When guests come to stay, you want them to feel immediately at home. And, you likely want to feel at ease and simply enjoy their company. A little planning ahead and a few simple touches can ensure everyone is comfortable. Here is our FORMula for giving your guests a warm welcome.
A Private Space to Rest
This might seem obvious but it’s hugely important for everyone to have their own space to retreat to at the end of the day. If you don’t have a dedicated guest room in your house there are a few ways to create a private space. If your kids have separate rooms, have them bunk together and put your guests in the room with the bigger bed. Make space in a drawer and in the closet, set out some spare hangers and make sure surface tops are clear of kid clutter. Or, create a private space in a common area (like a basement) by installing a simple tension road and curtains to section of a portion of the space for guests.
Personalized Welcome
Welcome your guests with some special little touches in their room. Think about the things you’re always hunting for when you’re travelling: WiFi password, hand sanitizer, spare phone charger, steamer, some light reading material, etc. And, to really go the extra mile, consider adding a few more personalized touches like a simple handwritten note and fresh flowers or greenery on the bedside table. The little things often have a huge impact in making guests feel really welcome.
Fresh Linen
This is a must. Ensure the sheets are freshly laundered and set out a few extra blankets and pillows. Lay fresh towels, including a face wash, hand towel and bath towels on the foot of the bed. And, stock a basket with some basic toiletry items that your guests may have forgotten including body lotion, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, and set that out with the towels. Lastly, make sure the bathroom is well-stocked with hand soap, toilet paper, a plunger and an empty trash can so guests don’t have to ask for these items.
Refreshments
In the guest room, set out a water carafe and a few glasses along with a small basket of snacks (think: dried fruit, chocolates, candies, mints, etc.) In the kitchen, create a little coffee station that is stocked with coffee (beans or pods), spoons and mugs so early risers can help themselves. Lay out some fresh bread, baked goods and a bowl of fruit for impromptu breakfasts and make sure the fridge is well-stocked with easy-to-grab snack items like yogurt and sliced meat and cheese for sandwiches.
Tour
Once guests have settled in, give them a quick tour of the house and review key things about the space. Let them know they can help themselves to items in the fridge and pantry, discuss timelines for meals and be sure to highlight any of the nuances of the systems in your house like the hot tub or a septic system. It’s also helpful to write down a few household instructions so your guests don’t have to memorize everything. Include things like alarm codes, remote control instruction and how the coffee machine works.
What are your top tips and tricks for creating a guest oasis? Let us know in the comments below.
Or, do you need help creating the perfect space for guests? Give us a call.
