We, at the (real) Stepford Wives association believe strongly in being prepared for unexpected or expected overnight guests. It is always the niceties people neglect. Sure we have all seen the ready-made "guest baskets" but how useful are they? Most are filled with single use items. We Stepford's abhor the the idea of reusing a loofa (just one of the many items always included). It makes you think twice if you stay over at a friend's home and are offered one. Or think of it this way, would you let someone else outside maybe your husband, use your loofa? Why on earth would you include one of these? Even if you are not completely certain the guest used them to shower, you still must toss them after.
So what does our guest list include?
- A water Carafe and glass (or two) The last thing you want are overnight guests bumbling around your kitchen to find a glass. Do fill the carafe, never fill the glass. Any type will do, you can certainly go fancy or keep a simple glass water bottle with a stopper atop. Some magazines (cough, cough) recommend a drop or two of food coloring as a 'treat' for guests. We do not recommend that. Should the guest spill it, it will ruin their clothing, your bedding or carpet.
- A toothbrush and travel tube of toothpaste This one might sound silly but often you can find them for free at your dentist office, sure they have the name of the dentist printed on them, but they're wrapped in plastic and welcome sight for the person who might have forgotten their own. If they don't use it, you'll know. Never, ever offer an unwrapped toothbrush, unless the guest witnesses you pulling it out of a multipack.
- Shampoo, soap, wash and a personal hand towel The soap should be wrapped up so the guest knows its unused. You can use travel size shampoos. The hand and wash towels should look different than any regular towel so the guest doesn't lose track of them!
- Bath Towels Again, special ones that won't become confused with other towels in the house, true especially if the guest must share a bathroom with other family members.
- If you know your guest is an early riser, set up coffee the night before: Yes, we prefer pressed coffee too, but your guest might not want to go through that trouble or know how it works. If they aren't the early rise types, disregard it.
- A nice large Bathrobe: Very important especially if guests are expected to share a bathroom with other family members.
- Empty Closet and/or dresser: This is a nice one, most people store extra things into closets or drawers in guest rooms. A couple games, a deck of cards, but the guest shouldn't be overwhelmed with your family's junk. If there is a writing desk in the room, supply stationary or even postcards and pens. Maybe a couple postage stamps.
- Place extra toilet paper on the tank Again you do not want your guests hunting for extra toilet paper. Sure, your family knows where it's hidden, but the guests do not. Normally, we Stepford's find it horrible but it's a welcome sight at parties -- because you never know.
- Candles, matches or flashlight and extra blankets In case of a power failure or the room becomes cooler than your guest prefers extra blankets in the closet or placed draped across the bottom of the bed is a lovely touch.
- Acquaint yourself with the guest, if possible, before they arrive so you can tailor your own items to suit their needs.
- Do enquire about dietary concerns your guest might have. Try not to offer bacon for breakfast if your guest has a history of heart disease. If the guest is completely unexpected don't worry about it or run out to try to find the British crumpets and clotted cream they mentioned briefly. People who are unexpected are usually the most forgiving.
- Do ask if they prefer coffee or tea or juice. Make sure the sugar bowl and creamer are filled -- especially if your family doesn't use it. If they are tea drinkers make sure you have fresh lemon, maybe honey available and different teas are a lovely touch
The point is, you want guests to lose the inherently awkward feelings one has when spending the night at a friend's home. You want them to feel as comfortable as possible.
