Galentine’s Day: Ladies celebrating ladies

If the Barbie movie taught the world anything, it’s that “every night is girls’ night.”

 

Thankfully, there’s an unofficial holiday dedicated to just the girls. Recognized on Feb. 13, Galentine’s Day is a celebration of the women in your life, filled with gifts, treats, and all things pink.

 

While Valentine’s Day is quick to shower significant others with flowers, Galentine’s Day is designed to celebrate the other equally important relationships in life: your girlfriends. 

 

Originating from the witty television show, Parks and Recreation, the day was coined by the character Leslie Knope, portrayed by Amy Poehler. In the episode that started it all, Leslie declares, “What is Galentine’s Day? Oh, it’s only the best day of the year. Every Feb. 13, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it... ladies celebrating ladies.” 

 

Thus, a new tradition was born.

 

This inclusive holiday isn’t just for singles; it’s a celebration of friendship, regardless of relationship status. Galentine’s Day stands as a counterpoint to the sometimes exclusive nature of Valentine’s Day, which some see as “anti-single.”

 

“I’ve always felt like I couldn’t dress up and celebrate Valentine’s Day just because I was single, so Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to go out with my best friends and get dolled up wearing pink and red,” Clements Ferry resident Savannah Meyers said.

 

The ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day are as diverse as the friendships it honors. While Leslie and her friends on Parks and Recreation celebrated with a festive brunch, women today have taken the concept and run with it. Sleepovers with heart-print pajamas, wine and chocolate soirees, or even a full-fledged pink-themed party – the possibilities are endless.

 

It’s also common to share the love for this special day with gift exchanges, according to Cosmopolitan magazine. Since it isn’t an official holiday, small gifts are the way to go. Besides, spoiling your girlfriends is likely easier than trying to shop for a man on Valentine’s Day.  

 

Local residents have embraced the concept of the made up holiday, finding unique and personal ways to celebrate the special women in their lives. 

 

Shannon Gallo, Mount Pleasant resident and owner of Oyster Candle Company, regularly hosts Galentine’s Day parties with customers and friends. “We love a reason to get the gals together! Last year, we had a tea party theme.” 

 

Sarah Messinger, a Daniel Island local, shared, “Galentine’s Day has become an essential part of our friend group’s calendar every year. We usually do a day of pampering and then decorate treats like cupcakes and cookies at night.” 

 

As Feb. 13 approaches, local businesses are also getting in on the Galentine’s Day spirit. Whether you’re planning a brunch or a crafty class around Charleston, check out several Galentine’s Day specials coming up by going to thedanielislandnews.com.