If there is one thing we’ve learned from the Covid 19 pandemic, it’s how much we truly love to be together. We’ve missed that feeling of togetherness, the hugs and kisses that would normally accompany a well wish or congratulations.
The tight squeeze of someone’s hand when sharing exciting news or a moment of anticipation. While I think we will see impacts of our separation for a while, I do think people will be very happy to be back to celebrating life's special moments in a big way when we can! I do not think we will be seeing large gatherings for a little while longer, but I do see many small and beautiful little celebrations in our near future. They might just look a little different than they used to.
An intimate shower experience whether virtual or hosted in person can both be lovingly planned and flawlessly executed to engage your guests in a way they never have before. For example, if you are able to host your event in person, opt for an outdoor venue. Guests will vary in their comfort level to be indoors with others for a while and this will allow everyone an extra level of comfort and space. For the safety of everyone take it outside. Plan on a seated guest experience and design their place setting with as many individual elements as appropriate. If you are doing a high tea, each guest can have their own jam and preserves, or individually plated scones and cream. Think major Bridgerton-inspo here and go for an opulent garden party theme!
Should you decide to host your guests virtually, prepare and send custom boxes to suit the occasion filled with event branded items for guests to enjoy from the comfort of their home. For this experience think high tea boxes with a little sandwiches, mini sweets and a tea kit for an at home high tea experience. To elevate the virtual experience II also recommend investing in professional help to take care of the filming and live streaming for you. The feed will be perfectly shared with those watching, recorded and onsite technical support is always a good idea.
Baby showers have long been an intimate celebration of the mom to be’s nearest and dearest friends and family, to shower her and her new baby with love. As the host, be thoughtful of the guest of honours wishes and comfort level and be sure to provide her with a safe environment to relax and enjoy the experience. Hot Tip - this is your photo opp for your guest of honour. Design an area for her by creating a vignette with an pretty (and comfortable) chair, a small table for her food and drinks and florals to accent the space.
I’ve been lucky enough to have had two beautiful showers hosted for me. The first an intimate and beautifully hosted event by my big brother. And a second affair thrown by my industry colleagues who shocked me with the surprise of a lifetime. Both events were incredibly different and yet each hold their own weight in magic and moments I’ll never forget. What matters most are the people you chose to celebrate with!
Ashley Pigott is the lead planner and owner of Ashley Pigott Events, a luxury wedding and events planning company specializing in private estate and tented weddings in Ontario, CA.
Her attention to detail, sophisticated aesthetic and exceptional logistical skills have allowed her to create some of the country's most jaw dropping weddings and events. In addition to her incredible events, Ashley is mom to two daughters, Grace (seven) and Ruby (two) and spends countless hours making snacks like everyone else. She’s a wannabe Pinterest mom who tries her hardest, and she sings along to every Disney tune no matter how out of tune she may be. She’s a fun mom.