Valentine's Day is coming up on Feb. 14, so we know what that means, Galentine's Day is coming up, too, on Feb. 13!
Originally launched by Leslie Knope on "Parks and Recreation," "Galentine's Day" is the day before Valentine's Day where women can celebrate their gal-pals. Basically, a glorified girls'-day-out usually toasted by brunch, gifts, thoughtful compliments and gifts. The gifts to attribute to what makes your best gal friends the best. Whether it's homemade or picked out from a favorite store, it's the thought that counts.
We all know the queen of gift-giving, Leslie Knope, always has some tricks up her sleeve to celebrate any holiday. However, Galentine's Day is special. This is the chance for gal pals to commemorate their friendships with their pals, coworkers, classmates, sisters, cousins, moms, aunts, and any other ladies they know! So with some Knope inspiration, here is a gift guide to celebrate your best gal pals:
1. Chocolate
Let's get the obvious out of the way. Chocolate is a no-brainer and a great fallback. It's hard to imagine anyone feeling unappreciated with some sweet, sweet chocolate. Actually, any sugary-sweet treat will do for an excellent Galentine's day gift.
2. Framed encouraging words
available on www.etsy.com
You can use one of Leslie's many descriptive compliments such as "poetic, noble, land mermaid" or come up with your own. Encouraging quotes and silly compliments are excellent sources of Galentine cheer.
3. Fun mugs 'n' stuff
available on www.etsy.com
Mugs are a must. You can find a mug with almost any sentiment on it. It will be the truest testament to your best pal's personality. Get a fun mug and fill it with a few of her favorite things like nail polish, socks, candy, gift cards, and pictures of fun memories.
4. Friendship bracelets
available on www.etsy.com
Oh yeah, old school. Nothing says BFF like a fun phrase separated by bracelets. Plus, it's a homemade option. Bracelets can be fun and beads, or silver-plated charms. Either way, you'll always remember who has the other half.
5. Fun/inspirational collages

Picture boards are great, and they make excellent inspiration. On the day of gal pal celebration, make your friend a collage of the inspiring women in your lives. Or, a collage of her biggest crush.
6. A great memory
Friends for life. Use Galentine's Day to remind your pals how lucky you feel to have them. Take a favorite memory and frame it for them, write a little note on the back and celebrate the day!
Gather your pals and head out to brunch, it's almost Galentine's Day! Celebrating your friendships is great and all but most importantly, it's incredibly fun! Ladies can take this opportunity to praise the female power and strength they have in friendships, relationships, and as coworkers. Make sure to share the day and tell all of your female friends how important they are and how proud they should be to be women.
Cheers to gal pals!



























