9 Details to Consider Before Your Guests Arrive

Playing host to houseguests is a lot of fun–and a lot of pressure. The last thing you want is to end up with a house full of uncomfortable loved ones while you scramble to take care of things you forgot to handle ahead of time. Before your guests arrive, check out these tips to make sure you’re adequately prepared for company. 

1. Visual Clutter

Even though your guests may insist that they don’t need you to scrub your space from top to bottom before they get there, a clean space is a lot more comfortable for everyone. If you don’t have time to break out the deep cleaning supplies before your gathering, just be certain to reduce spaces that are visually cluttered and chaotic. Straighten up your throw pillows on every couch and chair, clear off the counter by stashing things in a handy drawer organizer and pick up any loose objects that contribute to the look or feel of a cluttered space. 

2. Parking

Unless you’re lucky enough to have a miniature lot of your own, make sure your guests know where to park their cars. If you live in an apartment or condo complex, direct them to guest parking areas and provide directions on where to find your unit from there. If you reside in a suburban area, alert your neighbors in case your guests will need to park in front of their homes. Finally, in urban areas, let your guests know about any free parking options, even if they’re at a bit of a walking distance, and make sure they’re aware of any local rules and regulations that affect your area. 

3. Guest List

Take a look at who you’ll have over and make sure you’re prepared with things for everyone throughout the night. Check your guest list and make arrangements for any children, people with dietary restrictions or special requirements that would affect the menu, entertainment options or seating arrangements. 

4. Clean Dishes

When hosting companies, many people opt for disposable plates, cups and utensils. If it’s a more formal gathering, make sure you have a few extra sets of silverware, plates, bowls and glasses if needed. 

5. Seating

Think ahead to the total number of people you’ll have over and make sure there is a place for everyone to sit in each room. If you’re short on space, it’s okay to consider adjacent rooms as overflow areas, but make sure each of your guests has a comfortable spot to kick up their feet while they enjoy the great conversations your group is bound to have. 

6. Wifi Password

Chances are, you will have a few guests who will request your internet password, so it may help to have it displayed or mentioned ahead of time. As well, it’s a good idea to have a few charging cords handy in case one of your guests needs a battery boost while in your home. 

7. Bathroom Essentials

While it’s important to have enough toilet paper, don’t forget other toiletries, too. Make sure your hand soap dispenser is full, there is a clean towel for your guests to dry their hands and consider including a few other extras such as tissues, cotton swabs, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products or wet wipes. 

8. Ambiance

The sights, sounds and smells in your home can make a huge impact on the comfort level of your guests. Light a few soothing candles, put a mood-enhancing playlist on in the background and turn the lights up or down to suit the energy of your gathering. 

9. House Rules

Nobody wants to face any hiccups throughout a pleasant evening, so make sure to address any guidelines, rules or things to note before you and your guests begin the evening so both you and your crew know what to expect and how to navigate your environment. Whether the rules are yours, your neighborhood’s or that of your landlord, the more aware your guests are of these expectations, the less likely any unpleasant situations are to arise during the visit.