Self-Improvement - How to Be a Gracious Host?

You can make a particularly lovely stay for yourthem up if they are exhausted.
house guests quite easily. Begin with cleaning yourYour guests might rise much earlier than you or later.
home the day before their arrival. Always start withPrepare for either event. Let them know if they rise
the bathrooms and make them as clean as a goodfirst they are welcome to make themselves tea or
hotel. Set out fresh towels on the counter as this willcoffee or have anything else they wish in the kitchen.
make it clear these are the ones your guests maySet their likely needs out for them so they can find
use. If you wish to add a special touch, set out a freshthem.
bar of soap and guest toiletries as if this were a spa.If you wish, you can even do as they do at many bed
Next, prepare their bedroom or sleeping space.and breakfasts and prepare them a hospitality tray.
Remove clutter from the area and make the bedThis is a tray that has on it packets of tea, coffee,
neatly with clean sheets. It is helpful to guests tosometimes hot chocolate, bottles of water, and sealed
provide them with a little storage, such as an emptyconvenience packets of crackers, cookies, or oatmeal.
drawer and closet space, and a small table clear ofIt will also have a cup and spoon, and if it will be kept in
clutter. If you wish, you can leave a small welcomingthe bedroom, it will have an electric kettle. Cover the
gift for them beside their bed, such as a fewtray with a tea towel to prevent dust.
chocolates. Many guests will need an alarm clock atTry to be sensitive to the needs of your guests during
some point in their stay.their stay. They may have other activities planned, but
If your guests arrive in the evening or after long travel,it will be enjoyable to plan some activities together that
ask them first if they are tired or hungry. Do not keepyou both will enjoy.