For Happy Houseguest

By Kristi Spencer

he holiday season brings a flurry of activity, delicious food, and house guests. As exciting as it is to host family and friends, ensuring their comfortable stay can feel overwhelming. Luckily, with thoughtful touches and careful planning, you can create a welcoming space and wonderful memories for your guests.

Clean and Tidy

Start by thoroughl sider your space from a guest's perspective and focus on the areas that catch the eye Pay special attention to door handles, faucets, and light switches Your home doesn't need to be spotless, but taking care of details like vacuuming pet hair and removing cobwebs will create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for you and your guests.

Spend the Night

"Try spending a night in your guest room to see things from your guests' perspective This can help you identify and fix issues such as an off-balance ceiling fan or curtains that let in too much light before guests arrive "

Nightstand Necessities

Ensure each guest room has a nightstand with a lamp or, even better, a USB lamp so guests can use it to charge their phones. Also, provide a box of tissues on the nightstand

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Stock the guest room with extra pillows and blankets to accommodate different comfort preferences.

Bath Products

Provide bath products such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion It's an excellent opportunity to use those hotel sample bottles you’ve

Towels and Washcloths

Don't forget to have plenty of clean towels and washcloths for your guests. It's also a great idea to provide makeup remover wipes so your guests won’t have to worry about staining your washcloths

Storage Space

Clear out a few drawers or leave some closet space with hangers. Your guests will appreciate having a place to store their belongings and keep their space organized.

Unpacking Area

Designate a space for your guests to unpack A luggage rack, small table, or trunk can provide a convenient spot for their suitcase.

Fan

A small fan in the guest room can provide comfort for white noise or extra air circulation

Home Tour

Give your guests a tour of your home. Take extra time when showing them their room, the bathroom, and the kitchen, and don’t forget to let them know where and how to make a cup of coffee.

Grocery Run

Before your guests arrive, ask if you can pick up anything from the grocery store.

Special Touches

Place snacks and water bottles in the guest room. For an extra-special touch, include local favorites such as treats from a local candy store or regional snacks and drinks.

Entertainment Options

Stock the room with magazines, books, and a deck of cards This provides entertainment options for when your guests want some alone time.

Phone Charger

Providing the necessary equipment and a designated place for charging electronic devices is always considered

Wi-Fi Password

Display the Wi-Fi password in an easy-tofind spot, such as on a decorative card or a small chalkboard in the guest room.

Tech Instructions

Provide clear instructions for using the TV remote or a remote-controlled ceiling fan.

Emergency Supplies

Keep sample sizes of Tylenol, Tums, and a small first aid kit handy Your guests will appreciate having these items readily available if needed

In-Room Entertainment

Ensure there is a TV in the guest room. A smart TV is best, but any screen will do if visitors want to watch latenight TV

Laundry Hamper

Provide a hamper for guests to place their used towels and clothes. This helps keep the room tidy and makes it easier to manage laundry.

Activity Planning

While planning activities with your guests is great, be flexible if they prefer to do their own thing. Communicate your availability for outings and let them know if there are times you won’t be able to join.

Planning in advance for your guests will help them feel truly welcome, allow you to worry less, and allow you to spend more time with them It's okay if you haven't thought of every detail; the most important thing is to cherish the time with your guests and create memorable experiences together. Happy hosting! H