
How To :: be a spontaneous soiree sensation
but I swore that I'd never be that messy girl again.
1. 15 Minutes a Night
Every night, while getting ready for work, I tidy up for 15 minutes. My clothes get put in a hamper, I wipe my bathroom counters, stack my books and put my shoes away. The time commitment is minimal because I do it everyday. I tend to be a cluttery person and by breaking it down in short chunks daily, I'm rarely overwhelmed by my own mess.
2. 30 Minutes, Twice a Week
Pick any two days that work for you, and make those longer days of cleaning. Since clutter is addressed nightly, it's a matter of scrubbing the toilet bowl, cleaning my hardwood floors and running a dust cloth over my bookshelves. The sparkle returns and best of all, if someone comes by, they'll smell the delicious scent of Method cleaning products.
3. Party Pantry!
Keep some snacks on hand (hide ‘em from yourself if necessary!) that can please a crowd and feed the masses. A few boxes of water crackers, a hunk of good cheese, fancy nuts, and if you're extra ambitious, a roll of cookie dough that can be sliced and baked in 15 minutes are good start. Because nobody doesn't love fresh-out-of-the-oven baked goods. And hey, if you don't use the supplies in a few months, bust them out and host that 'lil soiree.
4. Pick Your Poison
Keep a bottle of red, a bottle of white, something sparkly and a liquor + mixer of your choice on hand. While you'll never please everyone, it's nice to have a bit of a choice. Don't forget the coffee and filtered water for those who may need to sober up or re-hydrate.
5. Just Like Life.. It's All About Your 'tude
If you invite friends in with a smile and genuine joy to see them, they'll look past the magazines and hair laden round brush on your bedroom floor. Be confident, use what you've got, and remember that what really matters is quality time with the people you love.





Wonderful Amy! Like Boy Scouts, we are always prepared darlings.
A soiree doesn't just happen, but making it look like it did is a real art form. A dinner party playlist on your music device du jour is a must (keep a few for different types of company and activities).
One of Jack's favorite tips is keeping some nice aged cheese around - cave aged gruyere, comte, something French. It lasts for some time if properly cared for, and makes a smash for a quick plate with crackers and wine.
Jack is telling me not to forget about the fruit and nuts. I never do.