How do I apologize to my neighbor?

Question

An asian couple lives above me and have for the past year. I try to be friendly and say Hi but at most we exchange smiles. That is good enough for me but last night I was being a little loud with some music. I had some friends over and we were also...smoking an illicit substance...Anyway, I did not realize how loud my music was and the woman came down looking very tired and upset and asked me to turn it down. It was about 1:30 am when this happened. I feel horrible and want to make it up to them. As far as I know this is the first time this has happened and it is not often I have friends over. What is the best way to apologize. I was thinking about writing a note and leaving a small gift for penance. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Sound like a good idea to me in the card maybe you should put your phone number and tell them if there is a problem with noise in the future to let you know, let them know it is not your intentions do disturb them.

Answer 2

I'd see them in person and apologize.  Give them your home phone number and ask them to call you anytime they feel you're party is too loud.  Just say you're sorry and you'll try to keep it down.

It's better they call you and ask you to quiet down, than to have the cops at your door while you're smoking and being noisy.

You could invite them to the next party, if you think they're up for it.

Answer 3

You don't have to buy them a gift. When you see them again just apologize for the noise you and your friends were making.  If you want to get to know them better, invite them over for dinner or offer to take them out to dinner.

Answer 4

A baked good would be nice - whether one you make or buy.  Even a plant or small bunch of flowers.  Plus a handwritten note saying you were sorry.

I don't know if giving them your phone number would be good - if you are making a lot of noise, you may not hear the phone!  And if you don't answer the phone, they may get even more annoyed the next time.  So I'd probably skip giving them the phone number and just let them know - in your note and in person when you drop it off - that you're really sorry about the noise.

Answer 5

it's bad enough you don't speak to each other, but don't try to avoid contact when apologizing too!  Why don't you just go up there and offer a sincere apology. If you feel the need, bake them a cake, I would appreciate it!

Answer 6

Yeah,

A face to face sincere apology would be good and maybe go to an Asian bakery and get something.  I've worked with many International companies and have noticed that many Asian treats are mild in sweetness.  Sharing your contact info would be cool too. They probably put up with the noise for quite a while before knocking on your door.

Answer 7

I think a note would be just fine their is no need to buy a gift

Answer 8

Okay well.

But some flowers or a gift basket or something.

knock on there door and tell them how sorry you are.

tell theem you will never do that again and you hope they accept the apoligy.

Answer 9

Nothing says "neighborly" like baked goods - especially if they have children. The card is an excellent idea - but buy a blank card and hand write the apology inside.

You do really need to deliver this face-to-face, as that will show respect and sincerity.

  

Answer 10

A sincere apology plus your home phone number, so that they can call you immediately if noise becomes a problem again.  Firmly state in your apology that you are sensitive to their need for peace in their home, and ask them to call you if you disturb them.

A small gift would be appropriate if you know what they like, perhaps flowers or a gift card to a local restaurant.