Photo Credit: GiftsFlorist2000.com
Q: My husband and I have been married for four and a half years, and we have just purchased a home. Is it alright to have a house warming party? My grandmother says when we got married that the shower gifts were enough. Others have said it is perfectly fine to have a house warming party as long as someone gives it for you. I need to figure this out soon, it is total stressing me out!
A: Stop stressing!! Life is way to short. And, there are way too few happy occasions. Please do celebrate all of life’s happiness. This includes your first home. A wedding shower is to help the couple set up their home. Housewarming parties are to have fun. Just be aware that for a housewarming, you typically would not register, and you would not expect gifts as lavish as your wedding shower. (Typically housewarming gifts include plants, garden hose, wine, board/party games, and expensive chocolates.)
Jodi R. R. Smith is a nationally known etiquette expert and author. She is the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. You are invited to email her your etiquette emergencies at Salem@Mannersmith.com.
Comments
Very informative article… Looking forward for more articles on your blog
Thank you for sharing this first-class piece. Very interesting ideas! (as always, btw)
Hello! I just wanted to take the time to make a comment today and say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog. Thanks for all your work.
Your wedding shower was years ago and I’m sure everyone wants to see your new home and wish you well! In our generation, I’ve noticed that every housewarming party I’ve been to has been thrown by the owners as a way to welcome people into their new home. I see no problem with that at all! Buying a new home is a big deal and it should be celebrated!
My dilemma is that I was just starting to plan a housewarming party (about 2 years after our wedding more recent than yours!) and at the same time my husband was planning a surprise party for my 30th birthday. Now I feel like there’s no point in throwing a housewarming party because almost everyone has seen the house! I even have some friends who have been here at least a dozen times. Hmm.
Exactly, housewarmings are on the light-hearted side and tend to be casual gatherings.
I agree, a housewarming party is definitely a different event – different guests, and no registry! It’s fun, welcoming, and not such a huge obligation.
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