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Welcoming Weekend Guests: 5 Ways to Make It Memorable

Find more ideas for hosting friends from dinner parties to gorgeous guest rooms here.

By Jennifer Huskey
Playing host to a houseful of overnight guests can be a challenge without adequate preparation. Follow these five guidelines to ensure a stress-free weekend for both you and your visitors.
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1. Do Your Pre-Visit Planning
Next: 2. Gather Guest Necessities
The first rule of thumb, says entertaining expert Dana Christine, is to know the limits of your home and don't invite more guests than you or the house can accommodate. If children are on the guest list, determine if you'll need to line up a babysitter if adult-only outings are on the schedule; if pets will be visiting as well, either make it clear that they're welcome in the house or offer up contact info for local kennels.

Most importantly, Christine says to establish arrival and departure dates and avoid inviting friends and family for an open-ended stay. "If you can't handle guests for more than a week, don't be shy about setting limits. This puts everyone on the same page and avoids surprises."



1. Do Your Pre-Visit Planning

2. Gather Guest Necessities

3. Guest-Proof the Main Rooms

4. Stock the Pantry

5. Work Out a Schedule
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