Throwing a housewarming party can be a fun way of getting to meet new neighbors and friends. You might want to throw a housewarming party if you recently relocated to a new city, or even just to a new neighborhood. You can throw a housewarming party for a new home you moved into as well, even if you still live in the same neighborhood. It's fun and easy to do.
Invite Friends and Family
The fist thing you will want to do is set your date and get those invitations in the mail. Send out invitations at least two weeks in advance of the event. Include not only the date and time but clearly written out directions. You might want to consider including a small printed map as well. Add your phone number for those who do need help finding the your home.
Plan Your Party
Before sending out the invitations you will want to do some basic planning. You will want to decide what type of housewarming party you would like to have. Are you going to have a back yard barbecue or is an open house more appropriate? Many housewarming events are more open house in nature. You decide on the date and hours of the event and your friends and family come and go during that time frame. This often allows more people to attend.
Keep Food Simple
Don't go overboard and elaborate at a house warming party. Keep the foods simple. Finger foods such as sandwiches, crackers, cheese and fruit are perfect for this type of event. Have a variety of drinks and be sure and offer something kid friendly if your guests will include children.
Show Off Your Home
Guests are going to want to see what you have done with the place so be prepared to give tours. You might even assign a friend or one of your older kids to handle this part so you can greet guests. Housewarming parties held during the holidays are especially nice as you can decorate.
Making Friends is the Goal
Keep in mind spending time with friends, or making new ones, is the goal of your housewarming party. While you do want to show off your new home or major renovations don't let the focus be totally about you. Make guests feel welcome and encourage new neighbors to come back for a visit. Don't expect gifts but if they are brought be sure and send out thank you notes promptly. Let your housewarming celebration be a day of relaxation and fund - make it about the people who live in the house not just the house itself.
Belinda Mooney - Belinda J Mooney is a freelance writer and mother of 7. You can read more of her work at www.practicalparenting.com
