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A thoughtful parent and caregiver, you take care to balance your evening meals, provide fresh clothes for the family—and you look to your home for sanctity and peace. Granted, attention to extra amenities for visiting family and friends is not always easy or convenient, and it often requires more effort with bigger meals to prepare, additional loads of towels, and changing of sheets. Your normal routine will most likely be turned upside-down temporarily.
But the joys and rewards of hosting guests are profound.
Children learn lessons about giving and sharing through a kind of osmosis when their parents display outward acts of graciousness. Learning to care for and receive one another provides a segue into show-and-tell, and reminds us to listen and learn from others’ real-life stories.
If you allow guests to partake in your material possessions you are giving the truest of gifts, not things to be worn or carried, but memories the kind which fill the scrapbooks of the heart and mind. If we can let ourselves be used for comfort, the rewards can be as exciting as an adventure. You’re essentially saying, “Become part of the family while you’re here.”
You're essentially saying, "Become part of the family while you're here."
Arriving by car
If guests are arriving by car, mail or e-mail a photograph of your house along with instructions before they leave. Knowing what the house looks like provides for both security and anticipation. Rush to greet them and set aside any nonessential activities in order to make them feel welcome and get settled.
Airport arrivals
If you’re meeting at the airport, be clear about where you’ll meet at the terminal and be on time. If it’s been a terribly long flight, you might meet friends with a fresh drink and enough empty pairs of hands to take over carrying bags.
Home at last
On your arrival at home, show guests their quarters and where to deposit suitcases. Direct them to the bathroom, point out their closet and drawer space, and have a special rack or specific place for unloading their bags. (It's nice if the closet actually has room for hanging clothes as well.).jpg)
Instruct others to be themselves during guests’ stay, but to avoid strange “pop-ins.” A guest should be made to feel secure, assured that a closed door means privacy. Guarantee pets boundaries too; even visitors who love animals may not care to have the family dog making a nest in their bed or on their clothes.
Glorious guest room
What makes for luxurious quarters? Crisp, clean sheets, lots of space, and refreshments after a long day. A pitcher of fresh ice water and glasses or a variety of juices ensures your welcome. A mini refrigerator means you can treat it like a grand hotels’ mini-bar: keep a sampling of drinks and soda inside. Add snack-sized bags of mixed nuts, cookies, and a fresh Fugi apple. Provide napkins, tissues, and small desert plates. Whatever strikes you as comfortable in a strange and new environment, provide that for your guest.
Foundation firsts
The proper foundation starts with a comfortable mattress. Long-time hostesses suggest sleeping in the guest bed at least one night to test both mattress comfort and room temperature.
Other comfort essentials are all-cotton sheets, extra pillows, and a blanket. A wool mattress pad or a featherbed would be welcome for any weary traveler. There should be a mirror and reading lamp. Current magazines, hardback bestsellers, or specialty publications pertaining to their interests would be nice. Make sure you furnish an alarm clock or clock radio, and talk to guests about your family’s hours and who does what when.
Use your best things
What are you saving them for? A silver antique hand mirror or chocolates on an elegant crystal dish tell your guest they’re
special. A finely-appointed desk with notepaper, envelopes, and a fountain pen is a thoughtful touch. Lightly scented candles and a selection of unopened toiletries is a good idea. Collect sample size soaps, shampoo, and other notions to fill a pretty basket. Tuck in a clothes brush and brand new toothbrush, your guest will want for nothing.
Special luxuries
A light-bulb ring filled with scented oil is pleasant or use fresh flowers or herbs in a petite display. Include a small coffee-maker with supplies, including flavored or specially-blended brands. A full-length, good quality terry bathrobe and a thick stack of plush towels demonstrates hospitality. Think about making a handyman’s box including a mini flashlight, cough drops, chewing gum and lip balm. A small niche with a portable TV and viewing guide allows guests to unwind with their special shows and gives them something to listen to as they ready for the day. A scrapbook filled with local attractions and things to do in the area is a good surprise.
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The Plans
Allow guests to go off on their own. They might like running errands, checking out antique shops, or car lots. An outing for the two of you could include an art gallery or botanical garden. Engage them in your hobbies by providing reading, needlepoint or crosswords. Let them help prepare a meal.
Look at staying in your home from your guest’s perspective. Do things for them you would like someone to do for you. Give yourself idle time together. Turn off the TV and find out what another special life is up to. You’ll have a wonderful time. Guaranteed.
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