Ding. Dong. It’s a decorating tips delivery at your door. Your home doesn’t get a second chance to make a good first impression on your guests. Is your front door and foyer fabulous or forgettable? Even more important, does it embrace and welcome you back in after a long day out in the world?

Let’s start on your front step, or if you’re from where I grew up, your stoop. Make the door a focal point by painting it a rich color that really stands out and coordinates with your home’s exterior. Then, hang a pretty floral wreath. Or, try decorative brass or pewter doorknockers and doorknobs to add a touch of luxe.

Put out the welcome mat. Aside from looking nice, they trap dirt before it gets tracked in. There are so many to choose from at all price points. One that’s weather and fade resistant will look nicer longer.

Large urns flanking each side of the door can be changed out to reflect the seasons with annual blooms or evergreens.

Let’s step inside. The entrance way of your home should hint at what is to come. The wall color and style should mesh with the schemes of adjacent rooms.

Some foyers are spacious and others, like my own, are quite intimate. Either way, this space calls for utility and style. Don’t settle for a pass through with no panache or one that lacks a place to stash keys. What you need are a few well-placed pieces that perform design double duty.

Decorative mirrors look beautiful, expand the space and offer a last minute checkpoint for lipstick and hair. They can be quite pricey at furniture stores. Find bargains at garage sales and discount home stores. Apply a coat of paint to match it to your décor and freshen it up.

Overhead lighting gets noticed in foyers. Make a visual statement with a chandelier or stained glass fixture. Ballard Designs is my favorite source, but for more contemporary choices check out Lampsplus.com and Shadesoflight.com.

Rainy days call for an umbrella stand. Find one loaded with character at an antique store or estate sale. If you don’t have a closet in your foyer, add a coat rack to your treasure hunt.

Depending on your floor space, a bench, chair or stool offers a spot to slip shoes on and off. A storage ottoman bench is a smart option because it gives you a place to hide cold weather accessories and backpacks. The upholstery also softens a room that is typically filled with hard surfaces.

The drawers in a small table or bureau can also offer hidden storage as well as a surface for decorative items such as a clock or a vase of fresh flowers from your garden. Note: Stacks of mail are never stylish. A detailed piece can serve as a focal point and add personal flair.

You’ll never lose your keys if you always drop them in a decorative bowl on top of your foyer table. Crystal candy dishes and pottery bowls are lovely choices.

Ground your foyer in grandeur with a fabulous floor covering. It’s hip to be square, but don’t be afraid to go round with your rug. Wool in a darker color or pattern will stand up to wear and tear.

Now, your fabulous foyer is ready for grand entrances and exits.