A Five Star Treatment For Your Guests
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Picture this -- fresh, fluffy towels, a crisp terry cloth robe and soft slippers, tiny travel sized toiletries -- all the luxuries you'd indulge in at a top of the line hotel.
Interior designer Brian Kollman said you can give overnight guests that very same five star feeling in your own home.
"What you want to create is a luxury environment, an environment that you would get in a four star hotel," said Kollman.
Kollman said you can simulate a spa in your own bathroom by towering towels and showcasing a special bar of soap.
"Beautiful toiletries in miniature sizes so that they feel like they can take them with them like in a luxury hotel," said Kollman.
But the generous gestures need not break the bank.
"You can even pick them up from hotels you stay at and utilize those," said Kollman.
Whether you're gussying up a guest room or giving up your master bedroom with a space challenged apartment, Coleman said some free closet space, an alarm clock, lots of extra pillows and blankets and a signature scent are key.
"A sachet under a pillow, it's a great detail and it's very easy to do," said Kollman.
If your guests are out of towners, try playing concierge by prepping pamphlets for local shows and attractions, guides for great dining spots, and even a prepaid ride for public transportation.
"You're kind of blessing their experience with some good information and handing them the ball so they don't have to struggle to find the way," said Kollman.
Your tired traveler might like a little something to nosh on, so Coleman said, why not turn room service into self service simply by leaving them a welcome tray stacked with delicious snacks.
"It doesn't have to be elaborate, some dried figs, a bottle of wine, some chocolates perhaps, just some little goodies," said Kollman.
And why not make a makeshift mini-bar out of your fridge, no key required.
"By creating a little tableau, it looks like you've really placed it there for them so it makes them a little bit more comfortable in opening the refrigerator and helping themselves," said Kollman.
And how about one final touch to make your guest suite even sweeter -- turning down the bed with an extra special treat.
"What could be better than turning the bed down at night, placing a chocolate on the pillow like in a fine hotel," said Kollman.