home, sweet home

Thinking of throwing a housewarming party? Reader Krista emailed us these fabulous tips from her recent get-together:

• I had light beer and a signature cocktail (lemonade martinis). Not only did it keep costs down, but everyone was impressed with the selection, and I didn't have to worry about accidental spills with the light colors.

• I couldn't spend a lot on favors so I made my own. I put two miniature homemade soaps into little organza bags I purchased at the craft store. Then I tied on labels that read, “For a fresh, clean start.” I have a new start in the house and they do, too. It was a total hit!  (Editor’s note: We love the mini organza bags pictured above from Beaucoup.)

• I recommend picking a theme ahead of time and highly incorporating it into your invites. This will give others some idea of what you may need, your colors, etc. Chances are, most people haven't seen your house and don't know what your style is, so this will help a ton.

Thanks for the tips, Krista. Here's one of my favorites: I recently went to a housewarming party where the hosts waited until all of the guests had arrived and called everyone around as they affixed their mezuzah to the front door post. Having all their friends and family around for this Jewish custom made it a special, memorable moment.

What are your favorite housewarming tips and ideas? And be sure to check out our housewarming party ideas for even more inspiration.

Comments

Ideas for the host::: If you've moved into a home with multiple rooms, serve different types of food in each room. I.e., cocktails in the entryway, snacks in the kitchen (you can even serve them on the cutting board), tv dinners in the den/living room, etc.

Tips for the guests::: A binder of take-out menus makes a resourceful gift for people new to the area. On the other hand, don't give flowers unless they're potted plants because the person moving in might not have unpacked their vases yet.