If you know someone who’s recently moved home near you, you’ve probably been helping them with packing and preparing. It is not uncommon to ask friends and relatives for help when things feel overwhelming. We all know how stressful moving can be, especially when you’re trying to juggle work, family, and the move at the same time!
But finally, when your friend has settled into their new home, they are ready to throw a housewarming party. Are you invited? Great! Now’s the next question: What should you bring as a gift?
Decorative and cultural books
Books serve many purposes. They are, of course, a hobby. But many homeowners like to create an aesthetically appealing display on their bookshelves. Organizing books by color creates a bright and beautiful shelf, turning a piece of furniture into an artistic canvas. If you are unsure about your friend’s reading taste, aim for common ground topics, such as George Washington biographies or recipe books. Alternatively, you can also look for a limited hardcover edition of classic books, such as Fitzgerald, Hemingway, and Steinbeck.
Toilet paper and other convenient items
Bringing toilet paper to a housewarming party sounds like a bad joke. In countries such as South Korea, it is considered a practical gift that will always find a purpose. With this in mind, you can focus on convenient household items that are not intrusive and are guaranteed to be used. This type of gift is best suited for someone who already has everything:
- Make a little hamper of bathroom essentials, including toilet rolls, soap, and toothpaste. These are neutral enough to be used by every host.
- Have a kitchen essentials basket with bio dish soap, organic sponges, and eco-friendly surface cleaning product.
- A laundry must-haves selection, including bio laundry detergent, stain remover, and reusable laundry bags for delicate items.
Is food a good idea?
Food-based presents can backfire if you are unfamiliar with the person’s dietary restrictions. Additionally, you have to consider the case where they can’t consume the food on the day. So, if you are confident about their dietary preferences, you want to focus on items that have a long shelf life:
- A giant box of their favorite cookies.
- A TV hamper with popcorn, chips, and soda.
- Tea and coffee are also good and safe choices.
- Everyday tins of food, including tomato sauce, pumpkin puree, and soups.
- Flour, packed yeast, and more dried ingredients for enthusiastic bakers.
What you should avoid at a housewarming party
Most guests choose conventional party gifts. However, these gifts can be problematic:
- Freshly baked goods: If you are not the only person to bring a cake, your host won’t be able to eat everything!
- Flowers: A lovely idea but rather unpractical when every guest brings a bunch of roses. Besides, your host might have already decorated the house with flowers ahead of the party.
- Decorative items such as framed art, potted plants, and display items: Your host knows how to decorate their new home. The last thing they need is something that doesn’t fit in their decor.
Are you ready to attend a housewarming party? These creative gifts are guaranteed to surprise and please your host. They are non-intrusive and can easily fit into their day-to-day life without changing their routine or interior design.