How Can I Host a No Alcohol or Smoking Housewarming Party Politely?

Dear Polite One,

My family – husband, wife, and small child – will be moving to a different state, hours away by plane. We will not know anyone. So, we’d like to host a party of some sort to meet our neighbors and hopefully become friends with at least some of them.

We will not have the money to have a big dinner or BBQ. What do you suggest? Also, we are totally non-drinkers and do not permit it on our property for any reason since an exceptionally large percentage of our relatives on each side are alcoholics. We do not want our son exposed to alcohol any sooner than can be helped. For health reasons, we also do not permit smoking inside our house or around our son. When we invite people over, how do we mention those two subjects without sounding judgmental?

Thank you very much.

Unsure

Dear Unsure,

An open house style of housewarming would be a great way to meet your new neighbors. You could provide simple refreshments that you cook. This will keep your costs down.

Verbally invite your neighbors and tell them of your ‘no alcohol or smoking rule’. Most people wouldn’t smoke in your home without asking. But you never know. In some regions, it is still prevalent. This seems so foreign to me.

Host this early in the day when most don’t drink and the items you serve would be less expensive.

In the future, always verbally inform guests know about your rules. Many people feel the same so don’t worry.

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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