I hate to tell you this, but the holidays are really just around the corner. There are very few weeks until Thanksgiving and then we roll right into December. If you plan to host friends and family during the holidays, it’s time to get your rooms ready, especially your guest bedrooms. Here are 5 tips that will make your guest room more inviting:

1. Invest in the Mattress

Let’s be honest, is your guest bedroom mattress one that you used to use in your own bedroom? That is really common, and it’s also not great for your guests. A worn-out mattress is tough to sleep on; that’s why you replaced yours in the first place, right? Invest in a decent mattress for your overnight guests - there are so many great ones out there at a terrific price. You’ll guests will thank you for the good night’s sleep!

2. Offer Seating

Whether it’s a dedicated chair or a bench at the end of the bed, give your guests a seat in the room if you have the space. It’s so nice to have a place to sit while you put your shoes on, or to read a book or magazine. It makes the room more welcoming, too.

3. Books and Lighting

In the beach house guest room I designed above, we placed a basket of books in the bedside table to keep guests entertained before they sleep. Be sure to tell your guests that they’re welcome to take a book they enjoy so they can continue to read it at home. And of course a great bedside lamp is important in this room. It’s perfect for reading at night or for quieting the light in the room before bedtime.

4. Extra Throws and Blankets

An extra cozy touch in any guest bedroom is a fabulous throw or extra blankets. Even in the summer, air conditioning can give guests a chill. So be sure to offer these extra covers. You can also put other pillow and blanket selections in the guest closet, just as you would find in your favorite hotel.

5. Extra Special Touches

Think of the most gracious hospitality you’ve ever received in someone’s home. What made an impression on you? Think about going above and beyond for your guests - after all, we now know how incredible it is that we can spend time with our family and friends. Consider fresh flowers, snacks and water, an air purifier, a special candle, anything that would show your guests that you care.

Try these ideas to create an incredible welcome for your friends and family. And if you want to redesign your guests rooms, or any other room in your house, give my team a call!

All the best,

Kara