This past Valentine’s Day, six Community School of Davidson (CSD) juniors decided to do something a little bit out of the ordinary. Instead of celebrating in a traditional way, the classmates gathered together for ‘Galentines,’ a self proclaimed event organized to spend quality time with, and appreciate, female friendships.
All juniors, the group of friends and classmates consisted of Makayla Smith, Brianna Padin, Avery Nardone, Addison Nardone, Maggie Neale and Emaline Hardin (who hosted everyone).
Although February 14 commonly symbolizes romance, other relationships deserve the same appreciation. As the girls watched more and more friends get together to celebrate Valentine’s Day this way, they decided to do it, as well.
“We rarely can all get together, so our gathering was extra special. We had so much fun eating, taking pictures, and hanging out that my face hurt later from smiling so much.” Addison Nardone (‘26) said.
Decorating ahead of time helped make the event special. Hardin laid out a pink tablecloth, strung ‘xoxo’ banners and tied heart balloons to each chair.
“The decorations helped set the mood and really turned it into an event,” Makayla Smith (‘26) said.
For a fun addition, the girls decided everyone would individually bring some type of food arrangement. Neale brought a gummy board, Smith brought chips and dip, Padin brought desserts, the Nardones brought fruit and Hardin provided drinks.
The girls used a combination of digital cameras and phones to capture the event.
Society seems split on polar ends of the celebration spectrum, they either love Valentine’s Day or despise it, and the group of girls share different ideas, too.
Brianna Padin (‘26) said, “Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday.”
Maggie Neale has a different take. The critics’ distaste of the holiday usually derives from lacking a partner but Neale believes that loved ones should be appreciated everyday, not just Valentine’s Day.
“I don’t necessarily celebrate, I just continue loving those close to me,” Maggie Neale (‘26) said.
Valentine’s Day is subjective from person to person whether traditionally celebrated or through events like “Galentines.” Friends and family help people discover their identities, teach life lessons and fulfill lives, even those who might not feel appreciated.
So next time you buy flowers or a card for your partner, consider grabbing one for your friend, as well. Even if you don’t have a romantic partner to be your valentine, the holiday can be spent with anyone you love.
There is no limit on valentines, and this year the six girls were each other’s.
