The Ultimate Galentine’s Day Party Guide

If you’re the first person in line to buy a pack of conversation hearts or even the one to gag at the sight of sparkly pink hearts, Valentine’s Day is upon us — whether you like it or not. Though February 14 is almost over, who’s to say you can’t dedicate the rest of the month to celebrating your friendships and love for one another with a festive brunch and taking advantage of the now-majorly-discounted candy and decor sections at Target?

I, for one, look for any and every reason to catch up with my friends over brunch, so instead of wallowing in self-pity because you don’t have a “real” Valentine this year, throw together a last-minute “Galentine’s” meal. Here’s my guide to hosting the ultimate Galentine’s Day party.

As the hostess, I provided the main course of heart-shaped waffles from IKEA and homemade pancakes, and asked my friends to bring a side or treat to share. With a platter of fruit kabobs, a protein-packed charcuterie board, dozens of mini quiches, bottles of raspberry lemonade and sparkling cider and plate after plate of frosting-covered desserts, there was nowhere near a shortage of food.

For the waffles and pancakes, I set up a topping station of M&M’s, sprinkles, chocolate syrup and whipped cream so everyone could add a personalized touch to their treat. The aromas of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon right from the pan made it feel like a real cafe at breakfast hour.

As for the decor, I knew my regular dining room look wouldn’t cut it. Thanks to far too many trips to Hobby Lobby, Party City and Target, I managed to transform my front living room into an explosion of flowers, glitter, pink, red and hearts in every corner. Hobby Lobby’s tempting holiday aisle left my hands full of two rolls of watercolor wrapping paper, paper hearts and a tinsel garland for a backdrop — ideal for a never-ending photoshoot.

Party City provided me with pink cups and heart-shaped napkins and my mom pieced together mini bouquets of Trader Joe’s flowers for table centerpieces. My grandma kindly lent me an untouched set of China, red plate chargers and some cotton-candy-flavored lollipops as a party favor.

It was picture perfect, but it needed a personal touch. At Hobby Lobby, I found a 12-pack of place cards with envelopes, and wrote each of my friends a personalized note about favorite memories and the things I love about them. Cheesy, I know, but when was the last time you received a hand-written Valentine? Sixth grade when everyone slapped their “To and From” onto a Mario-themed Fruit by the Foot? My handwritten notes were by far the biggest hit of the morning.

In my world, everyday is a good day for brunch and expressing your appreciation to your friends — but pairing it with Valentine’s Day makes it even sweeter.