The following tips will give you some simple ways to help your guests feel welcome this holiday:
Napkin Towels
Give house guests five-star treatment by setting out individual hand towels — actually, fancy paper dinner napkins — in the bathroom. Dressy napkins can be found at party-goods stores and at supermarkets.
With the addition of a few particulars, your guest room will be as inviting to visitors as a fine hotel room. Set out essentials such as towels and an alarm clock, then provide little luxuries as well: bottles of water, foil-wrapped chocolates, and a few cut blooms in a vase.
Towels with a Special Touch
Keep sets of guest towels together, bound with ribbon. When visitors arrive, just transfer a stack from linen closet to guest bedroom.
Your house is only as clean as the soles of your shoes. And do you really need a more compelling reason than that to declare your home a socks-only zone immediately? To get family members and visitors to fall into step, try the “seed” method for getting guests to take off their shoes. Plant a few of your own pairs next to a basket of slippers by the door and hope they notice it and take the hint.
Food and Drink
Consider your guests’ food preferences: If one is a vegetarian, or sensitive to to fish or dairy products, be sure your menus include options and that your pantry and refrigerator are properly stocked. Show guests where to find snacks, drinking glasses, and utensils, and encourage them to help themselves.
