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“It’s just an opportunity to unwind, but I think it also helps us to keep that connection because we can’t physically see each other,” said Haniyyah Sharpe Brown.
She works in education communication and loves her network of women. They gather for drinks from time to time, but with COVID-19 restrictions, they decided to meet virtually, using iPhone’s Group Chat Function to host a ladies-only happy hour via FaceTime.
“You basically do everything you do when you do a happy hour in person,” she said. “Everybody has their choice of drinks. We laugh, we cry, we scream.”
Tyson, who works in City Hall, is single and has a roommate. She said being able to see her friends, even if on a phone screen, makes all the difference, especially when people are told to stay at home.
“This gives me an opportunity to connect with people where I already feel safe,” she added.
Here’s how to set up your your own virtual happy hour:
If everyone has an iPhone, create a group chat and then hit the “FaceTime” button. It will invite everyone on the chat to participate.
If all participants do not have an iPhone, Facebook Messenger allows group video chats as well.
Other apps include Houseparty and WeChat. Slack and Zoom also offer group video options.