Ah, October. The air is crisp, pumpkins are out, and the smell of cinnamon seems to be in every corner of the Pacific Northwest. But it’s not just the fall leaves making their way to us—family is coming! Whether it’s your sister and her kiddos, your in-laws extending their stay to soak in some extra family time, or your friends from Seattle popping in for a weekend visit, one thing’s for sure: your guest room needs to be ready to welcome them with open arms.
At Bella Vista, we know a thing or two about creating spaces that feel like home because, well, we’re a family-run business. And we love family (really, we do!). So, grab a cup of coffee, cozy up, and let’s get that guest room ready without losing your cool.
Declutter Like You Mean It!
Look, we all have that room. You know the one—it’s where old gym equipment, random Amazon boxes, and last year’s Christmas decorations go to die. And why is it always the spare bedroom? But guess what? You know your guests don’t want to share space with your treadmill that doubles as a clothing rack. Take an afternoon, throw on some music, and declutter that guest room like your sanity depends on it. (Because it just might!).
If you’re really trying to impress, try to aim for what you might find in an Airbnb. Personal effects removed, an empty space for their suitcases and clothing, some nice basics on the bedside table, like earplug, some tissues, a glass for water.
First Impressions: The Wall Color Matters
Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite as welcoming as walking into a room with a fresh, clean, and warm vibe. If your guest room walls are still rocking that “I swear it’s beige” color from 1998, it might be time to upgrade. Go for cozy, welcoming tones like soft grays, muted blues, or warm creams. These colors not only make the room feel inviting but are also versatile enough to hide any… umm… “surprises” your guests might leave behind (kids with juice boxes, we’re looking at you).
The Bedding Situation: Fluff It Up
You know those hotels where the beds feel like clouds and the pillows make you wonder if you’ve accidentally become royalty for the night? Yeah, that’s the vibe we’re going for. Sure, it might be your brother who’s staying over, but no one wants to sleep on a lumpy mattress or pillows that feel like they’re stuffed with yesterday’s laundry.
Invest in fresh, fluffy pillows and cozy throws. . A small touch like fresh linens can make a huge difference. Plus, with all the holiday craziness, the last thing you need is Aunt Karen complaining about “that one hair” she found in the sheets.
Add the Personal Touches
This is where you can really shine as a host. A small welcome basket with travel-size toiletries, snacks, or even a handwritten note can make your guests feel extra special without stretching your budget. Extra points if you include a local guidebook—because, let’s be honest, they’ll be asking about the best brunch spot within minutes of arriving.
While seasonal décor, like a cute pumpkin or a cozy candle, adds a festive touch, it’s also a great idea to invest in décor that works year-round. Opt for timeless, versatile pieces that complement every season. This not only keeps your space feeling fresh and inviting but also helps you be more sustainable in your choices. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful details—and you’ll be ready for any visit, any time of year.
Maintenance, Baby!
Once you’ve put all that effort into making your guest room fabulous, keep it that way! Between visits, it’s easy for things to slip back into chaos, but regular upkeep will save you from last-minute panic cleaning. Dust the room, air it out, and keep it stocked with essentials so you’re always ready for that surprise visit from your cousin who’s “just passing through.”
And hey, if you’re one of those overachievers who wants to keep the whole house looking fresh, take a look at our blog on top tips for interior paint maintenance. That way, your home is always guest-ready without any of the stress.
So, there you have it! With a little preparation, some TLC, and maybe a fresh coat of paint (hint, hint), your guest room will be the talk of the holiday season. From our Bella Vista family to yours, happy hosting! And remember, if things start to feel overwhelming, we’re always here to help with all your interior and exterior painting needs—because no one should tackle that guest room alone.
Until next time, keep it cozy, keep it fun, and remember: family is everything… even when they forget to take their shoes off.
