A home away from home for your guests? Let me show you how I do it!
Is it just me or does anyone else get excited when you have guests coming to stay over for a short time? When we were buying our home one of the things on my wish list was to be able to have a guest room to accommodate friends and family that come to visit. Maybe its the serving spirit that I have or maybe its because of all of the hotels that I stay in while I’m at work, but I have come to know a few little ways to spoil your guests even if you only have a couch to offer them.
Clean
I can’t say this enough. Dust, vacuum and maybe even mop the floor of the room that your guests will use. Remove clutter from surfaces. Even open the window if you can to let in fresh air. Trust me, the room will feel so much lighter. Be sure the bathroom that your guests will use is clean as well.
Bedding
There is nothing more welcoming that a simple but beautifully made bed with freshly washed good quality linens. My personal favorites are white sheets but light blue, grey and beige also keep the cozy and clean vibes going too. One or two throw pillows are enough as long as there is somewhere to place them when it’s time to go to bed. If you have it, drape a cozy throw or light blanket across the bed for quick naps or if you keep your home on the cooler side.
Essentials
On top of the bed or on a chair or bench, place a basket with fresh towels and washcloths, shower gel and body lotion, and a pair of comfy socks or slippers. As a bonus, I add a folded satin pillowcase as well an empty plastic bag if they need it, to take home their dirty laundry.
Goodies
On the nightstand or dresser leave two bottles of water, a lamp and a small arrangement of fresh flowers. Leave a space for personal items such as a phone or jewelry. In the drawer place extra phone chargers and a small extension cord. For extra bonus points with your guests, leave the wifi network and password information in a frame or notecard.
Storage
In my home, my guest room’s closet is used for storage but I try to keep it organized and tidy. Leave a space with a few extra hangers in case your guest needs to hang something. I also keep a folding luggage rack in the closet to rest their suitcase on. It may sound a bit over the top however, a luggage rack is one of the first things i look for when I arrive in a hotel room. Trust me, your guest will appreciate it. Lastly, I keep an extra blanket and pillows in the closet as well. If you have a dresser clear out drawer space for your guest to unpack.
Entertainment
If possible, provide a TV with streaming services so they log in to their own accounts or provide instructions or a simple guide for accessing them.
Now I’m not here to turn your overnight guests into permanent guests, but by focusing on comfort and convenience and these little details, your guests will feel so welcome and cozy they just might not want to leave. Now with that part, you might have to seek other help…
xoxo Kareen
