Photo by thatamor, sxc.hu |
|
Planning a party is a great way to meet your new neighbors. After a move, you should give yourself an opportunity to unpack first, and then think about the three "Ws":
- Who to invite
- What food and beverages to bring
- Where in your home you want to have your party
Considering a few party-planning essentials can give you a good feel for your neighborhood so that your party will be a success. |
Before You Begin: Take a Stroll
As a prelude to planning your party, take casual strolls around your neighborhood. If you take a walk during the time of day that you want to have a party, then you can check to see if people are home. You don't need to knock on neighbor's doors, but look for people working out in their yards, children playing on swing sets, or families watching television. Any sign of activity during your investigative stroll can be an indication that your neighbors might be available to come to your party.
Walking around your neighborhood can also give you the opportunity to meet your neighbors. This will give you a chance to know people before you invite them to your house. Also, they may know other neighbors and introduce you to them at your party.
Who to Invite
If you live in a largely populated neighborhood, then you might not be able to invite everyone that lives there. Depending on the design of your neighborhood, you should only invite the neighbors that you can see from your front door step. The idea is simple: if you can't see them, then they can't see your move-in party. You can invite your neighbors by knocking on their doors, but slipping an invitation into their mailbox or under their doors can work just as well. Neighbors can be very private and you may not want to interrupt them or catch them accidently off-guard. |
Photo by carolina b, sxc.hu |
|
What to Serve
During your stroll, you may have noticed the demographics of your neighborhood. If you live in an age-diverse neighborhood, then you might consider foods that cater to all age groups. Even if you haven't met any neighbors, you can't go wrong with sticking to a generic menu. Try to include party-food favorites, such as:
- Chips
- Pretzels
- Pigs-in-a-blanket
- Salad
- Peanuts
- Spanakopita (great for vegetarian guests)
|
- Chex® Party Mix
- Baklava
- Cupcakes
- Chicken wings or grilled-chicken breasts
- Nachos
- Vegetable, fruit, or cheese platter with dips
- Soda, juice, punch, and water
Make sure to have plenty of napkins, cups, and serving and eating utensils for guests. You might want to use coolers to store any cans of beverages that you have.
Where in Your Home to Host the Party
Since you just moved into your new home, you probably have a good idea about which room would hold the most people. Luckily, you don't have to be too concerned with themes and elaborate invitations and decorations. Your neighbors will know that you just moved in and will appreciate that you're even hosting a party. Once you figure out the space where your party will be held, you'll need to figure out how to serve the food. This may require putting additional pillows, tables, or chairs in the room. To create a simple ambience, place flowers around the room and play a bit of easy-listening music. Your neighbors will want to talk to you, so keeping a bit of unobtrusive music playing in the background will make it easier for everyone to hear.
|
| TIP: An unfurnished room can make an ideal location for your party. The open space can also allow you to be more creative with seating; you may want to opt for floor pillows instead of chairs. |
Your move-in party should be relatively basic and stress-free. You've already moved and are adjusting to your new home. Undoubtedly, your neighbors will appreciate that you are trying to get to know them and appreciate your neighborly gesture. |
|