I recently stayed at a dear friend’s architecturally beautiful home in Sea Ranch, California. I’m used to spoiling my guests to make them feel comfortable in our home, but my friend outdid me! Imagine that! Ha! Let me explain how she helped us relax with her special touches.
My friend created the most inviting and most comfortable home for us to stay in. The refrigerator was stocked with cheeses, jams, charcuterie and many other local delectables, while the bathrooms and kitchen were embellished with the most beautiful wildflower arrangements. I felt so welcomed and cared for that I simply didn’t want to leave. So, I got inspired by this gift of generosity and hospitality and created my own list of guest room essentials just for you!
I think every guest room should have...
1. Something Special
Place a few magazines by the bedside for enjoyable reading. Try and cater to their interests. For example, if they like to cook, I’ll have a copy of Bon Appetit waiting for them.
2. Quality Sheets and Towels
Spritz some rosemary and lavender blend mist on the pillows and sheets to create a relaxing environment. Throw a comfy blanket on the bed and use those 3000 count sheets! The towels have to be your very best, too! I suggest these.
3. Place For Luggage
Place a luggage rack at the foot or side of the bed to give your guests a place for their suitcase and for easy accessibility.
4. Leave A Note
Write down your WiFi password (and any other important info) on a fashionable note pad and place it on the bedside table. This note pad can also act as their travel journal. Don’t forget a pen!
5. Bathroom Necessities
Make sure your shower or bath is equipped with the finest shampoos, conditioners, body washes and lotions. I love the Thymes products with their incredible scents. Aromatherapy is key to relaxation! Also, be sure to have extra toothbrushes and toothpaste in the event your guest left home without them.
6. Nibbles and More
Place water bottles by each bedside. Create a platter of various snacks to nosh on either in the kitchen or even in the living room. Remember to include napkins, a pitcher of water and even a decanter of wine with glasses. This way they don’t have to ask and can simply just help themselves.
7. Fresh Flowers
As my friend graciously provided for me, set out a small vase of flowers in the guest room, the guest bathroom and in any other areas of the house. The more the merrier!
8. Homemade Treats
For breakfast, bake your favorite breads and nicely present the slices on a platter along with jams and butter. Have a basket filled with a variety of tea bags and a kettle filled with hot water. No one says you have to make a full breakfast. Be on the lookout – I have a banana bread recipe coming to you soon!
9. Maps
Provide a list of “must-see’s” along with a map and shoo them out the door to explore. Ha! For example, here’s a list of “must-see’s and must-do’s” in Sea Ranch, California:
- Eat lunch or dinner at The Sea Ranch Lodge. Reservations are a must!
- Take the 12-mile bluff trail along the rugged coast. Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a “must-do!”
- Buy some gourmet goodies at Surf Super, a grocery store in Gualala.
- Shop at Cypress Village where there are some cute boutiques and art galleries.
Would you like to be my guest?
