The holidays are fast approaching, and if you're like most of us, you're suddenly remembering that guests are coming and your spare bedroom is not up to snuff. While a full guest room renovation probably isn't happening between now and Thanksgiving, there are absolutely things you can do right now to make your space feel polished and welcoming, and we’re here to help.
We just wrapped three guest room projects. A lot of what made them feel special wasn't the sledgehammers and big-ticket items, but the thoughtful finishing touches like flowers, candles, and, believe it or not, trash cans.
So if you’re scrambling to prep for holiday hosting this year, check out our tips to set yourself up for success.
Start With What You Already Have
Before you go out and buy a single thing, look around your house. In our recent renovation, we repurposed art from other rooms, like these palm tree prints that weren't working in the living room. If you have a mismatched piece somewhere in your home, it might be exactly what your guest room needs, so avoid that panicked trip to TJ Maxx and opt for a browse through the basement instead.
Think Like a Hotel
Walk into any luxury hotel and notice what's there: nice toiletries, bottled water, fresh flowers on the nightstand. None of this is expensive, but these small gestures show your guests you gave thought to their arrival and their comfort while in your home. For added thoughtfulness, make sure your guest room has a small trash can, a candle, and an extra blanket or two.
Invest in One Really Good Pillow
Forget the mountain of decorative pillows that your guests will just throw on the floor. Instead, splurge on one large, luxurious pillow for the center of the bed. We always use Paige’s Pillow Party pillows in our rooms because they’re oversized, luxurious, and feature eye-catching prints that draw the whole room together. Check out this one if you like the one shown here. This singular purchase can elevate the whole space before your guests arrive.
Know Where to Cut Costs (And Where to Invest)
For secondary spaces like guest rooms, it’s fine to stretch your budget when things like curtains and blinds aren’t used often. In one recent guest room project, we used woven wood that looked polished and finished but was much more budget-friendly than the ones we picked for the rest of the house.
Create a Spot That Isn't the Bed
Even a small reading nook–a chair, a side table, a lamp–gives guests somewhere to sit that isn't the bed. It makes the room feel less like it’s only meant for sleeping and more like it’s their space to relax during their visit. One of our recent projects had just enough space for a reading chair and a small round table, offering guests a perfect spot to relax without disrupting their sleep space.
We know the holidays come fast and guest rooms are often last on the list until someone texts that they're coming to visit. These quick fixes will get you through this season, but when the hustle and bustle subsides, don't delay getting on our schedule for next year.
Here’s how to get in touch. Happy hosting!