Expecting out-of-town guests? If so, don't wait until the last minute to start getting ready for their arrival.

There are simple things you can do right now to make sure your close friends and family will feel welcome when they show up.

Guest rooms tend to slip under our radar - right up until we receive word that guests are coming. Maybe there's a bed in there, but it's a twin left behind by your son when he moved out, and the room is filled with boxes of his stuff. So where do you start?

Remember: comfort is key. The needs of your guests should dictate how you decorate. Begin by finding a new home for your son's belongings so your guests don't feel like they're invading someone else's space.

You'll want to think of the space as a luxury hotel room and fill it with amenities you'd enjoy were you the traveler. Replace that twin bed with a comfortable full or queen-sized bed. A good place to find one is Charles Keath Home (www.charleskeath.com). A wood or brass headboard is always a good choice and a tufted upholstered headboard adds elegance and extra comfort.

Short on space? Convertible sofas are the newest trend in multi-functional furniture. The Roxbury Convertible Sofa with Storage from Montgomery Ward (www.wards.com) has not only hidden storage that's great for linens and pillows, but is transformed from sofa to bed in seconds.

The room should have a dresser (so your guests aren't forced to live out of their suitcases) and a nightstand with lamp. Don't use pieces that have been sitting in the garage. Remember, you're going for a luxurious look and will want coordinating furniture. Montgomery Ward's Mayfair Bedroom Collection, available in cherry or white wood, is a good choice for stylish and practical bedroom furniture that will last through the years.

Here are some other touches that will make your guest room feel like a home away from home:

♦ Place towels and extra linens, soap and shampoo in the room in a welcome basket so your guests won't have to hunt for them.

♦ Make sure there are plenty of extra hangers in the closet.

♦ Aromatherapy candles are also a nice touch. If you place these in the room, be sure to supply matches or a lighter.

♦ Paint the room a neutral color and hang artwork from the walls. You can find prints to fit just about any theme at Montgomery Ward (www.wards.com), including vintage art, contemporary styles and traditional prints.