CityView Magazine

The issue of space is something that requires thoughtful planning. Are the dresser tops and vanity cleared and ready for your guests' belongings? Lynn recommends emptying out the top two drawers in a dresser and leaving a little closet space for hanging clothes. If your guest bedroom closets are packed al- ready, she suggests getting an over-the- door hook. that your guests can allot enough time to get ready. Another way to brighten up a room is by putting a colorful luggage stand in the room to hold a suitcase. A bench or trunk at the end of a bed can be used in the same manner and can double for storage space for extra pillows and blankets. Your guests may not bother to unpack if they are only staying for a few days and they'll certainly appreciate a convenient perch for their luggage. You can even give your room a spark of color by painting it a bright color. Looking to splurge and give your room a fresh look? Invest in a comfort- able sitting chair. A few other thoughtful touches in- clude using fresh flowers to keep the room fragrant; framing a photo you have with your guests; and considering whether your lamps will provide ad- equate light for bedtime reading. Lastly, make sure the room is ready for traffic. The last thing you want to worry about is having your most treasured trinkets accidentally broken. It's easier to just put them up for the time being. "Don't create a situation where they have to be careful," Leath said. "Com- fort is an environment that is simplified and not overly complicated." Remember what it's like to be a guest Leath recommends leaving guest towels on the bed, regardless of whether you'll be sharing a bathroom with your guests or not. She recommends tying a bow around them — an especially fes- tive touch during the holidays — and says she uses wired ribbon. Leave ample soap and other toiletries so that guests won't have to ask. Also, make sure a hair dryer is available under the sink or in a visible basket for your guests' use. Need more inspiration? Browse the pages of magazines and try to envision subtle changes that will make your space more soothing. Use existing accessories that tell your story to make the room more personal and to showcase your style. If you know you do not have an eye for decorating and pulling it all togeth- er, ask for help from the pros. Perhaps the most valuable tip that Leath shared: 'Don't wait until the last minute'. CV cape fear v alley blood donor center this is more than a bag of blood. in someone's house. In the middle of the night you don't enjoy traipsing through an unfamiliar, dark home to fetch a glass of water. Leath recommends leav- ing either a pitcher of water with a glass or a bottle of water on a side table near the bed, along with a box of tissues and maybe some of your favorite books and magazines, too. (We suggest CityView, of course.) If your guests are in town for a spe- cific occasion that requires attending several events throughout their stay, consider using a nice notecard to script an itinerary of times and locations so This is a father being able to walk his daughter down the aisle. This is a grandmother being able to kiss her first grandbaby. This is a teenage girl being able to go to prom. This is a child being able to laugh and play at the park. give life. give memories. give blood. saving lives locally : 910 615-life CityViewNC.com | 25

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