Five easy ways to warmly welcome guests

Posted by citiYellow

Saturday, 21 January 2012 07:31

Do your before or after holiday plans include entertaining out-of-town guests? Decorating experts at Country Door, an online and catalog retailer offering timeless styles and fresh accents, suggest these easy ideas to put out the welcome mat for your guests. Make guests feel right at home with these tips for setting up the perfect guest room. As a bonus, many of the ideas may be used to create your own relaxing getaway in your own home after the rush of entertaining is over.

Find bed and breakfast inspiration

Remember your favorite little bed and breakfast? Take your cue from the special touches that made your stay so memorable. "Start with great quality linens," suggests Jillian Tatkow, senior textile merchandiser for Country Door. "Then add a variety of pillows in a mix of firmness and size. Decorative pillows and warm quilts are thoughtful extras that make a guest room comfortable and inviting."

Less is more

Resist the temptation to store your collection of treasures or out-of-season clothes in the guest room. Make sure there is room to unpack a suitcase, hang clothes and stow luggage. You will find that more space means more comfort and more welcome for your guests.

Take a seat

Many people consider the bed as a place to sleep, but not necessarily to sit. Place an armchair, side chair, stool or bench in the guest room with a decorative side table and lamp close by.

Don't forget the walls

Tasteful wall art that harmonizes with the colors of the room can really tie your decor together. Mirrors have the effect of making a small guest room feel larger and more airy.

Add the finishing touch

Just before your guests arrive, fill a vase with fresh flowers and foliage. Make sure guest towels and extra blankets are readily accessible. A candle grouping or other decorative accents can prevent a room from being too cold or impersonal. Place an interesting book or magazine on the bedside table and you have the finishing touch to a perfectly welcoming guest room.

Paying attention to these few details will mean so much to your guests and let them know you truly welcome them into your home.

For more entertaining and home decor ideas become a part of the conversation on Country Door's Facebook page.