If you know someone well enough to present them with housewarming gifts, then it’s likely you understand their tastes and needs. But we don’t always get it right and sometimes, our choices wind up in the back of the recipient’s closet in the new home.
The art of gifting is in answering need and taste to honor whoever’s receiving the gift. Let’s examine the art of gifting and how to give housewarming presents that are perfect for the modern home.
Art is Dangerous
I’m not talking about Banksy, either. I’m talking about presenting a housewarming gift of art decor. Unless you’ve got a firm handle on the tastes of the recipient, giving art as a gift can be a recipe for disaster. What you find beautiful, others may find hideous.
So, be very careful about what you select. Know their style, their attitude toward art, and their color sensibilities. If at all possible, understand the style of the house being warmed and try to add to the theme (or add a counterpoint that meshes with the recipient’s tastes). Art is a thoughtful gift but it’s got to be right. If you’re going to do it, do it with sensitivity and awareness.
Give the Gift of Sustainable Living
Like everything else you can think of, the homefront is being transformed by the push for sustainability. Energy efficiency, reduced water usage, and the application of other environmentally sound solutions are becoming imperatives for the modern homeowner.
But retrofitting eco-solutions can be an expensive proposition. To take the bite out of it, there are grants available not just from governments but from non-profit organizations and local initiatives. Offer to write your new homeowner a grant application to add sustainable features to their new home. Be a friend and an eco-hero!
You’ve Got Their Numbers
As with art, numbers on a house indicating the address are a matter of taste but to a much lesser degree than decor art. The style of the numbers should match the style of the house, be large enough to see from a distance and, in some cases (limited visibility on a dark street), be illuminated.
Your gift might take the form of a gift certificate for the numbers and installation, with the final decision on style being left in the recipient’s hands. I favor this approach, as it avoids the embarrassment of your taste not aligning with your friend’s. Like art, the style of house numbers is personal. Handle with sensitivity!
Pre-emptive Chaos Control
Anyone who’s ever moved knows how stressful the operation can be. And once you’re moved, unpacking and distributing household goods can be a long and arduous process.
Help your newly moved friend out with storage solutions. Even a nested set of 5 or 10 storage totes is helpful. It sends a caring message because chaos in the home is a stressor all on its own which can provoke low energy and even depression. Be a friend indeed by offering your new homeowner a convenient way to head off at least some of the chaos. You’ll be giving the gift of serenity!
Food They Don’t Need to Cook
We’ve already mentioned how stressful moving can be. But why add to the stress of food preparation? Where is the frying pan, anyhow?
Celebrate your friend’s new digs with a meal they don’t need to cook. You can bring it over in a lasagna dish or you can give them a gift certificate for a delivery service to bring them their favorite local meal. Watch your friend’s face light up at the thought of not needing to dig through that box marked “kitchen” for the frying pan.
Thoughtfulness Is the Art of Gifting
For every gaudy kitchen clock, there is an alternative housewarming gift that sends a far more thoughtful message. Every housewarming gift needn’t be material or permanent. Giving people needed services and genuinely useful items that you know they’re going to make use of, shows you care.
But if you choose a gift of art decor, house numbers, or anything else driven by aesthetics, do so with care, mindful that the eventual home of such gifts is more important than your personal taste. There are so many ways to show your love, so choose one that’s meaningful and thoughtful. It will be cherished!
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