How to Host a Virtual Holiday Gathering While Away from Family

1. Choose the Right Platform: Select a video conferencing platform that suits your needs. Options like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet offer user-friendly interfaces and features to enhance your gathering.

2. Send Invites Early: Notify your guests well in advance, providing details about the date, time, and platform. This gives everyone ample time to prepare and set aside the date for your gathering.

3. Plan Activities: Keep the gathering engaging by planning fun activities. Consider virtual games, quizzes, or holiday-themed challenges that everyone can participate in, regardless of location.

4. Coordinate a Shared Meal: Encourage guests to prepare the same meal or holiday dish. You can even organize a cooking session where everyone prepares a meal together, sharing recipes and tips along the way.

5. Create a Festive Atmosphere: Decorate your virtual background or set up a cozy space in your home to make the gathering feel festive. Use holiday decorations to bring cheer to your video calls.

6. Capture the Moments: Don’t forget to take screenshots during the gathering. These snapshots can serve as cherished memories of your virtual holiday together, even if miles apart.

At MIL-Estate, we understand that military families often face challenges during the holidays. Our agents can provide support and tips for making virtual gatherings meaningful, helping you stay connected with loved ones.