5 Ways to Make Guests Feel Welcome in Your Home

Your best friend just called to see if they could visit during their trip across the country and stay in your apartment for the night. While you’re super excited to host your friend, you have one problem: your apartment feels way too small to adequately host guests, especially overnight. Luckily, we reached out to a number of experts on how to organize, maximize, and personalize your space no matter how much room you have. 

Whether you just moved into an apartment in Denver, CO, you’re renting a small house in Raleigh, NC, or you found the perfect tiny home to buy in Wichita, KS, these expert tips will help make your guests feel welcome in any situation. 

1. Cleanliness comes first

Grabbing your cleaning checklist is always a good place to start when hosting guests, and a little decluttering can go a long way. From cleaning up and clearing out unwanted items to focusing on minimalist décor, less is more according to these experts: 

“Focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere by decluttering and organizing beforehand. Prioritize cleanliness—fresh linens, a clean bathroom, and dust free surfaces make a big impression.” – Vanessa of Angles Pro Cleaners in Southeastern NC

“Starting with decluttering your space is so important when entertaining guests in an apartment. Remove and move furniture to another room to create more floor space for guests.” – Danielle, owner of Spaces Interior Design servicing Metro Detroit, MI

“Focusing on multi-functional solutions will help with decluttering and making your space feel larger. Consider compact, foldable furniture that doubles as storage or seating. It’s all about thoughtful preparation and maximizing essentials without overloading your space.” – Guillaume, founder of Or & Zon providing sustainable bedding collections

2. Prepare a sleeping area

It might feel like you don’t have a lot of room for overnight guests in your Chicago, IL apartment. But even if you don’t have a dedicated guest room, there are a few great ways you can maximize the space you do have to make your guests feel welcome. 

“Being a good host in a small space is all about maximizing comfort and charm,” says Sarah-Jean, lifestyle blogger of The Fashionable Housewife. “A pull out couch or an air mattress with thoughtful touches like fresh linens or a plush throw blanket will create a cozy, welcoming area. Create a bit of privacy with a folding screen or curtains so guests feel at ease in their own space. Adding a candle or plug in diffuser with a calming scent will give the space a warm, inviting ambiance, too.” 

“Go out of your way to make sure your guests feel comfortable and not like they’re intruding on your personal space,” shares Lisa, author of Drugstore Divas frugal lifestyle blog. “Make their bedroom area cozy. If it doubles as an office, add extra pillows and blankets to make it feel more  bedroom-like. The more you can make your guests feel welcome, the better time everyone will have.”

“Maximizing space does not mean sacrificing style,” adds Isaac with Lancaster Handcraft, a handmade-furniture store in Lancaster County, PA. “Murphy beds are becoming the fastest growing furniture market in the world as people recognize their incredible versatility. From desk setups, to bookshelves, to couches, and more, a guest bedroom can be hidden neatly away without forfeiting any of the room’s functionality or style.” 

3. Keep the food prep simple 

Whether you’re hosting a party in your apartment or just having a friend stay the night, you’ll need to make sure your guests are fed. These expert tips have you covered for everything from dinner plans to small snacks. 

Setting up your dining room

“Setting your table in a small space requires thoughtful organization and minimalist design,” says Beth, expert tablescaper and author of Whispers of the Heart blog. “A compact table and chairs that fit the area are best, and use simple table settings like small plates, utensils, and glasses to avoid overwhelming the table surface. Incorporating multi-functional items like serving dishes that double as storage will help save space, too.” 

Serving breakfast?

“If you’re hosting breakfast, keep the menu simple and cozy,” shares Kelsey, recipe blogger on Northern Yum. “Our favorite recipes for guests are egg bites and caramel roll pull-aparts – they’re easy to prepare ahead of time and serve family style. Pair them with a platter of fresh fruit for a bright, colorful touch that will make your guests feel welcome.” 

Don’t forget the snacks and drinks

Consider the foods your guests like—and the ones they don’t, or can’t have. “Being a good host means thinking about your guest’s needs ahead of time,” emphasizes Chris, home entertaining expert and founder of Celebrations at Home. “If they’re a tea drinker, but you typically only have coffee, stock up on some tea essentials just for them. If they have dietary restrictions, have good snacks they can eat on hand and ready.” 

4. Making sure guests feel welcome means anticipating needs

It’s always a highlight of any good hotel or short-term rental when you hardly need to ask for anything. If you want your guests to give your space the full five stars, make sure they have everything they need for a comfortable stay without having to worry about asking you. 

“Being a good host in a small space is all about anticipating your guests’ needs,” says Stefanie, Airbnb hosting expert at Host & Stay. “Ensure it feels private, clean, and functional while considering who your guests are. For example, if you’re in a business district, prioritize a quiet sleeping area, strong wifi, and amenities like coffee or a workspace. A few thoughtful touches like a charging station or a mirror near natural light can make all the difference in creating a welcoming experience.” 

Create space for them 

“Designate a space for your guests to put their luggage, like a chic luggage rack in an out-of-the-way spot,” share Mercedes and Karen, interior design strategists of One Chic Retreat. “And, if you don’t have a place to hide clutter, try storing it in a few stylish baskets to keep your place looking organized.”

Communicate clearly 

Communication with your guests is essential to a good experience for you and everyone involved. Rosalinda Randall, author and etiquette expert, shares the following important tips: 

• Describe the layout of your space so guests can adjust their expectations, limit the number of items they bring, or even decide whether they would prefer to stay in a hotel. 
• Do either of you have pets? Make sure there is enough space for them if your lease allows pets, and ensure they will get along with your pet, too. 
• Do you have a roommate to consider? Discuss the parameters and inform your guest. 
• Inquire about specific lifestyle needs and whether you can accommodate them. Discuss any dietary needs, regular quiet work times, or other personal preferences in advance.

5. Go above and beyond

Oftentimes, it’s the littlest gestures that make the biggest differences. Regardless of how much space you have, it’s easy to be a good host with a few simple, personal touches that will make your guests feel welcome and appreciated. 

Get creative with your space

“Hosting in a small space allows for a lot of creativity,” shares Tyler, creator of Thrifts & Tangles lifestyle blog. “Think outside of the box – especially when it comes to seating options. Throw pillows, floor poufs, and ottomans are great opportunities for additional, comfortable seating for guests, and desk chairs can also come in handy.”

Show off your style 

“Add shelves to show off your décor as well as keep things organized,” says Chrissy of Countryside Home Décor. “Look for pieces that do double duty like storage ottomans or cute, decorative baskets to cut down on clutter, and stick to light, neutral colors to make the space feel bigger. Add some charm with little touches like farmhouse nightlights or rustic hooks.”

“Personal touches can make guests feel welcome and special,” adds Teresa of Mindful Cements, an AAPI-owned artisan concrete décor studio based in Los Angeles, CA. “Incorporate handmade décor, unique ceramics, or DIY centerpieces to spark meaningful conversations and showcase your creativity. Enhance the ambiance with warm lighting and add scented candles or candle alternatives to fill your space with inviting fragrances.” 

Make your guests feel comfortable and welcome

LeAnne, author of food, travel, and cooking blog Good For Spooning, shares the following top three things she does to be a good host and make her guests feel welcome: 

• Make room in a closet or bureau for guests to unpack and hang their clothes so they don’t get wrinkled. 
• Provide clean bathroom towels in their sleeping area so they don’t have to wonder about which towels are okay to use. 
• Always put fresh flowers in your guest’s room or space to add a nice touch that says “Welcome!”

You can make guests feel welcome without being the host with the most space

You don’t need a three bedroom home with a dedicated guest room to be a good host. No matter who you have visiting your space, these expert tips will take your hosting skills to the next level to earn that five-star review.

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