While we are all aware of the romantic, over-the-top, sometimes-nauseating, Hallmark holiday that is celebrated on February 14th (aka Valentine’s Day), our team at 8THIRTYFOUR has a special place in our hearts for the magical holiday that is celebrated on February 13th: Galentine’s Day.
The term “Galentine’s Day” was first coined in 2010 in the popular NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation, which, in our opinion, is one of the single greatest television shows to ever grace the silver screen. The “holiday” was something that the show’s main character, Leslie Knope, took very seriously, as it was a day all about “ladies celebrating ladies”.
Galentine’s Day eventually transcended the television screen and has engrained itself in popular, everyday culture, because, let’s face it, we will never tire of having reasons to celebrate the badass women in our life.
Here are just a few reasons you should mark your calendars and partake in Galentine’s Day celebrations this year:
It’s for everyone! (and there are waffles)
Valentine’s Day isn’t always a happy time for everyone, as other people’s seemingly happy relationships being shoved in your face can get tiresome.
The beauty of Galentine’s Day is that anyone can partake. Whether it is a best friend, sister, coworker, mother, cousin, boss, aunt, mentor, or any other woman under the sun who inspires you, you can dedicate the day to letting those special women know how much they mean to you. Also, in order to celebrate properly, you should eat waffles. And who doesn’t love waffles?
Ladies supporting ladies is a beautiful thing
There has long been a stereotype that women are “catty” towards one another and will cut each other down in order to get ahead, and we think it’s time to stomp out that misconception.
Whether it is echoing a great idea that your coworker had, supporting a friend after a bad day, or graciously interacting with someone who is a competitor in your field, we must remember that amazing things happen when women support each other.
Your friends deserve the love, too!
Basically, Galentine’s Day is like Valentine’s Day, but instead of celebrating the love you have for your significant other, you spend time with your women friends who inspire you, who make you a better person, and who you love more than waffles.
The great thing about your true, in-it-forever girlfriends is that they will hold you accountable, call you on your bullshit, and invest in helping you become a better version of yourself. And that deserves to be celebrated!
We know there are a lot of fake “holidays” floating around, but this has to be one of our favorites. AND if you’re in need of the perfect card to send to a friend this Galentine’s Day, we’ve got you covered.
Cheers to waffle brunches, toasting over wine, and ladies supporting ladies!