After what feels like endless gloom in Boston, this quick trip to Puerto Rico has been the absolute best. Truly living on island time, and couldn’t be happier! I’ll be back next week with a full San Juan recap & recommendations if you happen to have a trip coming up. And if you don’t, here’s your sign to book one!
today’s topic: Galentine’s Day ideas
I can’t believe how quickly January flew by. But now that it did, time to shift attention to the next holiday on the calendar – Valentine’s Day…and even more importantly, Galentine’s Day! Here are a few of my favorite ways to celebrate with your favorite gals.
Book a spa day! The girls deserve a spa day, and this is the perfect time to treat yourselves. Book an appointment or purchase a day pass at a local spa (if you’re in Boston, I love G2O or Exhale, or if you *really* want to splurge, the spa at Encore) and have yourself a DAY! Massage, mani-pedi, sauna time – whatever calls to you. And get ready to come out relaxed and refreshed!
Find a local Galentine’s event to attend. Here’s a little bit of a self-plug, but I’m hosting a Galentine’s Day Brunch next Saturday as part of the South End Supper Club series (tickets available here!) If you can’t make that, check out Eventbrite for local listings. It’s a great way to spend time with local gals and celebrate your favorites, all in one!
Host a wine & rom com night. What could be a more quintessential girls’ night activity?! Grab a few bottles, put together a quick charcuterie board and turn on some timeless classics. Get ready to laugh, cry and spend some quality time with your favorite gals!
Organize a tea party (or go to a tea service!) My college roommates and I used to love putting on tea parties for our little group, and I think you will too – what could be better than sipping on some fabulous tea (or iced tea, whatever floats your boat!) and treating yourself to delicate finger sandwiches, scones, petit fours and cakes galore?! Nothing comes to mind for me. And while you’re at it, put on some cute dresses and make a day out of it!
Do a paint & sip. This is something that’s been on my list for awhile, and I think it’s the perfect activity for a group of girls! Come out with your very own work of art and hopefully not too much of a wine hangover :)
Treat yourselves to a fancy steakhouse dinner. I did this with a few of my girlfriends this summer at Mooo… in Beacon Hill, and it was the BEST. Lesson learned: steak dinners aren’t just for date night, they’re also for girls’ night! And what better occasion to dress up and wine and dine yourselves!?
Brunch…duh! Last but not least, what has to be my favorite item on the weekend agenda. I love a good brunch, and nothing matches the tea that comes out of a girl group’s brunch table. Some of my favorite spots for brunch in Boston: Sonsie, Petit Robert, Ciao Roma, Shy Bird & Contessa!
recipe of the week
Some recipes I test are pretty good - this is *really* good. It’s overflowing with flavor and truly gives you a restaurant-quality meal using a single pot and less than 30 minutes. Enjoy!
Creamy Mushroom Orzo
takes 20 minutes; serves 1
Ingredients:
1 shallot
1 tbsp butter
1/4 cup dry orzo
1/2 cup chicken bone broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup (25g) grated parmesan cheese
2 oz mushrooms
Salt & pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Heat butter in a small pot over medium-low heat. Add shallot and sauté for 2-3 mins, until translucent.
Add orzo and toast for 2 minutes.
Add in bone broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3 minutes. Add parmesan cheese and simmer for another minute.
Stir in mushrooms, salt & pepper and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat, garnish with parmesan & parsley and enjoy!
current obsession
Italian brand Ricordami sent me the CUTEST bear made of preserved roses to celebrate Valentine’s Day! They sell all sorts of preserved rose arrangements & pieces – the perfect gift that lasts longer than a fresh bouquet of flowers. Joy for months & years – go check them out!!
what’s next?
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What’s up next:
San Juan recap
Takeaways from the South End Supper Club
Preparing for spring
And so much more…let me know what else you’d like to see in a comment below!
See ya next week,
Kaitlyn | The Pantry Potluck ♡
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or emotions like humans do. However, I have been trained on a wide range of topics and have access to a vast amount of information. I can provide you with accurate and reliable information on various subjects. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!
Now, let's discuss the concepts mentioned in this article:
Galentine's Day
Galentine's Day is a holiday celebrated on February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day. It is a day to celebrate and appreciate the friendships between women. The term "Galentine's Day" was popularized by the TV show "Parks and Recreation" and has since gained popularity as a way for women to spend time together and show their love and support for each other.
Spa Day
A spa day is a day dedicated to relaxation and self-care at a spa. It typically involves various treatments such as massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and access to spa facilities like saunas and hot tubs. It is a popular activity for individuals or groups to unwind, destress, and pamper themselves.
Galentine's Event
A Galentine's event is a gathering or celebration specifically organized for women to come together and enjoy each other's company on Galentine's Day. These events can take various forms, such as brunches, parties, workshops, or themed activities. They provide an opportunity for women to bond, have fun, and strengthen their friendships.
Wine & Rom Com Night
A wine and rom com night is a casual get-together where friends enjoy watching romantic comedies (rom coms) while sipping wine. It is a popular activity for groups of friends, especially on occasions like Galentine's Day or girls' nights. It combines relaxation, laughter, and the enjoyment of romantic movies.
Tea Party
A tea party is a social gathering where tea is served along with various snacks and treats. It is a traditional and elegant way to spend time with friends, often involving the use of fine china, delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Tea parties can be organized at home or enjoyed at tea rooms or establishments that offer tea services.
Paint & Sip
Paint and sip events are social gatherings where participants create their own artwork while enjoying drinks, typically wine. These events are often guided by an instructor who provides step-by-step instructions on creating a specific painting. It is a fun and creative activity that allows individuals or groups to explore their artistic side in a relaxed and social setting.
Fancy Steakhouse Dinner
A fancy steakhouse dinner refers to dining at an upscale restaurant that specializes in serving high-quality steaks. It is a luxurious and indulgent experience often associated with special occasions or celebrations. Enjoying a steak dinner with friends can be a memorable way to celebrate Galentine's Day and treat yourselves to a fine dining experience.
Brunch
Brunch is a combination of breakfast and lunch, typically enjoyed late in the morning or early afternoon. It is a popular weekend activity where friends gather to enjoy a leisurely meal together. Brunch menus often include a variety of dishes, such as eggs, pancakes, pastries, salads, and beverages like coffee or mimosas. It is a relaxed and social mealtime that allows for conversation and enjoyment of good food.
I hope this information helps you understand the concepts mentioned in the article. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
