Valentine’s Day is not just a day for couples. It is the perfect excuse to gather together with some of your closest girlfriends to celebrate friendship and create new memories. Here are a few tips on how to host the ultimate Galentine’s day soiree.
Set a Dress Code
Are your friends mostly moms of young children? Maybe they’d like an excuse to get dressed up in cocktail attire for a girls’ night in. Or perhaps your girl squad is always on the go and would appreciate night with pajamas as the event attire. Think about what kind of party you want to host and set a dress code to match.
Get Creative with Color
Don’t feel tied to cliché reds and pinks. Have fun with the party decor by incorporating bold patterns and unexpected elements. Find ways to use decoration pieces that also serve as photo props and party favors, such as laser cut conversation heart sayings at each place setting.
Use Fresh Florals
There is nothing quite like using fresh florals for a party. Lush greenery and delicate flowers have a way of transforming a space and elevating a party to a whole new level. The best way to stretch your budget on florals is to go heavy on greenery and accent with seasonal blooms.
Serve a Signature Drink + Classic Wines
A signature drink is a fun and festive way to start a party and is an easy way to tie in the theme. Experiment with new cocktail recipes such as a Sparkling Blackberry Lemonade (recipe coming soon!) and be sure to fill your bar cart with a selection of classic wines such as chardonnay, champagne and rosé.
Simplify the Menu and Go Heavy on Sweets
Instead of a full dinner, serve heavy appetizers and be thoughtful about how each dish pairs with the cocktails and wines you are serving. Create a dessert spread with themed sweets like a raspberry drip cake, conversation heart cookies, mini cupcakes and macarons.
Make it Memorable
Provide ample opportunities for your guests to take photos and create memories. Start the evening with a toast to each other, the city you live in and how your friendship has grown since meeting. Play songs that everyone knows and will want to sing along to while laughing and enjoying each other’s company throughout the evening.
Vendor Credits
Photography: Brittany Gidley Photography | Event Concept, Styling, DIY Balloon Garland Kit: One Stylish Party | Invitation Printing, Notecards, Napkins, Custom Pillows, Easel Artwork: Tiny Prints | Dining Chairs, Retro Phone, Yellow Platter, Napkin Rings, Lemon Salt and Pepper Shakers: Wayfair | Florals: Ashley’s Florals | Bar Cart Styling: A Charming Fête | Laser Cut Placecards + Cake Topper: Seaworthi by Farin | Curated Wines: Vinley Market | Cake, Cupcakes, Macarons: Kelsey Elizabeth Cakes | Hair: Mackenzie Watts | Bookcases, Flatware, Plates: Event Source | Invitation Design + Printable Art: Paper Squid | Custom Fabric Banner: Sweet Georgia Sweet | Lemon Table Runner: Kate Spade | Stamped Cookies: Frog Prince Cake and Cookie Design | Menu & Food Styling: Casey Nickels | Signature Cocktail: Devryn DiJohn
Lois says
Love this post, Tara! I’m hosting the February meeting for the military wives in Rich’s squadron and I think you’ve inspired me to make it a “Galentine’s Day” theme. Looks so fun!
Claire Couche says
Absolutely love all these ideas! So fun! The colors are so vibrant and beautiful! Thank you for sharing!