Create the perfect guest room space, from spare keys to wifi passwords and lush decor

Your guest room can become a relaxing and inviting retreat -- instead of an afterthought -- and allow you to host visitors at a moment's notice. While decor, bedding and other pieces will help you create a comfortable and inviting space, these tips will elevate your guest room to a luxurious retreat and make you the most in-demand host in the family. 

Special Touches for the Perfect Guest Room

Go for Luxury: High quality linens, a cashmere throw and luxury soaps will make your room feel like a cozy and special retreat; invest in a few special items and you'll make a big impression on your guests. Consider adding a few small but helpful amenities, including new toothbrushes and toothpaste in the bathroom and toiletries; these welcome additions could prevent a quick run to the store on arrival day and will make your guests feel welcomed. 

Offer Info: If you live near some attractions, areas of interest to visitors or even entertainment districts, stop by your own town welcome center or chamber of commerce occasionally to pick up brochures of some top attractions. Many of these colorful guides also feature promos and coupons just for visitors, so supplying these to out of town guests makes it easy for them to get around. Replace these every year or so, or when they have been used, so you always have something on hand for guests. 

Passwords and Keys: Display the Wi-Fi password and any other details in a prominent place. You can buy or make a custom plaque or sign for this purpose -- even a small, decorative chalkboard will work. This will allow guests to log-in right away and access email, work and entertainment for the duration of their stay. This is also a good spot to add a house key on a decorative ring and any other passes your guests may need. Pool passes, clubhouse tags and even gate passes or tags may be needed to get around easily in your neighborhood, and keeping them handy means you won't be scrambling to find them when guests arrive. 

Think about where guests might want to visit, how they will get around and what they might need as you set up your room. When you've finished decorating, spend a night or two sleeping in the guest room. You may discover it gets very cold at night, or that a nightlight is needed for safe access to other parts of the house. Once set up, your guests will love visiting your luxurious and thoughtfully appointed space, and you'll find getting ready for visitors a breeze.