Over the last two decades singlehood has been on the rise, with many people opting for an independent lifestyle unattached from nagging about forgotten grocery list items and domestic disputes. As of 2022, over 28 million people in England and Wales alone were listed as single, and over 8 million people living alone. For a high percentage of the unattached, this is a dreaded predicament to be in, having been showcased an endless portrayal of companionship within popular media – from gritty reality tv to sentimental rom-coms. Due to this, many equate a single lifestyle with an abnormal one despite what the statistics tell us; that it is not only normal, but increasingly popular. With that shift in perspective, I’ve adopted a deeper interest in celebrating my longtime friendships on Valentines – a concept we know nowadays as Galantines – a day to further connections and revel in the comfort of being surrounded by your favourite people.
A solid friendship group can boost self-confidence, lower stress, and deepen your perspective on the world by listening to people that you trust. Add to that a sense of belonging and encouragement to tackle the challenges to daily life and its clear why friendship should be celebrated as much as romance – if not more!
So, let’s dig into a Galentines Day plan that priorities comfort, inclusivity, and the joy of a good gab.
A Galentines Schedule to Gloat About
6:30 PM – Toast to your friends
Kick things off with a round of signature cocktails, like a cheerful Pink Lemonade Fizz or, my personal favourite, a Spicy Margarita. Whether you’re gathering to celebrate new milestones, share a few laughs, or simply getting through the week, have a toast as a refreshing way to set the tone for the evening. Include some non-alcoholic options so everyone feels included. Pair these with some light nibbles – crisps, sliders, a selection of cheese and crackers if you’re feeling fancy.
7 PM – Get Creative
Nothing bonds a group quite like an activity, especially one that sparks both creativity and conversation. Paint and Sip has become a favourite within my friend group for a few reasons, but mostly because we all get a good laugh at the final results. Admittedly, only a handful of us have an artistic bone in our bodies, and a shaky one at that. Equip the group with some cheap canvas, paints, and brushes, and don’t worry about the final product – we definitely don’t.
8:30 PM – Movie Time
Line your living room in piles of pink, blush, and red cushions and throws to create a snug cinema experience for yourself and the group. Dim the lights, pop your popcorn in the microwave and snacks on your laps and queue up your feel-good favourites. We tend to avoid the rom-coms in the spirit of Galantines, but you do you. Whether it’s a comedy, mystery, or something pure nostalgia, a good film is great way to spend a couple hours chilling out with your friends. This year, I’m pushing for Heathers (1988) but Death Becomes Her (1992) and Ocean’s 8 (2018) have also been proposed.
10:30 PM – Galantines Gab
Close the evening with desserts and winding down time. Armed with the dessert of your choice (I recommend a chocolate and s’mores dip with digestive biscuits – this you will not regret), you can all reflect on your evening and plan more time together in the coming weeks over a sweet treat. Light your good candles, play some background music, and enjoy the heartfelt conversation.
The Galentine’s Essentials Check List
There are a few things I like to get in to make sure the evening is as special, cosy, and welcoming as possible. Here are some must-haves for a relaxing Galantines:
· Soft Loungewears: Tell your pals to show up in their comfiest hoodie blankets or pyjamas. Even get matching ones if you’d like.
· Cushions & Throws: Create a serene scene that feels luxurious yet inviting and casual.
· Mood Lighting: Break out the fairy lights and candles to add warmth and charm to the space.
· Winter Warmers: Keep the chills away with hot water bottles, fluffy socks, and microwavable warmers.
Galentines is all about hitting pause on the hustle and taking time to celebrate the people who collectively make life better. I take it as an evening to relax, laugh, and create memories in a cosy, welcoming space filled with good vibes and plenty of conversation. You can swap out and amend any of the above schedule to suit your specific group of friends – whether you’re crafting, baking, enjoying films, and just having a good deep chat – it’s the perfect way to check in with everyone and shine a light on your closest relationships. So! Gather the crew, get cosy, and enjoy a day of fun and connection that’ll last a lifetime.
Shop the Pink Collection for our top Galentines picks this February 14th!
