Having people over to your home can be a rewarding and memorable experience. There are so many different reasons you might invite guests to stay, such as a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to catch up after a long time apart. Whatever your reason for opening up your home to guests, here are some useful tips to consider when trying to be the perfect host.
Ask in Advance
Some of your guests might have specific dietary requirements or allergies to the feathers in your pillows, so checking with them before they arrive can make their stay a lot more comfortable. By asking ahead of time, you let them know that you are preparing a welcoming environment for them as well as reducing potential stress for yourself. Having to hastily adjust to their needs at the last minute will add unnecessary pressure to your hosting abilities.
Be Welcoming
It might seem obvious, but an essential part of being a good host is to let your guests know that they are welcome in your home. Have you ever been a guest somewhere and felt like you weren’t quite able to relax because you weren’t made to feel welcome? Don’t let your guests feel this way. Be happy to see them when they arrive and enjoy your time with them.
Don’t Overdo It
On the other hand, a host might try to overcompensate by being too attentive to their guests’ needs. Constantly checking if they are hungry or are at the right temperature can make your guests feel obliged to reassure you, which is definitely not a fun experience for anyone. Of course, make sure your guests are catered for and comfortable, but if they say that they are happy, then resist the urge to repeatedly check-in with them.
Feed Them Well
As mentioned before, ensuring that your guests have something to eat and don’t go hungry is important. Make sure to stock up on snacks and let them know they can access the kitchen if they need anything. If you are dining with your visitors, don’t enforce seating plans or make them wait too long between courses, and always keep their drinks topped up. An added touch could be to leave water and glasses in their bedrooms to show that you were thinking of their comfort.
Set Up a Comfortable Space
Before your guests arrive, make sure their bedrooms are as comfortable as possible. There are many ways to make your guests feel at home, so try your best to put yourself in their shoes and imagine what you’d appreciate from a host.
Don’t Impose a Timetable
It can be tempting to continue living your own routine around your guests but resist the urge to drag them into it unless they express a desire to join you. For example, just because you get up later in the morning doesn’t mean your guests aren’t allowed to make themselves breakfast and enjoy the start of their day. Compromise on activities and do your best to include everyone.
Understand Their Needs
Some guests like to spend as much time with their host as possible since visiting you might be the main reason for their stay. Some guests, however, might need to recharge after spending hours in someone else’s home, so be understanding if people want to unwind alone. Being a perfect host is about making it as easy as possible for your guests to feel at home.
