by Wendy
follow me on twitter @wendylooksleaps
Jack and I lived in a one bedroom apartment in the heart of DC for about 10 years. Despite the limited space, we always enjoyed hosting family and friends from out of town. I think nearly 20 different guests crashed on our Ikea fold-out sofa in the living room – many during multiple visits over the years. I loved that apartment, but one of the best things about moving to a house is having a designated guest bedroom. Our rowhouse is not big, and everyone still shares a bathroom, but having a real bed and door that closes gives travelers a little more space during longer visits. My sisters April and Sunny and their families are our most frequent visitors, and I love that their kids consider our casa their home away from home. I’m still learning how to be a better hostess, but here is my strategy for making friends and family feel welcome.
#1 The guest room is (mostly) just a guest room. I say mostly because there’s one closet, and it’s packed with my clothes. In my defense, there is only one closet in the master bedroom, with Jack’s stuff. When I know guests are visiting, I try to take the items I need beforehand so I don’t have to access the closet, but I’m not always successful. In the guest room, I have a hook on the back door with hangers and an empty drawer for guests to use. We try to keep surfaces on tables and dressers clear so there is plenty of space for guests to arrange their things. The exception is a mirror and box of tolietries that includes things like shower gel, soap, extra toothbrush, tissues, sewing kit, lotion, shower cap, etc. As I write this I’m realizing that I probably should buy a little garbage can for that room.
#2 We’ve got a couple of tricks to accomodate extra guests. The trusty fold-out sofa from our apartment is still an option, and can even be moved from our office into the guest room next to the queen bed, creating a child-size bed (MJ loves this). We can also pile blankets and pillows on the L-shaped couch in the living room if needed, and hey, you’re closer to the kitchen for late night snacks.
#3 This tip is pretty obvious, but clean sheets, pillowcases, duvet etc. is probably the most important thing you can do to make a guest feel comfortable. We have various size pillows and show guests where to find extra blankets and how to work the mini-split air conditioner to heat or cool the room to their preference. We keep fresh towels and washcloths on a towel rack in their room so guests know exactly where to find them – and it also frees up space in the tiny bathroom.
#4 Kids rule – Jack and I do not have children, and we love it when our East coast and West coast nephews and nieces visit. Treats, presents, movie nights, games are always on the agenda. If we get a visit during the holidays, we’ll hang a stocking especially for the little one. We might have DC-themed coloring or sticker books ready in the guest room, or maybe a surprise plush Minecraft Creeper peering over the pillow. We try to stay flexible to their schedules and whims. Want to camp out on the couch and watch Harry Potter with popcorn and cookies? Thought you’d never ask! Want to try playing Jack’s guitar? Of course! Feel like making a paper towel path through the living room? Go for it!
#5 Anticipate food and drink preferences of guests and have their favorites on hand. Jack and I don’t usually drink soda, but try to remember to stock it for family members who need their Coke/Diet Coke. When our nieces and nephews visit we check with their parents on current favorites. While we usually eat together, sometimes the household is on different schedules. We give guests a quick tour of the kitchen, make sure there are easy breakfast and snack selections and invite them to help themselves. And of course, we always have plenty of drink options for the over 21 visitors!
#6 Other prep. My guests are always gracious and reassure me it doesn’t matter what state the house is in, and I appreciate that. However, Jack and I still try to take care of the basics: clean bathroom, a quick vaccum and dusting, declutter. We make space on the coat rack so visitors have somewhere for jackets and bags, and offer use of the washer and dryer if they want to do their laundry. We keep a couple of extra Metrocards in the guest room drawer. Jack and I love exploring our city, so we keep a running list of new exhibits, restaurants, bars, activities that we think various guests will enjoy. It’s fun to suggest itineraries based on the specific interests of family and friends.
What did I miss? Please share your tips for hosting travelers to your home below!