Preparing a Guest Room

Whether you’re the one hosting your family or traveling to stay with your loved ones this holiday, here are some helpful tips for preparing a guest room your company will appreciate! Chances are, your family is easy to entertain and they don’t expect special treatment, but these seven practices are helpful year-round for all of your company, family or not!

1. Decorate Minimally – Keep the guest room free of clutter and personal decor. I like styling with simple books and an easy floral arrangement, like a small bud vase.

2. Prepare the Bedding – Crisp and comfortable bedding really makes a big difference. White sheeting is preferable in a guest room because it looks clean and tidy. There’s a reason hotels always use white bedding! I prefer cotton or linen bed sheets; my guest bed is currently dressed in a brushed cotton twill sheet set. If you really want to impress your guests- starch and iron the linens for that hotel crispness.

I’m a big fan of neutral bedding. It’s easy to adjust seasonally and it appeals to anyone staying in the guest space. This season, I selected a pretty Lacoste duvet from Macy’s.

Typically a good rule of thumb for sleeping pillows on a guest bed is two firm pillows and two soft pillows. Everyone has an accustomed sleep style and this allows guests to select their preference. Be sure to include extra throw pillows and blankets in the guest room, for afternoon naps and chilly evenings.

3. Provide a Fan – If you don’t have a ceiling fan in your guest room, be sure to include an oscillating fan. Studies show that most people sleep best in a cool environment between 65 – 68 degrees. Not only does a fan help to circulate air and cool a room, but some people prefer a consistent noise when falling asleep.

4. Clear Storage Space – Clear a small section in your closet, complete with empty hangers, in addition to drawer space. Your company will certainly appreciate a place to hang their clothing.

5. Adjust the Lighting – Lighting is very important, regardless of the room. I believe you should think of lighting in two ways: lighting during the day and lighting in the evening. In the daytime, I love natural light, mixed with overhead lighting (if necessary). At night, it’s a totally different ballgame. For the best ambiance, turn on soft lighting: floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, and gallery / art lights. This creates a cozy atmosphere that is inviting and warm.

Guests will feel more comfortable and will appreciate a light close to the bed. In this scenario, I used a table lamp with a hinge arm, which can be moved and adjusted for reading.

6. Lay Out Toiletries – Living in a small house with only one bathroom can be challenging when hosting company. Since our bath is shared, I like to leave toiletries in the guest room. I lay out bath towels and wash clothes, as well as a few luxury items that make guests feel special. I love the mini LeLabo shampoo and conditioners, a nice bar of soap, Qtips, cotton rounds, or anything else that might be helpful.

7. Consider Food & Drinks – Consider your guests’ food preferences and encourage them to help themselves. This time of year, you’ve probably already planned your holiday menu and don’t have to worry about this step, but it is nice to leave an empty glass on their bedside table. They can easily grab water at their convenience.

The holidays can be stressful, but take the extra time to make your friends and family feel welcome in your home! They’ll definitely notice the extra effort and everyone will be happier.

Everyone have a wonderful holiday!

*This post is brought to you in collaboration with Lacoste. All sheeting, bedding, and pillows can be purchased in Macy’s stores or online. All content, ideas, and words are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that allow us to create unique content while featuring products we truly use and enjoy.