HEARTH & HOME
From the Ted Baker Autumn/Winter 2018 collection
cotton. When dressing the bed, go for layers. Because you won’t know
what your guests prefer, you’ll want some cozy blankets, in addition
to a soft quilt or duvet. Go with a neutral color scheme, and let your
decorative pillows and accessories speak to your style. If your guests
are traveling with children and need extra space, consider a trundle bed
that can be stored under the main bed, and stock extra linens.
A hotel-quality guest room is non-cluttered and provides ample
storage for a guest’s belongings, including closet space for hanging nicer
clothing items. If you generally use the closet to store your own things,
you’ll want to empty it before your company arrives. A small desk and
a seating area with a comfortable chair should also be provided. Some
guests may need to check in with work, and not everyone likes to sit on
the bed. Decor should be kept to a minimum, but a vase of fresh flowers
is always a lovely gesture, and beautiful bouquets can usually be picked
up year-round at your local grocer.
Providing tech support is also crucial in this day and age. Remember,
we are all connected 24/7, and your house guests are no different. If your
home Wi-Fi is password-protected, consider printing a nice 5-by-7 or
8-by-10 sign that easily shows the password. Extra USB chargers are
also a nice touch, in case guests forget or lose their own. Even extra sets
of ear buds can really make a difference to a weary traveler.
To really make your guest room top-notch, think about all the
extras you may get at a hotel, and leave a basket in the room with
bottled water, snacks, current magazines, books and instructions for
the TV. Fresh towels and toiletries should also be available and easy to
find, and if the bathroom isn’t attached to the room, nightlights in the
hallway are thoughtful additions to help navigate unfamiliar territory
after dark.
The holiday months are filled with frenzy, but having your family and
friends stay in your home should be relaxing and enjoyable for everyone.
Bodnar is a real estate investor and interior decorating coach. For more decorating tips and tricks, visit rhondashrumbodnar.com.
SAVVY I SOPHISTICATED I SASSY
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