Lovers come and go, which is probably why at some point we decided to embrace a holiday devoted to the platonic loves of your life, Galentine’s Day (unofficially February 13, but we’re down to celebrate any day). Whether or not you have a significant other/first date/reliable friends-with-benefits to spend Valentine’s Day with, it’s important to give some love to the ones who’ll listen to you complain about said date without any judgment. If you’re looking for the ideal way to celebrate your lady friends this year, we’ve rounded up a few options that are sure to provide some seriously quality girl time.
What: A Day of Pampering
Where: Burke Williams Spa (925 N La Brea Ave)
When: Whenever!
Why: Couples massages are cool, but when it comes to primping, is there anyone better to get buffed and puffed with than your BFF? We didn’t think so. The luxurious and legendary Burke Williams spa is the perfect place to primp whether or not you’ve got a V-Day date in your future. We suggest the spa’s eco-friendly steam pedicure or pure relaxation massage. For a little extra incentive to spend your Galentine’s Day here, when you book a treatment that’s $75 or more, you also get access to amenities like a whirlpool, steam room and sauna. You’ll leave here a totally new women.
What: Kittens & Cocktails Mixer
Where: Individual Medley (3176 Glendale Blvd)
When: Sunday, February 11 from 3 to 6pm
Why: Kittens and cocktails? Okay, we’ll elaborate: The expertly curated Atwater Village boutique is bringing in a few furry friends from local rescue organization Luxe Paws to cuddle and kiss—yup, in a kitten kissing booth!—plus beverages to sip while you shop. To make things even sweeter (if that’s even possible), a portion of sales made during the event will go directly to Luxe Paws.
Photograph: Courtesy Luxe Paws
What: Lingerie Shopping Party
Where: Botanica Workshop Studio (6189 N Figueroa St)
When: Saturday, February 10 from noon to 6pm (reception 6 to 8pm)
Why: We know that “lingerie shopping” probably sounds more like a traditional Valentine’s Day errand, but hear us out. Local, sustainable, and oh-so-comfy intimates brand Botanica Workshop is opening its Highland Park studio for a public shopping party (including a section of discounted pieces) where in addition to perusing the organic cotton bralettes, recycled nylon swimwear, tie-dyed silk slips and more, you and your bestie can pick up chic kitchen goods (cookbooks, wood bowls, ceramics) from web shop Tenzo. If you RSVP, you can also enjoy complimentary treats, including crudité, black sesame chocolate cake and wine. Now who’s going with us?
What: Watercolor Workshop
Where: Makers Mess (602 N Hoover St)
When: Tuesday, February 13 from 7 to 9pm (enroll by February 12)
Why: If shopping and spas aren’t your thing, how about a little DIY night? Silver Lake’s creative hub Makers Mess is hosting a watercolor card workshop where you can get crafty and whip up your own valentines for your boo, your mom or even your dog (we’re not judging).
Photograph: Courtesy Makers Mess
What: Glam Grooming
Where: Bumble Hive LA (8441 Melrose Pl)
When: Wednesday, February 14 from 4pm to 7pm
Why: Even though this technically falls on Valentine’s Day, brining your BFF to Bumble’s pop-up space on Melrose for complimentary hair and makeup touch-ups courtesy of Birchbox (book yours here) seems like the perfect way to spend the day—regardless of plans for romance for later. While you’re getting spruced up, you can build your very own Birchboxes with a little help from the brand’s creative directors Sara and Erin Foster, who you probably already follow on Instagram.