We did a version I'd like to look up where the host begins as normal, but doesn't carry in the 灰器. Unload the basket, take away the 釜, do the first feather.
Then leave, and bring in 灰器, putting it at the line of the main mat together with the 帛紗.
After the guest is finished (not laying the incense), come in with the 水次 and 茶巾; lay 香 and fill up 釜 and wet it.