It’s one of the sad effects of the Coronavirus Pandemic - cancelled parties and events. Our friends with Aries, Taurus, and probably Gemini, birthdays won’t be able to celebrate in the same way!

My son Ryan has been looking forward to his birthday and birthday party for months. (Yes, months!) He is turning four years old today, and has helped me pick out his party theme and all the party supplies. Much like his mama, this kid LOVES parties! He’s still pretty young though so he doesn’t quite understand what is going on, or why school is closed, or why he can’t go to the park with his friends. He was pretty disappointed that his birthday party had to be cancelled, too. But I told him that we were still going to have a party - it was just going to look a little different from the party we had originally planned! (Challenge accepted, right?!)

So, here’s the big question … HOW do you have a birthday party for your kid during a global pandemic?! And How do you make it fun?!

I have a few tips and ideas to share with you so that you can still celebrate all the fun milestones in your family and make those special memories we all cherish!

1: Get The Party Supplies

Decorate like it’s a party! I know it might seem like an easy detail to skip over, but getting the party supplies - the plates, the cups, the napkins - will help it feel like a party! You’re wanting to create something that is different from your every day. What better way to make this day feel special than with cute and fun party supplies?! You won’t need to purchase enough paper goods for 20+ guests, but you can still buy enough for your family to have a fun celebration. Plus, party supplies really helps amp up that party vibe!

Here at The Graceful Host Party Shop, I have actually created mini versions of our party kits! I wanted to provide our customers with a super easy way to create a party during this crazy time. Our Quarantine Party Sets are available for purchase - and if you don’t see a set that fits your party theme or idea, please reach out so that I can create something special just for you!

2: Eat Cake

Or whatever dessert the birthday boy or girl is requesting! Don’t skip the dessert - after all, a party without cake is just a meeting, right?! (Gotta love Julia Childs!) Involve your kids in the process of making their cake, or consider purchasing from a local bakery, grocery store, or restaurant - most are still up and running during this time and could really use your support.

3: Don’t Forget The Balloons

Balloons are like my secret weapon when it comes to party planning. They’re inexpensive, yet very impactful! Balloons can provide a huge infusion of color and create a playful, fun party atmosphere. Consider getting a bag of multi colored balloons, or balloons in a certain color scheme, to fill (with air!) to fill a room with balloons! We always like waking up our kids by showering them with balloons - such a fun way to begin the day. Plus, balloons filled with air will last for days (and days and days! I’m talking weeks, y’all!) So you’re also creating entertainment possibilities that will last you beyond the birthday party.

Also, consider reaching out to your local balloon vendors and party shops because many all across the USA are doing special balloon deliveries that are contact-less and adhering to social distancing! (If you’re in the Mandeville, Covington, Madisonville area of South Louisiana, I’d be happy to help with balloon services!)

4: Create A Fun Activity

Kids love to do activities! You can still have a fun activity or game ready to go, just as if you were still expeciting a bunch of kids!
- Painting outside on a larger canvas made of carboard
- A birthday scavenger hunt
- Water games with a water table or pool
- Create an obstcale course in your home or yard
- Set-up a fun, multi-step craft project

Or maybe this is a great opportunity to do a game or activity that would not be possible (or maybe it’d be just too stressful) to do with a larger group.

5: Use Technology

Technology is such a huge blessing right now! Use some sort of streaming like Zoom, or Google Hangout, or FaceTime to have a virtual celebration. It’s a great way to safely involve grandparents and friends, too! Set a time for singing happy birthday, and text or email the info to your virtual guests to that they can all dial in when it’s time to celebrate the birthday boy or girl!

6: Arrange For A Yard Sign Delivery

It’s so fun seeing kids faces light up over big, colorful signs in their own front yard. These yard sign services are provided all across the USA, and are contact-less … so, another great way to celebrate your child while supporting a local business! Plus, it’s a public way of sharing that it’s your kids special day, so expect a few happy birthday waves or honks from those passing by.

7: Set-Up A Drive By Parade

You’ve probably seen videos of these drive by parade’s happening as a result of the Coronoavirus … I love this trend so much! Set-up a time for your family and friends to drive by and wish happy birthday to your birthday boy or girl, as you stand on your front step and watch. Encourage your parade guests to make signs, and maybe consider having your child hold up a thank you sign - and then get ready to wave as if you were Kate Middleton!

8: Ask For Birthday Cards

A few weeks ago I posted on Facebook about Ryan’s birthday being cancelled, and that I’d love to shower him with cards to show him that people are thinking about him on his special day. I’m not normally one to make requests like that, but I’ve seen the power of social media at work in the past and thought I’d give it a shot. Y’all. I was just blown away by the response! We have had dozens and dozens of cards coming in the mail over the last two weeks! Like most kids, Ryan LOVES the mail. So I know this is just going to bring him so much excitement. I plan on putting the cards and letters in the mailbox and have him go retrieve all the letters himself.

Are you hosting a party during quarantine? Check out our Party Shop or send us an email - I’d love to help you create a one of a kind celebration!

XO,
A.