WELCOMING GUESTS - HOW TO MAKE VISITORS FEEL AT HOME THIS SUMMER

When you think of summer, what comes to mind?

Perhaps it's vacations to white sand beaches, glistening under the strength of the season’s sun. Maybe it’s barbecues with burgers and hot dogs sizzling over smoldering coals, or popsicles shared by the pool, shade sought beneath a striped umbrella. Whatever your memory, I imagine many of them have one thing in common: the people you shared them with.

For me, summer is synonymous with gathering. People flock together like migratory birds, seeking the perfect place to enjoy the fleeting gifts of the season. Over the next few weeks, our home will become that place as family and friends come to Patina Meadow, drawn by love for the residents, fresh tomatoes, and the cool, winding creeks.

Inspired by their arrival, I thought I’d share a few of my favorite ways to make guests feel welcomed and comfortable. If you’re hosting loved ones in the coming weeks, I hope these tips bring ease and joy to your time together.

The Attic at Patina Meadow. (Image by Lisa Romerein) This guest room at our farm was featured along with other guest abodes in this month's issue of Luxe Magazine, which can be found here.

REACH OUT PRIOR TO THEIR ARRIVAL

About a week before guests arrive, I like to check in and ask if there’s anything they’d like me to have on hand. I’ll usually offer a few suggestions, such as their favorite coffee or breakfast items, anything that people are usually particular about.

This is also a great time to ask about dietary restrictions or activities they’d like to do during their stay. Opening the door to this kind of conversation early always makes for a smoother, more thoughtful visit.

A visit to your favorite local shops ;) is always a good activity to propose!

PREPARING YOUR SPACE

As the visit approaches, I walk through a mental checklist organized by the spaces they’ll frequent most:

THE GUEST ROOM

Whether your guest is staying in a dedicated room or curling up on a couch, there are a few simple ways to help them feel cozy and cared for. Start with the essentials: fresh sheets, blankets, and towels.

Once those are ready, I like to add thoughtful touches such as cut flowers at the bedside, a softly scented candle, a carafe of water, and a stack of good books.

THE BATHROOM

I always make sure the bathroom is fully stocked with fluffy towels, shower goods, soap, and an often overlooked essential, extra toilet paper.

Once the basics are covered, I’ll add flowers or a candle to bring a sense of calm and beauty.

THE KITCHEN

Being away from home often means being away from comforting routines. I like to help guests feel grounded by stocking the fridge with their favorite foods and drinks.

I’ll also share some of my favorite snacks and produce from the Patina Farm Shop. It’s always a joy to introduce someone to a new favorite.

DURING THEIR STAY

One of the trickiest parts of hosting guests, especially for more than a night or two, is striking the right balance between togetherness and space. In my experience, it helps to stick to your regular routines and invite guests to join in if they’d like.

Steve and I love our morning walks. Instead of foregoing them when company is in town, we invite them to join us if they would like!

If they prefer to venture out on their own, I offer a list of favorite hikes, shops, or places to eat so they can explore at their own pace. Then we gather in the evenings, around the table, by the fire, or under the stars, to reconnect and share stories from the day.

Image by Lisa Romerein

As with all advice in life, take what serves you and leave the rest. Whether you try one of these tips or all of them, the most important thing is enjoying the time together. Even if your home isn’t perfectly prepped, if you’re surrounded by people you love and making joyful memories, that’s what truly matters.

xx,

Brooke