Get House Guest-Ready

The holidays are just around the corner, which means it’s the time of the year for guests to start dropping by. No sweat, says the hostess with the most-est. Give your guests the royal treatment with these easy-to-incorporate ideas for the entire house. 

Bedroom

Your guests will be spending a lot of time here, so try to anticipate their needs. A decorative alarm clock adds charm, but bedside lighting is a must. Leave a pitcher of fresh water out on a tray, along with some wrapped edible goodies. Set it all off with fresh flowers or a single bud in a vase, and make sure there’s a soft throw in arm’s reach in case the night gets chilly.

Living Room 

Stay stress-free during by tucking a few board games away in a dual purpose ottoman that will also serve as a cushy place to sit. Stock a make-it-yourself bar cart in the corner to free up bottlenecks in the kitchen, and create visual interest with a few faux plants. Folding chairs and tables give your guests additional places to gather, and can be easily stowed away when not in use. And be sure there are plenty of coasters on hand so absent-minded guests don’t leave rings on your furniture. (Pro Tip: Place out several snack bowls in key areas to give everyone a chance to enjoy.) 

Kitchen

Have several bowls full of snacks like nuts, chips, or veggies on hand to curb your guests’ munchies. Or offer cured meats and cheeses on a sandwich tray so guests can snack at will. For an added touch of elegance, consider cloth napkins. 

Bathroom

Don’t forget the bathroom. Have plenty of clean towels and wash cloths on hand, and make sure to have somewhere for them to hang them wet – hooks are a guests’ best friend. Be sure to have some extra toothbrushes, shampoo and razors on hand in case someone forgets hers. It’s even a sweet idea to stock up a few of these essentials in a basket so your guest will have everything he needs at a glance.

(Pro Tip: Give your guests color coded bath towels to make it easier for everyone to keep up with them.)

Did you incorporate some of our stylish tips into your guest-ready home? Share them with us at #AtHomeFinds.

General Tips: (Designer: These 3 tips aren’t specific to any of the rooms above. Can we find some way to stylishly scatter these throughout the How To?)

Pro Tip: Are your guests inseparable from their pets? Tuck a doggie bed away so Fido will have a sweet spot to sleep when he visits.

Pro Tip: Everyone travels with their computers these days. Make a stylish sign that gives your guests the wifi password so they don’t have to feel awkward asking for it.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget fragrances when you’re getting your home ready for guests. Use candles in every room to keep your home sweetly scented.