Celebrating Galentine’s Day in a Pandemic

I’ll admit it; I’m not usually the biggest fan of this time of year. It’s been a while since any relationship of mine coincided with Valentine’s Day – and even then, I didn’t really buy into it! I’m definitely in the “celebrate your partner all year round” camp. And when the Galentine’s Day concept emerged a few years back, I viewed it as a pity party. A day invented by huge companies in a feeble attempt to gain sales from the market of singletons. But the shitshows of 2020 and 2021 to date have made me appreciate my friends more than ever. So this year, I’ll be raising a glass to my female friends. Don’t get me wrong men, I love having you as friends too – but Palentine’s Day sounds absolutely shite!

Galentine’s Day is typically celebrated on February 13th – us girls have to come first, don’t we?! Originally aimed at those without a partner for the following day, it’s now seen more widely as a celebration of friendship – regardless of relationship status. And again, I subscribe to the mentality that we should celebrate and appreciate our friends all year round. But considering many of us are still unable to see our friends in person, I’m seizing any opportunity to hype up my girls! We obviously have to get a little creative this year – read on for my suggestions on celebrating Galentine’s Day apart.

Say It With Flowers

A bouquet of flowers can really brighten up a room – and someone’s mood. And considering most of us are currently confined to our homes, why not treat your bestie to a beautiful bunch for Galentine’s Day? My sister sent me a stunning bouquet during the first lockdown. I wasn’t having the best time being on my own constantly, and receiving them genuinely made me feel so special. It was such a thoughtful gift! I love Bloom & Wild – not only are their flowers spectacular, but the packaging is specially designed to fit through a letterbox. No more waiting on deliveries – and no need to worry about socially distancing from a delivery driver!

Have Virtual Cocktails

Nothing says “girlie get-together” better than cocktails! Whether you’re a mojito lover or a fan of the pornstar martini, having a fancy drink or five with the girls is the staple of many a catch up. If you have a well-stocked drinks cupboard, have a bash at creating your own Galentine’s Day concoctions – whilst laughing at the outcome on Zoom. Or, if you’re like me – lazy, with only vodka or gin at your disposal – you can order in to save you the hassle! Nio Cocktails deliver pre-made cocktails straight to your door. You can order one of their signature collection boxes, or you can create your own to suit your own taste. Options include Old Fashioned, Daquiri and Cosmopolitan – plus mocktails for those who aren’t drinking alcohol.

Rom-Com Watch Party

One of the most impressive features of streaming (at least, to me anyway!) is the ability to have multiple users streaming the same content at the same time. Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) allows groups to synchronise watching on desktop. There’s a group chat function – so you can chat away to your friends as though you were sat next to them. All you need is an extension to Google Chrome and you’re sorted. Teleparty is compatible with Netflix, Hulu and Disney to name just a few – the only issue you’ll have is deciding on what to watch on Galentine’s Day!

Back in the day, horror movies were the genre of choice for sleepovers – but not for me. I’ve always been a huge rom-com fan – and I especially love the late 90s/early 00s ones. Clueless? She’s All That? 10 Things I Hate About You? I’m in! If you need some inspiration, check out some recommendations.

A Night Of Games

I can’t be the only one who’s a little over Zoom quizzes. They’re great fun, but I think we’ve all had our fair share of them by this point! Besides, the person in charge has a lot of work on their hands putting it together. Why not try playing some easy online games? Jackbox Games are one of the big winners from lockdown. Their games are accessible on multiple platforms – and only one person in the group needs to own them in order to play. Players just need a smartphone in order to participate. And if the host shares their screen, everyone can see the action. There are various packs of games to choose from. My favourite game is Quiplash! It follows a similar format to Cards Against Humanity – except you have to come up with the answers!

I hope you all have a fab Galentine’s Day – what have you got planned? xx