I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.
You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.
Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.
Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.
You’ll Need:
Steps:
Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.
I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.
Photo by Tatiana Syrikova
A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.
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Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.
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Spring is here, and it's time to swap out winter comfort foods for fresh, nourishing meals that make the most of the season’s best produce. But let’s be real — we need recipes that are as quick and easy as they are delicious and satisfying.
We’ve got you covered with 15-minute recipes to shake up your weekly rotation. Featuring Perdue® Fresh Cuts No Antibiotics Ever chicken and its convenient pan-ready packaging (read: no cutting board needed), these meals keep cleanup to a minimum while maximizing flavor.
Scroll for the recipes!
Nicole Hill Gerulat
Serves 4
Switch things up for dinner with a deconstructed spring roll bowl — tender grilled chicken, crisp fresh veggies, and a generous drizzle of your favorite peanut sauce for a flavorful, fuss-free twist!
Nicole Hill Gerulat
Nicole Hill Gerulat
1. In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup peanut sauce (thin with a little water if too thick) and chicken breast strips to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
2. On a grill pan or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering. With tongs, remove the chicken from the marinade and place directly onto pan in one layer. If the pan isn’t large enough, make in batches. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, not moving or flipping until well browned. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165℉.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
4. Transfer grilled chicken to plate to rest while you assemble the bowls.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
5. To assemble bowls, equally divide the rice noodles into four bowls, top with cabbage, carrot, cucumbers, mango, mung beans and avocado.
6. Add sliced chicken with any reserved juices, and top with spring onions, peanuts and herbs.
7. Drizzle with peanut sauce (thin with a little water if too thick). Serve with lime wedges and favorite hot sauce.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
Serves 4
Chicken makes everything better — especially when it’s grilled to perfection and tossed into this vibrant citrus-kissed salad. Packed with spring peas, crisp asparagus, watermelon radishes, and fresh greens, it’s the perfect way to kick off a healthy spring!
Nicole Hill Gerulat
Nicole Hill Gerulat
1. Soak wooden skewers in water until chicken has finished marinating.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup Italian dressing and diced chicken breast to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Skewer 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
3. On a grill pan or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering. Place skewers directly onto pan in one layer, in multiple batches. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, not moving or flipping until well browned. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165℉.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
5. Transfer grilled chicken skewers to plate to rest while you assemble the salad.
6. To assemble salad, layer each plate with lettuces, pea shoots, snow peas, radishes, carrot, asparagus and top with micro greens, freshly cracked pepper and goat cheese. Drizzle your favorite Italian or citrus dressing and enjoy!
Nicole Hill Gerulat
Serves 4
Let everyone load up their tacos with their favorite toppings for an easy, fun, and flavor-packed way to celebrate Taco Tuesday — or any day! Bake your chicken and veggies in just 15 minutes, thanks to Perdue® Fresh Cuts Chicken Breast Strips that are already pre-cut for you.Nicole Hill Gerulat
Nicole Hill Gerulat
1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. In a medium bowl, combine taco seasoning, olive oil and chicken and toss to coat. On a greased (or parchment-lined) sheet pan, arrange chicken and veggies into one layer. Season liberally with salt and fresh pepper.
2. Bake for 15 minutes. Halfway through, flip the chicken. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165ºF. Set aside while preparing the tacos.
Nicole Hill Gerulat
3. To assemble the tacos, layer tortillas with cabbage, chicken, roasted vegetables, red onions, avocado and cotija and top with crema and cilantro.
Targetis always full of fun surprises, and their current lineup of under-$15 finds is seriously stunning. From chic home decor pieces to trendy fashion picks and affordable beauty essentials, these budget-friendly hidden gems prove you really don’t have to spend big to give your space, wardrobe, or daily routine a lil’ refresh. If you love a good deal (same here!), get ready to add some of these affordable must-haves from Target to your cart.
Target
The internet's favorite body lotion scent is now available in a dreamy body wash format! With standout notes of vanilla and cashmere and a creamy concoction of shea butter, cocoa butter, and argan butter to keep your skin feelin' nourished as ever, this $10 bottle is a shower must-have.
Target
Swarmed in LoveShackFancy’s signature floral prints, this $10 mini brush is the perfect piece to keep in your purse for on-the-go touch-ups. The collection, shoppable at Target, also includes everything from regular-sized brushes to hair curling sets and cute claw clips!
Target
Versed's new makeup collection has been living in our heads rent-free, especially because we love their skincare goodies so much. Of course, they whipped up a wonderfully smooth $15 blush stick to add to the glow. The lightweight formula is super easy to build up depending on your mood, plus each stick is packed full of jojoba seed oil and fatty acids to help hydrate your complexion!
Target
Moving onto the grocery aisle, this brand-new creamer flavor from Chobani is sure to infuse your mornings with utter joy. Aside from the cheery packaging, this $5 birthday cake-flavored coffee creamer adds some really nice sweetness, whether you splash some into a mug of hot coffee or add a bit to your iced lattes. It's a limited-edition flavor, so make sure to try it before it's gone from shelves!
Target
We're huge suckers for anything checkered. This $15 planter is such a cutie, add will most certainly bring some major springtime energy to your windowsill, bookshelf, or dining room table!
Target
Two words: mushroom lamp. Yep – Target's selling this baby for just $14 (was $20), and the best part is that it's cordless, so you can move it around your space as you please for a trendy home decor touch.
Target
When it comes to spring basics, tube tops should be at the top of your list. They're easy to put on and even easier to wear, plus this solid black number makes putting together a comfy outfit unbelievably seamless! You can snag this top for just $6 (was $8), along with three more solid shades that fit the season.
Target
Oh, it's giving Anthro vibes, for sure. This $15 pair of flower-shaped candle holders will add some cheer and color to your springtime table spreads, and what's more is they're also perfect for sunny Easter celebrations!
Target
For a nice boost in hydration, hyaluronic acid is where it's at. This $12 bottle from Good Molecules truly packs a punch and boosts the performance of your traditional moisturizer!
Target
This ever-so-trendy tank top boasts an asymmetrical cinched hem for a fun touch. Right now, it's on sale for just $8 (was $12)! It also comes in pink, green, and blue if you're seeking a bright pop of color.
Target
We're seeing this puffy pattern everywhere these days, from bags to jackets. Target put it on an adorable little pillow, and we're obsessed! Snag this $7 cutie for an inexpensive living room or bedroom upgrade.
Target
Two vases for just $10?! Count us in. These playful designs work well together, though you could easily disperse them throughout your home to host all the blooms of spring!
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Quince is already our go-to for luxe-lookingwardrobe essentials at shockingly good prices – and their new arrivals section is currently packed with tons of spring-ready finds you won’t want to miss.There are tons of breezy dresses, breathable tops, and flatteringjeanson deck, but we’ve narrowed it down to the 10 best finds you can grab for springtime. Quince totally nails high-quality staples at fair prices, so get ready to find your new favorite pieces, stat!
Quince
A linen dress is absolutely a must-have for springtime. It's light and breezy, allowing your looks to breathe. This white one is an especially nice grab because it can pair well with just about anything.
Quince
This button-up top is crafted from 100% organic cotton that's fashioned in a soft, gauzy feel. It's super light on the bod and could even be perfect for a swimsuit cover-up this summer!
Quince
Hop on the barrel jeans wave with this adorable light wash pair! The material has some nice stretch to it while still retaining structure, shaping your waist, hips, and legs in the best way possible.
Quince
Ooh, gotta love some gingham! It's the perfect pattern for spring since it's reminiscent of picnic blankets and good times spent outside. This linen tank hugs your body just a little bit to give you shape.
Quince
Tiered maxi skirts are so sweet and feminine, plus they're ultra-cozy for warmer weather moments when you don't exactly want to wear a mini skirt or short shorts. This white one is cut from 100% organic cotton poplin to ensure unmatched breathability.
Quince
Butter yellow dresses are where it's at. Rock spring's hottest color trend with this easy-wearing dress that you can easily dress up based on the occasion!
Quince
This smooth sweater boasts a stunning boatneck and slouchy sleeves for added coverage, if desired. It's the ultimate office-wear top that'll look immaculate alongside everything from slacks to dressy skirts!
Quince
The great thing about this linen top is that the long sleeves will block out the sun on hot days, preventing UV damage on your skin, but the material it's made of truly wears like a barely-there dream, so you won't be stuck excessively sweatin'.
Quince
Linen is the look this spring. These comfy shorts will definitely become your new faves for the season since they're loose (but not too loose), tied comfortably at the waist, and have – you guessed it – pockets!
Quince
Made specifically for movement and comfort, these lightweight trousers surely do not feel like your typical formal pant. The high-waisted design is fitted with an elasticized back that makes fitting into them super streamlined, plus the TENCEL-cotton-linen blend is super soft to the touch.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Though plenty of beauty trends have come and gone, there are still a handful of makeup products that have stood the test of time. Though you might think these powders, foundations, lipsticks, and more lean pretty“old school,” tons of beauty fans still adore them for their ability to deliver the most stunning looks.
You might just want to give these classic makeup products a second chance after reading what makeup lovers say about their staying power!
Amazon
I remember this loose powder being one of the very first makeup products I ever tried after seeing it in my mom's makeup kit. It's super nostalgic for many other beauty fans – and no wonder, because it first launched in 1935!
Formulated to have a "cloudlike softness" to it, this powder is ideal for setting foundation and concealer so your base stays in place.
Amazon
“I used Coty Airspun loose powder for years," one Redditor wrote about it. "I don't use powder anymore, but I still take a fond look at it in the makeup aisle. The packaging is so retro and pretty. It always made me feel very 1950's movie star.”
I will say that the main disconnect between this "old school" makeup product and today's beauty trends is that more and more brands tend to lean toward dewy, natural finishes rather than fully matte ones – this powder definitely delivers on the latter.
Amazon
This mascara launched in 1990 and it was quick to become a favorite amongst beauty fans looking for long, full lashes. Claiming to give lashes the appearance of 5 times their natural thickness, this formula goes on super easy, thanks to the streamlined wand design.
Amazon
This mascara has proved itself a mainstay in many makeup bags, and since its launch, L'Oreal's launched several different colors to play with. I myself am especially fond of the blue and purple mascaras if I just want to get a little playful with my makeup!
"I have tried other mascaras in the past but I find this one is the best for me. I have been using it for years," one reviewer wrote on Amazon. "I now find it difficult to to buy at the drug stores so I order it through Amazon. It goes on easily, dries quickly and does not flake. I wear the burgundy because I have green eyes."
Amazon
You probably recognized this one super quick. Clinique's Almost Lipstick in the shade Black Honey is renowned since it's said to be universally flattering and totally nails the natural look! Though it first hit the market in 1989, it's had an undeniable resurgence in the past couple years, further proving its iconic status.
Amazon
“My grandmother took me to a Clinique counter when I was 13 and bought me a lipstick and some eyeshadow. I used them until they were gone," one Redditor reminisced. "The only Clinique item I've used since then is Black Honey, which is in my bathroom today.”
Ulta
This beloved Benefit product hit shelves back in 1976, though it wasn't originally intended for use on the lips and cheeks. 👀 Benefit revealed that it was actually formulated for exotic dancers to use on their nipples to make them stand out!
Ulta
Since its introduction, it's been a great pick to reach for to add a natural flush to the cheeks and make the lips a bit bolder. Benefit's launched several different shades over the years to join the OG "rose" one.
Amazon
This "old school" makeup product was one of the first foundations that came in a convenient stick form. It launched in 1947, but you can still find it today! This creamy product is noticeably full-coverage and leaves a silky-matte finish once it's applied. A little truly goes a long way.
“I grew up in the 90s and remember using the Max Factor Panstik makeup. I can still remember the scent," one Redditor wrote. "It was a really great product for its time and I used it like a concealer.”
“I have this! What I like about it is it’s quick to apply when I don’t have the energy for liquid concealers," another Reddit user said. "The colour range isn’t impressive though.”
Amazon
Hitting the market back in 1957, it didn't take long for the Lustrous Lipstick from Revlon to become a cult classic. Many shades that the company developed in the latter half of the 20th century are still around today – several makeup fans on Reddit mentioned shades like Cherries In The Snow, Toast Of New York, Wine With Everything, Fire And Ice, and Sandalwood Beige are still their absolute favorites!
"Fire And Ice is one of my favourite lipsticks. It’s a wonderful bright corally red/pink..." one Redditor said. "It dates from the 50s. It’s quite nice to think I’m wearing the same colour as girls who were listening to Elvis.”
Amazon
This might just be the most old school of all the "old school" makeup products mentioned here. This rosy skin salve was introduced way back in 1838 to heal dry, cracked skin in need of hydration – lips, face, hands, and body included. It's crafted the same way it was back in the 1800's, with rose extract to calm irritation, and lanolin, cotton seed, and jojoba oil to moisturize. The company also sells lavender, mint, and vanilla varieties in addition to the OG rose.
Amazon
"I've been using C.O. Bigelow lavender salve for years and still love it. I rub it into my cuticles in the winter, spread the excess around my hands and top it with a layer of hand cream to seal it in," one Amazon reviewer wrote. "It works great to keep my skin from drying out and cracking and the lavender scent smells natural and not fake."
"Love this product! Worth every penny," another Amazon user said. "Use it on my lips, face and hands. Softens and is non greasy. My all time favorite product in my beauty stash!"
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
