Holiday Houseguests?
Tips to turn your guest room into a 5-star retreat in 5 minutes!
The holidays bring the best kind of chaos - the twinkling lights, the festive meals, and, of course, the arrival of beloved houseguests. While you might be focused on the perfect turkey or coordinating dinner plans, the true mark of a thoughtful host lies in the guest room. With two simple, high-impact accessories - a luxurious throw and a perfect candle - you can create a personalized sanctuary that says, "Welcome, relax, and stay awhile."
Here is your lightning-fast checklist to transform your guest room into a haven of warmth and welcome this holiday season.
1. Drape a Welcome of Warmth (The Throw). A throw blanket is more than just bedding; it's an invitation to snuggle. Its texture and color instantly soften the room and provide an immediate sense of comfort.
- The Look: Choose a throw that feels as luxurious as it looks, such as chunky kind, faux fur, or soft fleece.
- The Placement: Instead of simply folding it flat, artfully drape the throw over the corner of the mattress or the arm of a reading chair. This adds a pop of texture and instantly makes the room look styled and inviting.
- The Guest-First Touch: If the throw is special, leave a small, handwritten note that says, "This cozy throw is yours to use anywhere in the house - curl up with it in the living room!" It encourages them to truly use and enjoy the space beyond the guest room.
2. The Scent of Sanctuary (The Candle). Scent is the most powerful trigger for memory and emotion. A well-chosen candle provides soft light, holiday ambiance, and a sense of cleanliness and calm.
The Scent Strategy
- Option A: The Fresh Welcome. For a universally loved and reassuring scent, opt for a clean, fresh aroma. Think subtle linen, light cotton, or a gentle watering. This sends the signal that the room has been thoroughly cleaned and prepared just for them.
- Option B: The Holiday Hug. If you know your guests love festive scents, a candle with seasonal notes adds incredible ambiance. Balsam, cedar, frankincense, or a hint of cozy cinnamon work beautifully to evoke the spirit of the season without being overwhelming.
- Option C: The Relaxing Ritual. Help you guests wind down after a long day of travel or family activities. A candle with notes of lavender, chamomile, or warm vanilla placed by the bedside encourages a restful night's sleep.
3. Curate the Coziness Corner. With the throw and candle setting the mood, a few final touches complete the transformation.
- Hydration Station: Leave a small carafe of water and a clean drinking glass on the nightstand. This small detail feels incredibly thoughtful.
- Tech Support: Place a small, empty power strip or a multi-port charger near the bed. Travelers are always grateful for easy access to charge their devices.
- Reading Material: Place a few current, light-hearted magazines or a great novel nearby.
- A Simple Treat: A small dish of chocolates or a local snack makes a lovely welcome gift.
By simply adding a luxurious throw and a thoughtfully selected candle, you've done more than prepare a room - you've created a personalized, cozy sanctuary that will make your holiday houseguests feel truly celebrated.