Creating a perfect room for guests is a balance of practical homey touches and just enough luxury to make your guests feel special. If you are a new homeowner who is not used to hosting overnight guests, there may be a learning curve to develop a system for guest preparation that will save time and become easier and more enjoyable.
What Guests Want
Guests mostly want to feel welcomed and not as if their arrival was an afterthought on your part. No matter how modest your accommodations, make sure your preparation is completed before your visitor arrives. They should not have to make their own bed or hunt down clean towels. Over time, your hosting skills will naturally improve but you may want to start with a check list for tasks and items to put out for guest use. It doesn’t take much effort to add a few nice touches, elevating their visit to a hotel-like experience.
Essentials for Setting Up a Guest Space
Cover the basics when it comes to hosting a visitor.
- The best way to avoid stress is to have a plan and start early. No one wants to arrive at your home and be greeted by a harried host. Launder linens and towels and make up the bed, bath and room ahead of time.
- Give guests their own space where they can relax undisturbed. While they might not spend a lot of time alone, you want their accommodations to be comfortable for reading, writing and maybe enjoying a cup of tea or coffee they can make on their own. Provide a place for their belongings and luggage.
- Provide a flexible itinerary that has options that your guest can choose to do or not, as works for them. Plan some meals at home and others out at restaurants. Find some entertainment and cultural options to run by them to gauge their interest. If your visitor is athletic plan some outdoor activities and destinations that will keep them active. Leave brochures in their room.
Aesthetics & Amenities Count
Set out a nice vase of fresh flowers, cut from your own garden if possible. Accommodations should be simple and uncluttered but have a hint of luxury. Sheets and towels with high thread counts and soft textures speak volumes about how you value your guest. Set out small containers of premium toiletries, in liquid form in the bath. Make sure extra towels and toilet paper are easily accessible.
Leave a handwritten note on the bedside table: Include your internet password; a small, quiet clock set to local time; a selection of books and magazines; paper and pens; and a list of local shops where they can find everyday items like a newspaper, small gifts to bring back home, or locally-made products such as soap, jams, maple syrup or candy the area is known for.
