ALT-2 Tips for Choosing a Housewarming Gift
A housewarming gift is a thoughtful way to say congratulations to new homeowners. Whether attending a housewarming party, or visiting the new house for the first time, you probably don’t want to show up empty-handed. There is no challenge in deciding what to choose as a gift, for almost anything useful or decorative is apt to be received with gratitude and appreciation.
Tips for choosing a housewarming gift:
- Traditional
If you are unsure of the new homeowners’ tastes and preferences, choosing a traditional housewarming gift, such as a bottle of fine wine, an easy-to-maintain plant or something edible might be the appropriate way to go.
- Customized
When you are confident in your knowledge of the colors and style preferences of the recipients, choosing a gift of a more personal nature is acceptable. Wall art, a knick knack, a useful kitchen gadget or a small appliance are all good choices. If you are unsure, consider a gift certificate to a retail store, allowing the new homeowners to choose something to their liking.
- Unconventional
When the recipients of your housewarming gift are first time homeowners, you might want to go the unconventional route and give something that is sure to be useful, but not necessarily high on the list of priorities. A ladder, a plunger, a mailbox or a shovel are examples of items that aren’t ordinarily thought about until they are needed.
- Unique
Proceed with caution when your gift is in the unique category, for you don’t want to spend money on something that will be relegated to the basement or attic. Being creative, however, is an excellent idea. For example, you might equip the new homeowners with a huge supply of toilet paper, or boxes of trash bags of all sizes, designed for use indoors and out. Think about items that are consistently used in the home and present your new homeowners with a stash.
- Practical
You can’t go wrong with a practical gift. A gift card to a grocery store, a retail outlet or a garden shop is sure to be a hit with new homeowners who might potentially need new items in every category. A gift card for dinner out at a restaurant is also a practical idea, for setting up a kitchen for cooking takes time and the recipients might welcome a good meal when they are in the process. A new address book, return address labels sporting the new address and a roll of stamps is yet another practical gift. If the new homeowners are a young couple just starting out, a gift of cash is another practical idea that would be most appreciated.
- Decorative
While you might not want to get too personal with decorative items, risking missing the mark regarding taste and color preference, some decorative items are conducive to being perfect housewarming gifts. For example, a personalized door knocker, a whimsical wind chime, a set of dish towels, dishcloths and oven mitts, a dried flower arrangement, picture frames, the list goes on . . . . Decorative yard decor is another good choice for new homeowners with a first time yard and garden.
The most effective tip for choosing the right housewarming gift is to consider the personalities of the recipients, focusing on their interests, hobbies and lifestyles.
