Cola, we love seeing how creative you are being in the face of physical distancing + stay-at-home orders. The support you’re showing our small businesses locally is incredible, and we are honored you are sharing what you’re up to with us as you make the best out of each day. Keep that up, we love seeing it.

These days almost anything goes – wearing pajamas to work, not keeping up with your hair or makeup from your couch, or binge watching an entire series in one sitting. Just because everything else has gone awry doesn’t mean your dating/social life has to. Love + friendship has not been canceled. Here are some ideas to get you started for a Friday night with your person or your besties. Pro tip: There is no harm in dressing up.

If you live in Columbia

🍷 Call ahead order + pick up any basics like wine from Market on Main.

🍕 Wanting to get your hands dirty? Try the build your own pizza kit from Village Idiot Pizza, Forest Acres + Olympia locations only.

🎲 Bring out your competitive side with a game night like virtual scrabble, or break out a deck of cards.

🎨 Get outside and spread some cheer. Many neighborhoods are participating in #ChalkYourWalk, a creative expression of decorating your driveway or sidewalk area with chalk designs. Get creative + tag us when you share your designs.

🧀 Feeling more of a light meal or snack check out the Gourmet Shop for your Charcuterie board supplies.

🎥 Tune in to watch the livestream of the night’s scheduled Indie Grits Festival features.

🧁 Make it a sweet ending. Decorate your own cupcakes with a kit from Smallcakes Columbia.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-cGAUdH0_u/

Decorate your own cupcake kit | Photo via @smallcakes.columbiasc

If you live in West Columbia/Lexington

🐓 Order you dinner kit to-go from Black Rooster, #ProTip - The menu is updated + shared everyday on their Facebook page.

🥞 Other dinner ideas not stacking up? Try breakfast for dinner from Cafe Strudel.

🌿 Get some fresh air + take a stroll along the Cayce Riverwalk.

🖌️ AR Workshop Lexington is offering pre-ordered craft kits to complete at home, including a mystery kit for those who are indecisive.

🍲 Looking to shake up your typical dinner options? Order from the to go menu from Bodhi, bonus there are delivery options available so you don't even have to leave your house.

🍺 Grab a growler or a to-go case of local brew from Steel Hands, they are currently running a ‘steel’ of a deal on these to-go options.These are just a few ideas to get you started in taking another step in the new, normal direction. If nothing sounds right, you can always #StayInCookOutCola and let us know how that goes. On your date night remember to enjoy the little things + to check in on those you care about. ❤️