We get it…social distancing means those special occasions aren’t going to look the same this year. But we think that’s all the more reason to celebrate them! It gives you something to look forward to, something to brighten your day, and a way to break the monotony. Holidays, birthdays, anniversaries – they all deserve a celebration. Heck, we think putting on jeans (and being able to button them!) even deserves a celebration these days. So here are 7 ways you can celebrate that special occasion, whatever it may be.
Order takeout or delivery.
You knew this one was coming, didn’t you? Celebrating is the perfect reason to avoid cooking, support a local business, and maybe branch out to try somewhere new. Here are a few of our current favorite takeout spots …or try these if you’re looking for some awesome Thai. PS – this totally includes desserts, too. Many bakeries and registered home bakeries are still making special orders (and some will even deliver or ship!), which is the perfect way to celebrate, well, anything. Come on, wouldn’t those cookies from Becka Bakes brighten your day??
Try a new recipe.
Cooking, baking, it doesn’t matter. Break out that recipe you’ve had pinned for forever and give it a try! Even better if you sip on some wine or a cocktail while you cook. Which also helps if you mess the recipe up a little and it needs a little, well, help 😉
Splurge on a new adult beverage.
Get curbside pickup from that brewery or winery you’ve been meaning to try (or have it delivered!). Or try a new cocktail recipe. Nothing screams celebration like having a drink in your hand.
Dress up for dinner.
We haven’t put real clothes on since…when did the Stay Home order come out? Dressing up for dinner – clothes, makeup, hair, the whole nine yards, sounds like the fanciest thing we can think of right now, and a really fun way to spend the evening.
Celebrate together apart.
There’s no shortage of virtual hangout options, so gather up your friends and family and celebrate together. Make it a game night or just sit around and talk – either way, you’re going to enjoy yourself.
Treat yo’self.
Some of us have nothing but time, and some of us are struggling to balance everything right now. Use a special occasion as an excuse to practice self-care – whatever that means to you. We have a few pre-social-distancing ideas here, and you could easily adapt many of them. Give yourself a mani-pedi, do a virtual workout class (virtual Biceps and Brunch, anyone?), or rent a movie and go all out with popcorn and candy.
Treat yo’self: retail edition.
Get that new shirt you’ve been eyeing up. Order a new book you’ve been wanting. Or how about something to spruce up your living room? No matter what you’re looking for, we guarantee you can find it locally, so you’re also supporting a Pittsburgh business. Which basically means you have to get it, right?
If none of these ideas are up your alley, think about how you would normally celebrate something special…and figure out a way to adapt it. Travel is obviously not an option, but maybe spending an evening planning out your next trip (date TBD) sounds amazing. And, if all else fails, you can just start planning out your delayed celebration for when we can celebrate together again.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
