One of the most challenging things about the world being on lockdown– aside from events and holidays being cancelled. Not being able to just pop to the shops for a quick browse… Not getting to go on that holiday that had been booked in your diary for oh so long, is when somebody has a birthday and is not able to celebrate properly.
This is a collaborative post*
Let’s be honest, quarantine was likely not how anybody would expect to have celebrated their birthday in 2020. But that doesn’t mean that these milestones should go unnoticed.
But how they are celebrated has had to change.
In a world where social distancing, virtual hangouts, music performances and pub quizzes have become the new normal… How we have learned to stay in touch online has rapidly developed over the past decade. Instead of just using FaceTime or Skype where you can only speak to one person at a time, why not look at some of the other ways that everyone can be involved in a celebration?
Apps like Zoom and Houseparty are sure ways to make sure that more people can feel included in a virtual celebration.
Party Hang Out Ideas
Just because the world is on lockdown, doesn’t mean that it can’t still party! Thankfully there are so many ways that you can feel connected with your loved ones- even when they’re far away!
Netflix Party
Grab your snacks and drink of choice and settle in for a night of watching.
Usually, a solo activity or one part of ‘Netflix and Chill’, the party extension to Netflix has come along right on time to make sure we can still comment on our favourite binge-worthy shows with our friends.
This extension is available on Chrome browsers and allows you and your friends to watch the same shows at the same time. By syncing the playback along with an additional group chat to discuss the goings-on of the show in real-time.
All of the trappings of the traditional sleepover, with social distancing, included!
Smule Karaoke
If singing karaoke is their thing, and they’re missing their favourite bar to belt it like Beyonce or shake it like Shakira, download a karaoke app for your next virtual girls’ night out, while in.
With over 10 million songs to choose from, the chances are that everyone will be able to find something to sing along to.
With the option to sing as part of a group, or for solo practices. It is a fun activity to organise for when Zoom quizzes become tiresome.
And for an app that can be downloaded for free with no ads, what more is there to love?
Watch a West End Show From Your Sofa
Why not add a touch of culture to your video chats by tuning in to pre-recorded theatre show?
Loads of theatres are now streaming recordings of some popular plays and shows–right to your living room. You’ll get the ambience of a live theatre show (coughs and laughs included) fro the comfort of your living room.
What’s even better is that if you need to get up to use the bathroom during a performance, you can just hit pause without missing out on any of the action.
No Shops Open? No Problem!
Virtual hangouts are not the only way to stay connected with somebody celebrating a birthday or a big event. While browsing the shops for the perfect gift might have to come later in the year, it doesn’t mean that they can’t still get thoughtful gifts delivered right to their front door.
These type of bespoke gifts used to be reserved for those who had a lot of money. Now there are now hundreds of companies who have cottoned on to affordable, yet thoughtful gifts. These won’t require taking out various home owner loans to pay for. Just a bit of thought about what the person likes is a great way of making sure they get the celebration they deserve.
Say cheers!
What’s a party without your favourite drink? Use your local delivery service to get their favourite drink delivered straight to their door. Though this might be a good way to make sure you get a special treat, too!
Say It With Flowers
There’s nothing quite like opening the door to find your favourite flowers have been dropped off.
Thankfully, many florists online will work to create mailbox sized packages. They will be delivered right to their homes with minimal social contact. Opt for their favourite blooms to show them that you understand what they like.
Choose a card to accompany the flowers and write a personal message inside. This is a simple gesture that is sure to make somebody you care about smile.
Send Them Some Sugar
Bespoke sweet treat hampers–artisan chocolates, retro sweets or made to order cakes can still be sent to the door of your loved one.
Self-employed bakers would jump at the chance to be able to bake a birthday cake for your special someone. Many will offer contactless delivery on these special orders, too.
Let’s Get Personal
There’s no shortage of personalised gift places online. You can get somebody’s name on almost anything now. Take a look at the extensive catalogue of things available online from glasses with the coordinates of where you met sent to a distant significant other, to photo printed pillowcases to remind people about those who matter most to them.
Personalisation is a sure way of making sure they receive a truly unique gift.
Get Them a Ticket to Next Time
While obviously a ticket to a theatre show or film screening is out of the question at the moment, having something to look forward to can really benefit while trying to get through the more challenging times.
Lots of theatres and cinema chains offer e-gift cards that are valid for a year or two, so there’s plenty of time to get things back on track before they can be redeemed.
The same can be said for salons or spas, because, let’s face it, we could all do with a bit of pampering, right?
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