Key insights:
- When hosting holiday house guests, go beyond their basic needs to offer maximum comfort in their sleeping spaces and bathroom accommodations.
- Be sure to mark anything that's off-limits in the refrigerator, to ensure your eggnog doesn't go missing before the big meal.
- If you're hosting the next generation, the holidays are a great time to dig out old games and toys.
'Tis the season for house guests! Whether you've been living in the same home for many years or have recently purchased a new property and it’s your first time hosting holiday guests, follow these tips to ensure your overnight visitors feel warm and welcome in your home over the holidays.
The sleeping spaces
Begin by assessing the total number of guests, and how you might accommodate them overnight. Beds are ideal, but most people will understand if they’re relegated to an air mattress or couch for the visit. Offer an assortment of blankets and pillows so they can be as comfortable as possible.
While many people now use their cell phones as their alarm, you can also provide an easily programmable travel alarm clock on a small side table. Last, put out a small tray or bowl where guests can store their wallet, keys and other personal items.
If you want to go the extra mile to make your guests feel special, consider adding a welcome basket to each room. This assortment could include some or all of the following:
- Mints or candy canes
- Chocolates
- Water bottles
- Phone chargers
- Earplugs
- Linen spray
- Face masks and hand sanitizer
The bathing basics
Be sure to show guests which bathroom they should use during their stay, along with how to operate any complicated bathroom appliances, like a tricky shower nozzle or a heated floor system. At this time, you may also let guests know about hair dryers, towel warmers or other gadgets available to them.
On the counter, provide easily forgotten essentials like shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste. And, if the bathroom isn't connected to your guests' sleeping space, consider lighting the hallway with a nightlight.
Traveling and eating rich foods can take their toll, so consider offering some or all of the following as well:
- Pain medication
- Antacids
- Melatonin or other sleep aids
- Bandages
- Moisturizers and lip care
- A nail file and clipper
The fridge factor
Most houseguests won't touch the cupboards or refrigerator without asking. Still, you should be sure to label anything that's “off-limits'' – lest you end up with someone drinking all the eggnog before the party starts!
Conversely, try to have a few easy-to-access snacks on hand to allow guests to fill up if your meal schedule isn’t perfectly aligned with their hunger pangs.
Some quick and simple snack ideas:
- Vegetables and hummus
- Crackers and cheese
- Fruit
- Olives
- Holiday cookies
- Nut mix or party mix
It's all relative
If you know your guests and relatives well, take their quirks into account as you prepare your home. If your sister is a coffee drinker, stock up on coffee, milk and creamer so she can start each morning off right. If your cousin is bringing their three children, set out your own kids' long-forgotten favorite toys and books to occupy them. These thoughtful additions can make all the difference and create a pleasant atmosphere for everyone.
Above all, enjoy the holidays
Holiday house guests come just once a year, but their visit can be stressful if you’re not prepared. By being proactive, you can ensure everyone looks forward to the annual tradition for years to come.
Hoping to upgrade your space so you can host next year’s holiday festivities? Reach out to Edina Realty or one of our agents today.
