Party On, But Safely

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER Celebrations Safe PHOTOS PROVIDED

During tough times, seize the opportunity to smile and laugh. It’s a welcome release. “We just need to laugh because none of us knows what’s going on,” said Kirsten Lambert, owner of Saratoga Tailgate & Party. Since her shop opened on Caroline Street in June, Lambert said she has become almost like a “Party Therapist” because so many people are coming in asking for advice on how to have safe celebrations. “This is all so new, people just don’t know how to do any social stuff right now.”

Avoiding Party Fouls

Ways to do get-togethers without COVID coming to crash the party: -Online Parties: Before logging into a video chat, send guests fun trivia questions, baby shower quizzes or drop off “Minute-to-Win-It” party supplies and let the competition – and the laughs - begin! -Host in Shifts: Planning on a bigger fiesta? Split it up into smaller groups – have a brunch in the morning, kids party in the afternoon, and save the evening celebrations for the adults.

Bring Something to the Party

Sometimes, just finding items that spark your imagination is reason enough to celebrate – which is why a stroll around Saratoga Tailgate & Party may be just what the doctor ordered. Clever signage, party supplies, games and unique gift items fill the shelves – making it easy to put together themed kits. “Wine Fairy,” “Hangover,” “College” and “Back-to-School” Survival kits are just a some of the possibilities.

Sanity Savers

A teacher for 25 years, Lambert, who is also a mother of four, is very familiar with the struggles school staff, parents and students will be facing this fall. Luckily, the Party Therapist has a prescription for that, as well. Make safety stylish by sending kids to school wearing “Sanitizer Bracelets.” Opting for remote learning? Break-up the long hours of virtual classes by keeping little hands busy with fidget pens. Of course, you could just brighten someone’s day with “Placebos” – mints offering relief from “Parenting Exhaustion,” “Uncertainty” and “Pandemic Fatigue.” For more information go to www.tailgateandparty.com