With the first lockdown Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s no secret that COVID-19 restrictions have put a halt to many of our plans over the last year. However, new research1 from American Express reveals that over half of Brits (54%) haven’t let lockdown stop the fun, actively celebrating at least two special occasions with household members since the first lockdown in March 2020.
Brits looking to liven up lockdown have spent an average of £68, equating to £1.9 billion2 across the country, on items including food, drink and decorations, to celebrate occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, having a baby and graduating.
Top ways Brits celebrate at home
Chosen way to celebrate during lockdown | % of people that have celebrated this way | |
1 | Held a party at home with members of my household | 31% |
2 | Decorated the house with balloons, candles etc. | 30% |
3 | Ordered in a fancy, restaurant quality meal | 27% |
4 | Organised a get together via a video call with family | 27% |
5 | Organised a get together via a video call with friends | 20% |
The research from American Express revealed that, for those who have spent more on celebrations during lockdown (since March 2020) compared to what they would usually spend when they could go out and about, the most popular motivation has been to make the occasion as special and memorable as possible.
In the age of social media it is perhaps unsurprising that 13% say that they have spent more on occasions in order to have photos to share on social media with friends and family.
Other reasons for splashing out include relieving boredom (30%) and having more disposable income to spend on special occasions (27%) because of lockdown restrictions.
Celebrations yet to come
The pandemic has certainly given Brits time to take stock and reflect on all things they may have taken for granted before COVID-19. Whilst two thirds of people are feeling disappointed that they couldn’t celebrate their special occasions in the ways they had planned over the past 12 months, nearly three in five (57%) agree that the restrictions brought about by the pandemic have made them realise they want to celebrate special occasions even more in the future.
American Express offers the following top tips on how to make the most of a lockdown celebration:
Helpful Resource Depending On Your Requirements