Discover tips for creating a welcoming home that’s always ready for guests, even if you’ve struggled with hosting preparation in the past. In this episode, Shannon not only outlines specific tasks like decluttering and installing streamlined storage, but she also empowers homeowners to provide a sense of ease and sanctuary for their loved ones.
From a young age, Shannon has been prone to keeping her spaces well-organized and tidy. Even as a child, she alphabetized her sticker collections. She has undergone formal organizational training and certifications, including becoming a Certified Professional Organizer, holding a specialist certificate in Brain-Based Conditions, and becoming a Certified Reiki Master.
She founded Tidy Nest, which has helped countless families along the East Coast of the United States bring order into their lives. Shannon’s work and organizing tips have been featured in publications like Architectural Digest, HGTV, Forbes, and Homes & Gardens.
Before starting Tidy Nest, she had a 15-year career in commercial real estate, with expertise in communications, marketing, and social media. In her free time, she enjoys organizing, adding to her crystal collection, and spending time with her 3 rescue cats and Mini Australian Shepherd.
For this episode, Shannon shares some insights about making your home a welcoming sanctuary for family and friends. People with guests know all too well that it’s not just about clearing off the couch–true hospitality runs much deeper.
Shannon explains that getting your home in order is as much about the internal work of eliminating clutter as the outward work of finding just the right spot for everything. When your space is clutter-free and functional, it allows room for creativity and human connection. You and your guests can breathe easy, knowing where to find what you need.
One of the greatest gifts people can offer visitors is a calm, stress-free environment where they can recharge. All it takes are a few thoughtful touches! Ensure your guests have everything they need without asking, from extra towels to a private nook where they control the noise and chaos levels. Often overlooked areas are adequate storage, well-stocked bathroom essentials, room in the kitchen/pantry, and well-appointed nightstands with items like water and eye masks.
You can balance functionality and style by dedicating specific guest areas and using multifunctional furniture, such as stools with luggage racks, extra seating, or flat surfaces. Storage beds and nightstands with additional drawers or cabinets can also help maximize storage without compromising style. Guest information guides with Wi-Fi passwords, appliance instructions, and schedules can provide independence versus repeatedly asking the host.
Now, don’t stress if you can’t outfit your guest room like a 5-star hotel. What really warm the hearts of your guests are the personalized touches that show you care. Consider adding printed photos of the guests with the hosts or curating a selection of books that reflect their interests. Additionally, providing slippers, robes, and charging stations can make the experience more comfortable and “hotel-like”
At the end of the day, making space for loved ones is about so much more than square footage or price tags. It’s showing them that they are welcomed with open arms through your space and spirit of hospitality.
Hosting is an opportunity to create a calm, stress-free environment where your loved ones can relax and recharge. The key is to approach guest readiness from both an internal and external perspective. Internally, you must declutter and streamline your spaces so there is room for creativity and connection. Externally, you can then focus on thoughtful touches that show your guests they are truly cared for.
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