As Valentine’s Day draws near, why not seize the opportunity to catch up with your nearest and dearest? Regardless of relationship status, many have embraced a cozy tradition of also celebrating female friendships during this season, marked by spending time together. Whether you choose to venture out or opt for a cozy night in, the essence lies in the celebration of these cherished connections.
In this post, we’ll delve into the art of ‘Galentines,’ with a focus on the charm of ‘staying in as the new going out.’ Join me as we explore creative, budget-friendly, and effortlessly enjoyable ways to make this Galentine’s Day a memorable celebration of friendship and connection. Lets go ❤️
1. Spa Night
Transform your space into a blissful spa. The host can prepare homemade face masks and treatments, or everyone can join in the fun of creating their own. Really set the mood with hot towels, candles, and soothing music. Encourage guests to bring their comfiest robes and slippers for the ultimate spa experience. A touch of incense or essential oils will elevate the vibes . Additionally, each guest could learn and perform a treatment e.g. hand massage, head massage, gua sha etc, depending on their level of ambition, ensuring that everyone feels pampered and cherished. Check out my post for easy at home spa day ideas!
2. Recycle Beauty Products – Swap Shop
Was that lipstick gift not your style? Did that impulse buy not work for your skin type? Did you accidentally buy the wrong shade of foundation in a hurry? Set up your own beauty product swap shop. Everyone can contribute gently used beauty items they no longer need for a swapping station. It’s an excellent opportunity to try out new products without spending anything, and (from first hand experience) have a good laugh.
3. DIY Photoshoot at Home
Dive into the world of photography with a captivating photoshoot experience. E.g. ‘Alter Ego’ focuses on expressing your alter ego, allowing each participant to showcase a different side of themselves. Or it could be inspired by pre-made vision boards. Through these boards, discover the persona you aspire to be and capture the feeling of your ideal self in a personalized photoshoot, creating lasting memories.
You don’t need any fancy equipment other than your phones. There are tons of pro photographers online sharing their best tips on how to set up a photoshoot at home. As well as models revealing the best posing tricks.
4. Galentines Drinks – Cocktails & Mocktails
Bring out the mixologist in each of your friends by having everyone prepare and serve their signature cocktail or mocktail. It’s a flavorful and festive way to share tastes and preferences, adding a touch of personal flair to the celebration.
5. Galentines Dinner Menu? ‘Girl Dinner’
What is the meaning of a ‘girl dinner’? A girl dinner is simply a variety of snacks and small apptizers, all gathered together as a main meal. Galentines and girl dinner are a perfect match.😊 Give your taste buds a treat with a delicious selction of snack and grazing boards. Each participant can contribute their unique board, ranging from sweet to savory or themed around favorite foods. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, encouraging a sense of culinary creativity and appreciation.
6. Creative Expression
Cap off the evening with a burst of creativity. You could have an art session, whether it be fashion sketches or each of you take turns to model (potentially hilarious). Breathe new life into old clothes through customization. E.g. transforming old denim into a wearable masterpiece. Karaoke, the classic. Or have you ever wanted to learn a special dance style? Burlesque, strip, belly dance, twerk. Again all of these have free tutorials online so you could try them all.
As the night unfolds, your galentine’s day ‘stay in’ becomes a shared playground and sanctuary for creativity, relaxation and fun. Nurturing the power of friendship, self care and expression, making this celebration a cozy tradition, that goes beyond the boundaries of Valentine’s Day. Whether single or attached, bonds can be strengthened, you can all slow down and just catch up on each others lives, with this memorable gathering, celebrating yourselves and the beauty of female friendships. (Galentines Day February 13th)