How to create the perfect Galentine’s Day gift bag

Galentine’s Day, often celebrated on or around February 13, is all about honoring and appreciating the incredible friendships. It’s about leaning into and celebrating girlhood—recognizing the power of connection and fun and shared experiences.

Popularized by Parks and Recreation, this unofficial holiday is the perfect excuse to gather with your besties, share some love, and swap some laughs. For the past couple of years, my friend Kelli has hosted a Galentine’s get-together, and I always try to show up with a favor bag as my contribution.

By creating a thoughtful Galentine’s Day gift bag, filled with little treats, goodies, and small trinkets, I hope to show some appreciation for the ladies that make life so wonderful. Also, I’m about sticking to a budget, so a major goal is to be thoughtful without breaking the bank.

Here are some ideas for a little Galentine’s Day goodie bag.

✨Little treats✨

No gift bag is complete without something sweet! I always go for individually wrapped chocolates, candy (themed bags from the grocery store are great for dividing if making several bags), or a baked good of several varieties.

Reese’s Peanut Butter hearts, Hershey’s kisses, Ferrero Rocher, candy conversation hearts, Russell Stover bars, etc. all work. Or, a small bag of specialty tea or hot cocoa mix can make a cozy addition to enjoy later. I also try to include a beverage of some sort, like a strawberry vanilla Olipop or a tiny bottle of champagne.

Last year, I included wrapped cookies from a local Milwaukee bakery, and those were a hit!

Scented goodies

A light body mist, mini candle, or essential oil roller can add a touch of relaxation to the gift bag. Travel-sized options or budget-friendly finds at drugstores, discount shops, or craft markets make for a nice addition.

Self-care essentials

I love a simple self-care moment, with an easy-to-use and easier to enjoy face mask, foot mask, bath bomb, or lotion. My friends deserve to unwind and relax!

These are some of my favorite face sheet masks, under-eye masks, and lip mask to gift.

Cozy comforts

Fuzzy socks, soft scrunchies, barre socks, or a cute sleep mask can bring an extra layer of comfy-cozy to a gift bag. I always appreciate receiving these!

Beauty or accessories

Since it’s Galentine’s Day, I always try to include at least one beauty item or accessory. This year, I went for a lip stick and a mini beauty blender.

Other ideas include simple charm bracelets, chokers, and claw clips, for a trendy and affordable touch of glam.

Stationery supplies

A mini notebook, an inspirational notepad, themed pencils or pens, or a set of cute stickers can bring a little extra layer of joy.

This is one of my favorite elements of any gift bag, because they’re practical and something I’d love to receive myself! From Camp Chad to Barbie Party, I always try to incorporate some kind of stationary or sticker element—even better if they’re personalized to your friend’s interests!

DIY or handmade touches

Galentine’s Day is made all the better with a creative touch. If willing, consider adding an artistic or crafty touch—a friendship bracelet, personalized bookmark, small painting, pottery item. Handmade gifts add sentimental value and make your Galentine’s bag even more special.

In my case, I doodled love-themed drawings on my gift bags. I’m no artist and it was a small detail, but I think this adds a whimsical, uniquely-Savannah touch to the gift.

Fun and games

Include a pack of playing cards, a mini puzzle, or a fun “conversation starter” game for some added silly goofy fun. I always try to include a small pop-open card with an inspirational quote or prompt as well.

There’s an extra layer of entertainment if the gift is brought out during the Galentine’s Day hangout.

A solid gift bag

Rather than using traditional gift wrap, consider a reusable tote bag, a cute cosmetic pouch, or even a decorated paper bag to hold the goodies.

Going this direction is an eco-friendly option that your friends can continue to use and enjoy beyond the holiday.

Final touch: a valentine

The best part of any Galentine’s Day gift is the heartfelt message that goes with it. Write a short note expressing your gratitude and appreciation for your friendship—this small gesture can mean the most.

I love doing so in a valentine card! I got a fun flip-phone themed set from Broadway Paper in Milwaukee, and they are so darn cute.

By mixing and matching these affordable yet meaningful items, you can create a Galentine’s Day gift bag that celebrates friendship, love, and self-care.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, movie night, or craft night, these thoughtful treats will make your besties feel truly special.

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