It’s no secret life is strange right now with social distancing. Not knowing what the next day holds, the latest update from local or state government and the anxiety of needing to do anything essential in public. It can be overwhelming to say the least. And celebrating anything is a bit of a struggle right now.

Staying focused on day to day and positive are my goals for these uncertain times. Being the social planner for my circle of friends is one of my very favorite things to do. With no plans, parties or gatherings in the near future, we need to get creative.

You can still celebrate even during social distancing times! It may not be the same, it may look a little different but making people still feel special and celebrated is important during these next few weeks.

Here are my suggestions for how to keep up with social celebrations while still maintaining the need for social distancing.

Virtual Gatherings

WebEx or Zoom birthday parties, bridal showers, happy hours, baby showers or even play dates! Getting together to celebrate virtually can be fun, interactive and a great way to keep the celebration planned. Right now you can sign up for WebEx completely free with no credit card or commitment needed. This gives you access to up to 100 participants in your meeting. Zoom is free for sign up but does create a 40-minute time limit unless you have a paid plan.

Birthday parades

Load up your car with balloons, birthday signs and crank up that party music! Have a line of cars pull up and cruise in front of the house while the birthday boy or girl is outside. Seeing all the love from their friends, family and maybe even teacher will be a lifetime memory!

Picnic dinner block party

I’ve seen lots of neighborhoods starting this weekly picnic dinner idea. Get all the families on your street to bring blankets out on their front yard and have dinner outside. Seeing your neighbors, being able to communicate with safe distances and enjoy the weather is a great way to change up your standard evening routine.

Houseparty app

Like the other virtual platforms, this app gives you the ability to video chat with friends and have social hangouts. What makes it different from the others is the virtual game feature. When you click on the dice on the upper right of your screen, here are four options: a trivia challenge and games that are essentially versions of Pictionary, Heads Up! and Apples to Apples.

Lexi’s Princess FaceTime Party

If your child is a fan of princesses, then book a FaceTime party with your child’s favorite Princess. A private facetime party is $60 for 20 minutes and includes a sing-a-long, Singing Guessing Game, interactive story time and a magic show.

Order a special cake

Many Austin bakeries are still open for delivery or pick up. Pick a favorite cake, pie or treat and it will surely be a sweet celebration. Some of my favorite bakeries are Hayley’s Cakes & Cookies, Cakes Rock and Tiny Pies.

Lawn signs

Customize any lawn card sign for a big celebration statement! Pictures to last a lifetime and a great way for someone to feel extra special. A few local companies in various Austin areas are Sign Gypsies Dripping Springs, Card My Yard Lakeway & Lone Star Yard Greetings.

Let’s get creative, continue to celebrate and do our part to maintain social distancing!

Stay safe friends!

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