Whether you are hosting close family, friends, or visitors from afar, making your overnight guests feel welcome and comfortable is key. But sometimes, preparing for guests can feel overwhelming. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free stay that will leave your guests feeling appreciated and pampered.

Here are 11 tried-and-true tips to help you master the art of hosting:

1. Know Your Guests

Before your guests arrive, take some time to learn about their preferences and needs. Knowing their dietary requirements, or any special accommodation needs, helps ensure that their stay feels personal and thoughtful. Use the Connect App to find connections.

2. Prep Your Meals in Advance

If you are serving food soon after your guests arrive, it’s a great idea to prepare everything a few hours beforehand. Not only does this save you time, but it also ensures you are free to warmly greet your guests at the door without the stress of last-minute cooking.

3. Add a Personal Touch with a Welcome Sign & Wi-Fi Details

A “Welcome” sign placed in their room and a card with your Wi-Fi details are simple but thoughtful touches. You can even download a customisable Welcome Sign & Wi-Fi Template to make this process quick and easy.

4. Leave a Small Gift on Their Bed

Surprise your guests with a small welcome gift placed on their bed. Whether it’s a box of chocolates, a local souvenir, or a card, this gesture will immediately make them feel special and welcomed.

5. Provide Extra Towels and Washcloths

Make sure your guests have everything they need by offering an extra set of towels and washcloths. Having these neatly folded in the cupboard ensures they have fresh linens without needing to ask.

6. Essentials for the Guest Room

Set up your guest room with key essentials to enhance your guests’ comfort:

• A bin and liner for convenience
• A comfortable chair for relaxation
• A spot to store suitcases
• Hangers for shirts and skirts
• A power board for charging multiple devices
• Phone chargers to ensure they stay connected

For more, download our Guest Room Checklist

7. Test the Guest Room Yourself

Spending a night or two in your guest room about a month before your guests arrive is a smart move. It will help you notice any issues, like uncomfortable mattresses, faulty light bulbs, or anything else that might need attention.

8. Create a Household Weekend Program

A weekend hosting guests can get busy fast. By creating a Host Schedule Template your household and home helps will know exactly what to expect. This ensures everyone is on the same page and helps the weekend run smoothly.

9. Provide Your Guests with a Weekend Schedule

Keep your guests informed by sending them a  Weekend Schedule ahead of time, and again available as a printed version in their room. This way, they will know when and where events are taking place and can pack and plan accordingly.

10. Organise Your Kids’ Outfit

If you have small children, prepping their outfits ahead of time can be a lifesaver. Place each event’s clothing in separate resealable bags. This helps babysitters or home helpers easily locate everything needed for each occasion.

11. Stock Up on Essentials in Advance

By buying non-perishable essentials over time, you can make it a little easier on your budget. Stock up on items like bulk toilet paper, snacks, guest amenities and cleaning supplies in the months leading up to your guests’ stay.