather5926]

Just reading the title stresses me out 😂🎉

[@21972012145525]

Same

[@MsBackstager]

TY for sharing my suggestion with everyone.

[@tanyasjourney4028]

Thank you so much these tips!!

[@Englishroserebecca]

Lovely video. I love the atmosphere in your home. Thank you

[@Arodz2023]

Such a helpful video! Thank you! ❤

[@TheDailyConnoisseur]

Thank you Birch Living for being such a great supporter of our channel. Click here birchliving.com/daily to get 20% off your Birch mattress (plus two free Eco-Rest pillows). Our Birch mattress is so comfortable and only gets better with time! #birchliving And thank you for watching today. I hope this video gives you great ideas on how you can always be prepared for last-minute guests. If you have any tips to share, please leave them in the comments! Love, Jennifer

[@orangejammies6679]

As someone born and raised in India, it's unthinkable that we don't offer food and drink to a guest. We have a popular saying "the guest is God" and there is a cultural expectation to treat them as such. Thank you for these great ideas, Jennifer!

[@RoccoPaco1]

Excellent video! I always enjoy your videos, but this topic really resonates! Thank you.

[@rooscreativelearningcurve2511]

Nice topic and of course this has nothing to do with anything but the length of your hair and your make up and your outfit are adorable and make you look younger than you are!

[@MoonlitShoreWalk]

I completely agree!

[@pamelabrown8798]

Great ideas! I love this video.❤

[@aishwaryas9229]

Just the video I wanted today. Thanks!

[@CherylAnderson0]

Loved This video!

[@calves1717]

Great video! Do you still have a 10 item wardrobe?? Love that content!

[@peymanrzgar830]

Such a lovely video.

[@Hans6789-j9t]

You’re so cute 😊 love your sense of humor 😊