Last-Minute Entertaining Tricks for Unexpected Guests by BPT - City News Group, Inc.
View Upcoming Events View Your Local Sales

Community Calendar

◄ OCTOBER ►
S M T W T F S
27 28 29 30 01 02 03
04 05 06 07 08 09 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
View Events
Submit Events

Last-Minute Entertaining Tricks for Unexpected Guests

By BPT,
March 4, 2015 at 09:09am. Views: 39

The holiday season is a time for joy, giving and, at times, unexpected guests. For even the most unanticipated of visitors, it is wise to always be ready to share the season's cheer with a nice hot cup of coffee, freshly-baked cookies and a welcoming home. This year, follow these simple tips for making last-minute holiday entertaining quick, easy and stress-free: Serve freshly-baked cookies: Keep a variety of frozen cookie dough on hand. When guests arrive, simply pull out and bake as many cookies as you need. Light seasonal candles: Candles scented with seasonal fragrances such as gingerbread or winter greenery are an inexpensive way to make your home smell good and feel warm and inviting even without advance notice. Stock a variety of beverages: A single-serve brewing system is one of the most helpful items to purchase for entertaining. When choosing a model, make sure to take into account convenience, compatibility and, most importantly, taste. Consider purchasing a single-serve brewing system, such as the Opus from iCoffee, available at Bed, Bath & Beyond. You don't have to worry what brand or flavor of single serve cup you choose because the iCoffee can accept every k-style cup on the market. "I've tried all types of single serve coffee makers," said Dan Kamys, Senior Editor at June Media, Inc. "If you're looking for a darned good cup of coffee, this is the one I'd pick." Take 5 minutes to de-clutter: Cleaning the house for company can be an exhausting undertaking. Instead of cleaning the house from top-to-bottom before guests arrive, spend just 5 minutes each day picking up common areas so that your home is clean and organized whenever guests arrive. Say "thank you": At the beginning of the season, buy a selection of seasonal holiday note cards. After guests visit, mail them a short note thanking them for their friendship and for stopping by. The personal gesture will speak volumes to them. From a hot beverage to a personalized note, hosting unexpected guests this holiday season can be fun, easy and relaxed with just a bit of preparation.

Related Articles

Photo Courtesy of: TME Photography by Titan Mom Elvira

By Titan Mom Elvira, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 12:47pm. Views: 510

A quote that inspires Escess comes from the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant: “The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win.” To learn more about Escess Coony and his philosophy…

Photo Courtesy of: https://www.grandterrace-ca.gov/government/elected_officials/city_council

By Hattie Strong, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 591

Councilman Doug Wilson, serving Grand Terrace and seeking another term in the November 2026 election, read more about him and his values.

Photo Courtesy of: Margie Miller

By Margie Miller, Publisher, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:46am. Views: 510

Timber Ridge Steakhouse brings a familiar landmark back to life in San Bernardino, welcoming diners to enjoy hearty meals, warm hospitality and a locally operated dining experience. Step inside and read more below about the people and vision behind Timber Ridge’s newest chapter.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 315

Hope, strength and community come together during Breast Cancer Awareness Month as survivors, families and supporters wear pink to remind others that early detection can save lives. Learn about the warning signs, screening and simple steps that could make a life-saving difference—read more below.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 535

San Bernardino is putting local business in the spotlight as entrepreneurs, business owners and community leaders prepare to connect, share ideas and discover new opportunities for growth. See how the upcoming Business Summit could help shape the city’s economic future, read more below.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 692

Colorful traditions, music and dance come alive during Hispanic Heritage Month as communities across the Inland Empire celebrate the generations of Hispanic and Latino residents who have helped shape our region. Discover the stories, culture and contributions behind this month-long celebration—read more below.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 660

Young readers made a splash during the County Library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program, discovering new books, building reading skills and celebrating a summer filled with learning and imagination. Read more below to see how local readers made waves this summer.

Photo Courtesy of:

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 749

Moreno Valley residents of all ages can turn their time and talents into meaningful community impact, with volunteer opportunities that bring neighbors together while helping keep the city clean, connected and thriving. Read more below to see how volunteering gives residents a chance to take an active role in the community they call home.

Photo Courtesy of:

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 508

Photo Courtesy of: City of Moreno Valley

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 454

Lady, a two-year-old, female white Shepard mix who is is a sweet easygoing girl who enjoys being around people and making new friends.
Could Lady be the one you’ve been waiting for? Stop by the shelter and meet your new best friend.

Photo Courtesy of: Kaiser Permanente

By Carol Soudah, Contributing Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 733

Dozens of volunteers from Kaiser Permanente and its partners at Casa Blanca Home of Neighborly Service, a non-profit organization that services families in Riverside County. The one-day project strengthened the nonprofit’s ability to serve local families by improving community spaces, expanding capacity for the programs and resources local families rely on throughout the year, read more to find out how you can help.

Photo Courtesy of: Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino

By Rachel Bonilla, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 362

Since 2014, the Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign has helped generate more than $245 million for Feeding America and local partner food banks across the country and has helped secure more than 2.4 billion meals* for people facing hunger. A volunteer packs food boxes for families in need, helping local hunger-relief organizations provide nutritious meals and essential resources to neighbors throughout the Inland Empire.

--> -->