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Moving house is a stressful experience, which means new homeowners will probably be happy to receive gifts. Shortly after moving in, the place will still feel a little alien – a feeling a housewarming party can help you overcome.
In years gone by, this ‘warming’ would be quite literal: neighbours and well-wishers would arrive carrying bundles of firewood that could be used to exorcise any lingering spirits and render the place fit for habitation. Nowadays, housewarmings happen in the form of gifts and parties.
Deciding on an appropriate housewarming gift, however, can be tricky. Here are a few of the more traditional housewarming gifts that you might want to bring.
Historically, salt has served as a symbol of wealth, and as such is given as a gift on extra-special occasions. With a house being one of (if not the) biggest purchases most people will ever make, salt is an obvious candidate for a housewarming gift.
Sweet things of all kinds have been offered as housewarming gifts for what seems like forever. The tradition of presenting a pineapple, however, dates back to pre-colonial Caribbean, where the fruit would hang over the entrances of new homes. The practice was adopted by European sailors, who would bring pineapples back to their astonished families.
Being able to maintain a houseplant will prepare a homeowner for other challenges that lie ahead. The plant is also a symbol of growth and prosperity – and helps to decorate the home, too.
Opening a bottle of wine is a great way to celebrate the purchase of a new home. If you’re heading around for a party, then even better. If you’d prefer a lasting gift, you might pair your wine with a suitable decanter.
As we’ve mentioned, wood is a traditional housewarming present. As well as being combustible, it’ll also represent stability for the new home. Ornaments, picture-frames and chopping boards are all excellent wooden gifts.
All homes need cleaning, which is why a broom has long been considered a great housewarming gift. Custom dictates that a new home requires a new broom rather than a hand-me-down; choose something rugged and dependable.
Everyone appreciates money –new homeowners generally more than most. But the gift of a coin represents more than its monetary value - it’s also supposed to bring good luck for the coming year.
Rice is a longstanding symbol of wealth and fertility. Scatter it across a hard surface, and it’ll sound a little bit like rainfall. If you’re shopping for a couple who’re expecting children, it’s an obvious choice. Present it in a decorative jar.
Lighting a fire on the first night of a stay in a new home is a longstanding tradition. You don’t need to build a pyre in the living room, however; a candle will do the job just as well. It’ll cast out the gloom and render the home fresh for its new residents.
Been invited to a housewarming party? View our new home gifts, our housewarming gift bags, or our “congratulations on your new home greetings cards”.
