The 30-Minute Guide to Getting Your Home Ready for Guests

Keep It Cool

According to Brooke Scher, who plans several events a month as a director at Alison Brod Public Relations, there's a term in the nightclub industry called "freezing the box." "Venues will warm up quickly as soon as guests arrive," she says, "so you never want it to be above 70 degrees when they get there." Adjust the thermostat a half hour before the party starts and remember that you might want it even colder, depending on the size of your guest list, how much you'll be cooking before and during the event, and whether you have a fireplace with a fire.