4 Table Setting Tips to Welcome Unexpected Guests

You’re in the middle of housework or playing around with the kids and the doorbell rings. You answer the door to find your family members or friends standing on your porch. Did you expect them? Not at all! Now you are hosting a group of unexpected guests. OH NO!

Amigos, you do not have to stress out. Hosting your unexpected guests does not need to be a stressful situation. Many times my father would invite coworkers, friends, or family over for dinner without any notice to my mother. Is this a Latin thing, or just a husband issue? Regardless, she handled the situation with grace, but I know she was flipping inside. As the family member responsible for the appearance of my home, unexpected guests give me heart attacks and an adrenaline rush at the same time. I’m running around cleaning up the kid’s toys and trying to set the table for my guests.

tablescapes, guests, dinner, lunch, houseguest,

No need to fret, with these helpful tips you can set a welcoming table for your unexpected guests. While your getting the table prepared, ask your husband or significant other to pick up the kids’ toys. Bam! You’re done and ready for entertaining your guests.

1. Keep one or two clean table runners in a kitchen drawer.

I have two clean table runners stored in one of the kitchen island drawers. Not only does this quick drawer help running around looking for clean table linens, but you already have easy access to it. We typically entertain in the kitchen or family room, so this entertainment drawer has helped tremendously. You can probably do well with one neutral runner, but I alternate between a neutral and colorful runner depending on what I may use for the centerpiece.

2. Use chargers or placemats to make a standout table.

I typically avoid the use of placemats for my everyday table. Chi-Chi tends to throw hers on the floor and the fabric ones get really messy with food. So, whenever I have guests over, I jump at the opportunity to use placemats/chargers. I found these woven charger plates at my local thrift store. A great find for only $3.00 and they look just like the ones I saw at Pottery Barn for $8.99 a piece.

If you are an avid charger user, then use some standout napkins. You want to use an item that is not regularly used on your everyday table. Whether its placemats or napkins, wow your guests with the unexpected. Keep your napkins or placemats with your stored runner for easy access during those unexpected visits.

3. Mix up your everyday and formal dishes and glassware

Your unexpected guest will feel much more welcomed with a semi-casual table rather than a full formal tablescape. Though, if you love putting a tablescape together you probably want to make it still look great.

You know how every homemaker has a secret love or addiction to an item? Some love to have several types of pillows or lamps. I love to have different glassware and dishes. I have it under control for the most part, evil laugh. There is just something about a plate that can really make a standout, beautiful tablescape. You should see the amazing tablescapes I have pinned.

I found this blue willow patterned china while thrifting last week and I am head over heels in love with it. They were an amazing find at just $1.00 a piece. I mixed the china with my Moroccan-esk goblets. These are not everyday glassware, but for an unexpected twist, I mixed in my cheaper goblets with these more expensive blue goblets.

4. Shop your house for a centerpiece.

There is absolutely no time to go to the garden and clip some fresh flowers. Clearly, I’m assuming that your guests have popped in during the days you don’t have a floral centerpiece on hand. Instead of running into the garden, shop your house for a centerpiece you have already arranged.

This fabulous white and blue vase is from the best place on earth, HomeGoods. I saw this lovely vase and had to have it. It’s already on display in the family room and in easy reach for a quick tablescape.

Now, your table is ready for those unexpected guests! Stay tuned for more tips to welcome unplanned visitors. There is no need to worry about your drop in visitors when you have a plan of action. Thank you so much for visiting my casa.