Events During a Global Pandemic

What a year. Who knew in March 2020 that we would still be facing Coronavirus almost a year later? And until we reach herd immunity with the vaccine (summer or fall of 2021?) we will be faced with gathering differently – for work, fundraising, and social events. But events are still worth having! Occasions should still be marked. Memories can still be made. There are three main ways to still connect safely– virtual/online, in-person with precautions, or hybrid.  

By now, most are familiar with Zoom, Facetime, Facebook Live, Teams, Google Meet and the like for work, school, and connecting with family and friends. But there are so many great options and add-ons to make these virtual events something to remember! Add online entertainment (games, magic, music, etc.), a surprise guest, or a well-wish video. Bring in an expert to teach a skill (beer/wine tasting or flower arranging/terrarium creating), or simply do a craft or activity together (cupcake or cookie decorating, sushi, origami or cocktail/mocktail making, or a costume contest). Even eating the same food at the same time connects us. Have the same meal delivered via DoorDash, Uber Eats, Caviar, Grub Hub, etc. if participants are far apart. Or work with a local restaurant or caterer to arrange pick up/delivery if your group lives near by. Breaking bread online is still a communal experience.

In-person events are a challenge as guidelines are continually changing. Sometimes we can gather indoors, but in limited numbers. Sometimes it’s outside only. It is important to check with your state and county governments to make sure you are abiding by current rules, guidelines and suggestions. Do you need testing, tenting, or pre-packaged food? Do you need additional A/V and/or rentals to allow for physical distancing?  For a birthday or anniversary, consider the newly-popular drive by parades, lawn visitors with signs and gifts, surprise porch serenades, and/or decorate the house with custom balloon arrangements or lawn signs. 

Even if it’s just your household gathering in person, you can still make it fun and interesting. Of course there are game and movie nights, but how about everyone change out of their athleisure wear, set the table with the good china, and make or take-out a fancy meal? Organize a scavenger hunt (inside or outside) or sign up for an online class or virtual tour that you can take together as a family.

Hybrid events are a combination of in-person attendance and online participation.  A limited number of people get together in the same space and others join in virtually. This can work for meetings and conferences, micro-weddings and mini-mitvahs. It can be as simple as a laptop set up near the person speaking, or as multi-layered as monitors, microphones, and multiple cameras. The quality can vary greatly, so it’s important to assess your needs, set goals and manage expectations.

Pine Hill Events is ready and able to help with all of your pandemic event needs!  We have tons of ideas, vendor suggestions, organization and experience to help make it happen. Our joy is bringing people together to make memories and we can still do it!