The holidays are here, Boise! And while that means festive lights, cozy nights, and endless hot cocoa, it also means one thing for many of us: family is coming to town. Whether it’s parents, cousins, or that one aunt who travels with a suitcase full of Tupperware, hosting guests can be as stressful as it is special.
The good news? With some preparation (and a few local tricks), you can make your home feel warm, welcoming, and guest-ready, without losing your sanity.
Here’s Totally Boise’s guide to prepping for family visits this holiday season, featuring a few of our favorite local helpers who make it all look effortless.
Freshen Up Before They Arrive
You're not alone if your guest room is a cross between a storage unit and a laundry station. The first step to hosting family like a pro is giving your home a quick refresh before they arrive.
Start by clearing the clutter: stash away the boxes, vacuum those corners, and add a few cozy touches like extra blankets and soft lighting. If it’s been a while since you tackled your comforters, curtains, or table linens, this is where Clothesline Cleaners can help save the day.
This locally owned Boise favorite has kept Treasure Valley homes fresh for years, offering a range of services that include professional laundry and dry cleaning, as well as comforter and tablecloth cleaning. Nothing says “welcome home” like crisp sheets and freshly pressed linens, and Clothesline Cleaners makes it simple to get that hotel-fresh feeling without spending hours at home doing laundry.
And don’t forget about your own holiday wardrobe! Whether you're planning matching family photos or hosting a big dinner, Clothesline Cleaners can keep your outfits looking their best with same-day service at several locations throughout the Treasure Valley.
Set the Scene for Comfort
Now that your home is fresh and tidy, it’s time to think about how to make guests feel genuinely at home. A few small touches go a long way in creating a warm, comfortable atmosphere.
Start with the basics: stock up on fresh towels, extra toiletries, and cozy bedding. Add a personal Boise touch by putting together a little welcome basket with local goodies, a bag of locally roasted coffee from Neckar or Slow by Slow, a candle from Idaho Made, or a sweet treat from Guru Donuts. Not only does it make your guests feel special, but it also shows off some of the fantastic local talent our city has to offer.
Want to go the extra mile? Leave a handwritten note with your Wi-Fi password, the TV streaming login, and a few ideas for fun local outings, like a winter walk on the Greenbelt, ice skating in The Village at Meridian, or a visit to the new Downtown Boise Market.
Prep Yourself, Too
Hosting family isn’t just about your home; it’s also about keeping yourself calm, organized, and ready for the chaos that inevitably comes with a whole house.
Hosting can be exhausting, involving meal preparation, cleaning, and serving as a tour guide. Treat yourself to a little local self-care at Salt Sanctuary in Boise. Their halotherapy sessions are the perfect way to relax, reset, and recharge, especially after a long day of family festivities. The tranquil atmosphere and salt therapy benefits make it a must for anyone needing a peaceful pause amid the holiday rush.
Start Your Holiday Prep with Totally Boise
At the end of the day, hosting family is about creating memories that last long after the decorations come down. With a bit of planning, a fresh home, and help from local businesses like Clothesline Cleaners and Salt Sanctuary, you can easily pull it off.
From spotless linens and freshly pressed outfits to peaceful halotherapy sessions that help you recharge, these local favorites make it simple to prepare both your home and yourself for the holidays. So hang the stockings, fluff the pillows, and light that pine-scented candle, you’ve got this, Boise.
This holiday season, make hosting feel effortless with help from your local favorites. Stay tuned to Totally Boise for more ways to celebrate and support the community we love.