The Christmas season is fast approaching and our balikbayan relatives are now starting to come home. Reunions and get-togethers are definitely going to be part of your busy schedule. You’ll surely want to have them over for a couple of nights to catch up on the latest news and share stories. The question is: how prepared is your home for their visit? If you don’t have ample space, you have to get creative with sleeping and storage solutions.
Here are ideas on how you can prepare your home for them.
1. Clean up the clutter.
Having guests over is an enjoyable moment. However, it’s also time to declutter and rearrange furniture. This will give your guests more space to move around so that even if you have a small space, they won’t feel cramped.
2. Have your banig ready.
This classic Filipino home item used for sleeping is often preferred by our lolos and lolas. It is also easy to store.
3. Get an extra bed space.
For your more modern cousins, nieces or nephews, and other relatives from abroad who are more used to a regular bed, you can offer them an air bed. This is also convenient since you can store it after your guests leave or use it on other occasions. You can purchase it in your local stores such as Ace Hardware, SM Department Stores, and Uratex.
4. Don’t forget to bring out the extra pillows and blankets.
Your guests’ comfort is a top priority. Make sure you have prepared extra pillows and blankets and that they are in good condition. If these are worn out, don’t forget to replace them.
5. Give them storage space.
Clear some closet space for your guests. This is good especially if your tito, tita, and other relatives will be staying for more than one day. Giving them a place to put their things will make them feel at home as well. If you don’t have a built-in closet, you can buy an Orocan, a popular plastic storage used by Filipinos.
6. Bring out the fine china and that entire fancy cutlery.
Filipinos have a habit of saving their fine chinaware and displaying them on glass shelves. Rather than letting them gather dust, put them out to use! You’ll make your relatives feel more special because they know you only save it for special occasions and people. Plus don’t forget to prepare child-friendly plates, drinking glasses, and plastic forks and spoons.
What other preparations are you doing in your home for the coming holidays? Share with us your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
