The shell is complete and the roof structure has been erected - so it's time for a celebration with those involved in the construction as well as neighbors, friends and family. This guide shows you which gifts are suitable for the topping-out ceremony and why it's worth getting creative, along with numerous inspirations.
Gift 1: Bread and S alt
Bread and s alt stand for community, prosperity and sedentariness, for basic nutrition, luxury and purity. If you find bread from the bakery and a pack of s alt boring as presents, you can use a well-filled, elegant bread basket, an engraved s alt mill or a cutting board with a knife. Bread and s alt become traditional accessories.
Tip:
Bread baking mixes and unusual, flavored s alts can also bring joy and are inexpensive gifts that last a long time.
Gift 2: Plants
A tree or shrub for the garden, houseplants, seed mixes and pre-grown herbs bring life in and around the house. It gets creative with space-saving columnar fruit, in which different varieties grow on the same trunk or in the same bucket. Which plants come into question depends on the season.
Gift 3: Horseshoe
The horseshoe is a traditional lucky charm and therefore an ideal gift for the topping-out ceremony. It is installed outside the front door with the opening pointing downwards. Here it is supposed to prevent evil spirits and misfortune from entering. In the house above the door it is placed with the opening facing upwards and serves as a collecting tray for falling luck. An engraving on a horseshoe or a decorative wooden surface personalizes the present.
Gift 4: Money
Building a house is expensive and there are often additional expenses that were not planned. Cash gifts are therefore sensible – regardless of the amount. Instead of the classic envelope, banknotes can be folded into figures, attached to a plant or pictures can be created with them. Coins can be packed in an original way in piñatas or in bottle caps. Place a coin in each bottle cap and bend the edges of the corks. In both cases, the builders have to work for their money.
Tip:
Many guests at topping-out ceremonies don't know what to give. Especially when it comes to gifts of money, it's worth it if several people get together.
Gift 5: Birdhouse
It's not just animal lovers who are happy about a bird house, bird bath or an insect hotel for their new garden. These gifts become special when they are personalized. A birdhouse modeled after your own home will provide amusement.
Gift 6: Doormat
Doormats are not typical gifts, except for a topping-out ceremony or housewarming. With a photo print, the name of the residents or a funny saying, they are practical and beautiful at the same time.
Gift 7: Name tag
Name tags are required for the mailbox and the bell. Elegant, engraved designs leave a good first impression and are as durable as they are practical.
Gift 8: Tools
Even after the house has been built, there is still a lot to do in your home and garden. Personalized and high-quality tools can help get the job done in style. An engraved hammer or a printed ruler are also personal.
Gift 9: Fine Drops
When you move in, it's time to toast or sit back and enjoy fine wines. Wine, whiskey, sherry or a good rum – whatever the builders like is allowed.
Gift 10: Vouchers
If you are unsure about what is needed and don't want to give anything twice, you should use vouchers. They are welcome, for example, for
- Furnishing stores
- Hardware stores
- Garden Center
Individual vouchers for help with construction, moving in or preparing the garden are also a good idea. They are useful and thoughtful.
Gift 11: Key rack
A decorative key rack made of high-quality wood, in an unusual shape or with engravings, enriches the interior and serves a useful purpose.
Gift 12: Broom
New brooms not only sweep well, but are also a wonderful and traditional gift for the topping out ceremony. High-quality brooms can be used in old and new homes, on construction sites or on the garden path. Decorated with a garland of coins, seed bags, small liquor bottles or nice wishes, they are even an eye-catcher.
Gift 13: Photo and frame
During the construction of a house, things often go haywire. Many helpers lend a hand, investing time, work and energy. The topping out ceremony is one of the moments at which the helpers are recognized. A nice reminder of this is a group photo. You can choose an elegant picture frame as a gift to bring with you.
Gift 14: Wellness package
If the builders have contributed a lot to building the house themselves, you could use a break and some relaxation. A wellness package with bath additives, hand cream, essential oils and treats will help you recharge your batteries.
Tip:
Still no idea for the topping-out gift? Asking helps. What would the builders be happy about? What else can they use? The presents are no longer a surprise, but can be personalized and made into something special.
Frequently asked questions
Which topping-out gifts should you avoid?
This is where superstition comes into play. For example, a set of knives would cut the friendship apart. Shoes, whether work shoes or slippers, are also less suitable as a gift for the topping-out ceremony, as the recipient would “run away”. So it's better to avoid such gifts and let our list inspire you instead.
Who do you invite to the topping-out ceremony?
As many as possible. Architects and team, bricklayers, carpenters and every craftsman who has already been or will be involved in building the house. Also former and future neighbors, family members, friends and colleagues. The invitation should be independent of whether they have already helped or will continue to help.
What does the tree mean at the topping-out ceremony?
The top tree stands for steadfastness, longevity and strength. It symbolizes the properties that should apply to the house itself. As an alternative to a tree at the topping-out ceremony, a topping-out wreath can also be used. Evergreen conifers are often used because they embody durability.
How long does a topping out ceremony last?
That depends on when you were invited. If the celebration begins at midday or afternoon, it can extend into the evening and last five hours or longer. If you are invited in the evening, at least three hours should be planned. It is better to allow for a little longer time.
What should I serve at the topping out ceremony?
In addition to plenty of drinks, simple, hearty and lighter grilled dishes should be on the program. Goulash cannon, sausages, potato and pasta salad, vegetarian and vegan dishes as alternatives and some cake are well received depending on the time of day.
