Welcome In! How to Get Guest-Ready for the Holidays

The holidays are coming—and with them, the joyful chaos of visitors, laughter, and maybe one too many mugs of cocoa left on the counter. Whether you’re hosting family for a weekend or welcoming friends from afar, preparing your guest spaces now means less stress (and more sparkle) when the doorbell rings.

Here’s how to get your home—and heart—ready for company this season.

1. Start Fresh With Bedding That Feels Boutique-Level Cozy

The bed is the heart of your guest room, and there’s nothing quite like slipping into fresh, beautifully layered bedding. Start with breathable cotton sheets—they’re soft, durable, and perfect for every season. If you want something extra luxurious, try cotton sateen for a subtle sheen or linen-blend sheets for relaxed, European charm.

Layer on a quilt or coverlet for texture, then top with a plush comforter or duvet for warmth. Mixing fabrics like velvet, chenille, or brushed microfiber adds both comfort and visual depth.

Pro Tip: Keep the palette calm—soft neutrals, mossy greens, or muted mauves make any space feel intentional and restful. And always have an extra blanket nearby for guests who like a little more warmth.

2. Frame the View 

Never underestimate the power of great curtains. It's the easiest way to effortlessly upgrade your space. They frame the room, control the light, and instantly make a space feel finished. For guest rooms, think dual layers: a sheer panel for daytime glow and a blackout curtain for restful sleep.

Rich fabrics like velvet create cozy drama, while linen-textured or cotton-blend curtains offer a more relaxed, natural look. Don’t be afraid to play with color—muted greens, smoky taupes, or dusty rose tones can complement any bedding palette.

Pro Tip: Hang curtains 6–8 inches above the window frame to draw the eye upward. It’s a designer trick that makes ceilings look higher and rooms feel bigger.

3. Comforting Details Are The Little Things Guests Remember

Guest comfort often lives in the details—the thoughtful touches that say “I thought of you.” Start with a small carafe and glass on the nightstand so guests can refill without wandering to the kitchen. Add a woven basket of snacks (think shortbread cookies, granola bars, herbal tea) or a linen spray for a quick pillow refresh before bedtime.

And yes, a piece of chocolate on the pillow still works—but so does a sleep mask, a pair of cozy socks, or a small card that says “Welcome, we’re so happy you’re here.”

Pro Tip: Keep a few travel-sized toiletries in a drawer or tray—think toothpaste, razors, or mini makeup wipes. No one forgets the host who thought of everything.

4. Refresh the Guest Bath

Guest bathrooms deserve their own moment and a little upgrade love can work as your secret hospitality weapon. A new shower curtain can instantly revive the space—try a soft neutral for a spa feel or a botanical pattern to bring warmth and charm.

Update your towels, too: 100% cotton or Turkish cotton towels are soft, absorbent, and durable. Roll them neatly in a basket or stack them beside the sink for easy access. A few decorative touches—a candle, a small plant, or a dish of soaps—add polish without clutter.

Pro Tip: Leave an extra set of towels in plain sight. No one likes rummaging through cabinets to find a hand towel.

5. Style for the Senses

Calm, cozy, and collected. The most welcoming homes don’t try too hard, they feel lived in, layered, and real. Before guests arrive, open the windows for a quick refresh, dim the lights, and spritz a soft linen or room mist to set the mood.

Play soft music in the background, fold back the bedding slightly, and add a warm throw to the foot of the bed. Those final details transform a simple guest room into a retreat.

Because the Best Hosts Know...

It’s not about matching sets or perfect corners—it’s about creating a feeling. When guests walk in and immediately exhale, you know you’ve done it right.

Enjoy the guesting season!