Come this weekend, chestnuts will be roasting on the fire, bellies will still be full from Thanksgiving leftovers, hearts will be warm from the celebration of a miracle of lights over 2,000 years ago, bundles of packages will be wrapped under the tree & everyone will be tired.  It’s that time of year!  So much fun, celebrating, catching up & running around.  Family & friends will be descending on our homes for a meal, gathering or even over night.

Are you ready?

There’s an easy way to make sure your guests feel comfortable & can find what they need in your home….by stepping into their shoes or if they are staying the night, their bed.  It’s true.  When you spend a night in your guest accommodations whatever they may be, you will quickly discover what is missing.  Also, when you think of a time you visited a friends home for a party, you can quickly remember what you needed but couldn’t find without asking your host.

So what are some items that might need to be accessible for your guests you ask?  Try this list below to see how your hosting stacks up.

1.  Guest Room    A luxurious guest accommodation includes an extra blanket, throw, extra pillows of different firmness, night light to get them to the bathroom, bottled water or water decanter, an “OMG I forgot…” just like at a hotel, shower cap, some cozy socks, maybe even a robe, coffee ready to brew, hot tea or cocoa out with the coffee station.  Try sleeping in your guest accommodations to see how comfortable the bed sleeps, if there is any annoying light keeping you awake or if the room is stuffy or cold.  Then be creative with what extra touch you would like to have when away from home.  Your overnight guests will thank you.

2.  Gathering    Select a room where guest can leave their coats/handbags, self-service drink station easily accessible & close to where you are still working, small tasks your guests can do like plating olives, a light on in the bath you prefer to be used with loads of hand towels, extra tea towels & aprons out for your extra helpers, appetizers in the main room to entice guests that direction & festive music to help everyone relax.  Again, think of an extra touch that will make your guests feel special & welcome in your home.

It’s a crazy, hectic time for the next 5 weeks.  While lying in bed trying to fall asleep, take time to consider your guests needs while in your home.  It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give this season.  What special thing do you do for your guests?

I’m here to help you by disclosing my knowledge of how to organize & be prepared for any situation.  I will show you tips & tricks through posts on the Styled & Organized Living Facebook page, @StyledOrganized on Twitter & the Styled & Organized Living Pinterest page.  Some posts will be simple tools while others will be ideas to consider.   But all will show you how to gain a little more control over your life through organization because Life is Better Organized!