You’ve moved into your new home and unpacked most of your boxes? It’s time to have a proper housewarming party! In this article, find out the 7 steps to have a great party.
Step 1: Set a date
Start by setting a date for your housewarming party. Plan it well in advance so that all your friends, family, flatmates and neighbours have time to get there. It is best to allow 4-8 weeks between the date the invitations are sent and the housewarming party.
Step 2: Plan the guest list
Let’s move on to the guest list: Who are you inviting? For many people, this is not an easy question to answer. With or without the neighbours? What about work colleagues or family?
It is best to start by determining the maximum number of guests you can accommodate in your new home. The season plays a role here, as it determines whether the garden, terrace or balcony, for example, can be used or not. If you only have a small amount of space and the party is taking place in winter, it is advisable to invite only close friends and family. On the other hand, if you now live in a larger house with a garden and the housewarming party is taking place in summer, you can be a little more generous with the number of guests.
Step 3: Send out the invitations
Once the guest list has been drawn up, it’s time to send the invitations. Here you can consider sending them via social networks such as Facebook, Whatsapp or by e-mail, or why not send a nice card, it’s the occasion, isn’t it? The advantage of social networks is that they allow direct interaction with the guests. They can for example accept or decline directly, which helps you plan the party.
Step 4: Think about some party theme ideas
The invitations have been sent out. Now you can plan what you will serve to your guests at the party. Are you moving in the summer? This is your chance to inaugurate the new barbecue. Want to keep it simple indoors? You can also prepare something simple : a few pizzas, raw vegetables with a sauce and a few cakes and you’re all set.
In addition, you should think about how you are going to entertain your guests. Provide background music to put your guests at ease and perhaps some activities to do during the evening.
If you’re having a small party, you can plan some board games for the second half of the evening: poker, uno, monopoly, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
For the crazy ones, it is also possible to turn the housewarming party into a theme party. The host gives the guests a specific theme and decorates the room accordingly.
Another nice idea for a housewarming party is a guestbook. Buy a blank book and crayons of all colours. At the party, your guests can write down their thoughts and wishes, making it a great souvenir.
Step 5: Prepare the housewarming party
The concept is ready and the preparations can begin. Start by cleaning, tidying and finally decorating your flat. Buy decorations for this purpose when you go shopping for food and drinks.
And since party preparations are more work than you think, you should definitely get some help. Turn up the music and let’s go! It’s guaranteed to be more fun as a team than on your own.
Step 6: During the housewarming party
The music starts, the champagne is chilled and the first guests arrive. What everyone wants to see, of course, is your new home. Take a short tour, preferably by leading your guests in small groups.
During the party, you are the host and therefore the number one contact person. If something is missing, if someone has questions or is looking for something specific, your guests will turn to you. This can be very stressful for you. Get help from friends and family members who are also familiar with your new home. This will take the pressure off your housewarming party and leave you more time to share special moments with your guests.
Because there is one thing you should not forget in all the excitement: Enjoy your house-warming party! Because you don’t move that often and a new home always means a new start in life.
Step 7: After the housewarming party
The party is over and the last guests have left. It’s time for you to go to bed too – the cleaning job can still be done the next day. Of course, this is also great if you have the support of your loved ones. After all, a party usually involves a lot of cleaning and tidying up.
A nice gesture is to send a message of thanks to all your party guests. Send them photos of the party for a wonderful souvenir. Your guests will be able to remember your housewarming party for a long time.
Need inspiration for a housewarming gift?
