Create a Welcoming Coffee Station for Guests

To make out-of-town guests feel welcome and at home, create a coffee station so they can help themselves. Normally I store all my coffee supplies away in my kitchen cabinets. When hosting guests, it’s great to have things out where they can easily find them and not have to feel uncomfortable by searching through your cabinets. I like to set up a tray on my counter with everything they might need. I already have a cup holder that I love filled with coffee cups sitting on the counter so they can easily pick out the mug they want to use. 

Step 1: Gather a tray and containers. Besides coffee beans (regular and decaffeinated), I like to have sugar, creamer, seasoning and spices like cocoa, cinnamon, or nutmeg, and coffee stirs. For coffee beans its best to select a tightly sealed container that protects them from light. For the creamers, I selected a ceramic berry basket.

Step 2: Fill all your containers and arrange on the tray. I also added a bright tea towel for color and texture. During your guests visit, remember to check the tray to keep supplies stocked.

Step 3: Add labels to containers. I love chalkboard labels and keep a stash in my organizing kit along with a chalk marker.

Step 4: Type up directions on how to use your coffee maker so guests don’t need to ask for help. After printing, I added some washi tape – if you’ve been a reader of my blog for awhile, you know I love to add washi tape to everything to add color and pattern. It’s available from the craft store is many fun colors and patterns. I ran it through my laminator so it would be sturdy and easy to keep clean. I attached it to a place card holder and added it to my tray

Step 5: Add extra touches like freshly cut flowers from the garden.

Step 6: Write a fun message on a mini chalkboard. Leave the chalkboard marker nearby, so guests can write their own message too.

On a recent trip to Walmart, I stocked up on Dunkin’ Donuts® Coffee Creamers Singles which are available in the coffee aisle. If you have a Keurig machine, don’t forget to also pick up some Dunkin K-cups®. The creamers are available in hazelnut, caramel, and vanilla – I chose vanilla. These creamers are great because they can sit out on the tray and the flavors add an extra touch.

For more tips on enjoying coffee creamers everywhere, click here