By Kris James

Birthdays are special. Not only do they mark the passing of another fabulous trip around the sun, but they’re also one of the best ways to gather your friends and family for all the festive desserts, cute cocktails, and whimsical decor your heart desires. The thought of sitting at home by yourself instead of having a bash with all your best friends probably wouldn’t have sounded ideal just a few weeks ago. This year will be different. During this time of social distancing, as a result of COVID-19, get-togethers both small and large have been called off, leaving many spring babies like myself to celebrate at home.

April is a big month for me, not only is it my birth month but next week According to Kris turns one. Of course, canceling plans had me feeling defeated but it was a conversation with a friend of mine whose birthday is just a few days ahead of mine that gave me hope. As I sat there listing to my friend tell me how he wasn’t going to let this situation get the best of him I got inspired. He told me, “Since I’m a photographer, this year I had the big idea to have my party in a huge photo studio, have a DJ, games, and a fun photo set going on.” Despite canceling his original party, my friend is moving forward with a digital gathering for all his friends, and he’s not alone.

While you may not be able to throw the party you had planned, there’s no reason to skip the celebration altogether. If you or someone you love has a birthday coming up, plan one of these virtual birthday party ideas you can do at home. From sending your friend a delivery of champagne to hosting a party via video chat, there are plenty of ways to make the birthday girl or boy feel loved on their special day. And when this pandemic ends, and it will end, you’ll have every excuse to throw the biggest, baddest birthday party of all time.

Host a virtual birthday party on Zoom. If you’re not able to get out of your house and your friends are not able to come over either, you can still have a virtual birthday celebration, all thanks to technology. Call up some of your close ones while you cut your cake and have a different kind of birthday party.

Host a Netflix party. For all those introverts who hate going out even on their birthdays, now you can binge-watch your favorite shows. Sit at home, hoard your favorite snacks and relax as you watch your favorite movies and shows

Do a group workout. Instead of a virtual party, a group work-out would be a great stress reliever or maybe meditate.

Get glammed up. Even though you cannot get out of the house, you can still dress up and enjoy your day. Dress up in your favorite outfit and celebrate your birthday at home with your family and friends.

Decorate the house the night before. After everyone has gone to bed the night before their birthday, put up some birthday decorations that they get to wake to!

Treat yourself with a feast. Since it’s your day, you deserve a feast. Cook some of your favorite dishes from scratch at home. From appetizers to desserts, treat yourself with a scrumptious meal and drinks made at home. This can also be a way to bond with your family members and enjoy a meal together.