Did you host anyone over the holidays? This year we didn’t, but it is common that we do host in our home. I find that hosting others can be a joy and a privilege…but it can also feel like an added responsibility.
I want to share with you some of my simple tips for planning and hosting guests. I’ve found that with a few extra steps on the front end, your hospitality can feel more seamless, which also helps your guests to feel more at ease.
8 Ways to Welcome Guests
1) Try to create a separate space for your guests as much as possible. Whether this is an entire room or a section of a room, clearly identity the space as theirs. Make it inviting and welcoming by having their bed freshly made and lighting available.
2) Consider offering other items that may help with comfort, like more pillows, a fan, a heater, or blankets. Any items that may help your guests to feel more relaxed in their space. As you can see I’m a big fan of pillows!
3) Provide magazines and books. This way your guest(s) won’t need to ask if they would like to read or relax, there will already be things in place for them to do just that.
4) Set out their bath towels and also have spare toiletries available in case they have forgotten anything from home. Having a basket with some sample sized bath things is a great way to say “welcome!”
5) Adding small touches like a box of Kleenex or even snacks or drinks, are also great ways to make someone feel more at home.
6) Remember to display your WiFi password, I repeat display your WiFi password. This will make it easier for them to connect while they are away from home.
7) Next, offer storage options for their belongings. This could be a bench for their suitcase to rest on, a dresser for unpacking and storing things, a closet for hanging up clothing, or even a dish or tray for their small pocket items. Having designated places for them put their things will help them to feel more settled.
8) Finally, also think through any additional comforts or conveniences like a clock, a night reading light, or a phone charger, all of these are nice touches. It really is the little things that can make a difference!
As you open your door, consider the different ways you can help to make your guests feel even more at home. It doesn’t matter the size of your space what matters is the steps you take to help your visitors to feel more at ease.
And, remember that you feeling at ease is the best place to start from.
Happy Organizing!
