Small Touches Speak Volumes

My husband travels a bit for his job.  His work takes him to several locations, and at each place, he stays in a hotel.  He is quickly becoming quite an expert on creating the “at home” or personal touch that makes his stay more enjoyable.

Whether you are running a bed and breakfast, are outfitting a full service hotel or resort, or just entertaining guests from time to time in your own home, there are a few things you can do to make the experience more personal and enjoyable for your guests.

• The entry.  Create a warm entry into the environment.  Fresh flowers are always a welcoming sight and smell; choose ones to match the decor and/or season.  Lighting is also important.  While glaring white lights are not necessary, do make the entry well-lit for safety.  Diffuse the harshness of the lighting by using uplights, lamps and side-lighting.  Allow for space so that guests may temporarily unburden themselves from their belongings.  If you are in your own home, this might be a small closet or area for jackets, purses and bags and other belongings.  Or, if you are in a larger environment, this might be a bench, a comfy couch, several conversation chairs and pieces.  Think of ways to make it an inviting place to relax and rest.
• The bathroom/restroom.  It goes without saying that this area should be spotless.  Provide adequate and convenient lighting for guests.  Low lighting is not necessary in a restroom or bathroom.  Provide plenty of soap and towels; in a powder room or restroom, disposable hand towels are perfect.  They are highly sanitary and can be bought in a variety of patterns, themes and colors.  Put them in a decorative container for even greater effect.  In a full-service restroom (home or hotel), be sure to make other essentials available, such as shampoos, lotions, even shoe polishers and laundry bags.  Have extra toothpaste and toothbrushes on hand in the case of the forgetful guest.  A well-stocked bathroom creates an atmosphere of warmth and welcome to guests.
• The bedroom.  Give your guests the amenities they would like; soft, fluffy pillows, higher thread count sheets, and extra blankets are just the start.  Turn down the sheets leaving a word of welcome or thanks.  Provide a variety of lighting styles, from bedside lamps to overhead lighting.  Allow for storage for guests, and make sure the space is tidy.  Perhaps creating a guide or map for those unfamiliar with the area is an excellent service, and have plenty of paper and pens on hand for notes and ideas your guest may want to record.

Creating that inviting environment and making your guests feel special while they enjoy their stay is a great way to insure you will be entertaining them again.  Take a few steps to make the stay more personal for your guests and your guests will reward you ten-fold.