We’ve all heard of romantic love. But love isn’t limited to romance — familial love, self love and platonic love are all deeply meaningful and widely celebrated. These types are arguably just as important as romantic love. Whether in a relationship or not, I’ve always adored Valentine’s Day. Sure, there were some years where I’d envy couples on Valentine’s Day. But, for the most part, I loved seeing red and pink wherever I went, giving myself a self-care day and letting the people in my life know I loved them –- specifically, my girlfriends.
When searching “Galentine’s Day” on Instagram, results show there are 1.6 million posts using the hashtag, “#galentinesday.” Galentine’s Day, celebrated annually on Feb. 13, is a holiday dedicated to celebrating female friendship. Personally, nothing fills my soul like hanging out with my girlfriends to chat, drink, play board games or watch a movie. One study published by the National Institute of Health says female friendships are associated with a greater sense of self and higher quality of life.
“I love my husband, but it is nothing like a conversation with a woman that understands you. I grow so much from those conversations,” said Beyoncé in her documentary Life Is But a Dream (2013).
You don’t need a lot of friends to celebrate: Quality over quantity.
I’m 23 years old now, and I’ve realized that having a few close friends is far more fulfilling than having many surface-level friendships. So, grab your best pal — or four, and throw a Galentine’s Day party.
The perfect party decors
Dollarama has the perfect decorations that will have your party looking festive on a budget. My favourite finds are any type of heart-shaped glassware or dishes, Valentine’s Day themed balloons and heart-shaped doilies.
Themed food
What’s a party without food? Dollarama also sells heart-shaped baking tins for baking festive treats with your friends. I’ve seen some heart-shaped pasta at Marshall’s and was thinking I’d make some penne alla vodka pasta, minus the penne, for my own Galentine’s Day party.
You can also pick up some red and pink coloured candy to add to the theme. Chocolate-dipped strawberries and pretzels are classic Valentine’s Day treats and would make a great addition to your party. Charcuterie boards with red and pink fruit or candy are also the perfect party snack. Think about the perfect combo of strawberries, raspberries, pomegranate, dragonfruit, cinnamon hearts, Starbursts and Hershey Kisses.
Delicious drinks
Personally, I’ve been loving Poppi lately, a popular new soda brand. Flavours like Strawberry Lemon, Doc Pop, Raspberry Rose and Cherry Cola are all delicious and packaged in an aesthetically pleasing pink or red can. For my girlies looking for an easy alcoholic beverage to make this Galentine’s Day, try my take on a Valentine’s Day mimosa.
- Fill a flute or wine glass with a sparkling wine, leaving just an inch at the top.
- Top with pink or regular cranberry juice.
- For a festive touch, garnish with edible glitter or a heart-shaped candy. Get creative with the garnish!
Galentine’s activities
Enjoying a relaxing paint night, sharing friendship PowerPoints, cozying up for a movie and playing board games are all simple and fun activities to do for Galentine’s Day. If these activities don’t seem like you and your friends, you could have a photoshoot in matching PJs instead, using the balloons from your party as props.
This Valentine’s Day, whether you have a partner or not, remember to cherish your girlfriends. Female friendships often contribute to the backbone of our romantic love. For instance, my girlfriends have guided me through past relationships, got me ready for first dates, acted as a shoulder to cry on during breakups and are the ones I turn to when I need relationship advice.
Girlfriends are often the ones that know you before you’re in a romantic relationship. They experience the joys and hardships of our relationships with us and are the ones who stay with us after our breakups. I’d like to think some of you may have similar bonds with your girlfriends, so give them the love they deserve this Galentine’s Day.
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