If you’re having overnight guests, change the linens on the bed where they will sleep. Put out clean towels in the bathroom.
Check your supplies of toilet paper, soap, napkins, and other essentials. Make a shopping list based on your menus and any supplies you need to restock so you don’t forget anything when you shop.
This is a great time to fix major things aren’t working, like plumbing that is stopped up or a broken step on your porch. If you can’t fix them in time, be sure to warn your guests and have a backup plan.
Set aside a space for your luggage on the surface like a trunk or the floor of a closet. You can even invest in a luggage rack. This will help guests stay organized. [3] X Research source Make space in dressers and closets for your overnight guests.
Consider throwing a few smaller parties if you have a small space and a long guest list.
If you don’t want overnight guests for more than a weekend, you could say, “We are so pleased you can visit us. We will be able to host you the weekend of the 10th to the 12th and would love to have you visit then. ”
Say that you aren’t prepared to show guests certain rooms, for example: “Those are the bedrooms. We didn’t really clean them up for guests. Sorry. ” Encourage guests to explore areas that you don’t mind them seeing, for example: “The bedrooms are down that hall. Let me show you the patio and garden now. I think you’ll enjoy seeing them. ”
Along with the food, decide which drinks you will serve. If you are budget conscious, figure out what you can afford and focus on making that wonderful. Set out snacks and drinks in your guest room for overnight guests so they won’t need to find their way to the kitchen for a midnight snack. Ask about food sensitivities and allergies and plan your meals and snacks around those. If you make something a guest can’t eat, point out that food to them in advance.
Plan a long enough playlist so you have music for the entire party. Mix up the type of music you play during the party. For example, you might want to start with something really upbeat, and then play mellower music at the end of the night to wind things down. Use an app that lets guests choose songs from your playlist, like Jukebox Hero. [8] X Research source Hire a DJ for a large party if that fits in your budget.
Be prepared to get the dancing going and to start the games at your party. Set up a board game during coffee and dessert at a dinner party. [10] X Research source Ask party guests to dress according to a theme, like a beach party, or plan a mystery party. For overnight guests, prepare a list of local entertainments and things to do in your area. Plan at least one outing with them, for example to the zoo or a local farmer’s market. Make plans for entertaining overnight guests at home, like a movie night.
For overnight guests, prepare a map of your area (even if you need to draw it yourself), a spare key to your house, a list of emergency contacts, and any household instructions, like how your alarm system works.
If you do run into a problem, ask your guests for help. Most people will love to pitch in. [13] X Research source
