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Valentine’s Day for the Girls: How to Celebrate Solo or with Your Besties

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Lily Cohen Student Contributor, George Washington University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at GWU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

This Valentine’s Day, ditch the pressure and embrace love in all forms—whether it’s self-love or time spent with your best friends. Here’s how to make the most of the day, no matter your relationship status.

Valentine’s Day often gets a bad rap for being all about romantic relationships, but why should couples have all the fun? Whether you’re single, celebrating Galentine’s Day, or just want to make the day special for yourself, there are plenty of ways to make February 14th feel like a treat rather than a reminder of what you don’t have. Here’s how to have the ultimate Valentine’s Day—no significant other required.

1. Romanticize Your Own Life

There’s no better day to treat yourself like the main character. Start your day with your favorite breakfast, wear an outfit that makes you feel confident, and indulge in the little things that bring you joy. Whether it’s fresh flowers, a fancy coffee, or finally reading that book that’s been sitting on your nightstand, make it a day that feels good for you.

2. Host a Galentine’s Night In

Forget overpriced prix-fixe dinners. Invite your best friends over for a cozy night filled with heart-shaped snacks, DIY facials, and a lineup of rom-coms (because what’s Valentine’s Day without How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days or 10 Things I Hate About You?).

3. Go on a Solo Date

Who says you need a date to enjoy a night out? Take yourself to a cute café, a museum, or even a fancy dinner. Bring a book, people-watch, and soak in the experience of spending time with yourself. If going out solo feels daunting, start small—maybe a matcha run in a cozy coffee shop or a quick window-shopping trip.

4. Try a New “Soft Girl” Hobby

Lean into your feminine energy by trying something creative and fun. Buy yourself a bouquet and learn the art of flower arranging, bake a Valentine’s-themed dessert, or start a new journal. If you’ve been meaning to get into knitting, embroidery, or painting, this is the perfect excuse to romanticize your hobbies.

5. Have a Self-Care Spa Night

Run a bath, put on a hydrating face mask, and unwind with a glass of wine or your favorite tea. Whether it’s a full skincare routine, painting your nails, or finally using that hair mask you bought months ago, this is your sign to prioritize you.

6. Do Something Unapologetically Extra

If there’s ever a day to go full Elle Woods, it’s Valentine’s Day. Wear a red or pink outfit, send your best friend a heartfelt text, or buy yourself chocolates just because. Get flowers for your desk, put on perfume even if you’re staying in, and romanticize the day however you want.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about having a significant other—it can be a day to celebrate all kinds of love, especially the love you have for yourself and the people who make your life better. So whether you’re indulging in a solo spa night, spending time with your friends, or treating yourself to something special, make it a day that feels good for you. 💖

Lily is a junior at GW, double majoring in Communications and Marketing. Her academic journey is driven by a passion for storytelling, media, and the power of effective communication.

Outside of classes and writing articles, Lily enjoys reading (Little Women being her favorite novel), going for runs, and discovering new music. Adele is her favorite artist, with her songs often on repeat. Lily also serves as the VP of Communication for GW AMA, where she helps promote all things marketing.

As a member of Her Campus, Lily channels her love for writing into creating engaging and relatable content for college women, exploring topics surrounding literature, book events, and publishing news.

She aspires to pursue a career in marketing, PR, or publicity within the publishing industry, where she can continue connecting with audiences and crafting impactful stories.