Contents...
The world is opening up again just in time for Easter. While we’re excited to be gathering again, not everyone is comfortable getting together, elbow to elbow like we once did. It’s no wonder that in addition to declining virus numbers in Los Angeles, we’ve seen a much-improved flu season! We’ve learned so much and we just can’t go back to exactly how things were. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help us have a safe and beautiful Easter for all.
Do keep it small
When you invite folks over, don’t be surprised if the first question is, ‘Who else is coming?’ People want to know you’re being a responsible host and not having a gathering too big, too fast. The plus side of this is that you get to set an intimate lunch or dinner table! You can decorate one beautiful table with florals, nicer tableware, and also have a group conversation where everyone feels involved.
Don’t skip the traditions
Ok, this is really a do…do dye eggs, do do an egg hunt, do go to Easter services (online or in person, whichever you feel most comfortable doing). We’ve held out so long, this is not the year to hold back. We’ve got some retroactive celebrating to do!
Do try to host outdoors
Being outdoors gives you the best air circulation, plain and simple. To make things more comfortable, think about having pop-up tents or umbrellas out for shade from the sun. Or if the weather is cool, have throw blankets washed and ready to put out for guests to use to stay warm. Indoors is still an option but try outdoors first. Plus this gives you a great view of the Easter egg hunt!
Don’t make a giant punch bowl cocktail
Instead, fill that punch bowl with ice and put in cans of rose, sparkling wine, and other individual drinks. Add some flowers to the bowl and it will look gorgeous! You can still have a drink station, but keep it simple. No need to go all out with the Michelada bar this time. Keep a simple Miche mix available to add to a good quality beer, and you’re all set.
Do make a pretty sanitation station
While hand sanitizer is a must, it doesn’t mean you have to get it from the neighborhood gas station. Splurge on some nice smelling hand sanitizer. Put it on a bed of fake grass with colored Easter eggs around it. Add some fun Easter decor and flowers next to a tray with gloves and disposable masks. It can still look pretty and functional.
Don’t share serving utensils
If possible, have one person serving food. Or if you are doing a buffet, try to pre-slice food like ham or lasagna so it’s easy to serve. Order or create some individual charcuterie cones for an appetizer. Have a box of food-serving gloves handy that folks use if they feel more comfortable.
For treats, opt for cupcakes or other treats that can be handled individually. Cake pops, confetti rice krispy treats, and candy apples make beautiful and delicious treat options.
Don’t shame vaccine-hesitant folks, but do encourage vaccine story sharing
We all know folks who are on the fence about taking the vaccine. We’re finding that the best way to have open, frank, and honest conversations about it is through peer-to-peer talks. We are a little biased and want everyone to get vaccinated, but at the very least, talking about it helps give everyone a chance to share their perspective.
Overall, we recommend easing back into celebrations. We’re all a little rusty and there’s no need to overdo it. We will all need to rethink the way that we always did things, but don’t let that get in the way of enjoying a little normalcy with family and friends. We hope you have a beautiful Easter!
