Hosting Goodness: Highlight YOUR space

On my travels, one of the biggest hosting mistakes that I observe (and a HUGE pet peeve of mine) is that a host has a great space in a wonderful location, but they choose to post photos or items unique to places far, far away; items that do not highlight the beauty of their own backyard.

For example:

This chalkboard greets me at a wonderful renovated barn in NC that I have reserved before--I love the space, the location, and the price. However, every time I walk to the bedroom or bathroom, I pass by this:

Beautiful piece of furniture, great info on the area, and...a painting of Paris?!?

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Paris. I have been fortunate enough to visit a few times, most recently last summer for 2 weeks as a volunteer at the Olympics (via an Airbnb sponsor application process).

2024 Summer Olympics, Field hockey volunteers

Enjoying quality time with my mom at Blowing Rock

BUT I am in the western NC mountains. The views and the rivers and the hiking and the shopping are EPIC, and I am here to enjoy those things, NOT the energy of Paris.

So the solution is quite easy: HIGHLIGHT YOUR SPACE AND THE LOCAL AREA

All the photos on this wall in my cabin are either from the property itself or within a 50 mile radius. BONUS: these photos were taken by my kids. So, not only am I highlighting the natural beauty of the area, I was able to tap into my family's talents, and I got to go shopping at an antique store for the large frame.

What talents or passions do you have that can be pulled into your space? What information or local sights, sounds, smells, or tastes can you incorporate into your home?

Would love to hear about your ideas...and your pet peeves at HostingGoodness.com