Turn Your Home into a Guest’s Dream Stay

5 Thoughtful Touches That Will Leave a Lasting Impression

Today, I’m stepping out of the kitchen and into the guest room—because some of the most meaningful hosting moments happen outside of mealtime.

When someone spends the night in your home, it’s a chance to offer a little retreat—a space to rest, recharge, and feel truly cared for. If you’re opening your doors to loved ones soon, here are five simple ways to make their stay feel extra special (and lowkey luxurious):

1. Start with scent.
Before guests arrive, I like to check in and ask what kinds of scents they love—fresh and clean, warm and spicy, something floral or woodsy. From there, I’ll match the room spray, candle, diffuser oils, or linen spray to their preferences. It’s a small detail, but it sets such a welcoming tone.

2. Make sure they’ll sleep well.
One thing I’ve learned: it’s worth giving your guest bed a little “test run.” Is it cozy? Too hot or too cold? Any surprising noises at night? Making sure the sleep setup is comfortable shows you’ve thought of their rest as much as their comfort—and that goes a long way.

3. Help them feel at home without having to ask.
One of the best gifts you can give a guest is a sense of independence. I like to leave towels and toiletries out where they’re easy to find, and place water by the bed. If you’ve got early risers, make sure the coffee, tea, and mugs are within reach. I’ll usually set out a few bagels or pastries, too—plus a napkin and butter knife, so they can ease into their morning at their own pace.

4. Add a little something just for them.
Whether it’s a homemade party mix filled with their favorite snacks, a small batch of cookies, or a cocktail waiting for them when they arrive—it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just something that says, “I made this with you in mind.”

5. Create a spa moment in the bathroom.
At our house, we jokingly call it “Spa Brielle.” I love adding little touches like shower steamers, eucalyptus bunches on the shower head, fluffy white towels, and a candle to set the mood. I keep clean bath and skincare products on hand—both scented and unscented—and sometimes set out new things I’m trying like body scrubs or oils. For guests I don’t know as well, I’ll pull from my “hotel stash”—mini toiletries from places like Diptyque, Le Labo, Acqua di Parma, and Malin+Goetz. They’re just the right amount of fancy and they make a great little take-home.

Looking to create your own version of "Spa Brielle"? I've gathered some of my favorite guest-friendly bath and body touches on my Amazon Storefront to help you build a home spa your guests will love.

The goal of hosting overnight isn’t perfection—it’s creating a space that feels warm, welcoming, and easy to settle into. The goal isn’t to impress, but to make someone feel comfortable, considered, and truly welcome.

That’s the kind of hospitality I’m always aiming for.

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