What’s the Most Memorable Way You’ve Gone the Extra Mile for a Guest?

[Kathy134]

One of the things I love about hosting is creating special moments for my guests. Sometimes, it’s the little unexpected touches that leave the biggest impact—whether it’s surprising a honeymoon couple with a small gift, helping a guest celebrate a birthday, or simply offering a local recommendation that turns into the highlight of their trip.

I try to go the extra mile when I can, whether by adding special kitchen staples, offering local insights, or being available for any extra requests since I live nearby. It’s always rewarding to see how small gestures can make a big difference.

I’d love to hear from other hosts—what’s the most memorable thing you’ve done (or seen another host do) to make a guest’s stay extra special?

[Emilie]

Absolutely, Kathy! On a personal note for example, from now on, I shall refer to my puppy as my biggest source of emotional income -along with being the biggest reason I have upped my coffee consumption the past few weeks. 😁 

[Kathy134]

@Emilie Haha, I love that! 😄 Your puppy definitely sounds like a big contributor to both your emotional income *and* your caffeine intake! Pets have a way of bringing so much joy and, let’s be real, sometimes a little chaos too. But the love they give is priceless. 

[Ranveer1]

Thank you so much @Kathy134  I truly appreciate your kind words. "Emotional income" is such a perfect way to describe it—it captures exactly what makes hosting so special. Those priceless moments and connections with guests are what make this journey so fulfilling. It’s not just about providing a place to stay, but about creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of these special memories, and messages like yours make it even more rewarding. Thank you again for your support! 

[Griffin37]

Some of my personal favorites include:

-Surprising a guest who is staying for awhile by offering to buy and deliver them dinner one night from a local restaurant.

-Leaving a local coffee shop gift card on the counter for guest.

-Leaving a bag of homemade chocolate covered pretzels and a note for guests with our company branding.

-Simply sending curated recommendations if I have an idea of why they are visiting.

[Kathy134]

@Griffin37 Those are such thoughtful and personal touches! I love the local coffee shop gift card and your homemade chocolate covered pretzel, such great ways to create lasting memories!

Sending curated recommendations shows you really pay attention to their visit, which is so appreciated. These gestures definitely go a long way in making a guest feel special!

I’m curious though—how do you manage the cost of buying a dinner for guests? Does it become a challenge, or do you find it’s worth the investment for the experience?

[Kristina505]

Chalk board sign greets them with a special message when they enter the house. Anniversary, birthday, retirement, whatever it needs to be. Candy canes on all the pillows with a handcrafted Christmas ornament bought from a local vendor. Holiday decor, candy, bottle of wine, dog treats. If the guests shares their special celebration I try to do something to help celebrate it for them.