How I Make Special Days Memorable Despite Being Miles Apart

Celebrating with someone special, whether it be a partner, friend, or family member, isn’t always easy when you live apart. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to show someone you care, even if the distance requires you to make a more concerted effort. Here are a few ways I have made special occasions even more special with my long-distance friends and family. 

1. Plan a Virtual Date 

Technology has made hosting virtual get-togethers easier than ever. If you don’t enjoy video chats, an old-fashioned phone call also works. 

Ideas for a virtual date night I’ve used in the past include: 

• Have a meal together: Order the same food from a favorite takeout place, or even cook the same recipe, and then try your food together while on a call.
• Movie night: Watch together in real time by using screen-sharing apps, or just hit “play” at the same moment to view at the same time. Make it more special by chatting while you watch. 
• Try something new: Do a virtual museum tour. Go stargazing via an online app. Play an online game you both enjoy together, or try one you’ve never played before. The important thing is spending time together. 

2. Send a Care Package 

When I want to let someone know I’m thinking about them, sending a care package is the first thing that comes to mind. It doesn’t always have to be elaborate. Sometimes I’ll find local items to remind them of home, or of times we’ve spent together here in the States. At other times, I’ll find something curated and tailored to their interests, such as personalized gift hampers online. 

The key to finding a great care package or gift basket is to make it personal. Choose items that mean something to you both or that involve an interest or hobby your loved one enjoys. This will be a little different for everyone. 

I’ve also planned gift baskets surrounding a theme or current life event or stage. For instance, my friend across the country is making more of an effort to get out and be more social this year. She’s also looking to expand her career. I sent her a holiday present that included a calendar to keep her new schedule organized, a personalized travel mug, and a motivational book to keep her inspired. 

3. Plan the Next Visit 

Nothing makes having a long-distance relationship or friendship easier than building anticipation for the next time you’ll be together. When I’m missing someone, especially around the holidays or another special date, I’ll start making plans to visit. We work together to come up with fun ideas and activities to do while we’re together. Even if it won’t happen for a while, knowing we’re both committed to seeing each other regularly helps bridge the gap. 

You can do this in whatever way you like. Make an online calendar that you can both edit with fun ideas. Share hotels or house rentals you like. Or browse cities between you both where you might meet for a weekend adventure to explore a new area. 

4. Be Present 

Technology makes keeping in touch even for the mundane day-to-day easier than ever. I share pictures, updates on what I’m doing, and even boring items I’m shopping for to maintain an ongoing connection. This carries over to special occasions. Send photos of your holiday gatherings or decorations so they feel like they’re taking part in it with you. Get input on planning a birthday celebration. Or FaceTime during their engagement party so you’re “with” them on their big day. There are so many ways to let someone know you’re thinking about them, even if it’s just a quick word of encouragement on a big day. 

Final Thoughts 

I’ve found that the most important aspect of staying connected to someone from afar is to be intentional. Even seemingly simple messages, photos, calls, or videos remind them that you’re thinking about them, and you want them to be a part of your everyday life.

Feature image from Pexels.