You’ve pulled out the extra linens, cleaned the house from top to bottom and even made your kids bunk up together – all so your guests can have a great overnight stay. But what about breakfast in the morning? Leave it to your visitors, while still being hospitable, by setting up an easy breakfast bar.

With a little prep work, you can let your guests make their breakfast how they like it best, and you can grab a shower before all the hot water is gone.

Set Up Your Bar

The kitchen might be the logical place to put the bar, but if space is limited try another spot in your house where you can clear off a tabletop to place dishes, food, the coffee maker and other small appliances that fit the breakfast theme. Think: toaster, waffle maker and breakfast sandwich maker. If there’s room, add a little décor or chalkboard sign describing what’s available.

First Things First: Put the Coffee On

If your coffee maker is programmable, set it up at night to brew in the morning. That way the first riser isn’t left trying to figure out your coffee maker. And to make things easier, have the sugar and cream ready to go so no one has to rifle through your cupboards.

Make It Customizable with Breakfast Sandwiches

Don't just put out cold cereal and pastries – serve your guests a warm, satisfying breakfast that doesn’t take much effort by using a breakfast sandwich maker. Set up the buffet with a basket of eggs, pre-cooked bacon or sausage, cheese, veggies and English muffins. Sandwiches are ready in under five minutes, so everyone can get a hot breakfast quickly.

Keep It Open through the Year

While a breakfast buffet is a great solution when you’re hosting out-of-towners for the holidays, it’s also a fun and easy way to serve up a morning course any time during the year. Wrap up a kid’s sleepover with a waffle bar with all the toppings, or keep the bar open year-round for busy weekday mornings.