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be prepared for overnight guestsThis is the time of year when many of us will be hosting family and friends from out of town. With a little advance preparation, you can make your overnight guests feel welcome while maintaining a stress-free holiday for yourself. Whether your guests are spending one night or having an extended stay, here are a few tips to help you get ready:

1.) Stock up on their favorite snacks and beverages.

Do a little bit of recon work and find out what your guests like to drink in their coffee or if there is a picky eater in the bunch be sure to have something they enjoy.  In general, a complete restocking of your pantry is a good idea so you don’t have to make an emergency run to the grocery store.

2.) Make room in your entryway closet.

Even if you are only hosting dinner guests, make some room in your entry closet to accommodate coats and jackets.  Bring in some extra hangers if necessary.

well prepared guest bedroom3.) Prepare the bed in advance.

If you have a guest bedroom or if space permits, it’s a good idea to set up the bed. The last thing you want to do after a late night is scramble around looking for sheets with a tired guest waiting to get some sleep.

4.) Offer the comforts of home.

Stock your guest’s sleep space with current magazines, a selection of books, bottles of water, phone charging space, and toiletries so your weary travelers have everything they need to feel comfortable.

5.) Don’t have a spare bedroom?

If you need some extra sleep space in your home, an inflatable mattress is a great investment ($100- $150) and can be set up in a matter of minutes.

6.) Sheets and towels for guests only.

Keep a separate set of clean sheets and towels reserved for guests only so there is never any doubt that you have fresh supplies when needed.  If your guests are sharing a bathroom with your family members, a different color set of towels helps to avoid confusion.

things to do list7.) Plan some fun things to do.

To help your guests enjoy their visit to the area, look into any special exhibits, shopping or concerts they may like.

8.) Clear out some drawer space.

Create some space in drawers or closets so your guests do not have to live out of their suitcase during their stay.

9.) Prepare meals ahead.

When feeding the masses nothing beats some easy crock-pot or casserole recipes. Make your meals ahead and freeze them if possible. You want to spend time with your guests rather than work in the kitchen. Of course, you can always order out 😉

This kind of planning will help you enjoy your holiday, your guests and your family traditions.

Wishing you and yours a blessed holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!