How to Host A Quarantine Brunch

Okay, I don’t know who thought y’all weren’t going to get a brunch post, but quarantine can’t stop me. While all the restaurants may be closed, club zoom isn’t. So, if there is a will, there is a way to get your bottomless mimosas/sangria/ rum punch and chicken and waffles. I know everyone has a lot going on, and in no way am I trying to take away from that. However, after two months of quarantine, I think some normalcy is needed. So, stick around and find out how I brunch the quarantine way.

I definitley have to say this idea was not my own. Shortly after the lockdown began, many events I normally attend were suddenly being canceled or forced to move online. This included the anniversary brunch for an organization at my Alma Mater. I won’t lie to y’all I was appalled. You want me to brunch through FaceTime? Where is the fun in that? I know, social distancing and flattening the curve but BRUNCH ONLINE? The absolute ghetto. Well, what I learned from this experience (the brunch I didn’t go to) is that 1. It is hella affordable and 2. you probably won’t drink as much since the drinks are self-serve. YIKES. As they planned the brunch, I realized this wasn’t such a bad idea. So, I decided to do one for myself, and it went off without a hitch.

1. Plan Accordingly

This is not the kind of event where you tell everyone “Alright, hop on zoom at noon on Sunday. See you there !”. If you want this to go as smoothly as a real brunch would (minus the someone not having money at the end ) then you have to treat this like a real event, because it is. Whoever is the host, make sure you create a group chat, a flyer, and a menu if you want to be extra. Pick the platform you would like to use to host the event. If you want to keep it simple, FaceTime is fine, but consider all the moving screens for when you’re lit. Zoom is a great platform, despite the really weird scandal they had going on in late March. It is also accessible from your laptop or phone. Keep in mind, at the end of the call, the host can see all private conversations. Please remember that for when you’re about to send that sneaky links message.

2. What’s On The Menu?

Okay, this is where you can get hella cute. Send all of the brunch attendees recipes for them to make in time for the brunch. Do you miss Dyckman? Pull out the recipe for Maduros. Does nothing hits the spot like some chicken and waffles? Then get the waffle maker heated, because today we gon make chicken and waffles with Oreos (oof my mouth is watering). Even if they don’t want to follow the recipes provided, this makes for great conversation when everyone gets on the call with their food. Here are some of my favorite brunch recipes for Brunch at Home, but you can always try out your own.

Who says the Booze has to stop at the drinks? This Boozy French Toast Bagel is the best way to indulge this weekend.

If you’re the fancy friend, just say so. Baked avocado with smoked salmon is the cutest and healthiest recipe you’ll have this brunch.

Tacos for Breakfast? Shiitake “Bacon” and Egg Breakfast Tacos for Breakfast, Lunch, Linner, Whenever.

 

3. Pour It Up:

Word to the wise, make sure you have enough liquor at home. I know in some states alcohol is not available to purchase, but in NYS the lines for the liquor store are around the block. Why? Well, it isn’t Sunday if there isn’t brunch, and liquor stores are deemed an essential service (Good choice Cuomo). You don’t want to be the friend who has to make a liquor run in the middle of brunch because let’s face it, they’ll be long gone by the time you come back #FOMO. Depending on what you want, you won’t have to spend a fortune at the liquor store. If you’re the fancy friend who tries to order a cosmo at brunch, here is the perfect opportunity to show off your new cocktail skills. Here are a few of my favorite brunch friendly drink recipes:

Moscow Mule Mimosa: This recipe from the cookie rookie will have you on your ass. It’s a great way to bring two of my favorite drinks together for a fun twist on some classics.

Strawberry and Peach Rose Sangria: I don’t know about y’all, but this just screams millennial. If your friends already thought you were the boujee one, then they’ll love this. Plus, it’s the best way to get your daily serving of fruits in #brunchmadehealthy.

Frozen Peach Bellini: Got a sweet tooth? This is the recipe for you, and it’s SO easy. This might become your new summer drink.

4.Perks

Before you’re out here screaming: “The Ghetto, RATATATA” just give this a chance. I know you’re having brunch withdrawals, so why not try out something new. There are so many perks associated with brunching at home. It’s affordable because you know it won’t take you $60 to make that meal. It’s a creative way to not be like everyone at Central Park and actually Social Distance, AND it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with your friends.

You’re saving money, trying out new cooking skills, and getting plastered from the comfort of your dining room. Goodbye, expensive uber rides back to Brooklyn! While Virtual Brunch does not beat the real thing, AT ALL, it’s a start to keep us prepared for the summer we’ll be having indoors. Remember, it isn’t Brunch if it isn’t bottomless.

Stay At Least 6 Feet Away From All of My Favorite Brunch Spots,

 

Bri.