Holiday Hosting Tips by Benson Homes

 ’Tis the season to be hosting — but is your home ready for your holiday gathering? 

With the hustle and bustle of gift purchases, cooking meals and decorating, adding visitors or overnight guests to the mix can certainly feel a little daunting. But with a few simple additions to your home, you can have it ready for guests throughout the season – and all year long, for that matter!

Here are a few additions to make your living space a little more hospitable for your guests this year: 

1.     A well-lit driveway and parking area

 The first step of welcoming family and friends into your home begins before they even enter it!  Make sure your address is clearly marked on the outside of your home and that your floodlights and other outside lights function properly. 

 Giving your guests a clear line of vision from their vehicle to your home is not only an act of hospitality, it’s looking out for their safety. While you’re at it, make sure the pathway is clear of any potential snow, ice, wet leaves or scattered toys.

2.     A space for coats, bags (and shoes) 

The holiday season can come with a little extra baggage. Your guests will likely flood into your entryway with coats, purses, hats, gloves, gifts, and perhaps even a food dish if you’re lucky!

Be sure to have your entry closet clean and ready to hang up your guest’s belongings so they don’t have to keep track of them throughout their stay. Additionally, try to keep it free from clutter so your guests won’t have to navigate a potential avalanche of golf clubs and beach umbrellas.

If you don’t have a coat closet, that’s okay! Just have a designated area where these items will go – a spare bedroom,  or even a coatrack will do. This will keep your party rooms clear and ready for mingling.

3.     A basket of goodies for the guest bathroom 

There’s nothing worse than traveling and forgetting important toiletry items. Having contact solution, razors, shaving cream and other personal items where your guests can access them will make their transition from weary traveler to house guest much easier.

Not planning on having overnight guests this season? Keeping a small stash of necessities at the ready for your guests is vital in the powder room. A collection of hand towels and soaps is a great way to show your guests you care. Bonus points for lighting a candle to give the room some extra ambiance. 

4.     Fresh flowers and greenery 

If you have a fresh Christmas tree, take trimmings from the boughs and run them along a countertop or banister with a small set of twinkle lights, ornaments, or both! If you live in a rural area, or a space where there are fresh greens nearby, don’t be shy! Grab a few branches and see how they bring new life, quite literally, into any room. 

A small vase of fresh flowers in the guest bedroom along with a few bits of reading materials will go a long way for your guests, too. 

5.     Seasonal throw pillows and blankets 

Not only will these items give your home a more cozy and relaxed feel, they’ll also provide ample comfort for your guests. Consider holiday or winter-themed pillow covers to give your living areas and bedrooms a fresh and festive new look!

6.     A charging station 

Having an extra cell phone charger in the guest room (for overnight guests) or the living room (for parties) is a simple way to give your home a more welcoming atmosphere.This gesture shows you care about your guest’s wellness – both inside and outside your home.

 7.     A well-stocked fridge

Having enough food and beverages – especially for overnight guests – is key when hosting any time of year. Prior to your guests’ arrival, inquire if there are any dietary restrictions or must-haves and have an ample supply close at hand! 

Consider marking items that are “up for grabs” for your guests or writing out instructions for popular items (like the coffee machine) if you suspect your guests are on a different sleeping or eating schedule. 

Adding these items, along with a genuine, welcoming spirit will ensure everyone you receive into your home this year will feel welcome. 

Are you ready to love your home – and your future holiday gatherings? Contact us to get started on your remodeling project today!