How to Handle Multiple Guests

Some people live in places that attract guests because of nearby attractions or natural beauty. Those people lucky enough to live nearby popular destinations often give and get more invitations for housing than others. While you may enjoy your guests and their visits, you must be ready when the bookings overlap.

Instructions

1. Furnish your home with sleepers. Convertible beds that pull out from sofas, loveseats and large chairs do not require extra rooms. Put your preferred guests in the guest room with a regular bed and the second or overlapping guests on the pullouts.

2. Ask for confirmations. When you invite people, explain that your guest room is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but that other accommodations can be made if the guest room is already booked.

3. Ask your guests which activities they prefer. If one set of guests want to do a daytrip, try to get them to go on a day when others will stay at home to visit. This way, you can give each some undivided attention, without having everyone there at the same time.

4. Prepare large meals at home. Grill picnic style or cook large pot meals that can stay warm whenever someone wants to eat. Keep side dishes such as bread, fruit and sandwich fixings for guests who prefer to eat light. If you go to a restaurant, choose a place with a varied menu to satisfy everyone's tastes.

5. Keep it light and upbeat. By not pressuring everyone to join in every activity or meal, you give your guests the flexibility to enjoy their visit. And you can do what you most want to do without worrying about keeping everyone entertained.