You did it.
You have moved.
It may have been stressful, but you did it.
The movers have unpacked your stuff, and you’re starting to feel better.
Until…
You realize you don’t know a single soul within 10 miles of you.
Time to meet the new neighbors. Do you feel excited? Nervous? You probably feel both.
So, if you’ve just moved and you find that you are now the new family in the neighborhood, don’t forget to make a good first impression! Check out these creative gift ideas for neighbors that will help you break the ice.
Creative Gift Ideas for Neighbors
A new neighborhood means a lot of new unknowns.
What will the neighbors be like? Any kids? Any pets that could potentially keep you up at night? Will they be your new friends? Will they want to come over and BBQ? Will they invite your kids to their birthday parties?
When you are new in a neighborhood, these questions may be swirling around your head. The only way to feel comfortable again is to reach out and meet those who live around you.
One of the easiest gift ideas for neighbors is themed gift baskets. Themed baskets make the gift look very well put together. (Even if you don’t feel put together, and haven’t had time to think since you started packing.)
Family Gift Baskets
Start with a small wire basket or decorative tin and fill with any of these fun and easy ideas.
- Coffee themed gift basket. Everyone needs something to wake them up in the mornings. This is why we love coffee.
Go to the nearest Starbucks and get a variety of coffee blends. Complete with some fun coffee mugs and creamer.
- Movie night gift basket. Most people now either download movies or watch them on Netflix.
But, you could provide the popcorn and treats. Fill the gift basket with your favorite brand of popcorn, some fun popcorn bowls for the family, and a new soft blanket to cuddle up in. And don’t forget the Junior Mints.
- Cookie themed gift basket. Everyone loves homemade cookies, but not everyone always has the ingredients to make them.
Make it easy and provide all the ingredients for your favorite cookies, along with your favorite recipe.
- Favorite things gift basket. This is a great way to introduce your family.
Let each family member pick our their favorite thing. It could be a treat, a chapstick, a drink, or even a little toy. Anything goes.
Then write a note for each item telling your new neighbors who picked it. Your neighbors will get a good idea of who is in your family and what they like.
Seasonal Gift Baskets
Seasonal gift baskets are a fun way to keep things fresh.
- Summer gift basket. If you move-in during the Summer months, consider a pitcher filled with fresh lemons and some new drinking glasses.
You could even throw in some sunscreen and fun sunglasses for the kids.
- Winter gift basket. If you happen to move closer to the winter holidays, maybe some hot chocolate mix along with marshmallows and holiday mugs would do the trick.
Once you fill your gift basket with whatever themed objects you choose, finish the look by wrapping cellophane around it and tying the top with a bow.
Simple Thoughtful Gifts
Don’t want to seem over the top? Here are some simple gift ideas for neighbors that will still help start the conversation when you knock on their door.
- Favorite famous recipe. Were you known in your last neighborhood for something special? Maybe it was your famous fudge brownies or your grandmother’s chicken soup.
Whatever is your specialty, make up a batch and share it with the neighbors. In all likelihood, you’ll be famous for it again in no time.
- Pancake mix in a jar. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
You can find easy examples of pancake mix in a jar all over the internet. So, help make their breakfast run a little smoother by giving some ready-made pancakes.
Because everyone loves pancakes for breakfast, but let’s be honest, no one has time to make them.
- Oven mitt with cooking utensils. This is such an easy gift idea that takes no time or overthinking.
Go to the nearest store and buy an oven mitt and some new cooking utensils such as a large mixing spoon, slotted spoon, spatula, and whisks. Place the utensils in the oven mitt.
It may seem too practical, but these items are used every day and rarely get replaced.
Non-food Gifts
Ever feel like gifts revolve around food? Want to try something different? Here are two thoughtful gifts that can’t be eaten. (Well, at least we wouldn’t recommend it.)
- Bath bombs. Give the ultimate gift of relaxation.
Giving a gift meant just for the parents of the house shows you know what they really want: a few minutes alone.
When you give a gift that shows you understand how hard it is to run a house, and how rare a moment of silence is, you will make an instant bond of friendship and understanding.
All parents need to know they are in the same boat. It’s always nice when you can relate to your neighbors.
- Coffee table book from where you moved. Where did you live before? Did you love it? Are there aspects of your previous home that you are proud of?
Share the places you love with your new neighbors by finding a book that showcases your favorite things from your previous location.
A book highlighting your previous location will help them understand you and your family.
And everyone loves learning about new places, especially from a pretty book on their coffee table.
Meeting the Neighbors
Meeting the new neighbors can be nerve-wracking and intimidating. But be brave and take the first step. You’ll look prepared and on top of things when you show up armed with one of these gift ideas for neighbors.
No matter how big or small your move is, no matter what questions you may have, or how big of a mess you need to clean up, we’re here to help.
We can make any move less stressful and easier for you. Contact us today!
