Hosting a ‘New to the Neighborhood’ Luncheon
My heart breaks when I hear or read stories of women who move in to neighborhoods and never really get to know their neighbors.
A few years ago, my daughter and I hosted a luncheon for our neighbors. Many I did not know, so it took courage for me to reach out and invite.
We went from door to door delivering our invitations, and almost all of the ladies were able to come.
Wanting to break the ice a bit, I had a few conversation starters in mind, not only for me to get to know these ladies, but for others to get to know each other as well.
Easy luncheon questions to ask your guests:
1. Where were you born?
2. How many years have you lived in your current home?
3. Tell us the history behind the home you are living in?
Each lady got to share something about herself, and her history of what brought her to the neighborhood, which in the long run was what we all had in common!
And it gave me a new appreciation for each person there.
I also attribute the good turn out to the face-to-face invitation that we made to each guest.
Because I know you’re all wondering what I served – I remember it was super easy, but I don’t recall exactly what was on the menu. So, for today, if I were planning the same luncheon, here’s what would be on my menu.
The luncheon menu:
Each guest brings a surprise salad.
I’d serve a delicious pot of soup.
Fresh bread with a special butter.
This light and lovely dessert.
How to serve the food:
Following these easy buffet tips, I set the food up on the kitchen counter. My table was already set with the glassware, silverware,napkins, etc.
I’d say never plan on a “perfect” party, because there’s always something that will go wrong, but do plan on an “intentional” time getting to know your neighbors, who may some day end up being some of your best friends!
Have you thought about reaching out to your neighbors and inviting them to a meal?
Are you lonely in your neighborhood?
Hello and welcome to my home and table!
I’m Sandy—lover of food, family, cooking, THE BIG BOARD, travel, and bringing people together. Through great recipes and connection around the table, we become better, stronger, and more courageous people. Feasting on Life is real, and every time we do it, we grow a little more. Read more...
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What a great idea! I am always sorta force myself into social things, and it’s always me and a bunch of 90 year old women, guess it’s because it’s FLorida? I don’t know, I love older people, really, but where are the young people at?
What a beautiful gesture. I really REALLY need to reach out to some new neighbors that moved in a couple months ago. Time just keeps flying by, but I just need to commit to doing it!
I need to be better about this! Love the idea.
Wonderful ideas Sandy! We have anew neighbor and this makes me think I should plan something special for them. :)
Fantastic tips, as usual, Sandy!
I love this idea! We’re the new kids on the block in our neighborhood (we’ve only been here for a month!) and we’ve only met our immediate neighbors so, but I’d love to actually have meaningful conversation and get to know them! Stepping up the courage to be the one to reach out may be the hardest part on this one, but I definitely think hand-delivering invitations is the way to go for something like this. You’re so thoughtful in the details!
About 25 years ago when my husband and I bought our first house, we decided to host a get to know our neighbors Christmas party and went door to door to invite people. Only 1 couple showed up. It was so sad. I never really understood why no one came. Maybe people just feel too shy going to a party where they don’t know anyone or were too busy because of Christmas. We have had many parties since, but that was a rocky start to reaching out to people you don’t know.