May Mother-in-Law Host Our Housewarming Party?

Dear Polite One,

My husband and I are in the process of purchasing our first home. My mother-in-law mentioned that she wanted to give us a housewarming. Would this be proper etiquette? I didn't think it was. She knew it wasn’t proper to give us showers when we got married but was not sure about the housewarming.

In these instances, do we host a housewarming as a way for our friends and family to see our new home? If someone asks to give us a housewarming, who are people that could give this properly?

Thanks,

Kelly

Dear Kelly,

I’m so glad you asked before agreeing. This is becoming quite a problem.

Large store chains began a campaign a few years ago promoting registering for housewarmings and graduations, neither of which are considered appropriate. We just don’t do it. Most people find this type of behavior as crass, greedy, and tacky.

Arg, I don’t think any of us want that label.

The housewarming is supposed to be a party we homeowners host ourselves. We invite those near and dear to come to see our new home. We give them tours and feed them. They warm our homes with love and maybe small items such as a picture frame, candles, bottle of wine… But gifts are not expected nor are they mandatory. This is never to be treated as a shower. So, no one hosts this for us.

Plus, it wouldn’t have been proper for your mother-in-law to have hosted a wedding or baby shower for you. This is viewed as self-serving. Family does not host. It’s wonderful she knew better. Many don’t.

Enjoy your party!

Sincerely,

The Polite One

More by The Polite One

What to do About Out-of-Town Guests For Our Housewarming Party?

May I Host a Housewarming Party Without Alcohol?

Is There a Time Limit For Hosting a Housewarming Party?

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