Vicky Sanderson Holidays often mean that out-of-town friends and family are paying overnight visits. Naturally, you’ll want to make guests feel just a little special — ideally without turning your home into a luxury hotel. There are simple ways to make a stay easier and more comfortable for visitors, whether you have a designated spare room, or just a corner in a crowded condo. Here are some affordable elements that will help:
Think about the most important element of a hotel room – a well-made bed. Invest in a decent pillow or two for guests, and buy a better-quality padded mattress cover at a discount retailer like HomeSense. It will make any bed more comfortable and can turn a less than cushy sofa into a more restful space to sleep.
Invest in a decent pillow.
Not only is a bar cart attractive décor, it can help keep entertaining items handy and organized. This season, HomeSense has a wonderful selection of carts, from classic silver metal and mirrored options to models with on-trend black glass and gold metal frames.
Bar carts are especially useful when used with trays. In a small space, you can keep drinks on one tray and simply switch it out for another tray filled with a water jug, reading lamp, Kleenex, phone charger etc. A pile of towels can fit nicely on the bottom shelf.
An étagère can also work nicely as a perch for drinks or guest supplies in a small space, especially if it’s chosen to blend seamlessly into the décor. That way, it gives the illusion of space while providing additional surfaces for food, drink and décor.
A side table or console can also do double duty for holiday entertaining. Consider using one for a sweet and coffee table after a meal. A French press both makes great coffee and serves as pretty décor, while a handsome carafe keeps it hot while you visit and chat. An inexpensive cake stand elevates the look of even the most humble desserts.
Timely tips:
- Use layered thin blankets or throws than double as décor for guests rather than bulky duvets – many people find them too hot, and they’re a pain to store.
- Want to avoid guests stumbling on the way to the bathroom? Put a flameless candle in there to light the way.
- No time to make a fancy dessert? Buy good-quality ice cream and dress it with a dessert sauce, such as dulce de leche.
What are your favourite ways to make a guest feel appreciated? I’d love to hear!
Picture credits: HomeSense
I partnered with HomeSense on this post. The company neither reviewed nor approved the content. Opinions are my own.
