Chic, affordable ways to get your home ready for guests

FREE IMAGES Undoubtedly at some point this holiday season you will be invaded by at least one guest.  For me, the toughest part of hosting is having a place to keep the extra "stuff" that comes along with a guest, or all of my stuff that has accumulated in the guest room, which tends to become a storage room.

Here are a few furniture storage solutions to help you solve these issues.

 A storage cabinet or shelving unit with baskets.  This one is an oldy but a goody.  During the winter/holiday season you need extra storage in the entryway to house scarves, gloves, and hats. A cabinet with bins or baskets provides storage space that attractively hides all of your/your guests' stuff.

 via Pinterest via Country Living

via Joss & Main in the "Tidy Up For Visitors" sale

via Joss & Main in the "Tidy Up For Visitors" sale

A wall cabinet/storage unit.  I don't know about you, but my guest room is SMALL.  When a space is small you really need to take advantage of vertical/wall space.  Even a slim wall cabinet can be a thoughtful touch that gives guests a little bit more room to unpack and feel at home.  It's also nice when it doubles as a mirror.

via Pinterest via Shanty 2 Chic

via Ideel in the "Furniture for every room" sale

A rolling bar cart with trays is a multitasking machine.  It can follow you and your guests from room to room and encourage them to help themselves.  Also, when you are ready to take it to the dining room just remove a tray and use it on the table.

via Pinterest via Crate & Barrel

via Rue La La in the "Guest Ready Essentials" sale

Extra linen storage.  Your guests should not want for clean sheets and towels.  That being said, our linen closet can barely fit enough for my husband and I.  A stand alone unit is an attractive and affordable way to add extra linen storage in the bathroom.

 via Pinterest via Flickr

 via Pinterest via Interior Magasinet

via Gilt in the "Bath Organization and Storage" sale

A Welcoming Front Door

FREE IMAGES Adding an extra touch to your front door can set the tone for the rest of your home. It can also make a guest feel at home the minute they pull up! Here are some tips to help you bring your front door to life:


via bhg

Make sure your house number is legible. There's nothing worse than having that uncertain feeling on whether you are walking up to the right house or not! Also be sure that it's visible throughout the entire day and going into the night. Outdoor lighting can be a great problem solver in this case.


via pinterest

Keep it simple! Leave enough room for your guests to be at the front door and not feel overwhelmed or cramped while they are waiting for you to answer. The extra breathing space is comforting and relaxing.


via architectureartdesigns

Add a friendly sign. Nothing says you're welcome more than a welcome sign! Adding a little touch to remind them you are happy they are coming puts a smile on everyone's face.


via flickr

Get creative! Adding an extra touch like window decor is stunning. It gives everyone a little eye candy which is great for small doorways where you might not have enough room for planters or decorations.


via indulgy

Show some personality! Don't be afraid to bring out things you love to to decorate your front door. It'll help your door stand out from others and can also be great conversation starters!