A little wow goes a long way: small improvements that make a big impact

When it comes to making your space stand out and bringing guests back time and again, it’s often the small touches that leave the biggest impression. The good news is that you don’t need to build something new or start completely from scratch – some of the most effective ways to elevate your offering come from enhancing what you already have. 

To help you on your way we’ve highlighted five key areas where thoughtful updates and simple improvements can truly transform your guest experience.

We hear time and again from guests how much they love the little, unexpected moments – the things that show a host has really thought about their stay. 

Simple ideas that go a long way: 

• A personal tour of the space on arrival or a bespoke handwritten welcome note or chalkboard greeting 
• Fresh herbs, flowers from your garden or a few eggs from your own hens (if you have them!) 
• Homemade treats, a local beer, or even a nice bar of chocolate 
• An “occasion-ready” gesture – think bunting for anniversaries and birthdays or a bottle of something nice in the fridge for honeymoons.

These gestures don’t have to cost much or take up hours of your time. They just need to feel personal, generous, and true to you. They create warmth between you and the guest, spark word-of-mouth praise, and often make the difference between a good stay and a truly memorable one. 

“From the moment I arrived, the host was absolutely fantastic – warm, welcoming, and full of thoughtful touches that made the stay even more special. There were some lovely surprises throughout, which added a really personal and memorable touch.” – Chris  

(one of many such great reviews our guests have left for Annie the owner of Meadowscape)

You don’t need a full redesign to give your space a refresh. Often, the smallest updates to interiors can have a huge impact on how your place is perceived — and how much guests enjoy their stay. 

Focus on easy wins like: 

• Upgrading your throws, cushions or rugs to add texture, colour and comfort 
• Refreshing bedding and towels – softness and quality are always noticed 
• Replacing mismatched or tired kitchenware with simple, well-designed essentials 
• Adding one or two design-forward items like a statement lamp or mirror  
• Swapping old furniture or décor for pre-loved pieces with more character.

Guests might not always comment on a new set of mugs or a cosier duvet – but they’ll feel the difference. Small investments like these help your space feel more considered, cohesive and luxurious, without losing its character. Request a copy of our interiors guide for in-depth insight about what our guests tell us they are looking for in a space. 

Simple but impactful interiors at The Boat House Cabin:

The experience of a space isn’t just about what it looks like – it’s how it feels, smells and sounds too. Sensory details can turn a lovely space into a magical one, without any major physical changes. 

Try focusing on: 

• Lighting: Soft, layered lighting (lamps, festoon lights, lanterns) can transform a room’s mood or the cosiness of an outdoor deck 
• Scent: Natural scents – woodsmoke, herbs, fresh linen – can make your place feel clean, calm and comforting 
• Sound: Leave a Bluetooth speaker for guest to create their own soundtrack to stay or maybe even a relaxing pre-made playlist. Well placed musical instruments too can help some guests tap into their creative side.

These kinds of tweaks help guests feel grounded and relaxed. The goal is to give people an immediate sense of “ahh” when they arrive – a break from their daily routine and a step into something special. 

Warm lighting that creates a calming, romantic atmosphere: Vineyard Cabin Retreat

The best improvements often come from seeing your space as your guests do. One of the simplest ways to do this is to spend a night in your own space – and not just with your owner hat on. 

Ask yourself: 

• Does the space feel intuitive and easy to settle into? 
• Is anything missing that would make it more comfortable or fun? 
• Could you improve instructions, signage or styling to remove any friction?

Better still, go and see what other C&S owners are doing and take advantage of our 15% owner discount stays (as well as many other benefits!) at another Canopy & Stars space – or even perhaps welcome another owner into yours for free in exchange for a stay at theirs. It’s a great way to exchange honest feedback, build community and support fellow owners and see what works (or doesn’t) through fresh eyes.

Some of the most memorable moments guests have come from outside the space. Creating areas that invite people to slow down, switch off, and connect with nature can dramatically enhance the stay – and many outdoor improvements are relatively easy to implement. 

Wellness and comfort-focused outdoor ideas: 

• Add a hot tub, sauna, or outdoor bath – they’re consistently among the most searched-for features on our site 
• Create a shaded or covered seating area for al fresco dining, even in drizzle or shade from the midday sun 
• Style up your firepit area with benches, blankets, and low lighting for cosy evenings outdoors 
• Add a hammock, yoga deck, or stargazing spot – places to pause and connect with nature

These features don’t just tick boxes for guests seeking relaxation – they photograph beautifully, elevate your listing, and help position your space as a nature-based escape. 

Rewild Things have elevated their outdoor experience by incorporating an outdoor covered kitchen and an outdoor bathing area:

Every Canopy & Stars space is unique – and your personality, story and surroundings are what infuses your space with energy and is ultimately what guests have connected with and chosen to come for. The key isn’t to change who you are or copy someone else. It’s to notice the little things that make a big difference to your particular offering and elevate them just enough to make your guests feel truly welcomed, relaxed and inspired. 

Often, a little wow is all it takes. 

For more ideas on how to improve your existing spaces get in touch with your account manager at owners@canopyandstars.co.uk. Or for bigger projects, check out our glamping consultancy services on offer via Crown & Canopy.