Opening-Day Hospitality Checklist

People remember how the first morning felt. The space doesn’t need to be perfect — but coffee that’s on, snacks that are out, and a kitchen that’s stocked tell everyone “you were expected.” These are small, cheap touches with outsized payoff.

What it’s for

To make opening day feel hosted, not just functional. It complements the Opening Readiness Checklist: that one confirms the office works; this one makes it feel welcoming.

The checklist

Before people arrive

• Coffee and tea brewing / ready
• Water dispenser working, cups out
• Snacks and/or fruit set out
• Kitchen stocked and tidy (startup order received)
• Trash and recycling bins out, with liners
• Soap, paper towels, napkins stocked
• First-day catering confirmed (if doing it)

Wayfinding & welcome

• Temporary signage up (restrooms, kitchen, rooms, exits)
• A friendly “welcome” touch (sign, note, or someone at the door)
• Labels on supply/storage areas so people can find things

Tips

• Coffee is non-negotiable. It’s the first thing people look for.
• Out, not stored. Snacks in a cabinet don’t say welcome; snacks on the counter do.
• Name a host. One visible, friendly person beats a perfectly stocked but empty-feeling kitchen.

See the full workstream: Kitchen, Pantry & Hospitality.