Simple Entertaining: Overnight Guests

During the holiday season, many of us find ourselves entertaining guests overnight. Whether it be relatives who have traveled in order to stay with you, or a friend passing through looking for a place simply to rest their head, here are a few simple tips that can help you make their stay more comfortable.

• One easy thing you can do that will have your guests wanting to return is to make their sleep more comfortable. You may not have the same budget as a luxury hotel, but investing in a couple extra pillows and a really comfortable blanket will leave guests in a sweet slumber. By leaving an extra blanket in their room, your guests can fell just as warm and snugly as they desire.

• If you are one of those households that have 3 remotes just to turn on the TV, Satellite, Tivo, etc. your guests will most likely be completely lost and intimated to turn anything on. If your guests' room has a TV, confusing alarm clock, or other complicated electronics...putting together a simple electronics "manual" would be very thoughtful. You can do as little as type a few instruction up and leave it in their room or as much as putting together a small "how-to" binder (like pictured here). This tip is also good for babysitters and house sitters!

• If your guests will be staying a long period of time, putting together a quick schedule might be helpful. Let them know when you are busy working (and/or attending other obligations) and when you will be home. This will enable them to feel comfortable making their own plans. You can even put together a little "suggestion" list of things for them to do or places to visit if they are not familiar with your area.

• Make a guests truly feel welcomed by putting together a small care kit for them. Include some sample sized toiletries, extra tooth brush, aspirin, and anything you know they love. For example, a special tea they drink or their favorite coffee creamer for the mornings.

These are just a few simple and thoughtful ideas to help you be a fabulous hostess to your overnight guests. Making them feel comfortable is key.... and of course enjoy their company!