How To Host Overnight Guests If You Don’t Have A Guest Room, According To The Experts

Welcoming friends and family into your home can be as stressful as it is gratifying—especially if you don’t have a designated guest room for them to stay in. How do you still make overnight guests feel cared for when they’re crashing on the couch or bunking with your toddler? “It all comes down to attention to detail,” explains Neillie Butler, founder of destination wedding firm Mariée Ami in Birmingham, Alabama. “Those conscious details are things that make the guest experience special and memorable.” Read up on the most high-impact ones, according to three Southern event planners.

Make Space

You can give your guests room without giving them a room. “A few easy shifts of furniture and the addition of pieces that can flex in different rooms, such as a free-standing screen, can privatize where guests are staying,” says Cassie LaMere, founder of her namesake events firm in Austin, Texas.

Other examples include placing a pop-up rolling rack with hangers close by so they can settle in and clearing off a counter or nook in a cabinet so they can unpack and store their toiletries. This keeps everything less messy for everyone, while also making the guest feel like they still have their own designated space.

Dress Up the Bathroom

Dori Waller, founder of The Social Office in Nashville, Tennessee, insists that the bathroom is often overlooked for how frequently it’s used. (Plus, it may be the only space your guest is guaranteed alone time.) She always keeps bathrooms stocked with fragrant candles, hand soaps, and lotions that elevate the space. “I also enjoy adding a small bloom or arrangement along with ample restroom towels or a lovely embroidered towel,” she explains.

Meet Their Needs

“Regardless of where your guest is sleeping, there are certain universal needs that they'll likely require during an overnight stay,” LaMere says. “By anticipating and addressing those in advance, you'll make the guest feel well cared for.” She always makes sure guests have access to power outlets and chargers, beverages, and extra linens and toiletries—and even goes one step further with a print-off of the wifi and streaming passwords and a basket of their favorite snacks.

“If they’re staying in a non-traditional space where it may be difficult to ensure temperature control or reduce light exposure, cushy slippers, comfortable pajamas, or an eye mask can also invite a guest to settle in,” adds LaMere.

Indulge the Senses

“Give thought to the warm cookie smell swirling out of your oven or the aroma and aesthetic that few lit candles can bring,” Butler advises. LaMere agrees, recommending you have a sweet treat baking in the oven upon arrival—and don’t forget to bring them to your guest once they’re done.

Hearing can make a powerful impact as well: Whether during brunch or game night, chances are you’ll be playing music at some point. Make them feel especially at home by playing their favorite artist or playlist (bonus points if you don’t even have to ask for it).

Add a Personal Touch

Go above and beyond with something custom—a detail you’ll find at only the chicest five-star hotels (or at home). “Monogrammed pillowcases are a favorite for the ultimate ‘Be Our Guest’ wow factor, and plush robes featuring the guest of honors’ monikers are instant crowd pleasers,” LaMere insists. “As a bonus, this hospitable gesture does double duty as a keepsake for guests to fondly remember your time together.”