Provide Fresh Linens
It’s crucial that you provide crisp, clean, and coordinated linens for your overnight guests. They’ll feel especially welcome and it’s an easy thing to do. Don’t pull out your family leftovers if you don’t have to. You don’t have to invest in the finest luxury linens to make someone feel special. Most discount specialty stores have large sections of discontinued styles of designer sheet sets and lovely imported towels. You can really get a beautiful look at a small price. An electric blanket or fluffy down comforter will keep your guests cozy on the chilliest nights. Be sure to have an extra blanket tucked away in a closet should your guests need more warmth.
Have a Place to Relax
You may not want to be entertaining your guest all the time they’re with you, and it’s important that they feel they have someplace to get away for a little private relaxing time. A comfortable chair or a reading nook is just the answer. Even a small slipper chair and stool will do the trick, and your guest will have a quiet place to be on their own.
Declutter as Much as You Can
If you use your spare room for other things when you’re alone, you may have some work to do when you’re expecting guests. What to you might be decoration, might be “stuff in the way” for your visitor. Have a bare tabletop, empty drawer, and closet space available for your guest to put things away. They’ll feel more at home and not be concerned about having their things in your way.
A Reading Light Is Essential
A lot of people like to read before they go to sleep. Be sure to have good light in your guest room. But more importantly, have a good reading light that can be turned on and off without getting out of bed. A night light near the door and one in the guest’s bath will be helpful and appreciated too.
Create a “Home Away From Home”
If your guest is staying more than just overnight, they’ll feel out of place without a table or desk to write on. Paying bills, clearing out a wallet, making arrangements for the rest of the trip—these can all be done easily with a desk available. Including pens, pencils, paper, stamps, and a phone will make them feel right at home. If you can provide a TV or computer, you get bonus points!
Provide a Cozy Robe and Slippers
With limited space in a suitcase, a robe is the first thing to be left at home. Moving through your home from bath to bedroom can be tricky without a cover-up. A kimono style works well for both men and women. Throw-away slippers are an added plus for those who don’t like to walk around barefoot.
Share Your Favorite Novel
If you’ve just finished a wonderful one, why not share it with your guest? You’ll have something fun to talk about. Any book of local attractions is nice to have, too. They’ll learn about your area and might find something to do or see. If you know your guest’s special interests, how about finding a copy of one or two magazines for them to enjoy?
Finishing Touches
With so many varieties of flowers available at the local grocery store, there’s no excuse for not having them to dress up your guest room. A carafe of water and glass, a clock radio, a bottle of lotion—what do you have by your bed? Whatever you can provide for your guest will make them feel more at home and most welcome. You’ll find that if you have everything in order for your guest’s arrival and everything is ready in the special place you’ve made for them, the visit will be a happy one for both of you. You’ll feel like a wonderful host and your visit will be memorable.
