Hosting overnight guests can either be a delightful experience or a stressful one, depending on how well-prepared you are. As a seasoned hostess, I’ve discovered that the secret to succeeding in this arena is preparation. By having a solid plan in place and ensuring that everything is ready well in advance, you can make your guests feel welcome and comfortable, while also ensuring a stress-free experience for yourself. In this blog post, I am going to share with you 11 things I always do before hosting overnight guests.
1. Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is always the first step when preparing for overnight guests. It’s not just about making your home look presentable, but also about creating a comfortable and healthy living environment for your guests. I always make sure to clean every nook and cranny, from the guest room to the kitchen and bathroom.
Remember, nothing says ‘welcome’ better than a clean and fresh-smelling home. Pay attention to the areas where your guests will spend most of their time. Also, don’t forget to clean and sanitize commonly touched surfaces like door handles, light switches, and remote controls.
2. Stock Up on Essentials
Stocking up on essentials is crucial when hosting overnight guests. Think about what your guests might need during their stay and ensure that these items are readily available. This can include toiletries, towels, extra blankets, and pillows.
Also consider your guest’s personal needs. If they have dietary restrictions, stock up on appropriate food items. If they are bringing their kids along, make sure you have some toys or books to keep them entertained. By anticipating your guests’ needs, you can make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
3. Prepare the Guest Room
A comfortable guest room is key to making your guests feel at home. Start by ensuring that the bed is comfortable and inviting. Fresh linens, plump pillows, and a cozy blanket can make a world of difference.
Don’t forget about the little details. A bedside table with a lamp, a clock, and a space for them to charge their devices can be very helpful. If there’s enough space, include a chair or a small couch for them to sit on.
4. Plan Meals in Advance
Planning meals in advance saves you from the last-minute hustle and helps ensure that your guests have a pleasant dining experience. Consider your guests’ dietary preferences and plan meals accordingly.
Try to prepare some dishes in advance and freeze them. This way, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen and will have more time to spend with your guests. Also, consider planning for some easy-to-prepare meals or snacks for times when your guests might get hungry in between meals.
5. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Creating a welcoming atmosphere goes a long way in making your guests feel at home. Light some scented candles, play some soft music, and keep the lighting warm and inviting.
Also, a small welcome basket with some snacks, bottled water, and a note can add a personal touch and make your guests feel special. Remember, it’s the little things that often make the biggest difference.
6. Check Your Wi-Fi
In today’s digital age, having a reliable Wi-Fi connection is a must. Make sure your Wi-Fi is working properly and is able to handle the extra devices.
Print out the Wi-Fi password and place it in a visible location in the guest room. This way, your guests won’t have to ask you for it and can connect their devices whenever they need to.
7. Set Up a Coffee and Tea Station
Setting up a coffee and tea station is a thoughtful gesture that your guests will surely appreciate. Stock it with a variety of teas, coffee, sugar, creamer, and some biscuits or snacks.
This not only gives your guests the freedom to make their own hot beverage whenever they want, but also saves you from having to prepare it for them every time.
8. Make a List of Local Attractions
If your guests are visiting from out of town, they might appreciate a list of local attractions, restaurants, and shops. This can help them plan their days and make the most of their visit.
Include a map and public transportation information if available. This way, your guests can explore the local area at their own pace and according to their interests.
9. Prepare an Emergency Contact List
An emergency contact list is always a good idea when hosting overnight guests. Include your contact information, the nearest hospital, a reliable taxi service, and any other important numbers.
This not only ensures that your guests have all the necessary information in case of an emergency, but also gives them (and you) peace of mind.
10. Arrange for Parking
If your guests are driving to your place, make sure you arrange for parking. If you don’t have enough space in your driveway or garage, check for nearby public parking options.
Inform your guests about the parking situation in advance so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
11. Relax and Enjoy
Last but not least, remember to relax and enjoy. Hosting overnight guests can be a lot of work, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to spend time with people you care about.
Try not to stress too much about everything being perfect. Your guests are there to see you, not to judge your home. The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and enjoys their time together.