A year like 2020 hopes for the entertaining, eating, and gathering that the holidays never cease to host. However, while we may not currently be able to satisfy those social desires around Grandma’s table this year, with some creativity and a camera, the holiday table can still be set, virtually. Here a few things to keep in mind when you’re planning a party fit for a screen.
Brush Up on Your Technical Etiquette
We’ve seen it all. The plethora of memes and videos of Zoom meetings gone wrong all because of a bad camera angle, several distractions in the background, or mistaking the mute button for something it is not. Learning and practicing technical etiquette is very much like absorbing the table etiquette you did as a child – tedious for some but worth it for everyone. And if you are the one in the family who is technically savvy, make an effort to call those grandparents and help them learn about Zoom before the day of the virtual party. Just double check that they know about the mute button before you hang up.
Let There be Light
Light is incredibly important for any overall picture. Whether it is a still photo or a video, being mindful of how the light is being used is how a moment can truly live forever through photography. Virtually, the idea is the same. If the Zoom party is during the daytime, utilize as much natural light as you can by placing your camera in between you and a window. This way, the light can translate a bright and clear image to everyone. Make sure to take advantage of the preview image that Zoom provides right before you enter the virtual party so that you can reposition and improve settings accordingly. And don’t forget to take a picture of the Zoom party once everyone is there because what’s a holiday without taking pictures?
Make a Menu
Pick a few dishes that have always made the holiday table in the past and send the recipes out to everyone. Have them make these infamous edible traditions themselves so that you all are eating the same foods virtually to reflect how you would normally around the table. Everyone always wanted to know the secret behind Grandma’s pumpkin pie, and if she’s willing to share, now they can. For more fun, cook or bake one thing together virtually beforehand to add to memories and conversations. If you are on the market for some festive cookie inspiration, here are or a few recipes easy to replicate at home.
It’s All in the Attire
You and your family have probably been in pajamas these past several months more than you may be willing to admit. Take this opportunity and invite your friends to dress up. Whether you choose festive formal or you present a theme where everyone is invited to match in colors or characters, it can be a fun surprise to see what everyone looks like once they click to enter. Up your holiday style game (even virtually) with these great pieces or modify your closet with these fashion tips.
Play a Game
When there’s prizes involved, there’s no doubt that everyone will be glued to their screens. Take suggestions beforehand on what games and activities people can creatively come up with to share with everyone. Send your friends and family on a scavenger hunt for items around their house or fill a large jar with candy corn and have them guess how many there are. This will give the competitors in the family something to look forward to.
Watch a Movie Together
There’s plenty of movies that always tend to play in the background of holiday get togethers. Roll one of the classics while on Zoom. Talk about the film’s history with your parents or about that Instagram picture the main actor recently posted with your sister. Some things never get old and holiday movies are certainly one of them.
Send Invitations
Put all of the aforementioned bullets in details within invitations that can be sent through email, physical mail, or both. There are various programs online that offer ways to format, design, and write invitations that your friends and family will look forward to receiving. Here, you can list the menu for the party with recipes, what to wear (or who to be), create a section in the RSVP for activity suggestions along with the several games that you are already hosting, and the nostalgic movie you all haven’t gone a holiday without watching. It may be a party that you are not leaving your house for, but it’s still a party worth creating beautiful and informational invitations to celebrate.
