Moving to a new neighborhood is never easy. Why not show a warm welcome by giving a welcome basket to your new neighbours? As an established ambassador of your block, now’s your opportunity to bring over a few little gifts for neighbours to make them more comfortable in their new home.
Fruits, vegetables and flowers
If you’re a gardener, consider sharing the bounty. Fresh fruits and vegetables are always a big hit. They may even inspire some fun, future garden rivalry. Feeling inspired? Pack your treasures into a box with a few seed packets that easily grow outdoors, a tool for weeding and a nice pair of gardening gloves. Don’t forget to add a
Snacks and a drink
Who doesn’t love treats? Although it used to be the tradition to bring by a bottle of wine for new neighbours, be cognizant of the fact that some may prefer not to drink alcoholic beverages. Instead, bring over a bottle of sparkling water and fruit juice to make a spritzer. To accompany the refreshers, pack a small fruit basket and chocolates.
If you really want to impress your new neighbours, bring them baked goods straight out of the oven. Make sure to provide a full list of ingredients in case your neighbours have allergies. You may want to make options that are free of nut, dairy and eggs.
A gift card to a great local restaurant
Your new neighbours may not feel up to preparing a meal. After all, their kitchen may still be filled with boxes! Offering a gift card to your favorite local restaurant is a nice gesture that will also prevent your neighbours’ stomachs from rumbling. Fortunately, gift cards can be purchased in a wide range of amounts to avoid worrying about overspending. A typical amount for new neighbours is anywhere between $20 to $50. Try to choose a restaurant with a lovely view and a wide variety of menu items to suit all dietary needs.
Host a small gathering
Plan a meet and greet as a gift for neighbours. It’ll give you an excuse to have a party and will help your new friends acclimate to the neighbourhood. You don’t need to plan anything fancy. A small backyard BBQ is always fun. You can move the party indoors during the cooler months. Have plenty of snacks on hand, including an assortment of finger foods. This is also an opportunity to ask everyone in the neighbourhood to contribute. Rather than prepare all of the food yourself, plan a potluck and have people bring their favorite dishes.
A touch of green
Even neighbours who don’t have green thumbs will appreciate a nice plant. Stick with a plant that doesn’t require a lot of care. Spider plants, devil’s ivy, philodendrons and calla lilies are safe bets. Instead of a houseplant, put together a small herb garden as a gift for neighbors. Mint, basil and thyme come in starter sizes. Get creative with the containers you choose. Whether you give your neighbors a houseplant or a selection of herbs, just make sure to provide instructions on how to care for their new plant.
After giving your neighbors a small gift, ask if there are any ways you can help them get settled in and just generally make yourself useful.
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