Make Them Feel at Home With a DIY Welcome Basket
By Lindsay Jackman, Zillow Blog Contributor
This time of year is filled with house guests and, of course, you want to make them feel welcome and right at home. One of the best ways to do that is with a welcome basket made especially for your guests.
The goal of a guest welcome basket is not to send your visitors home with a bunch of gifts, but to offer items they may need and enjoy during their stay.
Follow these five steps to create a stylish and inviting guest basket that will have your guests asking how soon they can come back.
1. Tie it together with a color scheme
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Creating a great welcome basket is about more than just throwing in some snacks and toiletries. Make a statement by giving your basket an overall theme, like a similar color.
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Towels are perfect items to include in your basket. This is where you can identify your color scheme. Choose pretty patterned and colorful towels to draw the eye. You can make your basket more unique and add interest by mixing and matching towel patterns, which will feel more personal than throwing in a matching set.
Once you’ve identified your overall color scheme, carry it through in the other items you choose.
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Include an extra blanket that adds texture and ties in with your colors. Pick other items with labels and wrappings that coordinate.
Have fun with this step and your welcome basket will automatically be more memorable.
2. Put in favorite or local snacks
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Food is the way to your guests’ heart. Focus on a few snacks that your guests can enjoy during their visit with no prep time.
Opt for items with a gourmet feel: chocolates, popcorn, or locally made treats are always crowdpleasers. Seasonal treats are a nice touch as well.
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Include a drink for each guest staying with you. Bottles of water always work, but for a more decadent feel, go for a fancy soda or a favorite you know your guests will love.
3. Add a local tour book
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Your guests are coming to visit you, so why not share a little more about your world with them?
A tour book or brochure is a thoughtful addition, especially if your visitors aren’t familiar with your area. Even if you will be with them for the majority of their stay, getting them acquainted with local hot spots and attractions is a great idea. Something may peak their interest!
4. Don’t forget toiletries
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While your guests probably brought along their own toiletries, lovely soaps and mini toiletries are always welcome. Choose soaps with distinct, beautiful smells and unique packaging. Many shops carry mini toiletries with pretty and printed labels. Paying attention to tiny details like this will make your guests feel like they’re staying at a swanky bed and breakfast.
5. Include a personal touch
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Always finish your basket with a warm, handwritten note. Personal touches are often overlooked in this fast-paced world, and your guests will appreciate your time and thoughtfulness. Welcome them to your home, provide them with important details like schedules or Wi-Fi passwords, and of course, wish them a lovely stay.
Source: Lindsay Jackman
Happy hosting!
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