Try your hand at running a B&B
Are you expecting houseguests this summer? If so, here are some tips for replicating the Bed-and-Breakfast experience in your own home:
Make them feel welcome. Bed and Breakfast owners are big on hospitality. Greet your guests, make them feel welcome. Offer a light snack or beverage. Irene Jensen makes sure the table is set for breakfast before she goes to bed each night. “That way, when they come in at night, after shopping and a nice dinner, they see the dining room all set up for the next day,” she says. |
Anticipate their needs. Try to provide the little things your guest might have forgotten. Keep a basket of soap, shampoo and toothpaste in the guest bathroom. Make sure there are plenty of fresh towels. Keep them cozy. Make sure there are extra blankets for cool nights or a fan for warm weather. Show guests how to adjust the thermostat or open the windows. |
A tummy full of yummies. Leave a tray with chocolates, or homemade cookies, in the guest’s room. If possible, bring in a dorm-sized refrigerator stocked with water, sodas and juice. |
On their own. If you’ll be at work, and your guests have to amuse themselves, leave a city map, an extra house key and information on area attractions. Make sure they have phone numbers where you can be reached in case of emergency. |
Just a little something special. Leave a goodie-bag stuffed with gift certificates and coupons to area restaurants, movie theaters and shopping malls. A souvenir T-shirt or coffee mug makes a nice keepsake. Have someone snap a photo of you and your guests and slip it into a frame to take as a reminder of their stay. |