Even before the advent of the "welcome wagon" in the late 1920s, current residents have welcomed new residents into the neighborhood by presenting a gift. Presenting a gift is a way to introduce yourself to new neighbors. The new neighbor appreciates the kind gesture. In fact, I recall the summer I moved into my house. A neighbor brought over homemade brownies, pre-cut on a paper plate. She even brought napkins. That sweet treat was the perfect energy-boosting break. The neighbor's gift to me on moving day was a pleasurable experience for both my stomach and my spirit as it showed I moved into a friendly neighborhood. Presenting a gift to a new neighbor does not have to be expensive. Try one of these cheap gift ideas to welcome someone into your neighborhood.
Homemade
Any homemade snack that does not require refrigeration is a good choice. Ideas include cake, cookies, brownies or bread. Take the easy route and use packaged ingredients that require few additional ingredients. Consider using a gluten-free mix to cover those with dietary restrictions.
Home grown
A small amount of fresh vegetables, fruit or herbs from your home garden is a great gift idea. No need to invest in a fancy basket. Tote the edibles in a grocery bag. Flowers, too, are an excellent welcome-to-the-neighborhood gift. Deliver the flowers in an empty container like a spaghetti sauce jar, disposal cup, or empty daily product container such as yogurt, cottage cheese or ricotta cheese container.
Information
Moving into a new neighborhood can leave a new homeowner searching for locations that established residents already know. Provide the new resident with a list of area points of interest such as hospital or urgent care locations, churches, community events, post office, grocery, police station, fire station, veterinarian, schools, or parks and recreation. Jot down handy websites such as a link to the city's webpage or a city map. Alert the new neighbor of trash or recycle pickup dates.
No strings attached
It does not matter how you present your gift idea to welcome a new resident to the neighborhood, though it is best to make the container something they can keep or toss if disposable. Gift giving should come with no strings attached, so they should not have to return a container.
For a small price
When I packed for my move, I specifically marked a box "open first." That box contained what I considered urgent items: toilet tissue, bath towels, bath soap, and coffee maker along with ground coffee, filters and cups. Fate was against me, though, and the box was not readily visible. People may have other items that are urgent to them on moving day, but all appreciate some minimal hygiene items. A gift idea at a small price to you: grab an empty grocery bag to hold a bar of bath soap, roll of paper towels, and a roll of toilet tissue. Toilet tissue as a gift makes everyone smile, doesn't it?
