A home full of guests is one of the most delightful things about the holiday season, but it can also be one of the most stressful. Between planning the holiday meal, wrapping gifts and navigating the tumultuous waters of family politics, it’s easy to forget to make sure the guest room is comfortable for those spending the night.

According to Dan Schmer, director of housekeeping at The Westin Peachtree Plaza, there are a few elements that go into creating a great experience every time.

A huge opportunity to wow your guests is in the small details offered in the guest bedroom and guest bath.

In the hustle and bustle of packing for the holidays, it is not unusual for visitors to forget a toiletry item or two. Instead of pointing them to the neighborhood drug store, have the basics on hand. Display items such as shampoo, conditioner, bar soap and shower gel in light refreshing scents. At The Westin Peachtree Plaza, our specialty soaps are white tea scented, which evokes a sense of calm and rejuvenation.

Guests usually don’t like to be a bother, so be sure things like extra toilet paper, bath towels and washcloths are in view or readily accessible.

In-room bottled water is always appreciated so your guests will not have to pad down the hall in their pajamas for a late-night drink. A gift basket of snacks and treats is another special touch, especially if a guest has a food allergy or special diet. While sweets are always good to give, also include things like whole fruit, nuts or other nutritious items.  For visiting children, include a card game or coloring books and crayons.

Consider if your guests have special requirements. For example, you can provide a nursing mother with rocking chair or some other comfortable chair.

The type of bed in your guest room can mean the difference between your guests sleeping with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads or waking up feeling like the Grinch.

The Westin Peachtree Plaza offers the Heavenly Bed, which is layer upon layer of bedding comfort. The 13-inch pillow top mattress is fitted with a bottom sheet, then layered with a decorative sheet, top sheet, down blanket and plush duvet and cover. Each bed has two feather and down pillows, two hypoallergenic pillows and a decorative boudoir pillow.

Recreating this bed in your guest room is simple. Offering multiple layers of blankets and sheets allows your guests to snuggle in or cool off throughout the night. If you want to truly duplicate the Westin Heavenly Bed you can purchase all of the pieces at www.westin-hotelsathome.com.

The joy of visiting family and friends is one of the most heartwarming parts of the holiday season. With these tips, your guests are sure to leave your home feeling peace on Earth and goodwill toward men.