Questions
What is housewarming etiquette?
Housewarming etiquette is straightforward: bring a small gift, reply to the invite, and don't outstay your welcome.
None of it is complicated; it mostly comes down to ordinary good manners applied to a slightly unfamiliar occasion. As a guest, RSVP promptly so your host can plan food and space, and turn up roughly on time. A small gift is customary but doesn't need to be expensive: something for the home is the traditional choice. If you're hosting, a short tour of the house is expected, along with easy hospitality rather than a full dinner party. There's no obligation to serve alcohol or a big spread; simple food and drink, or a potluck, suits the occasion just as well. Guests should take their host's lead on things like shoes off at the door, and it's good manners not to overstay once the evening winds down.
For gift ideas that fit the occasion, see housewarming gifts, and for a rough steer on spend, read how much to spend on a housewarming gift.
Written by Craig Fearn, Our House Print.
From the journal