#StayConnected with Virtual Birthday Parties

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by The Regional Municipality of York (York Region). As always, all the opinions on my blog are my own.

The pandemic has taken a lot from us in the last year: missed family gatherings, cancelled events, delayed travel, to name only a few. I know I’m not the only one who took all of these things for granted. 

But to see Isabelle’s face when I told her she couldn’t have a Birthday party because of COVID, I knew I had to do something to mark the occasion, even if it was a different type of party. And I reminded her that although she couldn’t see her friends in person, there are still safe ways to celebrate.

We set out to plan the party similar to how we would in person: we made digital invites, collected RSVPs and had party kits with cupcakes and crafts delivered to each guest. A DIY balloon arrangement and my houseplants became the perfect backdrop to the mermaid-themed event, and Isabelle even made her own custom playlist for the online dance party. 

We didn’t compare in-person or virtual. We treated virtual as a new and cool way to celebrate, which it totally is.

And then Mommy and Daddy followed the rules and stayed out of the kitchen so the kids could talk and laugh and share their crafts. And you know, in a weird 2021 way, it seemed almost normal.

As resilient as kids are, like adults, they need connections and to talk and socialize with their friends. At the end of the party, some of the kids said they had “so much fun” and it was the “best party ever!”. Mom win. I’m glad I could bring some joy at this time. Wanna know another win – or a few? Very little mess, cost-effective and easy to execute! In terms of parties I’ve thrown, this was by far the easiest.

As we continue to follow public health measures and stay home as much as possible, it’s important to stay connected and check in on one another – a text, a virtual chat, or a phone call, especially for those who may not be online, like older family members. 

To help you get back in touch and inspire new ideas, check out York Region’s #YRStayConnected resources for ways to stay connected with others, while staying safely apart: york.ca/stayconnected.

How are you connecting with loved ones, staying in touch with friends or finding love in a creative, yet physically distanced way? 

I’d love to hear your stories on how you've been able to safely stay connected during the pandemic.

Stay safe and connected,