Welcoming Guests

In just a few hours, we'll be welcoming Brandon's parents into our home for the week.  We're excited to host them, and Mya cannot wait for them to arrive, too!!

Although the idea JUST hit me as I sat down at the computer (and thus, I was unable to actually create any of these ideas for Brandon's parents ahead of time), I thought it would be fun to gather some cute ideas for things you can do to welcome out-of-town guests into your home.


[1]  Create a handmade "welcome" sign.  Poster board works great and can easily be attached to your front door or garage door...or to the door of the room they'll be staying in while at your home.

[2]  Create gift bags for out-of-town guests.  We had the pleasure of RECEIVING a gift bag like this when arriving at our hotel room for the weekend wedding of some very dear friends of ours.  (Thank you, Maggie & Hiran!!!)  It touched our hearts and really did give us that welcomed feel.  The idea is to include special gifts that are specific to your location.  So, for us here in Lancaster, we might include in some guest gift bags: a small bag of pretzels, Kitchen Kettle jelly, Wilbur buds or Hershey kisses, a disposable camera, bottled waters, some flyers for local businesses and attractions, a coupon booklet to the Outlets, etc.

[3]  Write a note to your guests and leave it in the rooms they'll stay in.  Welcome them and share any other fun stories or encouraging words with them.

[4]  Cook their favorite meal(s).  Then, prepare and share your favorite meal with them, too.  Write out your meal's recipe for them to take along home.

[5]  Take them on a tour of your town.  Introduce them to a favorite restaurant, ice cream shoppe, or local store for souvenirs.  Don't forget to take pictures, too.


What ways have guests welcomed you into their home?  I'd love to hear your ideas.