How to Stay Connected While Social Distancing

With social distancing and public health and safety a top priority during the coronavirus pandemic, working from home has become the new normal. Now, more than ever, it is important to stay connected with friends, family, and the outside world, while still flattening the curve. 

Luckily, we live in a world where virtual meetups are not only fun but also very easy with accessibility to multiple digital platforms. With that being said, it’s time to start scheduling some virtual gatherings! You can practice social distancing and still fill your social calendar. Here’s how to get started: 

Choose a Virtual Platform

FaceTime: With group FaceTime now available (or Google Duo—used to connect iOS and Android devices), it’s easier than ever to chat with friends near and far. 

Google Hangouts: With Hangouts Meet you can connect from anywhere, with easy-to-join video calls and can send calendar invites to guests to schedule ahead of time.

Bonus Tip: Both of these platforms are free. And, with each of these platforms, you can use your laptop, smartphone or even a smart tv for ultimate viewing! 

Pick a Virtual Event Theme

When having a virtual get together, the possibilities are endless. Pick the best ‘theme’ for your gathering and enjoy the time with your favorite people remotely:

Stream it Together

Museum Tours: The Google Arts & Culture page has made it possible to tour any museum you’d like, anywhere in the world, from your living room.  

Concerts: Many celebrity musicians are hosting live performances. Check their social media channels (mostly Facebook and Instagram) for information on their daily streaming. You might be able to snag a front row seat to your favorite artist! 

Zoos & Aquariums: Follow your animal venue on Facebook for daily live views or tons of videos available. Some zoos, like the San Diego Zoo, have live cameras that you can watch all day every day. 

Movies: Courtesy of Netflix, try Netflix Party. Available on desktop or laptops, the free service allows synchronized video playback and a group chat feature for you and your friends to watch your favorite Netflix shows together. 

Host it Together

Utilizing the same virtual platforms, you can host an event that you regularly host or attend, and try to keep a certain level of normalcy.  

Happy Hour: Does your office typically have a ‘Thirsty Thursday’ or regular weekly happy hour? No need to cancel—host it remotely! Everyone brings their own beverage of choice.  

Girls/Guys Night: Put out your favorite snacks and drinks (cocktails or non-alcoholic!). Choose your favorite comfy spot and catch up with your best pals. 

Share it 

We’re all in this together! It’s the perfect time to share your virtual experiences and inspire others to host virtual events too. Post on your social media channel of choice (Facebook live? Instagram Stories? A static post to remember forever?). Whatever it is, share your ideas, tips and tricks, and examples of the fun being had amid the circumstances. The positive energy will be appreciated by all viewers.

While we all continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, we at The Bash hope everyone stays safe and well during this time. We’d love to hear about any of your virtual events—please email marketing@thebash.com.