Galentine’s Day

“My lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies. It should be a national holiday.” – Leslie Knope, the inventor of Galentine’s Day. I love any excuse to celebrate with my lady friends. Throughout my wise 26 years of life, I’ve been very lucky to create some beautiful relationships with amazing women. Therefore, whenever I have an excuse to get them all in one room, I’m game. Cue Galentine’s Day. 

One of my sorority sisters (hey, Alpha Phi!) is a consultant for LuLaRoe and asked if I would host a party. I typically say “no” to these types of events but it gave me an excuse to hang with all my ladies, so I was on board. Thank goodness I did because honestly, these clothes are adorable and SO comfy. Take a look at her page here if you’re interested. Alright, back to my Galentine’s Day party.   

I’m a sucker for Target clearance, especially post-holiday clearance. I have a somewhat organized tote full of cute decorations, napkins, party necessities all just waiting to be used. Pro tip from a family friend, whenever you see a great gift on sale, buy it! Keep a tote full of goodies like candles, tumblers, adorable cards, etc. so when you need a hostess or party gift, you are ready to go.  In addition to having a little thank you gift for my LuLaRoe lady, I had some adorable Galentine’s cards. A great get-together is one where everyone feels welcome and comfortable. My table was stocked with hand written cards for each one of my girlfriends, just to give them a little extra love this holiday season. I can’t say enough about the importance of hand writing thank you notes. It seems to be much appreciated in these days of texting, tweeting and general non-digital laziness. 

Since I’ve accumulated a wide net of girl friends, they don’t all know each other super well. So until the sparkling tequila cocktail kicks in, I set out a few ice breakers around the room. This is one of my favorite questions because my answer is awesome. Britney Spears in 4th grade. Magical. Some people (ahem, The Beard) get nervous or uncomfortable from these types of “personal” questions. But, they are one of my favorite “party tricks!” Somehow a funny story will always pop up, lightening the mood and immediately bringing everyone together. 

Well, it’s not a Beard and The Baker party without food. Your Galentine’s Day menu really depends on the time of day you’re hosting your event. I was hosting a post-work party around 6pm-8pm, which is prime dinner time. Therefore, it’s only polite to make sure you have something substantial!

I can’t stand it when we go to an evening event and there is just fruit or cheese. Mama can get hangry.  Yes, there are a ridiculous amount of themed ladies night desserts, cocktails, etc. on Pinterest.

But, I’m pretty straightforward. Mostly, I just want everyone to enjoy yummy food. One of my absolute favorite appetizers is deviled eggs. We have a fun recipe featuring Bellisari’s Spreads but today, these super basic ones with mayo, mustard and topped with paprika are on the menu.

So, I feel like orzo is a grossly under-rated pasta. If (when) we have a cafe or restaurant, I will definitely have a cold orzo salad on the menu. This one features a tri-bean blend, corn and chopped onions tossed in a shallot and lime vinaigrette. It is marvelous and you can easily make it the night before to let all the flavors meld together.

Mmm, I must make this one again soon. 

Of course, The Beard had to help out in some way. He is a pretty good partner like that. I think we’ll keep him around. He made this super dreamy bruschetta.

Typically, I would eat an entire log of mozzarella and not look back. But, when it’s topped with a fresh mixture of tomatoes and basil, it slows me down a bit. Then, top these off with a bit of of Maldon sea salt and you’re set.    Even though my Galentine’s Day features some savory dishes, it’s always necessary to have dessert.

I picked up a package of Miss Jones Confetti Pop Cookie Mix from my local Fresh Thyme. Yeah, yeah I used a bagged mix. But, they are 90% organic, have no artificial colors, flavors, hydrogenated oils or trans fats. Also, I’m a busy mom so whatevs, they are delicious. 

Baby O couldn’t hang with the ladies. Instead, she snuggled up on her auntie. Somehow, I imagine this will change in the coming years when she realizes Galentine’s Day is the best. These lovely women are some of the most inspiring ladies that I have the pleasure of knowing. Find your tribe, love them hard.