How to Cozy Up Your Home for Guests
Make the Entryway Welcoming
First impressions count! Guests will feel better when there's enough space in the entryway for them to remove coats and put down bags without being cramped. Wherever coats and shoes are kept, leave some hangers free and consider using a shelf to keep shoes organized.
Share the Wifi Passcode Quickly
Write the wifi passcode on two cards. Leave one in the main living area and one in the guest bedroom so they don't have to track anyone down late at night to get the code.
Keep a Food Station Within Easy Reach
Eating is synonymous with comfort, and guests often arrive hungry. Keep a designated station including beverages and sweet and savory snacks ready to go, so that they never have to wonder what's available.
Free Up Closet Space
It's a small touch and may take some reorganizing, but when guests can use closet or drawer space instead of living out of a suitcase it's much easier for them to feel at home.
Offer Extra Pillows and Blankets
Depending on who the guests are, they might feel uncomfortable asking for additional comfort items. Making sure they have extra pillows, blankets, and towels is a special touch that makes people feel pampered.
Use Warm Lighting
Warm lighting makes living spaces feel welcoming. "Soft white" bulbs in the 2700 to 3000 Kelvin range are generally good choices for this kind of effect. Some battery-powered candles create an even cozier atmosphere.
Create a Space for Privacy
Even in the best of environments, people sometimes need a break. Take note of whether or not guests have a place they can go for "off time" and try to create a private space if one doesn't currently exist.
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Provide Ear Plugs
You never know when someone might be very sensitive to noise. Ear plugs are one of those things that are so easy to buy in advance and often not at all convenient to buy at night, when people typically realize that they need them.
Keep Back-Up Toiletries Handy
Sometimes suitcases get delayed, or someone simply forgets to bring their toothbrush. Stock up on spare items like this beforehand so your guests have whatever they need, regardless of their luggage or memory situation.
Make Breakfast a Pleasure to Wake Up To
One of the most welcoming things a guest can experience is to wake up in the morning and find a delicious array of breakfast food and beverages laid out for them. "When in doubt, include it" is a helpful approach when preparing this kind of setup.
Have Crafts or Games Ready for Kids
Prepare for Pets
Whether it's a comfortable sleeping mat for little Scuppers or a baby gate to keep pets away from food (or each other), a little preparation can make life more comfortable for them and easier on everyone else. :)
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