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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCT chapter.

Ever since the start of the quarantine, the celebrations we have every year have drastically changed. Most, if not all, parties such as baby showers, gender reveals, family reunions, and even weddings have taken to programs like Zoom and Skype to attempt to recreate the kind of unions we have lost while stuck in our homes.

We even have to relook at how we celebrate our birthdays. But, where do we begin? How can we even be thinking about ourselves at a time like this? The biggest problem we face when even attempting to plan a birthday celebration for ourselves is whether we want a party at all. In the essence of staying at home most of the day and night, some of us by ourselves, the thought of having a party might sound exciting or equally as daunting. So here are some tips or ideas on making your special day special for YOU.

Pamper yourself

Spend the day lounging around in your pyjamas (if you are not doing that already) and remind yourself that this is your day. Forget about work, deadlines, and all that stress and catch up with Netflix or even start a new series that you have been holding off watching for a while. Paint, read, dance! Just spend this day making yourself happy, that is the most important thing.

Home spa day

Spend a little extra time on yourself today, maybe have a bath and light some candles, play some of your favourite music, and sing out loud in the shower. Even doing something as simple as painting your nails, doing a facial or sitting in front of your mirror, and trying out new hairstyles can make you feel loved and feel like yourself again.

Don’t forget the cake!

Cake or any dessert with its likeness is the most important part of any birthday party. A dessert with candles on for you to blow out will make you feel like today is your birthday, even if you’re celebrating it alone. Baking it yourself might be a cheaper option and fun to do when around family or friends, but there is always the option to order a cake from any local restaurants, bakeries, or dessert places.

Spend some time with family, or friends

A celebration is hardly one when you’re completely isolated. Make a point of contacting people you care about to revel in your special day. Or, if you’re lucky enough to be home, bring your family into the celebration with activities such as a family movie night or karaoke or board games (not to say you can’t do all of these things over Zoom and Skype too).

Go to a virtual event

If you’re looking for something completely different to do that’s also unique to quarantine, then be sure to check out any virtual events happening around the time of your birthday. From DJs and comedy shows to keynote speeches on how to become a social media influencer, there will be something for anyone to enjoy.

Jasmine is a third year student at the University of Cape Town, majoring in English and film studies. Writing and reading are her two greatest passions, next to geeking out about the newest Netflix series and listening to chill lo-fi beats.