Photo credit: Adam Bradley
8 Tips for Hosting Events & Celebrating Safely in 2021
from Lakeside Productions
as featured in Westchester NY Moms
Celebrations and private affairs of all kinds were forced to a halt last year as the world faced the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that the vaccine rollout is kicking in and the warmer weather is upon us, it’s time to consider rescheduling that postponed event, throwing a birthday party for your kids, celebrating graduation, or planing a socially distant gathering.
We understand private events will look very different now and for the foreseeable future. Taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus is the responsible thing to do and will continue to be on the minds of hosts and guests well into 2021 and beyond.
Lakeside Productions offers these tips to plan an event that’s safe AND fun:
1. Limit Your Guest List
Depending on where you live the number of people allowed to attend a gathering will vary. We suggest starting small and focusing on the family you’ve only been able to see on zoom over the past year and a few friends in your inner circle that you’ve been wanting to reconnect with. Anyone who has already gotten the vaccine is a plus!
2. Take it to the Great Outdoors
With the warmer weather upon us this makes lot of sense. If you’re having an event at your house or even at a venue go for the outdoor option if you can. It’s easier to keep your distance and nature can provide a beautiful setting for the festivities as well. Just remember you may need shade or a tent depending on location and the forecast to keep your guests comfortable.
3. Maintain Social Distance It’s important to remember to keep your distance. Space chairs and tables far enough apart and any games or activities should be thought out so that everyone maintains their distance
4. Practice Safety First
Require and provide facemasks, provide sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. You can have disposable masks for anyone who needs them, or you can take it a step further by customizing face masks to commemorate the event. Also, go for the oversized hand sanitizers and station them throughout the venue along with disinfectant wipes.
5. Offer an Online Streaming Option
Creating a schedule for the event and offering people who can’t be there in person to join for a part of the festivities could be a nice idea. Joining on zoom for 20 minutes while you’re singing happy birthday, opening presents, or the cutting of the cake can be a good way for your loved ones to still feel connected to you and the occasion without being there physically.
6. Time to Eat and Be Merry
Serve plated meals, individualized desserts (cookies or cupcakes), juice boxes, can sodas, etc. This will make your guests feel more comfortable and limits the risk of spreading germs.
7. Dance in Pods Opting for no dance floor may be the better choice in some areas or venues but if you just can’t help yourself, we suggest dancing in groups with your family and keeping your distance from others.
8. Communicate the Party Guidelines in Advance It’s a good idea to communicate the precautions you are taking and your expectations to everyone beforehand. This will help ease any anxiety about what will most likely be the first event being attended for many since the pandemic started. Over communicate with your venue and vendors as well. Remember that celebrating safely and keeping everyone healthy while having fun is the key!
Keep in mind that the restrictions and guidelines will vary depending on your location. Stay up to date by visiting the CDC website here.
For more information on socially distant events, our availability, the precautions we are taking, and how we can celebrate safely together please email us at info@lakesideproductions.com or visit lakesideproductions.com.