I’m so excited to have a very special visitor flying in to spend Memorial Day Weekend with me…

My dearest friend, Kellie!!!

We’ve been practically joined at the hip for the past seven years and I’ve missed her so, SOOOOO much since the move.

There is nothing like the expectation of company to kick all of your home improvement projects into high gear – thus the overwhelming number of house-related posts that I’ve shared lately. The house won’t be perfect, but, hey, we all know how I feel about perfection.

**smile**

The guest bedroom is finished {yay!} so at least she will have a nice place to rest.

Now, to remember all of the little details to make her stay more comfortable.

Harriet Withycombe for SocialMosters.org has a great checklist for preparing your home for overnight guests:

After hours of traveling, all you want to do when you arrive at your destination is unwind in a comfortable room. Whether you’re expecting houseguests from near or far, it’s imperative you afford them the same hospitality you appreciate. Channel your inner Martha Stewart by preparing your guest room with these six special touches:

Crisp Bedding

While many outfit their spare bedrooms with bedding cast-offs from master bedrooms past, if it’s in your budget, splurge on a new duvet and set of cotton sheets. Many big-name retailers such as Macy’s have holiday furniture and bedding sales including large selections of mattress brands and comforters to choose from. Discerning shoppers can usually find good deals by visiting department stores and shopping online.

Extra Pillows and Blankets

MarthaStewart.com experts recommend making up a double or queen-sized bed with four pillows, two firm and two soft, to accommodate any guests’ preferences. Add a few accent pillows, which can double as support for those who want to read or use an iPad in bed. For blankets, make up the bed with one light blanket and one heavier one, and fold a lightweight throw at the foot of the bed or over a reading chair.

Ample Closet Space

For many, the guest room closet is a catch-all for wardrobe overflow and out-of-season garb. Clear some space here so guests have a place to hang their things. Stock the closet with a dozen high-quality hangers (not the wiry souvenirs from the dry cleaner) to hold everything from heavy winter coats to trousers and dresses. Clean out a dresser drawer or two as well.

Charging Station

Don’t force your guests to crawl around the room or move furniture to charge their mobile phones and other tech gadgets. Seasoned hosts at Woman’s Day magazine suggest adding a power strip in a convenient spot, such as next to the bed, for easy-access charging.

Clear the Clutter

Less is more when it comes to framed photos and trinkets in the guest room. Streamline the decorative details to evoke a soothing sense of comfort – too much “stuff” will likely make your guests feel smothered.

Don’t Forget the Bathroom

Guest preparation isn’t limited to the bedroom; a great host must consider the bathroom as well. Provide ample space in the guest bathroom for houseguests to unpack their personal items. Leave out a stack of freshly laundered towels and a basket of spare toiletry items in case your guests forget anything. Include items such as:

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Body lotion
  • Shower gel
  • A bar of soap
  • Toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Q-Tips
  • Cotton balls

Your guests will appreciate the advance planning for their stay. After all, comfortable and well-rested guests make the visit more pleasant for everyone!

It’s nice to have these little reminders to take the stress out of preparing for company. I especially love the idea of supplying a charging station. What a nice extra step that says, “I’m so happy that you’re here! Relax and let me take care of you for a few days.”

If you’ll humor me with some more house updates, I have a few more coming – including my laundry renovation, my back deck (pretty flowers!), and… we’re starting on the bamboo flooring tonight!

I hope that your week is off to a great start!