As the season changes and winter approaches, the way we host in our home changes too. Where summer brings gatherings in the sunshine, winter needs a cosier approach. Being the host (and being a truly great host) you will want to make sure that your guests have everything they need to feel at home, without having to ask. You want to create a warm, happy environment and make your friends and family feel at ease. Hosting is also an opportunity to build closer relationships with your guests. So if you are planning festivities this season, Dylan Cottrill, Assistant Guest Relations Manager at five-star hotel The Grand, York shares five tips to make your home welcoming over the winter.
1. Provide a warm welcome drink
We all know that winter weather can be cold, wet and generally unpleasant, meaning arriving guests will want to warm up fast.
Dylan says: “When guests arrive in the colder months, plan to have a warm drink prepared, to help them settle in well and warm up from the chilly winter weather.
“This can of course be a classic cup of tea or coffee, but to add a seasonal touch, I personally prefer to offer hot apple and cinnamon tea to my guests. It’s a delicious option that suits the weather and has anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help to ease any muscle or joint pain from travelling.”
2. Layer up your interiors
Whilst we usually think of layering clothing during the winter, layering interior décor can also help to create an inviting space for guests. The room may get cold in the middle of the night so you want to make sure there are enough blankets. And have an easy bedside light for your guests to reach for.
“Add extra layers to your guest bedroom to make it feel cosy, warm and inviting. This can be done with items like throw pillows, blankets and candles.
“Providing a basket with a few blankets to choose from and lighting a seasonal scented candle helps set a homey and relaxing atmosphere. You can even go one step further and provide your guests with a sweet treat to enjoy before bed – I like to use sugar cookies.”
Make sure to have a spare toothbrush and toothpaste in an obvious spot. As well as towels. Brew coffee in the morning and arrange for breakfast. You can also leave them with a WiFi password. All of this makes for a good host.
3. Decorate with fresh flowers
Often associated with decorating for spring and summer, fresh flowers are also an underrated way to brighten a room during the winter months.
Dylan says: “Adding fresh flowers helps to bring colour and life to your guest’s bedroom, mitigating the doom and gloom of the wintery weather. Carnations make a great choice as they are sturdier than most varieties. Whilst not an absolute must-have, this finishing touch brings an extra bit of joy to guests.”
4. Make a list of good to knows
Hosting is a great way to sharpen those manners skills. “The best way to make your guests feel comfortable is to have a lovely welcome note from yourself, firstly inviting them to make themselves at home and secondly including a few tips for where they can find things they might need.
“It’s good to let guests know where to find things like extra tissues, food and drinks, as some may be uncomfortable asking for these and a great host would never want a guest to feel uncomfortable!”
5. Create a happy atmosphere
After giving guests, a welcome drink, a cosy room and letting them know about the good-to-knows, all that’s left to help them settle in is to let them enjoy a happy environment.
“As I always say, a guest may forget all the little touches you add, but they will never forget how you made them feel. A comfortable, relaxed and happy house guest is one who feels at home even in your space.
“When you want to leave a good impression on guests, hosting can feel like an added pressure, but make sure not to let this show. The best way to do this is to try to relax, and enjoy spending time with your guests and the process of hosting, rather than worrying about guests having a good time. This will naturally create a welcoming environment.”
