Cost of loving: A Exeter student’s guide to hosting Galentine’s on a budget

It may be Valentine’s Day today but that doesn’t mean us singletons can’t celebrate.

Although everyone around you may be wifed up and locked down, this doesn’t mean you need to spend the day away wallowing in your despair to classic rom-coms.

This is where Galentine’s comes in. Gather up your gal pals and have a day celebrating female friendships and platonic love! Many celebrate their Galentines on actual Valentines Day, whereas others celebrate a few days before or even the week after (or just wait for Pancake Day). With all this said, here’s a cost friendly way to celebrate Galentine’s Day.

Slumber party

What better way to spend girls’ night than with an (optional) cheap bottle of wine, face masks and your favourite series? Nothing screams Galentine’s more than a cosy slumber party. Plus, you can always use a slumber party as pres and go out that night.

Board games 

Speaking of low cost, board games night is cheap and easy. If you don’t already have a board game to bring, you could always provide a pack of cards or a snack (or make a board game). 

Baking/cooking together

Eating out at a fancy restaurant is SO out of the student budget. But sacrificing some of your food shop for a little cooking or baking session with the girls is sure to fill the fancy restaurant void.

Just imagine all the heart shaped pizzas you can make and cupcakes you can decorate for WAY cheaper. Plus, you can get as creative as you want, maybe even turn it into a Come Dine With Me or a picnic. 

Coffee date 

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If you’d rather do something in the daytime, a cute little coffee date with your bestie is sure to fulfil your Galentine’s needs.

Thankfully, I am a true girls’ girl and have tried many a café in Exeter so you don’t have to. Some of my personal favourite cafés to take your bestie out this Galentine’s include: Glorious Art House, Tiny Tasting Room, Pink Ginger, 12 Bar, Sunset Society and Arrietty. Bonus points because half of those are bars by night so you really have no excuse not to go.

You could also always paint some mugs and make your own tea, coffee, or beverage and be the coolest cat in town. 

Painting 

Nothing says romantic more than pure ART. All you even need is a pencil and paper and maybe some alcohol (paint is a bonus if you’re feeling fancy). Why not create a beautiful masterpiece for your friends and win them over for many more Galentine’s Days to come. If you don’t fancy painting a National Gallery worthy portrait, you could also always paint candles or tote bags. 

6. Karaoke  

Is it even Galentine’s if you haven’t indulged in some deafening karaoke?