Hosting houseguests during the holidays is one of the season’s great joys, and, for many, one of its biggest stress triggers. The combination of busy schedules, preparing meals and the simple reality of people sharing space can feel overwhelming. But with a bit of preparation and a calm, thoughtful approach, welcoming guests into your home can be both manageable and enjoyable.
Here’s how to get your home (and yourself) ready for holiday visitors.
How to prepare for holiday houseguests
Skip perfection
Before you begin prepping, remind yourself that “perfect” is not the goal. Your guests are coming to see you, not inspect your grout or evaluate how well your throw pillows align. There is already enough pressure surrounding the holidays, give yourself permission to aim for “comfortable and welcoming,” not “magazine spread.”
Get comfy
Whether you have a dedicated guest room or you’re transforming a space into one, a few thoughtful touches go a long way. Make sure to have fresh sheets with extra pillows and blankets for your couch or blow-up mattress. Make sure you have a small lamp or nightlight and a place to access outlets for charging devices. Clear a spot for luggage and/or space in a closet for hanging items. If you are using a transitional space, consider setting up a room divider that can be collapsed or curtains that can be pulled back. It provides a bit of extra privacy for your guests and a way for you to walk through the space without interrupting them.
Bathroom essentials
Bathrooms are high-traffic zones during holiday stays, so a little extra prep helps maintain ease and comfort for everyone. Before guests arrive give everything a good wipe-down. Restock towels and know that you’ll probably need more than you think! Place extra toilet paper where your guests can easily find it. Set out fresh hand soap. To elevate the space, consider placing a few travel-size toiletries in a basket. They’re especially helpful for anyone who forgets something in the holiday rush. It’s also thoughtful to keep a plunger tucked somewhere accessible. It may not be glamorous, but it saves guests from awkward situations.
Stock the kitchen
Food is at the heart of any holiday gathering and having a few basics ready helps guests feel at home.
Supply coffee, tea, and creamers for your guests. A caffeine fix first thing in the morning will go a long way for everyone! Purchase simple breakfast items such as fresh fruit, bagels and protein bars. Your guests will appreciate being able to grab something quickly without having to ask. Keep a mix of snacks and a few easy, festive treats on hand.
While you may not be able to predict everyone’s dietary habits, a well-rounded selection covers most needs. Clearing out old leftovers and giving the fridge a quick refresh also helps set the stage.
Activities
You don’t need a detailed itinerary. This is not a corporate retreat. But having a few light activities in mind makes you look prepared and prevents the dreaded moment someone says, “So… what should we do now?” Keep activities simple. Consider a walk to see the neighborhood holiday lights or a visit to your local town or holiday market. A planned movie night, a puzzle, or even baking something simple together can be a nice way to spend time with your guests. Do remember to allow room for downtime. Many guests appreciate a quiet moment just as much as planned festivities.
Communicate
To keep the household running smoothly, it helps to set a few soft boundaries. You don’t have to tape a list to the refrigerator, just clear communication. For example, let guests know your typical sleep and wake times. Mention any pet routines you have for feeding and walking so that your guests are not surprised. Point out things that your guests need to know such as a house alarm, a finicky faucet, or a door that sticks. Communicating these things will help keep things running smoothly and comfortably for everyone.
Prepare yourself
Hosting is fun, heartwarming and also slightly chaotic. It takes energy; physical, mental, and emotional. Before your guests arrive, take a moment to center yourself. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, take a walk, or simply sit and breathe. Approaching the visit with a steady mindset makes a noticeable difference in how you experience the days ahead.
Embrace and enjoy
Even with careful planning, unexpected moments will happen. Schedules shift, plans change, and holiday energy brings its own level of unpredictability. But these moments often become the memories we cherish.
Enjoy the conversations, the shared meals, the small traditions, and the small details that make the holidays meaningful. Hosting guests isn’t just about preparing a space; it’s about the magic that happens when you open your heart and your home and you create lasting memories.
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Photo courtesy Pixabay/reallywellmadedesks
Barbara Bauer is a Georgia-based blogger obsessed with inspiring others in the pursuit of self-development. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, drinking way too much coffee, and speaking with a British accent whenever possible.
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