A few years ago, when my husband and I were moving into our new home a wonderful friend extended us an invitation.  Pauline and her husband invited us to stay with them the night before the big move so we could rest in a relaxing environment, clear of boxes and chaos.  We took her up on the offer and walked into her guestroom late at night, tired, hungry and overwhelmed.   Pauline’s guestroom was a retreat.  It was warm and inviting, with the comforts of home and a few extra treats to make us feel special.  Flowers were on the nightstand, lemon drop candies were in a jar, an extra blanket was placed over the comfy chair in the corner,  a pitcher of water and two glasses were set on the dresser, lotions were in the bathroom and a candle was lit.  We felt like we were at a resort, just what we needed after a tiring day of packing and unpacking.

After leaving Pauline’s the next morning, I changed my way of thinking when it comes to entertaining overnight guests.  I used to think a bed was enough.  As long as they have a place to rest their head, that’s what mattered.  But, if people are traveling to see me, they need to know how much we appreciate their efforts.  Staying at my house should feel special and unique.  Now my guests are greeted with a sweet treat laid on their pillows with a note that reads, “sweet dreams.”  Flowers are on the nightstand to freshen up the room.  Bath towels are folded neatly and stacked at the foot of the bed, tied with a ribbon for an extra special touch.  A pad of paper sits on the nightstand with a pen, in case they need to write down a phone number or thoughts in the middle of the night.  A pitcher of water with slices of lemon and glasses rest on the dresser for any late night thirst.  My favorite Aveda products, in travel sizes, are laid out on the bathroom vanity so guests can give them a try and take them home as they would in a hotel.  Rosemary mint hand soap and lotion sits next to the sink.  I even had a custom wall monogram made of our initials and placed it over the bed in my attempt to make the room feel like a suite in a boutique hotel.

I hope that my efforts make my family and friends feel welcome and at home.  After all, I don’t want any complaints at the front desk!

Write more and Type less,
Lauren

Monogram wall art available at  Rock Paper Scissors

Towel photo from Martha Stewart.  To learn how to fold a towel perfectly, click here.  Then stack and tie a ribbon around the pile.  I like to stick fresh lavender under the knot.

Chair with guest essentials from Martha Stewart.

Hand towel set from Martha Stewart… adds an extra special touch to the guest bathroom.

Rosemary mint hand and body wash… my absolute favorite!

Bedroom photo from Country Living.  Be sure to give guests, the comforts of home… an extra blanket, a seat to put on their shoes and soft lighting for reading and relaxing.

Flowers on nightstand from Curbly.  It is best to stay away from extremely fragrant flowers such as lillies.  A soft perfume of a flower will be less intrusive.

Spa slippers placed on the side of the bed is a warm gesture for your guests. 

You will fall in love with Dylan’s Candy Bar… with their wide assortment of hard candies and more.

Apothecary canisters from Restoration Hardware.  Be sure to stock the guest bathroom with essentials such as cotton balls and q-tips.

Glass pitcher from Pottery Barn.  Lemons in the water leaves a fragrant and fresh tasting treat.

Chocolate chip cookies… sweet treats for sweet dreams!

Leaving robes in the bathroom will keep guests cozy.

Personalized desk pad available at Rock Paper Scissors.