10 Ways to Stay Safe + Give Back This Holiday Season

If there’s one “upside” to 2020, it’s the ability to slow down our schedules, stay home with our people, and focus on the things that matter most. And while that means forgoing large gatherings with everyone we love, it also means an opportunity to create new traditions with a twist. Stepping into this new season, we’re determined to find creative ways to connect with friends and family from afar while also looking for ways to support those in our community who need it most. While this list is by no means exhaustive, we’re sharing our favorite ideas to recreate traditions and give back during this year like no other.

 

Design and Styling: The Identité Collective | Photography: Madeline Harper

 

STAY SAFE WITH NEW TRADITIONS

 

Large gatherings may be put on pause, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make this season special.  It’s time to think outside the box with new ways to connect, all while keeping everyone safe and healthy. As always, the CDC is a go-to resource for the best practices and considerations as you make any holiday plans.

 

• • PLAN YOUR OWN HIKESGIVING / TURKEY TROT 

Time to work off a few of those Thanksgiving calories! Take your crew out for a hike or walk post-meal to get some time together in the great outdoors. Don’t forget a thermos of spiked cider – obviously.

 

• • GRAB A NEW BOARD GAME

Once the dessert and coffee have been served, it’s time to break out the board games. Stick with the classics like Scrabble, Monopoly, and Clue, or opt for new games like Codenames and Double Ditto. Another fun idea? Try collaborative online games with extended family to get everyone in on the fun.

 

• • HOST A ZOOM + PIE PARTY

Get into hostess mode by scheduling a virtual after-dinner hangout for all your family and friends. Invite each household to share what they’ve made for dessert, and be sure to swap favorite pie recipes while you’re at it. Need some extra conversation starters? Check out these ideas to get you going.

 

• • TAKE BLACK FRIDAY FUN ONLINE

Swap the crowded stores and long lines or an online Black Friday shopping extravaganza. Make it extra fun with a morning mimosa and a virtual get-together involving your usual Black Friday shopping crew. PS: Here’s a comprehensive gift guide to get you started.

 

• • HOLD A THANKSGIVING BONFIRE

Gather your loved ones and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with an after-dinner bonfire. Just be sure to keep things extra safe by not sharing food or drinks with members outside your household, and make sure seating is appropriately spaced.

 

 

 

SHOW SUPPORT + GIVE BACK

 

• • SHOP SMALL

This year more than ever, small businesses need our support! As you’re compiling your 2020 gift list, consider prioritizing female-owned, BIPOC-owned, small + ethical businesses as you shop. Remember to plan ahead for potentially longer lead and ship times, but we promise it’s so worth it. The major retailers certainly have their place within the mix, but let’s do our part to shop small and help lift one another up this holiday season.

 

• • SUPPORT LOCAL

Along with shopping small, remembering to shop local is an easy way to give back to your community. Consider purchasing gift cards to local restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops, or ordering your holiday wreaths and centerpieces from your local florist. After all, how and where we spend our dollars can make a huge impact.

 

• • THANK ESSENTIAL WORKERS

Essential workers are our heroes, and they deserve some heartfelt thanks this holiday season! You can write cards, send out an email, or even purchase a gift—shop a local business as a two-for-one win! Whether it’s your mailman, your doctor, your teachers, your grocery store workers, or anyone in the essential sector, they’ll definitely appreciate your thoughtfulness.

 

• • DONATE YOUR TIME

Donating time is such an underrated act of kindness that goes a long way. This year, offer to run errands for someone who may not be able to safely leave their home or simply drop off a sweet care package at their door. You can also take it one step further and set up a video call to check-in, chat, and see how they’re doing.

 

• • GIFT RESOURCES

Many nonprofit organizations have had to cancel all in-person fundraisers, and could greatly use our support. Find a cause that’s dear to your heart, and consider making a special donation this season.

 

 

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Here’s a few posts we think you’ll love:

• The Ultimate 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
• A Designer’s Guide to Holiday Content
• Holiday Home Tour 2020
• Thanksgiving Table Design, 3 Ways

 

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