Martha Stewart Taught Me How to Get a Space Party-Ready in 15 Minutes – I’m Stealing Her Simple Formula for Labor Day
Fifteen minutes look more like five hours when you know where to spend them. Here's exactly what she prioritizes before guests arrive
I asked Martha Stewart (at her personal Bedford farm, no big deal) one simple question: if friends texted that they were stopping by in 15 minutes, what would you do to make an indoor or outdoor space feel instantly party-ready?
With Labor Day on the horizon, it's an important one. Your time is better spent savoring these last stretches of summer than doing prep work. Plus, every host knows those final few minutes before any garden party – dotting the i's, crossing the t's, making every detail look just a touch more polished – can make all the difference.
‘I’d resist the temptation to clean the entire house. Instead, I’d focus on the spaces people will actually use,’ says Martha. ‘I’d quickly straighten up the seating area, fluff the cushions, clear away any clutter, and put together a simple platter of whatever I have on hand – cheese, fruit, olives, crackers.’ It’s a fact that food tastes better on a stylish platter, so reach for an eye-catching pattern or color if you have one.
Far from grab-and-go pantry fare, but take note of the ceramic platter Martha chose when I was invited over for lunch. That little bistro-style rim does a lot for an undressed wooden dining table.
‘Then I’d set out drinks so guests could help themselves.' Martha also walked me through her exact formula for a summer beverage station and, spoiler: it involves chic beverage dispensers. Water, lemonade, and your chosen adult beverages can all be had on tap, with stacks of ideally outdoor-friendly glassware nearby so you’re not running inside for more, or watching your favorite crystal suffer an unexpected opa moment.
You won’t have time for a full guest bathroom cleanse, but Martha always adds a clean hand towel and a few fresh flowers from the garden in a vase beside the sink. This way, the space looks, feels, and smells fresh. No one will be the wiser.
Fresh flowers on this TROVE by Studio Duggan-styled vanity say: I was expecting you all along.
Since Labor Day tends to involve more indoor-outdoor movement than most gatherings, Martha insists you don’t neglect the (probably dusty) patio furniture. Give it a once-over before company comes, then warm things up, literally and figuratively, with strategic outdoor lighting and a few handy layers.
‘If we’re hosting outside, I’d brush off the furniture, turn on the pathway and accent lighting, and make sure there’s plenty of shade or a basket of throws if the evening cools down,' Martha advises me. The basket, especially, implies a level of forethought that, in total, takes less than 60 seconds to fake.
Ring ring, company calling – you'll be grateful you gave that seating set some extra attention.
‘The goal is to focus less on perfection and more on creating a space that feels welcoming, comfortable, and ready for people to enjoy,' she tells me.
So loosen up in the lead-up to Labor Day and spend more time enjoying these magical in-between moments while you can. Ahead, every hosting essential you need to make 15 minutes look more like five hours.
If you’re specifically hosting a dinner party, our summer table decor ideas can take it from here.
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