A Party Ain’t A Party Until… It’s Virtual?
Seems like our new normal will be around for a while as the second wave of COVID is in full swing. Many of us are left asking ourselves, how do we touch base without actually touching? As an asthmatic, I fully understand and appreciate social distancing and the precautionary measures we take to keep each other safe. The things I do not appreciate? I miss my peeps! So how do we enjoy the holiday festivities without putting our loved ones at risk? Here’s my take and a few options.
Who Says Size Matters?
Small and intimate is where it’s at! For now at least, those days of large gatherings are on pause. Quite frankly, it’s too much to worry about. Everyone pictured here had a recent negative COVID test with minimal exposure to others. We gathered, played games, ate and enjoyed each other’s company with minimal worry. Titling this “Girlsgiving,” most said this was one of the best holiday celebrations they’ve had in quite some time. The dog enjoyed it too.
Let’s Go Virtual
I know I know, you’re tired of all things Zoom, Google Meet and/or Facebook chat. To lessen the screen fatigue, how about putting a spin on it? Here are my four tips to a poppin’ virtual party.
1. Pick a Theme
With most of us staying in the house and only leaving for essentials, we haven’t had much of a reason to dress up. Picking a theme can be a fun way to provide people with a sense of normalcy and a reason to open those closet doors. In the spirit of the holidays, you can do a Christmas theme or an ugly Christmas sweater theme. For Kwanzaa you can dress up in your favorite African garb and so much more! The possibilities are endless so get creative.
2. Pick a Game and/or Activity
Are you like me and hate when the video call gets dry and no one knows what else to talk about? I suggest picking a game and/or activity to keep the session lively. Pick something everyone can engage in such as a gingerbread house or ornament making kit. This Thanksgiving, or should I say “Girlsgiving,” we played Heads Up and it was a hit being that both children and adults were able to play.
3. Pick a Meal
Another way to add some level of cohesion and even excitement is to pick a meal for everyone to prepare. Agree on what to prepare for the virtual shin dig and you guys can compare and contrast. Don’t care for Aunt Sally’s coveted stuffing recipe? Now’s the time to make your own and not feel bad about it. The compare and contrast may get a little spicy but it’s fun nonetheless. Want to kick it up a notch? Have a plating competition where you guys can vote on who’s plate looks the best.
4. Pick a Gift
Secret Santa will require some help from the Post Office this year. Swap names and addresses ahead of time. Considering this will be the highest year for package delivery due to COVID, we recommend completing this step now. Ship your package to your Secret Santa. On the day of, everyone can open their packages and share in the holiday cheer together. Understanding that times are tough, a card exchange can work the same way. Decide what’s right for you and your loved one’s pockets. Need help on deciding what to buy? Take a look at Shapely’s Holiday Gift Guide.
I can’t guarantee these two options will bring you the same level of joy as years past. I can state that we are in different times and with some of us left having to find different ways to celebrate, these might do the trick. Do you have some ways to celebrate you would like to share? Feel free to drop us a line.
