Your new neighbors will appreciate a welcome basket full of goodies after a big transition to their new home.
“Bringing a welcome basket shows goodwill and friendship,” adds Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and author of Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work. “It’s also a way to get off on the right foot with your neighbors.”
Basket amenities
Here are a few ideas to help get you started:
A hand-written note welcoming your new neighbor to the area. Feel free to include your name and phone number in case of emergencies along with a small blessing message and your community’s newsletter and an event calendar.
A city map and magazine to give your new neighbor a better idea of the layout and culture of your area. Want to really show off your town? Whitmore recommends including a history book of the area as well.
Local wine, roasted coffee, or some other treats made in/near your town to give them a sense of the local flavor. (Tip: Not many local goods to choose from? Find a brand of coffee or wine labeled with the same name as your street.) Whitmore also recommends adding in some dried fruit — bonus points if it’s grown from your own backyard!
Take-out menus from your favorite restaurants or coupons for local businesses like dry cleaners, delis, and coffee shops. New neighbors have kids? Throw in some coupons for bowling alleys, ice cream shops, or other kid-friendly places.
While your neighbor will definitely appreciate the gesture, this is also a great way to make that first introduction.
“It’s a good idea to make yourself available early on for your neighbors in the event that you may need their help one day; keeping an eye on your property, checking mail, watering plants, picking up the newspaper, etc.,” Whitmore says.
Welcome new neighbors with a basket of goodies
By Kristy Alpert
Your new neighbors will appreciate a welcome basket full of goodies after a big transition to their new home.
“Bringing a welcome basket shows goodwill and friendship,” adds Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and author of Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work. “It’s also a way to get off on the right foot with your neighbors.”
Basket amenities
Here are a few ideas to help get you started:
While your neighbor will definitely appreciate the gesture, this is also a great way to make that first introduction.
“It’s a good idea to make yourself available early on for your neighbors in the event that you may need their help one day; keeping an eye on your property, checking mail, watering plants, picking up the newspaper, etc.,” Whitmore says.