I don’t know about you but I love visiting people in their home. I find myself distracted from the conversation as I look around taking in all the things that make the home theirs. I look at their recipe book collections, the art on the walls and knick knacks as much out of curiosity as a way to better know someone. And, always, to be inspired for things to do at my own house. 

In the spirit of being home more than ever, here are some simple things to consider to highlight the personality of the dwellers of your home. Let’s get ready for when people can come back over!

Have a Welcome Mat – that doesn’t say ‘Welcome’

There are so many great welcome mats with cute and clever messages that can set a fun vibe for your home. Find one that speaks to you and the people that come to your door. Locally, Bradshaws, Watsons and Wills and Prior all have great options (and they all ship!).

Showcase Your Own Art

You don’t have to be especially talented to put out your own art pieces. Consider the paint night you went to, a great photograph you took, a piece of pottery you made or the piles of your kids masterpieces you have somewhere in a box. Displaying art made by the people in your home is a budget friendly but super interesting way to make your home more you. 

Monogram Your Glassware 

One of Eric’s favourite beer glasses are the personalized ones I got him from Personalization Mall. Having monogrammed glassware is just a great touch. They also make a great gift. 

Can anyone ever have enough mugs? Mugs are another fun way to highlight something you love and personalize your space. We love Chloe’s collection of cat mugs.

Do Something Fun Outside

While Buffalo Bill isn’t a permanent fixture on our front lawn, Eric does love to put him out every Sunday. You could hang a flag or do other fun things to let your neighbours know what team you support or what celebration you’re into. Maybe you have a cool sculpture. I would love one of these heart sculptures by Anthony Ricciardi in my (ugly) front garden. My friend Danielle makes the most amazing bunting. If you have a front porch, this is a fun and easy thing to change up. It’s the little things!

Have a Signature Meal or Baked Good or Cocktail

Everyone knows the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. Everyone loves to be fed! Brighten your day, or someone else’s, by having the things you make best on hand. Why not be known for one or two things you do well, and make them often! I personally love to have fresh baking at the house and Eric likes to make drinks. Have a ‘thing’ and have it available. We can’t see our friends right now but we can take them our butter tarts – right, Corry!

What Are Your Coffee Table Books Saying?

There are so many beautiful coffee table books. And lots of us have the same ones because they’re uber popular with everyone. Try and add a few that are unique just to you. Because they say something about what you’re interested in. Chloe picked out these books a couple of years ago and I love to have them out. They are technically not coffee table books but there are no rules for these things. And obviously I want this Lori Morris book for my birthday.

Have a Signature Smell (or Two)

At any time we might have our Maison Berge, diffuser or a candle going. But with two cats and a dog, it’s likely my house still doesn’t smell right. Still, it’s nice to find a scent you love and fill your home with it. It’s also nice to change these with the season. I sometimes like to sprinkle lavender oil on my carpets right before guests come in. 

Have fun thinking about what you could do between watching Netflix and checking your cupboard for snacks!

What tips do you have?