Tips & Tricks

Tips & Tricks

Creating Premium Guest Experiences

Creating Premium Guest Experiences

Barr Balamuth

By:

Barr Balamuth

Jan 9, 2025

5 min read

A Host's Guide to Curated Welcome Packages

The difference between a good vacation rental and an exceptional one often lies in the thoughtful touches that make guests feel special. Through Frontdesk's platform, you can transform simple amenities into curated experiences that delight your guests and generate additional revenue. Let's explore how to create, price, and present these packages in a way that feels luxurious rather than transactional.

Understanding the Psychology of Welcome Packages

When guests book a vacation rental, they're not just seeking a place to sleep—they're looking for an experience. Welcome packages tap into this desire by creating moments of delight and solving anticipated needs. The key is to present these packages as enhancements to their stay rather than mere add-on sales.

Designing Your Signature Packages

Let's explore five carefully curated packages that consistently generate positive feedback and reliable revenue, along with exactly how to present them to your guests.

The First Evening Package ($89)

Perfect for late arrivals and tired travelers

Contents:

  • Premium local coffee or tea selection

  • Artisanal snacks and treats

  • Locally-made chocolate

  • Two handcrafted ceramic mugs

  • Personal welcome note

How to Present It: "Hi [Name]! I noticed you're arriving in the evening after what looks like a long journey. I wanted to mention our First Evening package, which I created specifically for late arrivals. It means you can wake up tomorrow already stocked with amazing local coffee, some delicious treats, and handmade mugs that guests love so much, they often ask to purchase them separately. Would you like me to have this ready for your arrival? It makes that first morning so much more relaxing!"

The Luxe Sleep Collection ($149)

Ideal for longer stays and comfort-focused guests

Contents:

  • Premium bamboo sheet upgrade

  • Two memory foam pillows

  • Lavender pillow mist

  • Silk sleep mask

  • White noise machine

How to Share: "I wanted to mention something special we offer - our Luxe Sleep Collection. I put this together after realizing how many guests commented on our premium bedding. It includes incredibly soft bamboo sheets, the same memory foam pillows I use at home (they're amazing!), and a few extras that make sleep even better. Since you're here for [duration], I thought you might appreciate having these comfort upgrades. Happy to tell you more about it!"

The Remote Work Setup ($129)

Perfect for business travelers or working vacations

Contents:

  • Laptop stand

  • Wireless mouse

  • Noise-canceling earbuds

  • Blue light glasses

  • Premium charging station

Natural Introduction: "Hey [Name]! I saw you mentioned needing to do some work during your stay. I actually host quite a few remote workers and put together what they call a 'workation' package - everything you need for comfortable workdays, including the same laptop stand I use myself. Would you like the details? It all comes set up and ready to use!"

The Local Foodie Welcome ($95)

Great for food enthusiasts and first-time visitors

Contents:

  • Selection of local wines or craft beers

  • Artisanal cheese board

  • Local honey and preserves

  • Handcrafted crackers

  • Tasting notes and producer stories

Message Template: "Since this is your first time in [Location], I wanted to tell you about something special we offer - a curated selection of our favorite local products. It's like having a private tasting experience in your rental! Everything comes from small producers within 30 miles of us, and I include notes about each maker. It's such a lovely way to start your [Location] experience! Would you like me to prepare one for your arrival?"

The Cozy Evening In ($79)

Ideal for romantic getaways or relaxation-focused stays

Contents:

  • Ultra-soft throw blanket

  • Two pairs of plush slippers

  • Gourmet hot chocolate mix

  • Premium tea selection

  • Locally-made candle

Guest Message: "With the [weather/season] we're having, I wanted to mention our most popular add-on - what guests call our 'cozy evening kit.' It includes this incredibly soft blanket (seriously, everyone asks where we get them!), house slippers, and some special treats for a perfect night in. The [view/fireplace/deck] is especially magical with a cup of our gourmet hot chocolate. Would you like me to set this up for your stay?"

Timing Your Communications

The success of these packages often depends on when and how you present them. Here's the ideal communication timeline:

  1. Immediately After Booking (Plant the seed) "Hi [Name]! Just confirming your booking for [dates]. Quick question - would you be interested in learning about our custom welcome packages? I've put together a few special collections that many guests love to add to their stay."

  2. One Week Before Arrival (Share specific options) "Getting excited to host you next week! I wanted to mention a few ways to make your stay extra special..." [Then describe 1-2 relevant packages based on their profile]

  3. Day Before Arrival (Last chance reminder) "Just getting your space ready - everything's looking perfect! Let me know by [time] if you'd like me to add any of our welcome packages before you arrive."

Setting Up in Frontdesk

  1. Create clear, professional listings for each package with high-quality photos

  2. Write detailed descriptions that tell the story behind each item

  3. Set inventory alerts to ensure you never oversell

  4. Use Frontdesk's analytics to track which packages perform best

  5. Adjust offerings seasonally while maintaining your core bestsellers

Keys to Success

  • Keep packages fresh and relevant to the season

  • Rotate certain items while maintaining consistent favorites

  • Price packages to provide clear value while maintaining healthy margins

  • Always include a personal note with each package

  • Follow up to ensure satisfaction and gather feedback

  • Use guest feedback to refine and improve offerings

Remember, the goal isn't just to generate additional revenue—it's to create memorable moments that enhance your guests' stay. When done thoughtfully, these packages become a natural extension of your hospitality, leading to better reviews and repeat bookings.