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Preparing for Houseguests

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TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-646 -- More Projects »
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Make guests feel special by bundling together a stack of towels with decorative ribbon for them. It's also a nice touch if the bundle is a different color than the other ones in the bathroom.
Entertaining expert Dana Christine shares tips on preparing for houseguests.

  • First, know the limits of your home and don't invite more guests than you or the house can accommodate.

  • Make sure to establish arrival and departure dates. Avoid inviting folks for an open-ended stay.

  • If you can't handle guests for more than a week, don't be shy about setting limits. This allows everyone to be on the same page and avoids surprises.

  • Treat guests by leaving an imported chocolate on their pillows.
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Figure A
  • Place decorative touches on the nightstand of the room in which your guest is staying (figure A). If you have a photo of your guest and/or his or her family, set it out. Place a vase of simple vase flowers and/or a mildly scented candle on the table. Be sure to ask your guests if they are allergic to flowers before they enter the room.

  • Empty out a drawer or two for guests to use, and move clothes out of the closet so guests have room to hang up their items.
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    Figure B
  • Place earplugs and a sleeping mask in the bedside table, and be sure to provide a reading light (figure B).

  • Ask your guests ahead of time if there are any particular activities they'd like to do while in town. If so, be sure and plan those out ahead of time.
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    Figure C
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    Figure D
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    Figure E
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    Figure F
  • Provide guests with a "Thank you for my quiet time" sign (figure C) for them to hang on the door of their room in case they'd like a little relaxation time.

  • Fill a basket with sample sizes of toiletries such as shampoo, soap and mouthwash, along with other items like a disposable razor and toothbrush (figure D).

  • Place some magazines that might interest your guests in their room (figure E). For instance, if your guest is a runner, put out some fitness magazines. Toss in a handheld videogame if you like.

  • Place an instant-heat teapot in the guest room, along with a basket of tea bags and instant coffee, so early rising guests can help themselves to a steaming cup of their favorite morning beverage (figure F).

  • Make sure to place a nightlight in the hall so guests can find their way around.
    • Guests
    Dana Christine
    Entertaining Expert
    Grand Rapids, MN
    Phone: 612-819-6611
    E-mail: Danaholzinger@yahoo.com
    Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-646
    •Homemade Ravioli
    •Preparing for Houseguests
    •Tablecloth Care, Decoration
    •Tip of the Day
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