The holiday season is a special time of year when family and friends gather, express gratitude, and make memories. If you're playing host, you're probably wondering how to make this year's festivities the best yet! The holidays can be a trying time financially, but adding a few simple touches to your home will make your guests feel welcome and comfortable without breaking the bank.

1. Trust Your Nose

There is nothing more calming and soothing than walking into a home and being greeted with a fresh, welcoming, and seasonal scent! After all, your sense of smell is tied closely to the memory center of the brain, so greeting your loved ones with an inviting aroma as soon as they walk into your house will automatically put them in a calmer mental state–and may even bring up a happy memory or two!

One simple way to achieve this is strategically placing a candle in your living room or entryway. Your guests will feel happy and welcome as soon as they set foot over the threshold! Evergreen, berry, cinnamon, and vanilla are all perfect scents to choose from. Pick whatever scent you think best represents the character of your home!

Or, if you prefer a more natural approach, give essential oil blends a try. Young Living Essential Oils carries a variety of products that will give you the ultimate holiday experience. They offer a kit called "Essence of the Season," complete with frankincense, myrrh, and a custom blend: Christmas Spirit. Grab a diffuser (you can even grab a holiday-themed one for extra fun), and you'll be on your way to a peaceful holiday.

2. Get Cozy

Nothing says "welcome" quite like a relaxing place to sit and rest. Whether your guests are coming from near or far, they will all appreciate extra touches to make their time in your home a comfortable one. Check out your local home or craft stores for throw pillows and blankets to represent the holiday. Sherpa-lined fleece blankets and throw pillows with silly sayings are popular picks that are sure to get your home into the spirit. Add these to your couches and armchairs, and even place some in the guest room. You don't have to go crazy and cover every surface in your home, but some thoughtfully placed accents in high-traffic areas are sure to please. There are usually tons of offerings for these things as the holiday season approaches, so take advantage of some good sales; or, if you like to play the long game, stock up on holiday bargains right after the season ends, and you'll be ready for next year!

3. The Little Things Count

Small touches and details around your home can really level up your holiday hosting game. Try putting themed towels, potholders, and trivets around your kitchen. You probably don't go all out when decorating the kitchen as it's a room where available space is sometimes at a premium, so adding little bits of holiday flavor can bring a sense of cohesion to your home decor. 

Same goes for the bathroom! Try some holiday scented hand soap, and some cute hand towels to round out your decorations. The bathroom is another fantastic spot for a candle or essential oil diffuser; it does double duty of masking unpleasant bathroom odors, and also keeps your scent theme going through every inch of your home.

4. Have A Snack Ready

The holidays are the ultimate time to enjoy all kinds of comforting foods and treats. A tray of fresh, home baked cookies will surely be a crowd pleaser. Or, if you prefer a more savory approach, make a selection of finger foods to have on the ready as soon as guests arrive. Food is an inexpensive and personal way to show your family and friends just how happy you are to have them in your home. 

Your guests will surely appreciate every extra effort you take in order to make your home as beautiful as possible for the holidays. You don't have to buy top of the line decorations or serve a five course meal to show your loved ones how much you love them; a few simple touches will ensure you have a holiday to remember for years to come.