5 tips for last-minute entertaining

Holding an event without the benefit of advance planning or preparation can be nightmarish for hosts. Though some hosts may not flinch at such a daunting task, others may fret at the idea of opening up their homes at the last minute. But hosts faced with the task of throwing a last-minute affair can take the following five tips to heart to ensure their party goes off without a hitch.

1. Clean only what's seen.

If you've prepped for a party in the past, you may have spent several hours cleaning thoroughly in anticipation of your guests. But when time is of the essence, you may not be able to devote the same amount of time to cleaning. Take inventory of the rooms and spaces where the event will be held. Do a cursory cleaning, paying special attention to removing clutter (or simply hiding it). At the least, bathrooms should be clean and sanitary.

In the living room, turn over couch cushions so that the rarely used side is showing. This can minimize the appearance of stains or pet hair. Open curtains widely to let in more light or keep drapes drawn if your windows need washing.

Bedrooms can remain closed or locked to conceal messy rooms. However, kitchens will need to be cleaned. Empty the dishwasher so that you can simply place soiled cups, dishes and silverware inside as they are used.

2. Banish odors.

A foul-smelling home is not inviting. There are many different contributors to odors in the home, most notably pets and cooking. Try not to make anything especially odoriferous, like fish or fried foods, before guests arrive.

Thoroughly air out the home by opening the windows for a few hours and keep pets (weather-permitting) outside. Consider the use of a pet cologne or nicely scented detangling spray to improve that wet dog aroma.

Some air fresheners combine with odors throughout the home and make things worse. Look for products that clean the air or use scented candles, a pot of boiling herbs or essential oils to freshen up.

3. Choose convenience foods.

Most at-home entertainers would prefer to mingle with their guests instead of spending the day in the kitchen cooking and serving. Having foods pre-made will negate the need to turn on the oven and add extra warmth to the home.

Consider having the party catered. Otherwise, purchase easy, ready-made items, such as cold cuts and rolls, salads, fruit, quiche, and any other foods that require minimal heating and prep. When the weather is warm, fire up the barbecue and do your cooking outdoors.

Hosts pressed for time can also throw a pot luck dinner, wherein guests bring one dish with them, reducing the host's workload.

4. Make clean-up easy.

Be sure to keep several visible trash cans and recyclable bins around so guests can discard their used items accordingly. Disposable plates and cups are usually coveted for these types of events, but some people would like more environmentally friendly options. In this case, look for disposable items that are made from recycled materials. Otherwise, purchase re-usable plastic items that are dishwasher-safe.

Choose individual servings of beverages, including canned soft drinks or small bottles of water. This will cut down on the number of cups or glasses used. If you prefer buying larger containers of beverages, look for new party cups where you can scratch names onto the front of the cup, ensuring it doesn't get lost or tossed in the trash prematurely.

5. Relax.

If you are close to your guests, relax. They will understand how much work goes into hosting a party -- never mind doing it with short notice. Chances are they won't judge your convenience foods, frantic cleaning or time-saving strategies.