Are you ready for a Guest?
Has it ever happened that you are having guests sleep over but you do not really know how to prepare for it or how to design your spare room to accommodate them? As gracious hosts we endeavor to make them feel welcome and comfortable just like they would be in their own home. Most of the time however, since we are running around and seeing to last minute details our guests end up feeling awkward and that they are a burden to us. So how do we make them feel special and appreciated instead of feeling ill at ease? The following are suggestions to make their stay a memorable one:
•    Give them space- If they will be staying for more than a day clear out a drawer or closet space in their assigned room for them to use during their stay. After all who would want to live out of a suitcase even for just a couple of days? This will make them feel more welcome and can take comfort in the fact that we do have room to accommodate them.
•    If possible situate a coffee table and some chairs in the spare room. Why would you do this when you have a perfectly good kitchen they can have coffee in? People need their own space and even as guests and they are having coffee or a snack they might want some privacy.
•    Clear the room they will be staying in of photo frames of your family. Trust me they know that they are in your house and are possibly quite uncomfortable because they feel they may be imposing themselves, being reminded of the fact they are in someone else’s house constantly via pictures will not help them feel more relaxed.
•    If the room your guests are using does not have a bathroom design a toiletry caddy or kit for them. In it could be some soap, shampoo and conditioner just like in hotels. One can also assign a set of towels for them to use during their stay. This will make them feel less like they are intruding in your home and because they have their own things even if it is temporary. If the room has its own bathroom then you can leave the tray and towels there.
•    Have needed telephone numbers handy. Since it would be improbable that you will always be with your guests when they are in your house leave them a list of numbers they might need. Do include not only where they can reach you but also handy numbers like taxi companies and food delivery service.