As the holidays approach, I look forward to hosting family and friends. I enjoy pampering my overnight guests. But above all, I want them to feel relaxed and at home.
Guests recognize and appreciate the little things. When preparing my guest room, I add a few homey touches like a stack of fluffy towels, a basket of mini shampoos, conditioners and toiletries, a box of tissues, an extra hair dryer, fresh flowers or a scented candle, and some interesting local magazines.
Since guests might have a late-night craving for food, I leave a carafe of water and a bowl of fresh fruit, a tin of cookies or even a box of chocolates if the guest has a sweet tooth.
I give guests a brief tour of the kitchen when they arrive and let them know they are welcome to help themselves to breakfast if they are early risers.
Guests can sense when a hostess is stressed, so I keep meals simple yet tasty. I generally start the day with a healthy breakfast of homemade granola with fresh fruit and yogurt. (My favorite granola recipe comes from The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, but I’ve found delicious homemade granola at the local farmers market or gourmet grocery store as well.) For other meals, I maintain that it’s more important to spend time with friends than with your stove. Whether I’m dressing up takeout or preparing an easy pasta or vegetable casserole, I remember that meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed and I’m thankful to spend time with those I love.
