Working women often have little time to meet and celebrate with friends. Between work, family, and social obligations, it seems like there’s always something getting in the way. But that doesn’t mean you have to forgo celebrations altogether!
It’s important to take some time out of every day to wind down and relax with friends. Celebrating is a great way to do that! Whether you’re marking a special occasion or just taking a break from the everyday humdrum, celebrations are a fun way to let loose and have some laughs. So don’t be afraid to mark your calendar for some upcoming celebrations!
Here are some key tips for holding celebrations as busy adults:
Check everyone’s schedules first!
Before even planning for a celebration, make sure you check everyone’s schedules. You don’t want to plan a big bash only to find out that half your friends can’t make it. Once you’ve got a good idea of who can come and when they are available, you can start planning the details.
If you can, try to keep the details of your celebration realistic and achievable since last-minute changes can often throw a wrench in the works. Trying to accommodate everyone’s schedules can be tricky, but it’s worth it to ensure everyone can come and enjoy themselves. Plus, keeping the party simple will allow everyone to relax and have a good time.
Everyone should chip in
Whatever celebration you and your friends are planning, everyone should chip in. Whether it’s bringing food or drinks, helping to set up or clean up, or chipping in for a special activity, making sure everyone contributes will help the party run smoothly and prevent any one person from feeling overwhelmed. This goes the same for splitting the bill — no one likes being stuck with a huge tab, so make sure everyone pays their fair share.
In addition to chipping in, it’s also important that everyone is respectful of each other’s time and energy levels. If someone is clearly exhausted, don’t pressure them to stay out late or participate in activities they’re not comfortable with. Let them know it’s okay to take a break or head home early and that you understand if they can’t make it to the entire celebration.
Keep it Simple
Since it’s already established that you and your circle are busybodies, it’s important to keep celebrations simple. Choose activities that won’t take up too much time or energy, and opt for potluck-style meals so that everyone can contribute without having to cook an entire meal from scratch. You can also use this opportunity to streamline your guest list and only invite those who you know will be able to attend.
When it comes to birthday gifts, a great option is to have each one prepare a small and thoughtful present for the birthday celebrant. Add to that a birthday gift basket full of sweets and treats, and you’re sure the celebrant will cherish the thoughtfulness of the gesture.
Make use of Technology
These days, especially after the pandemic, some people could still be hesitant to go out in crowds. If that’s the case for some of your friends, make use of technology and hold a virtual celebration! You can still do all the things you would do at an in-person party, like playing games, sharing stories, and eating together (if you’re feeling ambitious, you can even cook the same meal and enjoy it while on video chat). The best part is that you can include anyone in the world in your celebration, no matter where they are.
Think Outside the Box
Just like holding virtual celebrations with your friends who live away from you, there are many other ways to get creative with your celebrations. If you can’t have an in-person gathering, try doing something special for each person individually. For example, you could send a care package to your long-distance friends or treat your close friends to a day of pampering. Whatever you do, make sure it’s something that everyone can enjoy and will remember fondly.
You can also choose to celebrate accomplishments outside of the traditional birthday or holiday. If you and your friends have just finished a big project at work, why not go out for drinks to celebrate? Or, if you’re finally taking that long-awaited vacation, plan a small gathering before your friends send you off in style.
Celebrate Your Way!
Lastly, whatever party or celebration you come up with, make sure you and your friends truly have a good time in the end. That’s what celebrations are all about! Let loose, have some fun, and make memories that will last a lifetime. It’s perfectly fine if your celebrations don’t look like everyone else’s. In fact, that’s what makes them special. What matters is that you celebrate your way and enjoy every minute of it.