Whether you're having company for one night or one month, a little pre-visit prep guarantees a great experience for everyone.
Photo: Shutterstock / Monkey Business Images
Have friends or relatives coming to town? I know the feeling. Between scouting out all the spots you want to visit, making reservations for a restaurant downtown and brainstorming all the tasty homemade meals you’ll share, it’s easy to forget about getting the house in tiptop shape. Never fear! Follow these four steps to hosting overnight guests, and you’ll be ready to roll out the welcome mat in no time.
If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room for overnight stays, perfect! But even if you have to boot Junior out of his bedroom or turn the living room into a dormitory, it’s important to set up a place for your guests to crash. A few small touches go a long way toward helping visitors feel welcome.
Refresh the linens
There’s no need for a formal turn-down service, but scope out the bedding situation before visitors arrive. Wash guests’ sheets and pillowcases to eliminate any mustiness. (Who remembers the last time they were used?) Set out extra pillows and blankets in case the room gets chilly at night.
Don’t forget the tech
It seems everyone travels with a suitcase full of gadgets these days. Help out by plugging in a power strip to accommodate your guests’ phone chargers and laptops. Then, go one step further: Place a note card with the Wi-Fi password, TV remote instructions, household phone number and emergency contact info in a pretty frame, and leave it on the nightstand or dresser. Your guest will be impressed.
Provide space to unpack
No one ever really rocks the “living out of a suitcase” look, so leave several empty hangers in the closet. Show guests where they can find the iron and ironing board. A handheld or wall mirror is also a thoughtful touch.
Set out extra goodies
Place a small table or nightstand near the bed with an alarm clock (set to the correct time, please!), tissues, a notepad and pen and a bottle of water. A small vase of flowers is always nice, as is a short welcome note. If guests will be sightseeing, provide guides to the city and area attractions, and stack a few magazines or books nearby for downtime. You might also want to pop a flashlight into the drawer or plug in a night-light for unexpected nighttime trips down the hallway.
2. Stock up on bathroom essentials
Company will feel more comfortable with daily routines if you’ve anticipated their needs. A separate guest bathroom is ideal, but if that’s not an option, set aside designated space for them on the bathroom counter. Low on space? Go college dorm-style by gathering products into a nice basket they can carry between bed and bath. If you’ve been hoarding little bottles of lotion and shampoo from your hotel stays, now’s the time to use them. Some other things to consider:
Find that extra towel set
Freshly washed bath towels, hand towels and washcloths are a must. If possible, try to give each guest a different-colored set so they know whose is whose. Lay the towels out before guests arrive. (Swan sculptures are optional.)
Provide the essentials
Many people don’t mind sharing their own shampoo with friends and family. But let’s say you have a super expensive conditioner or prescription product you don’t want meddled with. Avoid that awkward talk by setting out a special set of toiletries for your guests to use. Think shampoo, conditioner and lotion, as well as toothpaste, unopened toothbrushes, disposable razors and a fresh bar of soap. Extra bottles of contact solution and aspirin, sunscreen, tampons, pads and Q-tips or cotton balls are always appreciated.
Point out those semi-embarrassing emergency items
Make sure guests know where to find extra toilet paper and the garbage can. And to prevent potential embarrassment, don’t forget to point out the plunger if it isn’t in plain sight. No one wants to have to ask for that.
Coordinate bathroom schedules
When you’re winding down for the night, remember to ask who needs to shower when; this will help prevent bathroom pileups. If your hot water heater is the size of a bucket, let guests know, and be respectful of those showering after you.
3. Make the kitchen cozy
Coordinating meals for company can be a challenge, especially if you have different eating schedules. But time spent together around the table can be the most precious part of a trip. A little advance planning will ensure an awesome meal.
Check for allergies
Ask ahead of time if anyone has food allergies or aversions you should be aware of. While you shouldn’t be expected to change your family’s eating habits, you’ll want to know if someone is lactose intolerant, vegetarian, allergic to peanuts or refuses to eat peas. (Check out these recipes for allergy-free treats.)
Make a coffee station
If you have extra-early risers, help them help themselves in the morning. Set up coffee and tea the night before. Put out mugs and glasses, and make sure you have plenty of water, milk and juice on hand. (Remember to point out where they can find the garbage and recycling bins!) And if someone’s heading to the airport at the crack of dawn, leave grab-and-go breakfast goodies on the counter to make the morning less chaotic.
Prepare meals in advance
If you’re out all day sightseeing with guests, it can be hard to get dinner on the table. Prepare a few slow cooker or make-ahead dinners, and whip up an overnight breakfast casserole or two in advance so you can pull meals out of the fridge or freezer to pop in the oven when you’re pressed for time. Set out some fruit or premade snack mix to tide guests over until dinner is served.
Let guests help out
Most guests want to feel useful. If you hear the phrase, “Can I help with anything?”, feel free to put them to work. Have them set the table, chop vegetables or dry dishes. They’ll feel more like part of the family, and you’ll benefit from the help.
4. Keep calm and communicate
Your guests and your family will have a good time if everyone’s on the same page. There’s no need to print out an agenda, but it’s helpful to have a quick discussion before guests roll into the driveway. Discuss flight schedules, arrival times and departure dates in advance so you know what to plan for. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:
Talk to the kids beforehand
If you have young children, talk to them about your expectations for the visit ahead of time. Remind them of the need to respect others’ belongings and guests’ right to privacy.
Share schedules
Let guests know in advance about any prior commitments you have during their stay so you can manage expectations. Discuss children’s bedtimes and mealtimes with guests so there’s a clear understanding of what works best for everyone.
It’s OK to let guests be independent
Don’t plan every second of the visit. Guests and family alike can benefit from some downtime and a little space. If it’s an extended stay, get extra keys made so guests can come and go as desired, and coordinate transportation needs ahead of time. Lay a few ground rules at the start, and don’t forget that your own family needs attention, too.
Remember, being a perfect host doesn’t mean you have to be perfect. If you’re relaxed, your guests will be, too. Taking the time for a little advance prep makes your guests feel special, and makes you feel good about saying, “Come and stay awhile!”
Check Out These Make-Ahead Brunch Recipes That'll Feed the Entire Household
I made this tasty breakfast casserole with crescent rolls for a baby shower. It saved me; preparing it ahead gave me more time to finish decorating for the party. —Melody Craft, Conroe, Texas
My grandmother used to make "egg cup surprises" for family brunches on special occasions. The added fillings were always a surprise as she never seemed to use the same combination of ingredients twice. As children, we had a guessing game as to what we'd find in the tender crust which added an aspect of family fun to our meal. —Denalee Standart, Rancho Mureta, California
We always serve food at our Sunday morning bunco games, and since one of us is a vegetarian we're always coming up with fun meatless dishes we can all enjoy. This strata can easily be doubled and tastes fantastic hot or at room temperature. —Doris Mancini, Port Orchard, Washington
A friend gave me this recipe to use at a bridal shower brunch, and the sweet chewy bacon strips were a big hit. Lining the pan with foil before baking helps cut down on cleanup. —Jane Paschke, University Park, Florida
When I want something special to serve my guests for a Saturday or Sunday brunch, I turn to this recipe. It never fails. It's wonderful during the spring and early summer because the blueberries are particularly good this time of year. —Patricia C. Quinn, Omaha, Nebraska
This recipe means that a delectable dinner is ready when I walk in the door from work. The meatless slow cooker meal also makes an elegant brunch for lazy weekend mornings. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Sweet meets savory in this fun twist on the typical breakfast casserole. It's great for parties and potlucks because you can make it the night before. —Katie Osborn, Toledo, Ohio
I like this rustic strata for its hearty flavor. It's also nice to have something savory along with sweeter brunch dishes like cinnamon rolls and doughnuts. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
A friend shared this fluffy waffle recipe with me a few years ago. The cinnamon cream syrup is a nice change from maple syrup, and it keeps quite well in the fridge. Our two children also like it on toast. —Amy Gilles, Ellsworth, Wisconsin
I take this dish to many of my family’s picnics because it's always such a hit. Serve it at any time of day. Quiche makes a great side or meatless main course—and, of course, it's a tasty addition to brunch. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Start this breakfast the night before so you can get a few extra z's in the morning. My husband adds coconut to his, and I stir in dried fruit. —June Thomas, Chesterton, Indiana
No matter when I've made these souffles, they have always been a success. Although I've never seen the centers start to fall, it's best to plan on serving them hot from the oven. Freeze the unbaked souffles, and you can cook them up at a moment's notice! —Jean Ference, Sherwood Park, Alberta
I've been cooking this strata for years, and my family just can't get enough! The fresh basil gives this healthy brunch dish an added flavor boost. —Jean L. Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin.
Our family often took this decadent breakfast souffle to a local park on Father's Day. It's easy to make the night before, pop in the oven the next morning and go!—Sharon Ricci, Mendon, New York
In our women's group, we take turns making brunch. I was tired of the same casseroles so I invented this Mexican-style bake. The recipe requests keep coming. —Julia Huntington, Cheyenne, Wyoming
Our kids love waking up to these golden, fluffy pancakes. The buttermilk batter is refrigerated overnight, making them perfect busy mornings and special occasion breakfasts alike. —Lisa Sammons, Cut Bank, Montana
Any time we take this savory, satisfying bread to a potluck, it goes over very well. We never bring any home. My husband usually makes it. He prides himself on the beautiful golden loaves. —Shirley Caldwell, Northwood, Ohio
Feel free to experiment with this versatile tart. Substitute ham or Canadian bacon for prosciutto, Swiss chard for spinach and your favorite kind of creamy cheese for Brie. —Amy Tong, Anaheim, California
Serving this on Christmas morning is a tradition in our home. It's wonderful because I can make it the night before and pop it in the oven while we are opening gifts. —Jill Peterson, Richfield, Wisconsin
When you make this in muffin cups, each person gets a quiche. I have also doubled the recipe and used jumbo muffin cups; bake about 10 minutes longer. —Gena Stout, Ravenden, Arkansas
This is a fairly new recipe for me, but my family loved it the first time I made it, so it'll be a regular. A friend shared it with me. —Pat Lane, Pullman, Washington
Your slow cooker can be your best friend on a busy morning. Just get this recipe going, run some errands and come back to the smell of French toast ready to eat. —Elizabeth Lorenz, Peru, Indiana
I like to use a second slow cooker to keep the tortillas warm and pliable when I serve these hearty burritos. Just place a clean wet cloth in the bottom, then cover it with foil and add your tortillas.—Beth Osburn, Levelland, Texas
I'd never tried prosciutto before this recipe, and it instantly made me a die-hard fan! The layers of flavor in this dish are brilliant, making it well worth the time and a must for your recipe box. —Vicki Anderson, Farmington, Minnesota
My friend makes this French toast bake with blueberries, but I make mine with cranberry sauce. Either way, it’s divine. It makes a great brunch dish for Christmas morning. —Sandie Heindel, Liberty, Missouri
I wanted to make a quiche but didn't want the usual flavors, so I used ingredients I had in my pantry and refrigerator to come up with this recipe. I was surprised at the great taste and how well the flavors came together. My neighbor asked for the recipe and had the same success! —Tamie Bradford, Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota
This fancy overnight egg bake is ideal for guests. In the morning, you can simply let it come to room temperature and whip up side dishes as it bakes. Then get ready for compliments! —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
My family absolutely loves these oat pancakes. I make them every Saturday and Sunday. If I don't, they don't believe it's the weekend! My son's friends often spend the night, and I think it's because they like these oatmeal pancakes so much. They are especially delicious served with molasses and syrup. —Sharon W. Bickett, Chester, South Carolina
As a retired home economics teacher, I've made quite a few recipes through the years. This hearty casserole is a favorite in my family. —Dorothy Erickson, Blue Eye, Missouri
After we spent the night at our friends’ house in Arizona, we awoke to the tantalizing aroma of an egg souffle. It brings back wonderful memories. —Pat Coyne, Las Vegas, Nevada
There’s no better feeling than waking up to a hot, ready-to-eat breakfast. The oats, fruit and spices in this homey meal cook together while you sleep! —Valerie Sauber, Adelanto, California
Here's a casserole as tasty as eggs Benedict, but without the hassle. Simply assemble the ingredients ahead, and bake it the next morning for an elegant breakfast or brunch. —Sandie Heindel, Liberty, Missouri
I like to serve this for breakfast when we have overnight guests or for a holiday brunch. It gives Florida visitors a taste of sunshine! —Barbara Carlucci, Orange Park, Florida
My mom loves quiche, so for Mother's Day one year I created my own quiche recipe for her. I've been making it ever since. All it takes is a trip to the farmers market. If you have the ingredients, make the crust from scratch. —Yanique Douglas, Waynesboro, Pennsylvania
I make a corn bread-style bake with sausage, maple syrup and apples when we want a hearty breakfast. It’s sweet, savory and easy to make. —Stevie Wilson, Fremont, Iowa
If you like waffles and chocolate, this recipe is for you. These tender but crunchy waffles are great for breakfast, brunch or an after-dinner dessert. Instead of chocolate topping, top with berries and whipped cream or simply sprinkle with powdered sugar. —Agnes Golian, Garfield Heights, Ohio
The beauty of this breakfast is that you can set the slow cooker overnight and, with nothing more than a ladle, spoons and bowls, feed a crowd in
the morning. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
In the South, everyone loves three things: bacon, cheese and grits! After playing around with this recipe, I took it to my first family party as a newlywed, and it was a huge hit. This recipe has become a family tradition that I'm sure will be passed down for generations. —Melissa Rogers, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
I make breakfast casseroles with whatever I have, like spinach, sweet red pepper and cheddar. With this puff, we like a burst of flavor from Greek vinaigrette. —Angela Robinson, Findlay, Ohio
I love quiche and wanted to make something that incorporates my Southern roots, so I came up with this version. With eggs, cheese, ham and nutritious collards, it's a meal in one. —Billie Williams-Henderson, Bowie, Maryland
My husband likes the ham and cheese sandwich known as the Monte Cristo. I based this casserole on the sandwich, and it makes a terrific brunch dish. —Mary Steiner, Parkville, Maryland
This layered tortilla dish is not only delicious, but it's a real time-saver because it's put together the night before. The tomato slices provide a nice touch of color. I like to serve this crowd-pleasing casserole with muffins and fresh fruit. —Barbara Waddel, Lincoln, Nebraska
We were living in Texas when I found the recipe for this simple yet elegant salad. I was thrilled—we had a surplus of fresh oranges! Since it's prepared ahead, there's no last-minute fuss. —Janie Bush, Weskan, Kansas
After enjoying scrambled egg muffins at a local restaurant, I came up with this version that my husband likes even better. They're pretty, hearty and fun to serve, too. —Cathy Larkins, Marshfield, Missouri
Mmm…Bananas Foster for breakfast! This baked French toast serves up all the taste of the spectacular dessert in fine fashion. —Laurence Nasson, Hingham, Massachusetts
When I'm expecting company for brunch, the menu often features this tried-and-true casserole. With ham, eggs and plenty of cheese, the enchiladas are flavorful, hearty and fun. And they're easy to assemble the day before.
—Gail Sykora, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
This make-ahead breakfast bake is a cinch, particularly with leftover ham. Chock-full of peppers, onions and cheese, this eye-opener makes an ideal contribution to brunch buffets and is a great way to start the day. —Marilou Robinson Portland, Oregon
My in-laws own and operate an orchard, so we have an abundance of fruit fresh from the trees. This dish includes fresh apples, apple jelly and applesauce all in one recipe. It's a warm, hearty breakfast for busy days. —Debra Blazer, Hegins, Pennsylvania
Fresh asparagus and goat cheese combine to make a delectable strata. Assemble it a day ahead and let it chill overnight for an easy brunch! —Lynda Ruce, Minneapolis, Minnesota
This flavorful casserole is a hearty mainstay for our family's Christmas Day brunch menu. Being able to assemble the recipe ahead of time is a real plus! —Julie Sterchi, Jackson, Missouri
To fix a large batch of tender pancakes for my five children, I rely on this quick and wholesome recipe. It calls for whole wheat flour and buttermilk, which make the pancakes filling but also light. Serve them with hot chocolate for a breakfast that's sure to delight little ones. —Line Walter, Wayne, Pennsylvania
The first time I made these biscuit cups, my husband and his assistant basketball coach came in as I was pulling them out of the oven. They loved them! —Debra Carlson, Columbus Junction, Iowa
This bacon quiche is so versatile. You can use Vidalia onions, green onions or leeks. Asparagus can take the place of broccoli, and you can use whatever fresh herbs or cheese you have on hand. —Shannon Koene, Blacksburg, Virginia
What a sweet way to start your morning! It’s perfect for the holidays, but we enjoy it year-round. Prep the evening before, and in the morning you can pop this in the oven and have a delicious breakfast in no time! —Joanne Wessel, Greenwood, Indiana
When we used to have Sunday breakfasts with my grandparents, my mom often made this for grandpa because he enjoyed it so much. Pork sausage and cinnamon bread taste surprisingly good together. —Carolyn Levan, Dixon, Illinois
Eat these spiced oatmeal squares while they're still warm for a cozy morning treat. I freeze mine in single servings so I can grab, go and microwave when I get to work. I'm not too humble to say I have the best breakfast in the office. —Ellie Martin Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I love how easy it is to assemble this savory egg casserole. Putting it together the night before really frees up my time the next morning. —Jennifer Howell, Fort Collins, Colorado
My son and I like to make this breakfast favorite together. You can leave the berries out of the mix and sprinkle them on top, or sub in chocolate chips or nuts instead. —Elizabeth Stewart, Crab Orchard, West Virginia
For the perfect combination of eggs, sausage, bread and cheese, this is the dish to try. My mom and I like this sausage breakfast casserole because it bakes up tender and golden, slices beautifully and goes over well whenever we serve it. —Gayle Grigg, Phoenix, Arizona
Loads of asparagus pieces add color and flavor to this hearty, creamy quiche. And its easy crescent roll crust means you'll have dinner ready in a snap! —Sharon A. Fujita, Fontana, California
When I host brunch, I make something that can be prepared a day ahead so I can spend time making other recipes. Grapefruit or a mixed-fruit marmalade will work just as well as the orange. —Judy Wilson, Sun City West, Arizona
I like to serve this tasty dish for brunch along with fresh fruit when I'm having guests. Not only is it easy, but everyone enjoys it. Make it the night before, then the next day all you need to do is bake it. —Airy Murray, Williamsport, Maryland
Emperor Nero thought leeks would improve his singing voice. At our house, we believe they add fresh flavor to this easy hash brown bake with prosciutto. —Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware
We wanted folks to be able to enjoy the flavor of gingerbread at breakfast, so we created this recipe. The waffles are so pretty with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
My kids ask for this hearty slow-cook casserole for breakfast and dinner. I’ve served it with white country gravy or salsa. It’s delightful either way. —Cindy Pruitt, Grove, Oklahoma
Biscuits and gravy are usually prepared separately but served together. I created a way to bake them all at once in this scrumptious casserole. —Nancy Mcinnis, Olympia, Washington
Let the aroma of baked peaches, brown sugar and cinnamon wake up your family. When you serve the tender slices of French toast, be sure to scoop up the golden syrup in the bottom of the pan and drizzle it over the top. —Geraldine Casey, Anderson, Indiana
I created this when I wanted something different for a graduation brunch for two of our sons. When I realized I had most of the ingredients on hand for the Reuben dip I usually make, I decided to use them in a brunch casserole instead! Everyone asked for the recipe. —Janelle Reed, Merriam, Kansas
Salty, savory olives, two kinds of onions, juicy tomatoes and layers of cheese make this quiche a dish to remember. —Stephanie Proebsting, Barrington, Illinois
French toast is a crowd-pleaser, but it's hard to make for a big group. This overnight casserole with strawberries and a sweet pecan topping fixes everything. —David Stelzl Jr., Waxhaw, North Carolina
I had this dish at a bridal brunch many years ago. It was so delicious that I created my own version, and this is the result. Now I make it all the time. Enjoy! —Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South Carolina
Slow cookers aren't just for making dinner. I make this often if we're having company overnight. With just a little planning and not much work, I can prep it the night before and have a lovely breakfast waiting in the morning. —Barb Keith, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Between family and friends, we average 375 visitors a year! This casserole is handy—you can put it together the night before, let the flavors blend, then bake it in the morning. —Nancy Schmidt, Center, Colorado
For me, the combination of sweet and savory along with easy preparation make this Italian-inspired strata a winning dish for home cooks everywhere! It can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as a late afternoon meal. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
My overnight eggs and veggies make a hearty breakfast for those who have to rush out the door. I use sliced potatoes, but frozen potatoes work, too. —Kimberly Clark-Thiry, Anchor Point, Alaska
My kids love sausages and pancakes but making them during the week was out of the question. I bought the frozen variety on a stick but wasn't keen on the calories, additives or price. This version of pigs-in-a-blanket is a tasty, thrifty alternative. —Lisa Dodd, Greenville, South Carolina
Dana is an editor and writer who shares her passion for travel, food and the beauty of American landscapes. When she's not wielding her red pen, she can be found tending her flower gardens, remodeling her house, creating one-of-a-kind jewelry or dancing to "Uptown Funk."