A Pandemic safe Galentine's Day

Looking back over the years I’ve had some pretty epic Galentine’s Day celebrations. This year, will not come even close but I do have a couple ideas for celebrating so the love does not get lost on us all this year.

Get outside and pre-plate
Your first option is to host a few girlfriends outside. If you’re in a cold climate, break out the heated blankets, fire pits and/or patio heater. Serve hot cocoa with marshmallows and individual cups of Valentine’s Day candy. If you’re in a warmer climate, set up a table or patio lounge set where you can spread out to be six feet apart, set a plate for each guest pre-made with cheese, meat, olives, fruit and nuts. Have your drinks pre-poured, set out napkins for everyone and write a love note for each of your guests.

If you have an outdoor projector, throw up your screen or a sheet and stream a chick flick in the background (I will never tire of Mean Girls or Bridesmaids). Add some popcorn and candy hearts and you’re good to go.

Zoom love
I know I know we’re over Zooming! BUT…we want to see our besties so we have to keep at it till this pandemic ends. If you’re going to gather with your girls over Zoom this Valentine’s Day, why not build a little custom box for everyone to enjoy while you toast to love + friendship. I would suggest our heart plates, pretty cups and a love balloon to tape up on the wall as a backdrop to make for an extra festive celebration.

Grab a cocktail, mocktail or a good old glass of rose…and don’t forget to make a toast! Also, mail a card (do it now!) and note on the envelope: DO NOT OPEN TILL FEBRUARY 13TH (or whatever date you’ve planned your Zoom call for and then read the cards aloud when you gather. Since everyone has Zoom fatigue by now…try reading some prompts from this deck of Table Topic Cards (also fun for in-person get togethers) and let the conversation flow! If you’re looking for an out of the box activity to take things to the next level, consider booking some entertainment. There are so many great options nowadays. You could hire a mixologist, a chef, or even a tarot card reader…SO fun!

Make sure you’re prepared with a Zoom link and calendar setting in advance of your celebration so no one forgets and of course any of these Zoom party plans should be communicated in advance.