The holidays are fast approaching and for many of us that includes beloved guests. In the hustle and bustle of it all, how can we be sure to make sure our visiting loved ones feel our love? I think sometimes it is in the details of their stay. When my children got ready to go visit Grandma, they always reminded me, “Mom, we don’t need our toothbrushes. Grandma always has some for us!” They knew Grandma planned for and anticipated their visit. Now toothbrushes don’t necessarily shout “LOVE” but the gesture sure does. And grandma was and is the hostess with the most-est!
Our farm has a bed & breakfast and over the years, we’ve come up with some extra touches that make our guests feel more at home.
Here’s some easy things to show your love without saying a word:
1. Fluffy pillows, freshly laundered sheets, and warm comforters on the bed say a big welcome the very first night! Leave out a lighter weight throw or two so your guest can stay just at the right temperature.
2. A few snacks and some water bottles in their room lets your guests sneak a snack as needed without feeling like a burden. Snacks could be granola bars, banana or apple, or even a special holiday cookie or two! A mini fridge in your guest room expands the possibilities … try cheese sticks, meat sticks or fruit juices. Maybe even a Keurig so they can make their own morning coffee at their leisure. Or set out coffee supplies on the kitchen counter, along with a fruit and snack basket if the guest facilities aren’t conducive to food and drinks.
3. This may seem silly, but sometimes guest rooms don’t get used as much so we don’t notice when the basics need attention. Check the light bulbs, strategically place needed tissue boxes, and clocks set to the right time with fresh batteries if needed. (I just checked our guest suite and realized a bathroom light was burnt out!)
4. Fresh new towels (don’t have to be expensive!) and taking it to the next level, a bathrobe hanging in their room or bathroom. Again, watch for sales or discount stores for grand deals for these extra touches.
5. Provide lovely toiletries … just like a hotel would! I.e., soap, lotion, shampoo, conditioners, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Try sample sizes so the cost is minimal. Set out a spare hair dryer, too.
6. Leave out reading material (could be a magazine interesting to your guests, book of short stories or devotionals or a book showcasing your geographic area) in case your guests are early birds or night owls.
7. A bench or luggage rack for your company to set up their suitcase keeps everyone off the floor!
8. A fan or white noise maker is also appreciated as unfamiliar house noises or lack there of can affect your guests’ sleep.
9. A nightlight in the bathroom, guestroom or hallway allows your company to find their way without unnecessary bumps in the night.
Simple ways to say “Welcome to our Home. You are loved. We sure are glad to have you!”
Did I miss anything? Tell me in the comments if there's something special you do that I missed.
