There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays: Holiday Hosting Tips Everyone Needs To Know

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

Chances are that the holidays mean so much more than gifts. They probably mean (hopefully) lots of friends and family gathering for food and fun, which translates into lots of visiting or perhaps lots of visitors.

But, as we all know catering to a houseful of guests can be quite challenging. In fact, it may almost seem like your focus is meeting everyone’s needs but your own, and with worrying about how to please ALL your visitors.

Experts note that while home is where the heart is, it is also where you can find all the comforts of “home” and that’s just the kind of royal treatment you should offer your out of towners, after all wouldn’t you want the same?

Being the host with the most or hostess with the mostess means adding an extra dash of TLC into your efforts of hospitality.

Bedside Manners:

· Prior to your guests arrivals think about giving them a warm welcome by adding a little extra warmth to their bedroom retreat. Besides raising the temperature a bit, set out some extra blankets or put a small space heater on the floor. For warmer days and moths consider easy access to windows and make sure that screens are in place and that shades work.

· Place an alarm clock and a lamp that dims or a reading light by the bedside table. Also, make (additional) room for your guest’s luggage and belongings, and don’t forget to stock up on some extra hangers.

· Invest in a few magazines, books, perhaps even a few movies they can pop into the VCR or DVD player before retiring at night. As far as novels are concerned, experts suggest even considering adding a note suggesting that you guest can keep the book as a gift so they needn’t worry about finishing it before they leave.

· Place some mints by their pillow (and some extra in a dish) as well as some munchies in their room. From bottled water to nuts or fruits, it a very nice added touch. And, don’t forget the tissues and napkins so they can enjoy their goodies without worrying about getting hands and sheets dirty and so they don’t have to ask.

Restroom Extras:

· Make sure you bathroom is clean. Make sure shampoo and conditioner bottles are not riddled with residue, there’s no hair on the soap, razors are capped and new, and that tub and shower doors are free of soap scum. Also make sure your bathroom curtain is clean, free of stain and tatters, and if you have to, replace it before guests arrive. Make sure to have plenty of toilet paper on hand, and make it easily accessible for guests (in full view is best). And, don’t forget to leave a care of air-freshener handy so guest wont’ have to ask.

· Think comfort and “luxury”. Place bars of subtly scented, seasonal or natural soap on the counter, (the prettier the better), and a few overturned glasses for rinsing after brushing. Don’t forget to keep extras on hand as well. Think about stocking up on some (inexpensive gel, toothpaste and a toothbrush or two), etc. Also have lots of fluffy towels ready and handy. And as far as decorative towels, think seasonal and don’t forget the hand and face towels as well. If you really want to go the extra mile, consider heating towels in the dryer before handing to guests.

· Make sure you have some “feminine” products on hand and easy available for female guests who just may need them, but don’t want to impose or ask.

Food and Fun:

· Find out what your guests like and try to make arrangements in advance of their arrival. It’s also a good idea, according to experts, to let guests know exactly what you have planned before finalizing arrangements so you can make necessary changes and so “they” know what to expect and need to properly prepare for. An added extra could include a printed itinerary and welcome note, including a list of local stores, establishments, eateries, public transportation schedules, events, local maps, etc.

· Make inquiries about dietary restrictions or preferences and make sure to have mentioned items and “favorites” on hand. Experiment with new recipes beforehand, and/or make early preparations, freeze the food, and have it ready to go when guests arrive.

· Break up the routine by allowing your guests some time alone, and also arranging for some “adventure”. From local (holiday) events to new dinning experiences be prepared (ahead of time) to treat your guests to a good time.