Hosting houseguests with ease

By Beth Francesco

‘Tis the season to host houseguests! Whether you’re expecting the in-laws for Thanksgiving or Junior is trekking home for the holidays, here’s how to ensure their stay is just right.

A little bit of privacy goes a long way, says Washington interior designer Tami Jones. Taking the time to prepare a haven for your weary traveler can make them feel instantly at home. Smart social planning can make a stay even better, advises tourism expert Jessica Robinson. Think local, and your guests will thank you for a unique take on a familiar place.

Before they arrive

• A guest’s arrival is not the time to redecorate. A pulled-together room makes any space — a converted home office, an air mattress, the family couch — inviting. Invest in a quality, raised airbed, says Jones, owner of Tami Jones Interior Designs in Fall City, Washington. Make sure linens coordinate and are clean, and don’t forget an extra blanket and pillows!
• Clear out the clutter, advises Jones. “Avoid the temptation to make your guest space the home to your collections or childhood memories that you don’t know what to do with,” she advises. Think hotel amenities on home budget: provide a place for their suitcase, like a luggage rack or bench. An empty drawer and a place to hang items are even better.
• Your tiny guest room exudes luxury if you treat your guests well. A heartfelt gift basket — homemade sweet treats, a gift card to a favorite café, basic toiletries, or a welcoming note — can make any situation more comfortable, Jones says. A bedside table should have a lamp with good lighting, light reading material, and an alarm clock. Bonus points: Keep a bowl of Hershey’s kisses on hand to top off pillows each night.

While they are here

• You love to look at family photos, but your son-in-law isn’t interested. Turn looking at family photos into a game. Play “Who’s that baby?” or “How old is Aunt Maude in this picture?” using your albums. It’ll indulge your desires without becoming boring.
• Instead of pre-planning each meal, write the name of your favorite local eateries and toss them in a festive basket or bag. When you decide to eat out, leave it to chance — have the guest draw from the bag. Your pre-screening means they’ll get the best in town, and you don’t have to worry about taking votes and leaving people disappointed.
• Indulge in the experiences unique to your town, Robinson suggests. “In our case, that might be something unique, such as a sleigh ride, a wine tour, or even something daring like rock climbing,” she says.
• Strike up conversations with your neighbors to try to “see” the city through their eyes, Robinson says. You might disagree about personal preferences, but everyone can agree that they love something specific about their hometown. Take their cues on something new to try.

Before they leave

• No one likes to leave empty-handed. Guests will love an offbeat souvenir hunt with a great prize waiting at the end.
• Have your loved ones sign an official houseguest book. They’ll love the formality, and you’ll have your own keepsake of the visitors you’ve hosted through the years.