Monday, June 2, 2014

Making Guests Feel Welcome


When guests come, either for an evening or a longer visit, one of the most gracious things you can do is make them feel welcome and special when they arrive.

There are a few simple yet thoughtful preparations that create a warm atmosphere especially for your guests.

First, have music playing when guests arrive. If you don’t have time to curate a custom playlist, use one of my two favorite music concierge sites—Pandora or Songza.

If it’s dark outside, have the candles lit.

Tip: If you have beautiful drinking glasses you love, show them off as votive holders. Instead of lighting loose candles inside, use tea lights that come in their own holders. There’s no mess, and a gorgeous effect.


If you’re having overnight guests, prepare the guest bathroom with hand towels and larger bath towels, as well as fresh flowers, new soap, and a few simple bathroom amenities your guests may not have brought with them, like Q-tips and cotton balls. 


If guests are coming for a meal, have the table set when they arrive. Also, lay out appetizers or treats appropriate for the time of day.


The truth about entertaining is that it’s a lot like setting a stage for a performance. The more welcome and honored guests feel, the easier and happier the mood of their visit will be.






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