Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and with it, all the #boydidgood hashtags, soppy ‘I love you’ cards and bunches of flowers he swears he didn’t pick up at the garage two minutes from your flat (despite the fact that they’ve still got the sticker on). Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of there being a day dedicated to love – but love doesn’t just come in one form.
What about the platonic loves of our lives? The ones who sit up on the phone with us until the early hours of the morning; who understand what we’re saying without us having to utter a word and who tag us in Instagram memes that speak to our souls – when do we get to really celebrate them?
The word Galentine’s Day makes me shudder, but the idea of buying presents for my friends is something I can get on board with, and, best of all, you don’t need to be single to do it. I might spend the day in question with my partner, but I always make time to give out gifts to my girlfriend’s as V-Day approaches. Plus, let’s face it, I probably wouldn’t have a partner at all if they hadn’t helped me compose all the initial Whatsapp messages I sent to him, so don’t they deserve a little thank you too?
Obviously, you don’t need to wait until February 14 to give your loved ones gifts, but it’s a timely reminder to us all that – in the words of Love Actually’s Prime Minister, David (aka Hugh Grant): “love, really is, all around.”
Here’s to our gal pals.
Little Black Book: A Toolkit for Working Women Book, Oliver Bonas, £6.99
With contributions from inspirational creative women including Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche, Penny Martin, Pandora Sykes and Caryn Franklin, this book is packed with wisdom from other women’s experiences, successes and failures. We often turn to our friends for advice, but sometimes it’s good to help have from the big guns.
Frida Kahlo Acrylic Earrings, Trouva, £17.95
In the words of Frida Kahlo, ‘I love you more than my own skin,’ and in the words of me to my friends, ‘yes, exactly what she said’. Give your friend’s the gift of ears that pack a political punch.
instax Mini 9 Camera, Amazon, £69.99
You need never miss another moment together with this adorable polaroid camera. It’s got all kinds of clever features, including a selfie mirror, prints in seconds and is small enough to be carried around everywhere. Welcome back to the 90s.
Gucci Flora Emerald Gardenia Eau de Toilette, Selfridges, £58
What girl doesn’t want Gucci? We might not be able to afford to give them a designer handbag or a £250 belt, but we can make sure that they smell delicious. Plus, this bottle will forever elevate their dressing table, even once the fragrance has run out.
Marshmallow S’mores Kit, Not On The High Street, £25
Upgrade her midnight feast with this s’mores kit. It’s all the joy and excitement of a campfire, without having to sit outside in the cold and with back-to-back episodes of Ru Paul’s Drag Race in place of kumbaya.
De’Longhi ECP33.21 Espresso Coffee Machine, Argos, £84.99
How many times have you done the hungover coffee run together? Well now there’s no need because this coffee machine churns out barista quality cuppas every time. Whether they’re a fan of frothy cappuccinos, milky lattes or straight-forward shots of espresso, your friends will be reenergised in no time.
Rors and Wren Sentimental Picture with Friendship Quote, Amazon, £15.99
If you can’t find the words to tell your pals just how much they mean to you, then let this framed print do the talking. We defy anyone not to smile at the adorable, waddling bears and heartfelt quote. Really small gangs are definitely where it’s at.
Eyes White and Yellow Patterned Cotton Bedspread, Habitat, £120
Our friends are always keeping a watchful eye on us, and now we can return the favour with this patterned bedspread. This padded quilt is sure to keep them warm during the winter months and look stylish on their bed in the summer too.
I Wish You Lived Next Door Candle, Not On The High Street, £32.99
Hand poured and expertly etched in the Kentish countryside, this scented candle says what we’re all thinking about our friends at those key moments in life, like when we need outfit advice, or someone to share a bottle of wine with. Until then though, this is a nice reminder.
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