Happy Monday!
This week, I was wandering through a vintage shop in East Stroudsburg and spotted a plaque with one of my all-time favorite quotes:
“Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you'll look back and realize they were the big things.”
And I thought… yep. That’s so true!
But it’s also exactly how your STR is experienced by your guests.
Because let’s be honest…
Your property can be absolutely stunning, magazine-worthy…
…but one stray hair in the bathtub? Suddenly, it’s a horror story.
And on the flip side…
Maybe your place isn’t brand new or perfectly designed…
…but it’s spotless, there’s a thoughtful welcome basket, and a handwritten note waiting on the counter?
Now you’ve created something memorable & guests are inclined to overlook a few small flaws.
The “little things” are the big things.
So here’s your friendly Monday nudge—a list of small, simple touches that make a BIG impact:
Little Things That Wow Guests
• Spotless really means spotless
Not “looks clean at a glance.” I’m talking corners, baseboards, under the bed, inside the microwave. I used to tell my housekeepers: “Clean like your mother-in-law is coming to visit!”
• Zero tolerance for the “ick factor”
Hair in the tub. Sticky fridge shelves. Mystery crumbs in the toaster. Dead bug on the windowsill. These are tiny misses that create huge negative impressions. (Circle back to the bullet above!)
• A handwritten note
It takes 60 seconds and costs nothing—but it instantly humanizes the experience. Bonus points if you reference why they’re visiting.
• A simple welcome treat
Nothing fancy required. Local snacks, a bottle of wine, or even just good coffee. It says, “We’re glad you’re here.”
• Lighting that feels intentional
Warm bulbs. Lamps instead of just overheads. A cozy vibe beats harsh brightness every time.
• Easy-to-find essentials
Paper towels, extra toilet paper, trash bags—don’t make guests hunt. Or worse… ask.
• Clear, friendly communication
Before they arrive, while they’re there, and at checkout. Anticipate questions so they never have to wonder, “Now what?”
• Thoughtful kitchen touches
Salt, pepper, oil, maybe a few spices. It’s the difference between “just a rental” and “someone actually thought about me.”
• Comfortable, quality linens
Crisp sheets. Fluffy towels. This is where guests feel the difference, even if they can’t quite explain it.
• A sense of place
A local guide, a recommendation list, a nod to the community. Help them experience your destination, not just stay in it.
None of these things are expensive.
None of them require a full renovation.
But together? They’re everything.
They’re the difference between a stay that’s “fine”… and one that earns a 5-star review, a repeat booking, and a guest who tells their friends.
Because in this business—and in life—it’s rarely the big, flashy things people remember.
It’s how you made them feel in the small moments.
Wishing you all a great week ahead! Drop me a note if any of these ideas resonated with you!
~Rebecca
PS: Need help lining up those “little things”? Check out our Local Suppliers, Partners and our Poconos STR Conference Exhibitors for quality products & services!
PPS: Speaking of little things that turn into big things… our membership is growing (which we’re pretty excited about ). If you’ve been thinking about getting more connected, supported, and dialed in as an STR operator, we’d love to have you join us.
