Valentine’s Day is loved by many, hated by those who are heartbroken, and often called a waste of money.
But for many women, the age-old valentine has been taken over by friends wanting to celebrate each other.
The notion of Galentine’s Day isn’t a new concept — think of a mum who buys her daughters a chocolate love heart each year or a friend who sends you flowers when you’re single.
But it became notable in 2010 when, in an episode of Parks and Recreation, the character Leslie Knope took her female friends out to a restaurant and showered them with gifts, including a 5,000-page essay on why she thought they were amazing.
“What’s Galentine’s Day? Oh, it’s only the best day of the year. Every February 13, Leslie Knope and her lady friends leave their husbands and their boyfriends at home and just kick it breakfast style. Ladies celebrating ladies. It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus, frittatas!” — Leslie Knope
Officially welcomed into the Merriam-Webster dictionary in 2022, the day might be here to stay.
It’s not only girlfriends who are embracing the day — businesses have also seen the potential.
Tamworth flower business owner Tiarni Williams buys stock from local, female, small businesses, so the concept of Galentine’s Day was a no-brainer.
“There are a lot of single mums out there and Valentine’s Day can be another day to remind them that they’re doing everything on their own,” she said.
“Most of the pre-orders are women to their girlfriends or signed, ‘To me … Love me.'”
Reflecting on her friendships, the specialty florist has arranged several bouquets to go out to her friends on the day.
“Women lifting other women up is what it’s all about,” Ms Williams said.
It won’t come as a surprise that businesses have jumped on the trend and created events for celebrating friendships.
Tamworth local Sarah MacAlpines has a group of friends she has known for more than 30 years.
They decided to go to a Galentine’s Day Pinot and Picasso evening, which was held on Saturday night.
Husband Shane came along to support the women and said friendships made the world a better place.
“Romantic love is only one small facet of love is,” Mr MacAlpine said.
Whether you are single or just want to show the friends in your life how much you appreciate them, Galentine’s Day is one to enjoy.