Galentine's Day's

Valentine's day has a lot of special meaning for me. As cliche as it sounds, my hubby and I started dating on Valentine's day almost 30 years ago. I also discovered I was pregnant with my first child on February 14, 1995. But one of the main reason's I love this "man-made" holiday is I get to celebrate my friendships with my best gal friends.

So here is a list of my favorite Galentine's day dates and gift ideas. The most important part is to show your close friends you appreciate them and have fun.

Galentine's day gifts for the ladies who have your back no matter what

Wine Testing

Host a wine and food-tasting party with all your gal friends. Take this opportunity to share each other’s favorite recipes and wines. One of my favorites is learning to pair my favorite wines and food.

Chocolate tasting

It’s been a while since I’ve done this one, and I miss it. It’s fun to challenge your friends to try new chocolate without being influenced by labels or expectations. A fun way to do this is by making it blind testing. What girl doesn’t love chocolate?

Disney Movie or Harry Potter Movie Marathon

This is an excuse to watch those movies l loved watching with my kids when they were younger. And what better way than by having a Disney movie marathon (or whatever kind of movies your and your gal sirens love to watch) with some wine and fun snacks to make it an epic Galentine’s date.

Brunch in your favorite spot --including mimosas

This one is a must-do, and the more, the merrier. Finding a local restaurant that has the best brunch that includes mimosas, of course. One of my favorite spots here in the Queen City is Church & Union, and they have their Valentine’s day Menu ready. I have two dates planned. One with my man and one with my girls.

Picnic in the park or the living room

Picnics are one of my favorites, with lots of fun finger foods, some bubbly, and an excellent book to share with friends. If it’s too cold on your side of town, don’t miss out on the picnic fun; move it to your living room.

Secret Cupid Exchange

It’s like Secret Santa but with a valentine’s day twist. Pull names out of a hat, set a budget, and get something awesome.

Six gift ideas for your closes Gal Friends

This one is for all my 80s and 90s gal friends. I’m such happy scrunches are coming back. They are so much better for your hair than elastic hair ties. Share the scrunchy love.

Kitsch Velvet Scrunchies for Hair | Hair Scrunchies for Women | Holiday Gift Scrunchy Hair Bands | 5 Pack (Blush/Mauve)

I love this little care package-style gift. It has some of the Galentine's day essentials. You can't have enough tumblers if you and your friends are anything like me and mine. This gift is perfect for that "Galantine BFF."

Galentines Day Gifts Valentines Day Gifts for Her Wine Glass Socks Rose Scented Candles 12 oz Greeting Card Ladies Celebrating Ladies BFF Present Birthday Idea for Women Friends Female Girls Sister

If you’re having a Galentine’s Day Party, this is a must-have for your wine-drinking gal friends.

6 Best Friend or Galentine’s Day Wine Bottle Labels-Unique Best Friend Breakup or Divorce Gifts for Women Galentine’s Day Decorations Party Supplies Funny BFF Wine Lover Day Drinking Gifts for Her

Some of my close friends do not live within driving distance. This candle in a favorite scent, “Lavender,” is a great gift to remind those far away friends how you wish they were close.

Lavender Scented Candles - I Wish You Lived Next Door - Best Friend, Friendship Gifts for Women, Mothers Day, Birthday Gifts for Friends Mom Wife - Going Away Gifts for Friends Moving

We all have the big purse that houses everything from a first aid kit to emergency pair of flats’ ;). But what a pain when you have to find something quickly, but it’s so dark you can’t see in it—this little like it’s perfect for that bag. And every girl should have one, making it the ideal gift.