Monetta Rudolph 4/1/23 Monetta Rudolph 4/1/23

Hosting a Long-Term Guest

Looking for creative and affordable ways to host a long-term guest?

Read these 5 ways to make your guest feel like they are home away from home.

Growing up, my family would visit from out of the country. It was always an exciting time from going to the airport to the first night of catching up, despite the tiredness due to the long flight.

As a new homeowner, I wanted to make sure that nostalgic feeling carried on through the rooms of my home. My new home is a bit topsy-turvy as I try to make it in my style. Renovations and dust, belongings with no place to store. However, my friends know that renovations are hard (and pricey) and are so kind and understanding. So, I try to accommodate where I can to make our home feel cozy.

There are several affordable ways to make your guest feel just a little more at home.

A welcome basket filled with a few of their favorite “midnight snacks” and some easily forgotten necessities (like floss or a travel bottle of hairspray).
Meal planning for their stay with their favorite groceries and meals. Don’t forget to account for any food allergies or aversions.
Freshly baked goods for breakfast with their coffee or tea preferences. I encourage a quick tour of your kitchen for your guests. Kitchens seem to be the most confusing room if you’re visiting a new home. So make sure your guest knows the layout, the coffee machine, and where the sugar is!
Clean towels should be readily available for your guests. Nothing is better than a shower after the airport. I will place them on the bed next to the welcome basket so that they can use the shower whenever they please.
Chanclas, or slippers, are a great way to make guest feel right at home. If you’re looking for alternative options, fuzzy socks or wool socks (depending on your climate) are great too.

The most important part of hosting a guest is creating memories! Don’t get too caught up in the logistics of everything. Take photos and videos to remember these moments. My trusty Polaroid camera is perfect for these occasions.