Galentine's Day Gift Guide for Whimsical Friends
Galentine's gift ideas that feel sincere and loving on any budget can be difficult to find, especially with so many options that could work but don't really have that special warmth or personalized touch. Read this guide for some ideas sure to give you Golden Girls level friendship feels.
The idea of gift giving amongst friends for Valentine's Day is not new; in the Victorian era, it was common for flowers that symbolized friendship, such as pansies and chrysanthemums, to be exchanged amongst confidantes. Through this perspective, we can reclaim Valentine's Day as an opportunity to celebrate the pure energy of love, as well as the joy of sharing and heartfelt appreciation. We begin to realize that this day is an excellent opportunity to simply say, "My friend, I see you. I appreciate you. And I wish you well!"
Here are some gift ideas that we think that would convey exactly this message.
1. First book of a series or a standalone book in a genre they enjoy
For the book lovers in your life, the first book in a series is always a great idea because if they enjoy it, they have more to look forward to. Bonus if it's a book that's been on their wishlist, or an author you know they like! We just finished reading Emily Wilde's Encylopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett and loved the fantasy/magical realism and quirky academic tones. Another magical realism standalone favorite is She Would Be King by Wayétu Moore, vividly set in early 19th-century Liberia. Or perhaps they wish to know if there's been a m-u-urder?? A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death is the first in a fun bakery-themed mystery series by Valerie Burns. However, maybe they would prefer to tuck into a steaming cup of Golden Era Hollywood tea? Then The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is sure to be a big hit.
2. High quality, clean burning candles
Release your home scent loving bestie from all the paraben and phthalate loaded mass produced candles! Here's how: After covertly asking what kinds of smells they like (floral? woody? gourmand/vanilla?), surprise them with a gift that supports their self care practices, and brightens their home with an uplifting nontoxic fragrance. Our winter top seller is Hidden Forest, an authentic scent of the forest perfect for earth lovers and woody/fresh scent lovers.
3. Original art print from a real artist (not AI!)
Who doesn't love an original print and supporting artists? This is a great gift that you can personalize by picking a piece that reminds you of them, has their favorite colors, or favorite subject matter, etc. Our favorite artists right now are ArtofStephanieMarie, PaulLewinArt, and Lilly_Prinz all found on Instagram.
4. Bath care accessories
This one is for all the beauty and wellness self care besties who love a good cream, dip, soak, or scrub! We recommend the Herbal Bath Soak for a whimsical twist on bath time that delivers luxurious, botanical based skincare with a light, toasted cream fragrance.
5. Physical picture frame with a photo of a special moment
Give a touch of nostalgia with a beautifully framed and printed photograph. This could be a photo from a moment that was special just for them, or one you had the joy of sharing!
6. Stationery accessories
We are huge fans of Nostalgic Impressions, a company that specializes in wax seals and vintage style stationery ephemera. Another favorite is Good Juju Ink, another stationery company that sells sophisticated yet affordable stationery sets.
7. The gift of presence
Share a meal, a movie, a statement of gratitude. Your presence is the greatest gift of all.