THE COOL CLUB
Is there anything worse than planning a BBQ, gathering your friends and family at yours on a hazy summers’ day, cooking up a storm and serving the coolest drinks, to find that your guests are on their phones all afternoon? We don’t think so!
This summer, we want to bring back the art of in-person conversation. We want to remind people to live in the moment and have real life experiences! That’s why at your next BBQ, we recommend banning your guests’ phones – it may sound crazy, but there’s so many benefits to banning phones.
More conversation
Our number one benefit is simply more conversation among the group. Being present and engaging in conversation with other guests is the most obvious and important way to build connections, meet new people, or catch-up with old friends. Meeting new people can be fun, and it’s much easier done when guests aren’t glued to the comfort of their phone. And who knows, by engaging in conversation, guests might learn something new or make a new life-long friend!
We have plenty of ice breakers or conversations topics to get the conversation flowing. Or, check out our quick and easy games to break the ice.
Less distractions
If you’re the host with the most and you love a bit of fun and games at your events, something your guests can engage and interact with, there’s no bigger kill joy than a friend or family member who half-heartedly joins in because they’re on their phone. Lock the phones away and get your guests involved in something fun like a cocktail making session to really create a buzz! There’s plenty of recipes and top tips on our blog for your guests to try their hand at.
Screen-free time
Don’t we all crave some screen-free time? Your guests, if anything, will probably be glad for the freedom. Having an excuse to not have to check their phone may come as a blessing and could provide a much-needed stress-free afternoon. Having time away from phones has proven physical and mental health benefits – it helps avoid ‘tech neck’ and aids better posture and helps relieve stress and anxiety.
Nostalgic theme
Ridding of phones from a BBQ can also be an added fun feature by bringing a hint of nostalgia. Instead of using your smart phone to capture memories, set little disposable cameras for your guests around the house and garden – your family and friends will love the novelty! Or consider purchasing a polaroid, so your guests can have something to take away with them to remember your event by.
It’s important to say that these measures be taken within reason (of course!). If someone is expecting an important phone call or has to check up on their children, there are exceptions! It will be best to give your guests a heads-up upon invitation that your BBQ will be a no-phone-zone, so they can make the necessary arrangements or politely decline as needed.
