Pamper Your Guests

Chances are it's happened to all of us -- a lumpy mattress that you can't get comfortable on, a flimsy blanket that leaves you shivering in the night, the wrestling match with your suitcase that results when there's no good place to open it. No matter a host's good intentions, a guest space can be less than accommodating.

Why not make the experience a memorable one for your guests with these dozens of tips from bed-and-breakfast owners. After all, who would know better when it comes to putting up guests?

Provide the Essentials

"Naturally, a good, firm bed is important," says Yvonne Martin, owner of the White Oak Inn in Danville, Ohio. But sweet dreams are not enough. She says a bedside table with a good lamp will encourage relaxed reading in bed. A comfy chair near a window, with a side table and warm throw as added bonuses, provides a great place for your guest to curl up with a cup of tea, daydream and observe nature.

It's also a good place to sit down and enjoy an impromptu snack. An end-of-the-bed trunk or folding stand for parking and unpacking the suitcase is essential. For clothing, see if you can provide at least half an empty closet stocked with hangers, as well as one or two vacant drawers in a clothing chest lined with scented paper.

Odds and Ends

Bed-and-breakfast owners may spare no expense, but even on a budget you can create a pleasant guest room. Rejuvenate old furniture with a new coat of paint or slipcovers. Improvise a nightstand out of a large basket, where you can also store blankets. Scour discount stores for inexpensive basics: lamps, bed linens, throw rugs, artwork and curtains. And different-size baskets and dishes will organize guest possessions for them; for instance, a saucer on the nightstand for placing jewelry, glasses and loose change.

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