If this is the year that you’ve been asked to have your friends over to your condo for the upcoming summer holidays, don’t wait until the last minute scrambling for festive and hip home decor. The main goal is to impress your guests, and even your date, but not go overboard. Here are just a few ways that you can add some classy looks and homey touches to your place before the guests arrive.

Patriotic Parties

With grilling season just around the corner, upcoming holiday parties for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July are often moved outdoors. From ice cold beers to jello shots, warm weather allows you to entertain all of your guests, especially the ladies, out on your patio or balcony. Patriotic holidays are the best time to display your love for patriotic decor. This includes:

• Red, white and blue ribbon or burlap wreaths
• Outdoor flag pillows for the swing or porch chairs
• Colorful striped garden flags to accent your walkway or patio area
• Red, white and blue plates and matching napkins and placemats
• Patio lights to accent Americana decor

However, don’t forget about the indoors, especially the bathroom. When your partygoers step inside, follow up the festive theme with some American flag bathroom decor to sync with upcoming fireworks shows or an evening bonfire. And don’t throw away all of your patriotic-themed home accents after Memorial Day. Some items, such as the flag-inspired decorating pieces, can stay up for the Fourth of July, and in some cases, year-round.

Cover Up the Scuffs

Did you just get the call from your mom that you will be the one hosting your younger brother’s graduation dinner for the entire family? Try not to stress out about putting on an impressive dinner for everyone. Keep it simple. Cover up the scratches on your entryway table with a simple and cheap tablecloth or pastel sheet. Set up simple snacks, including dips and veggie trays that everyone will enjoy snacking on. Move your furniture to cover up dings in the wall and stains on the floor. Impress your favorite aunt and maybe even introduce everyone to that new girl you’ve been seeing.

If you’re on a roll, why stop with summer? A man can host a party or family get-together any time of year! Here are some tips for Christmas and New Year’s:

Lighten Up

If you’re planning on having your new girlfriend over for a cozy Christmas Eve nightcap, don’t leave out the traditional holiday accents. One of the biggest ways to quickly accent your home with holiday spirit is to let there be light! If you don’t have the time or money to put up a last-minute Christmas tree, just reach for the lights. Subtle, twinkling holiday lights not only put ladies in the mood for cookies with Santa, but they offer a great way to add a festive ambiance to any room in your home. Add some colorful candles, as well as the perfect gift, and your Christmas wonderland is a romantic and cozy space for you and your date in front of the fireplace.

De-Stink the Place

Ringing in the new year is the right time for your favorite party treats and the best champagne! A New Year’s Eve party at your place is likely a happening thing, especially if your home is set up as the ultimate bachelor pad. You have the man cave and the big screen TV, but your dogs and poker night smoke-outs have your home smelling a little stale and foul. Brighten up not only the appearance of your space but the aroma in your home with a few quick refreshing tips:

• Place some fabric softener sheets in between the couch and chair cushions.
• Purchase a masculine tart warmer and accent wax tarts to fill the room with a vibrant festive smell.
• Simmer homemade potpourri on your stove.
• Bake some cookies just before guests arrive.
• Add some attractive scented candles throughout your home.
• Open windows briefly as you clean to allow fresh air to flow in.

Using multiple methods to clean and freshen up your home’s appearance will make your guests feel like getting comfortable as the 12 o’clock hour approaches.

Utilizing multiple methods to decorate for last-minute holiday parties or a get-together a year in advance will help make your gathering one to remember!