Friday, December 5, 2014

Hosting Overnight Guests in a Small Space


This time of year many people find themselves entertaining overnight guests. With a new baby in tow, we have even more visitors this year. Because we live in a small(er) sized home we have to get creative when family and friends come to visit. Though tempting, we've firmly agreed not to upsize to gain more guest space, that we'd rarely use. We just can't seem to justify the increase in housing expense. So to get around our size restrictions we've devised a few strategies, which you can try too:

1) GIVE UP YOUR BEDROOM. When a dedicated guest bedroom isn't an option, it's always nice to give up your bedroom to guests. This ensures they will feel welcomed, cozy, and have a little privacy. You can sleep on a sofa or pull out bed tucked away in another part of the house.

2) HAVE FRESH GREENERY. A few flowers on hand for guests to enjoy during their visit are always appreciated.

3) PROVIDE NICE TOWELS. Nice guest towels give guests a hotel experience for free. You don't have to spend an arm and a leg for high-quality towels. You can pick up nice ones at discount stores like TUESDAY MORNING.

4) HAVE SOME OF THEIR FAVORITE THINGS AVAILABLE. Presumably if someone is coming from out of town to stay at your home you know them pretty well. Use some of your knowledge about them to ensure they have a few of the favorite things hanging around, i.e. magazines, books, tea, snacks, adult beverages, etc.

5) OFFER ENTERTAINMENT.  This could be a television, movies, or access to your iTunes or Amazon account.

6) MAKE SURE SLEEPING QUARTERS SMELL WELCOMING. Fresh linens of course are a must, but you can also have a few scented candles on hand.

7) OFFER MINI TOILETRIES. You know all those bottles of lotion, shampoo, and conditioner you've been collecting from your travels? Well now's the time to offer them up to your house guests.

What do you do to make your guests feel welcome?

“That boy is your company. And if he wants to eat up that tablecloth, you let him, you hear?” ~Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird
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9 comments:

  1. Studio Yuko Jones December 6, 2014 at 1:14 AM

    So many great tips! I will have to remember them when I have my guests over next time. I'm so impressed how much attention and care you put into preparing your home for your guests. As always, I'm learning so much from you. xo

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    1. Bmore BungalowDecember 9, 2014 at 11:30 PM

      Thanks Yuko. I learn a ton from your blog as well :-)

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  2. Linda StollDecember 6, 2014 at 2:14 PM

    What a lovely, lovely haven you're providing ... and it has nothing to do with space, does it. It's all about the hospitality that pours from your open heart.

    Love this post!

    Weekend blessings to you, friend! And thank you for sharing Creekside on your bloglist. I feel so honored. Truly.

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    Replies
    1. Bmore BungalowDecember 9, 2014 at 11:30 PM

      Thanks Linda. The pleasure is all mine. I gain so much inspiration from your blog. Your words touch many.

      Delete
  3. GamKDecember 8, 2014 at 5:31 AM

    You are such a thoughtful host - despite being busy caring for a new baby! These are really great tips, good for the inevitable holiday visitors. :)

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  4. Kevin KDecember 10, 2014 at 11:45 PM

    You sure are a nice host! Thanks for welcoming me and cooking me grits! :)

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  5. Down On The FarmMarch 16, 2015 at 10:18 AM

    We have Tuesday Morning here in Missouri, but my favorite "discount" stores are Marshalls and TJMaxx. I can ALWAYS find something really really nice at a great price! Do you have those stores on the East coast?? (The East Coast seems like another country considering I live in Missouri . . . and no we don't all wear overalls lol! I don't even OWN a pair of overalls haha!)

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