My husband and I recently moved to a new home from another state. What is the etiquette.... please read below

Question

What is the etiquette when it comes to meeting our neighbors? We have been here for a week, I'm wondering if we should go around introducing ourselves or should we leave people alone and let them come to us. I know that they have looked at us but they never speak to us. We worked in the yard all day and no one came to speak. It's a nice neighborhood and very quiet. We are decent people and fit right in in the neighborhood!!!

Answer 1

There should have been a welcome wagon. It is the neighbors who should be approaching you with gift baskets welcoming you into the neighborhood. At the very least they should introduce themselves when you are seen outside if they are afraid to intrude on your privacy while you are at home. Hospitality is fast becoming a thing of the past even in the best of neighborhoods.
The next time you see them out and about ; feel free to approach them and introduce yourself. You have nothing to lose and sometimes you have to rise above the rules and just take the initiative. Some people who have lived in an area for years become complacent and cautious. It could be they are waiting for you to "settle in" before approaching you. The holidays are an excellent time of the year for you to have an "excuse". Bake some cookies with a note that says "Happy Holidays from...." and take them around to each note. Use it as an opportunity to introduce yourselves. In this way you will find out who your neighbors are and then some will reciprocate in a more friendly manner and thus a friendship can be established or they won't. Either way, you make the effort and then let the chips fall where they may. Good Luck and Happy Holidays!

Answer 2

I don't think there is a particular etiquette about meeting people. you have to show yourself friendly and approachable. moving into a new neighborhood you can start by giving a little wave as you see the different people pass. you said you were outside there's nothing that says you can't go across the street, next door and introduce yourself and ask for suggestions about church groups, social activities. there used to be a time when the new neighbor was approached by baked goods and casseroles to help with the move in. those days are long gone so you just have to get out there and be neighborly. good luck!

Answer 3

If you are continuing your education and it's In-State costs (which I assume it is) then I would stay to complete the education. It sounds like your mother is very supportive and helping you on this journey. So, I would stay with that support and get your degree. I am always pro-eduation and never want anyone to sacrafice that drive for knowledge for an unsupportive partner. It sounds like the costs of moving to DC are too great. Not only will it cost money but, it will be more! How much longer do you have for your degree? I think he is upset that you can go see your family whenever you want and he can't. I think he's being unreasonable because he should have had a mature conversation with you. I think he's probably jealous and stressed.. If he can't answer the hard questions (what job, where to live, how to afford school, ect) then you shouldn't be moving. You'd end up living with your MIL. I think you need to stick to your argument ---try to find some compromise--- and tell him if he'd like to sit down and discuss a PLAN about moving to DC you're listening....but, you're getting your education first! Good luck! Add-- After reading your last question.... You can't blame him for being upset and angry when you said you wanted to move but, now take it back. Again, I recommend you talk about your reasons, say you are sorry, and come up with a plan for the future. Another good thing to do would be to come up w/ a budget to show your husband and then research possible costs of moving. You're going to have a hard sell but, you gotta explain that you're sorry and stay strong to your reseverations. Conversations like these aren't easy but, he should be respectful of your concerns. Try to COMPROMISE and come up w/ a solution for you both.

Answer 4

Not every neighborhood is Mayberry and people often lead very busy lives with established friendships. Join a local church that may have some of your neighbors as members and get to know them. Once the ice is broken, they can introduce you around. Or how about hosting a neighborhood barbecue or holiday party and inviting everyone to your home.

Answer 5

Maybe you should start by trying to maintain eye contact with your neighbours as they are passing by and say a quick 'hello, how are you" and introduce yourself if they are walking close to your side of the yard, or just a quick wave or a smile. Things take time. I thought the norm was for people to come introduce themselves to you when you move to a new neighbourhood but we weren't that lucky, sometimes people are just not that friendly. Anyhow, good luck.

Answer 6

Etiquette will vary. Maybe try asking under Travel/nearest city to get some local knowledge?

Another day of yard work might do the trick. If not, maybe a wee housewarming party once you've gotten the living room finished.

Answer 7

Looks like this neighborhood likes to keep to themselves. When in Rome do as the Romans do,.......no need to go introduce yourselves, just be quiet and smile to them if you do meet them face to face.

Answer 8

Try joining a local group, maybe with your church or get involved in local social activites. Then see how it goes. Good luck! And, I'm also someone who's moved to another state with her husband...........Welcome to the neighborhood!!!:)

Answer 9

invite to a house warming ! give invitations to neighbors saying we would like to meet everyone have a platter of sandwiches cheese and crackers or what ever you can afford keep it simple maybe a Christmas theme cookies cider nice ice breaking party .

Answer 10

Well its all up to you if you feel comfortable going to the neighbours and introducing yourself then go for it. I have always preferred to keep to myself. If i see them over the fence and say Hi and they come and say Hi thats different i suppose.