Ever since the character Leslie Knope coined the term “Galentine’s Day” on an episode of Parks and Recreation, the fictional holiday has become a real-life celebration. In Knope’s words, the day before Valentine’s Day is for “ladies celebrating ladies,” creating an opportunity for female friendships to be recognized and honored: a pretty awesome goal.
Although Knope and her friends went to breakfast to spend time together, a lot of girls have started throwing elaborate parties at home, which undoubtedly creates a cozier, more personalized experience. However, the costs of throwing even a small get-together can add up quickly. To minimize the spending and maximize the fun, here is a roundup of the best budget-friendly, aesthetic items just waiting to play a role in your Galentine’s Day party.
Turn your living room into a happy hour spot
If you want to go the slumber party route (think 13 Going On 30), stores like Marshalls, Target, and TJMaxx have pink pajama sets. These matching Target heart slippers can double as everyday wear and a Galentine’s party embellishment.
This season’s Aldi Finds are set to turn your dorm into a red and pink wonderland. This heart checkerboard vinyl tablecloth is less than $3.00, and it’s a cute way to pay homage to the MacKenzie-Childs kitchen decor I keep seeing on my TikTok. More of a bow girl? Aldi has you covered with this coquette tablecloth that can easily be paired with these bow-shaped taper candle holders. Solidify the theme with these reusable $4.00 glass tumblers with pink bows that can double as a party favor.
Throw on a rom-com, show or music to have on in the background.
Forget Secret Santa — Try Secret Cupid instead
Setting up a secret gift exchange gives an excuse to go all out in the pink, heart and girly departments. Buying gifts like romance books, chocolate boxes, nail polish, and treats puts a February spin on a Christmas classic. Need some ideas? Target has these adorable sour gummy heart bags already wrapped in a pink bow. For just $4.00 a bag, this cuts down on the cost of buying bulk candy, individual bags and separate materials, not to mention freeing up an hour.
Wanting something a little more permanent? These pink- and red-striped photo frames are perfect for housing photos of you and your friends. Print out the best pictures you have of you and each guest for a reminder of what Galentine’s Day is all about: friendship.
Don’t forget the food and drinks
Party food can get expensive, especially with a big group of your besties, so instead try making this Valentine’s Day board. If you have some extra baking ingredients, you can bake together for a nice bonding experience and get rewarded with treats in the end.
You can continue the heart-shaped vibe by ordering from food stops like Chick-fil-A — which offers select menu items packaged in heart-shaped trays — or the trusty stuffed and frosted heart-shaped donuts from Dunkin. You could also make homemade heart-shaped pizzas with pink-frosted cookies on the side or opt for a gourmet dinner out.
There are no right or wrong menu items, but if you are committed to cooking the food, here are a few effortless ways to feed your best gal pals:
- Sweet meets savory – Use a few themed toothpicks to turn these heart-inspired chicken nuggets and heart-shaped pancakes into an easy appetizer.
- Dips and sips – Enjoy your beverage and your favorite chip-and-dip pairing with Target’s heart bowl that instantly makes any salsa Galentine’s ready.
- Pasta party – These heart-shaped noodles at Target can be prepared with this Trader Joe’s pasta sauce sample pack for an easy pasta station.
For drinks, go for a Shirley Temple bar with lots of different garnishes and sparkling sodas. Having different cherries, candies, and sweets to top off your mocktail turns a simple soda into a luxe experience.
There’s a million ways to spend Galentine’s Day, but in the end, it’s about you and your friends.