Company's Coming!!!

Dear Lovely Bride,

You've got peeps coming in from out of town. Think. Quick! Is your (or your mom and dad's) guest room ready?

You can make it just as comfortable for your guests as The Ritz! Sweet dreams are what it's all about. Here are a few tips to give them a stay to remember.

Even if you can't do anything else we're suggesting here, crisp, clean and coordinated linens for your overnight guests are a must. They’ll feel especially welcome and it’s an easy thing to do. You don’t have to invest in the finest luxury linens to make someone feel special. Most discount specialty stores have large sections of discontinued styles of designer sheet sets and lovely imported towels. Try Bed Bath & Beyond, Burlington, TJMaxx, Marshalls, or even Bealls Outlet. You can really get a beautiful look at a fraction of the designer price. An electric blanket or fluffy down comforter will keep your guests cozy on the chilliest nights. Be sure to have an extra blanket tucked away in a closet should your guests need more warmth.

Obviously, you won't be entertaining your guest all the time they’re with you, so it’s important that they feel they have someplace to get away for a little private relaxing time. A comfortable chair and ottoman are just the answer. Even a small slipper chair and stool will do the trick, and your guest will have a quiet place to be on their own.

If you use your spare room for other things when you’re alone, you may have some work to do when you’re expecting guests. What to you might be decoration, may be “stuff in the way” for your visitor. Have a bare tabletop, empty drawer, and closet space available for your guest to put things away. They’ll feel more at home and they won't be worried that their things might be in your way.

Almost everyone you know probably likes to read for a while before going to sleep. Be sure to have good light in your guest room. But more importantly, have a good reading light that they can turn on and off without getting out of bed. A night light near the door and one in the guest bath will be thoughtful and appreciated too.

For a perfect finishing touch...I don't think there's anyone who doesn’t love fresh flowers. There are so many to choose from right at the local grocery store. It's another inexpensive way to dress up your guest room. Then add a carafe of water and glass, a clock radio, a bottle of lotion—what do you have by your bed? Whatever you can provide for your guest will make them feel more at home and most welcome.

You’ll find that if you have everything in order for your guest’s arrival and everything is ready in the special place you’ve made for them, this visit will be a happy one for both of you. You’ll feel like a wonderful hostess and your guest's visit will be memorable even after your beautiful celebration ends.

Here's to your dream come true day,

Carlene Ann Tenorio, Interior Decor Stylist

All to His Glory Interiors

Tampa, Florida

www.hisgloryinteriors.com

Thank you to Coral Nafie for your input.