Valentine’s Day: for some, it is a day of celebration and romance with that special someone in your life, but for others, it is nothing more than just another day in the life of a single Pringle. This year, I propose we cast aside our relationship statuses and gather to celebrate Galentine’s Day. What is Galentine’s Day, you might ask? I’ll let my friend and role model, Leslie Knope, answer:
To better answer your question, Galentine’s Day is a special day created by the ever wonderful, uplifting, magical (but sadly fictional) being that is Leslie Knope of the TV show “Parks and Recreation”. You see, Leslie Knope is all about girl power, and celebrating your fellow woman, and showing the people you love just how much you love them, and Galentine’s Day is all about doing those things! It’s a day for gathering with your best gal pals, doing something fun, exchanging some heartfelt words and/or gifts, and having a super fun day of positivity. The best part about Galentine’s Day is that everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of whether you’re in a relationship or not!
Last year, I got to celebrate Galentine’s Day with some of my awesome friends, so I have a couple tips for organizing your own celebration:
- Do something fun and casual
Whether you decide to go for a group hike, see a movie and grab dinner, or just meet up at a coffee shop and talk, pick a place and an activity that the whole group will enjoy! Keep it casual and fun, but get creative: try a new activity or take a mini, group road trip and see what happens! - Gather a group of uplifting friends
Maybe you plan your day with a big group of friends, or maybe you just meet up with one close confidante: either way, celebrate the day with good friends that you know will make the day awesome. Don’t feel an obligation to invite every single girl you know, but don’t be exclusive! Reach out to some friends you haven’t talked to in a while, or some you’re just starting to get to know. - Take a moment to commend each other
One of my favorite parts of my Galentine’s Day celebration was taking a moment to give a little shoutout to everyone there and let me know some of the things I love about them. This can be a really special moment, or a fun opportunity to remember hilarious moments from your friendship – just keep it sincere! - (Optional) Give a small, thoughtful gift
At my Galentine’s Day celebration, I gave each attendee a different plant that I felt reflected a specific quality about them. It was really fun seeing my friends’ excitement and getting to share with them why I chose specific plants for specific people. Don’t feel obligated to spend loads of money on these gifts – and don’t give any at all if you don’t feel compelled to! It may sound cliché, but it really is the thought that counts: even a simple, handmade card with a little note inside is a really sweet gesture that your friends are sure to appreciate.
And there you have it! I hope you have a lovely Valentine’s Day this year, and I hope you take the opportunity to plan your very own Galentine’s Day!
Wandering the Gap 