If you’re single, Valentine’s Day can be nauseating at best and downright depressing at worst. Not that we should ever need an excuse to celebrate female friendships, but Galentine’s is a great one! Here’s some ideas of how to celebrate Galentine’s day this year in Derbyshire (and support some gorgeous small businesses whilst doing so).
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What is Galentine’s?
The origins of Galentine’s are often attributed to having come from the cult comedy Parks and Recreation (one of my all-time favourite comedies). In the show, the main character, Lesley Knope (created and played by Amy Poehler) creates Galentine’s to celebrate female friendship. Each year, on February 13th, Knope gathers female friends and family for a ladies brunch to celebrate Galentine’s.
The word has gradually evolved to just a celebration of any platonic, or non-romantic love.
The cynics among you might see it as more over-hyped, over marketed nonsense…? Personally I think anything that makes being single a little less lonely and anything that celebrates women supporting other women is ultimately a good thing, so we’ll roll with it.
Read my round up of the loveliest social groups in Derbyshire
How to Celebrate Galentine’s in Derbyshire
Do check in with any single friends and gently offer some moral support in what can be the onslaught of Valentine’s Day-ness. Feeling lonely can be miserable and we all need to feel loved.
However, if you’re looking for an actual ‘thing to do’…
Brunch is the classic Galentine’s celebration. And let’s face it, you might as well make it bottomless! Read my previous guide to the best bottomless brunches in Derbyshire here.
Afternoon tea is always a lovely way to while away an afternoon. My favourite experience lately has been at Rafters and The Cavendish, although that’s shut for renovation. Or opt for a more cosy and casual (and Kronuts!!) at Hobbs Café at Monsal Head.
Or maybe celebrate at one of Derbyshire’s finest independent cocktail bars – I particularly love Bradman’s.
Galentine’s Workshops in Derbyshire
For a more wholesome experience with the girls, why not book one of Laurenne Hopkins Flowers‘ workshops in the idyllic setting at Happy Roots Farm. Laurenne is an excellent tutor and having experienced one of her lovely events, courtesy of The Laura and Becky Show, I can confirm you’ll have a very good time. Often her workshops involve a collaboration with other small businesses, for instance the delicious Bake Bake Bake and Dry Frequency.
Glamberry for Galentine’s in Derby
Founded by Anum Zafar back in 2019, Glamberry has quickly established itself as the go-to Derby bakery for Instaworthy beautiful chocolate treats and cakes. Freshly baked to order using premium quality ingredients and available for postal delivery. Unapologetically pink, there’s a huge range of gorgeous Valentine’s and Galentine’s gifts.
The Glamberry team also host a range of workshops, including a specific Galentine’s workshop at their GLAM HQ in Derby. Gather your girlfriends (or attend alone), and learn insider tips and tricks behind the on-trend Bento cakes. Booking essential.
Galentine’s Day Cards
Set up by Sasha when she quit law, Cheeky Zebra sells fun, cheeky cards online. The Derby based, family business have a huge range of humorous cards including several Galentine’s and Palentine’s options. I love the Alexis Rose one from Schitt’s Creek (another fabulous sit com that you simply must watch if you haven’t already) but there are loads of options on their website.
Galentine’s Gift Ideas from Derbyshire Small Businesses
Made by Leah is the gorgeously pink brand of artist and illustrator, Leah Riley. Leah loves to “create things that prompt smiles” in her signature whimsical, playful style. The brand has evolved to become “very pink, very positive and very happy”. The brand is Derbyshire based with all the artwork and cards also printed locally.
These gorgeous, handmade leather coin purses make perfect gifts for a friend. Designed and made in a Derbyshire village by family run, Orgill Originals.
Lost in Love by Lucy is a Derby based design company. They sell a lovely range of keyrings, stickers and self-care packages that would make gorgeous Galentine’s gift, particularly for a friend who needs a boost. Designer Lucy is inspired by everything from travelling to leopard print, with a lot of positive quotes and self motivation along the way.
Letterbox Love are an affordable jewellery gifting business based in Derbyshire. These Matching Galentine’s bracelets is a super cute idea for you and your bestie. They’re beautifully packaged and can be sent directly to the recipient.
Finally, for something completely different, I love this ‘sweary pebble set’ from Derbyshire based, A Pebble and a Paint Box. If the language is a bit much, there’s plenty of sweet/cute options instead.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this round up of ideas of things to do to celebrate Galentine’s.
Looking to meet someone? Read my guide on How to Make Friends in Derbyshire.
