BY MI-LING STONE POOLE

DEAR MI-LING: I am expecting guests for the holidays. Do you have any suggestions on what I should incorporate into the guest room to help my family members feel at home? It’s usually pretty stressful around the house when we’re entertaining so I’m trying to plan ahead. Thanks for your help!

HEATHER

DEAR HEATHER: I really enjoy pampering my guests during the holidays and I certainly want to avoid any conflicts. You can too if you create a guest room that will welcome your family and friends and keep them coming back year after year.

The key to creating a wonderful guest room is to place yourself in the space and anticipate what your needs would be if you were the guest. Your guest room should reflect a mini-hotel suite.

Here are a few key items that you should incorporate into the space to make your family and friends comfortable, which will avoid interruptions in your sleep from guest requests in the middle of the night.

• Clean and cozy bedding with extra blankets and pillows.

• A ceiling fan is a must!

• Fresh flowers in a beautiful vase.

• Bottled water with an ice keeper and glass or if possible a mini-fridge to store medications or refreshments.

• A basket of fruit and a packaged snacks with a lined waste basket nearby.

• Don’t forget napkins and a box of Kleenex.

• An alarm clock, magazines, newspapers and ideas for family outings.

• A television and directions written on a notepad about how to use the channel changer.

• A table lamp and alarm clock.

Create a welcome basket loaded with mini-toiletries. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner and shower gel. Include a few rolled towels and extra wash cloths. If possible, purchase a suitcase stand to keep dirty suitcases off of your guest bed and allow for easy access to their clothing.

If your guests have children, prepare a basket just for them as well. Stock it with a few toys and books to keep them occupied. Avoid adding candy or gum and never stock the room with colored drinks that could leave stains.

Photo:

COMPANY C The ornate motif in Company C’s new Beacon Hill rug (about $1,160 in 6 x 9) is inspired by the wrought-iron gates of urban brownstones. Shown here in Persimmon, along with the Fairfield duvet, sham and pillow in Melon and the Arcs & Squares quilt in Melon. (www.companyc.com)

What’s in your guest room?