Luxurious Pajamas, Nail Care Secrets, and More

Amanda Batula’s Guide to a Fabulous Galentine’s Day 2026

As January marches on, it’s time to turn our attention to a celebration of female friendship: Galentine’s Day. And who better to guide us through the perfect gifts and pampering essentials than Amanda Batula, the creative force behind Loverboy and a star of Bravo’s *Summer House*? Amanda’s known for her impeccable taste and dedication to self-care, making her the ideal curator for a Galentine’s Day gift guide that’s both thoughtful and luxurious.

This year, Amanda’s focus is on creating experiences and gifting items that promote relaxation, self-expression, and connection. Let’s delve into her top picks for Galentine’s Day 2026.

Luxurious Pajamas: The Foundation of a Cozy Celebration

“Comfort is key,” Amanda emphasizes, “especially when you’re spending quality time with your best friends.” Her go-to Galentine’s Day gift is a set of luxurious pajamas. But not just any pajamas will do. Amanda is talking about sets crafted from high-quality materials like silk, organic cotton, or sustainable bamboo.

The trend forecasts from WGSN WGSN consistently point towards a growing demand for comfortable and stylish loungewear. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing pieces that can be worn both at home and for casual outings. This “blurring of boundaries” between sleepwear and everyday wear makes luxurious pajamas an incredibly versatile gift.

Amanda suggests considering sets with thoughtful details like elegant piping, delicate embroidery, or personalized monograms. Brands like Lunya, known for their washable silk, and Eberjey, famous for their super-soft Pima cotton pajamas, are excellent choices. Another emerging trend is incorporating aromatherapy into sleepwear. Some brands are now offering pajamas infused with calming scents like lavender or chamomile, adding an extra layer of relaxation to the gifting experience.

Beyond established brands, Amanda champions supporting smaller, independent businesses. She encourages shoppers to seek out local artisans or online boutiques specializing in handcrafted pajamas. This not only provides a unique and personalized gift but also contributes to the growth of small businesses.

The Ultimate Nail Care “Hack”: Elevating the At-Home Mani-Pedi

Forget expensive salon visits; Amanda believes that a perfect mani-pedi can be achieved in the comfort of your own home with the right tools and techniques. Her “ultimate nail care hack” isn’t just about the products; it’s about creating a relaxing and enjoyable ritual.

“It’s all about taking the time to pamper yourself,” Amanda explains. “Light some candles, put on your favorite music, and really enjoy the process.”

Amanda’s nail care kit includes:

* **High-Quality Nail Polish:** She favors brands like OPI, Essie, and newer entrants focusing on non-toxic and vegan formulas. The trend towards “clean beauty” continues to influence the nail care industry, with consumers seeking out products free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. According to market research from Mintel Mintel, the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable beauty products is steadily increasing, particularly among younger consumers.
* **A Professional-Grade Nail File and Buffer:** These tools are essential for shaping and smoothing the nails, creating a flawless canvas for polish. Amanda recommends investing in a glass nail file, which is gentler on the nails and helps prevent splitting.
* **Cuticle Oil:** Hydrating the cuticles is crucial for healthy nail growth. Amanda swears by cuticle oils infused with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, almond oil, and vitamin E.
* **A Strengthening Base Coat:** This helps to protect the nails from damage and prevent staining.
* **A Long-Lasting Top Coat:** This seals in the polish and adds shine, extending the life of the mani-pedi.

However, the real “hack,” according to Amanda, is the addition of a small, portable UV/LED nail lamp for gel manicures at home. These have become increasingly affordable and user-friendly, allowing for salon-quality results without the salon price tag. She also emphasizes the importance of proper gel polish removal to prevent damage to the natural nails.

Beyond the Basics: Curating a Personalized Galentine’s Day Experience

While luxurious pajamas and nail care essentials are fantastic gifts, Amanda stresses the importance of personalization. “The best gifts are the ones that show you really know and care about your friends,” she says.

Here are some of Amanda’s suggestions for creating a personalized Galentine’s Day experience:

* **Customized Gift Baskets:** Instead of buying pre-made gift baskets, create your own filled with items tailored to each friend’s individual interests and preferences. This could include their favorite snacks, books, candles, or beauty products.
* **Handwritten Notes:** In the age of digital communication, a handwritten note is a truly special and meaningful gesture. Take the time to write a heartfelt message expressing your appreciation for your friends.
* **Experiences Over Things:** Consider gifting experiences rather than material possessions. This could include tickets to a concert, a cooking class, a wine tasting, or a weekend getaway.
* **Subscription Boxes:** There’s a subscription box for almost every interest imaginable, from beauty and fashion to books and snacks. A subscription box is a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. The subscription box market continues to thrive, with NPD Group NPD Group reporting consistent growth in this sector.
* **DIY Spa Day:** Organize a DIY spa day at home, complete with face masks, manicures, and massages. This is a fun and affordable way to pamper yourselves and bond with your friends.
* **Personalized Jewelry:** A piece of jewelry engraved with a friend’s initials, a special date, or a meaningful quote is a timeless and sentimental gift.

The Loverboy Touch: Adding Sparkle to the Celebration

No Amanda Batula-approved celebration would be complete without a touch of Loverboy Loverboy, her sparkling hard tea and cocktail company. Amanda suggests incorporating Loverboy into your Galentine’s Day festivities by creating signature cocktails or simply enjoying a refreshing can of sparkling hard tea with your friends.

“Loverboy is all about having fun and celebrating life,” Amanda explains. “It’s the perfect addition to any Galentine’s Day gathering.”

She recommends experimenting with different Loverboy flavors and creating unique cocktails tailored to your friends’ tastes. You can also use Loverboy as a base for mocktails, offering a non-alcoholic option for those who prefer it.

The Importance of Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Own Well-Being

While Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating female friendship, Amanda emphasizes the importance of self-care. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she says. “It’s essential to prioritize your own well-being so you can be the best friend, partner, and version of yourself.”

Amanda suggests incorporating self-care practices into your Galentine’s Day celebration, such as:

* **Meditation:** Take a few minutes to meditate and focus on your breath. This can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
* **Yoga:** Gentle yoga can help to stretch and strengthen your body, while also calming your mind.
* **Journaling:** Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. This can be a helpful way to process emotions and gain clarity.
* **Reading:** Curl up with a good book and escape into another world.
* **Spending Time in Nature:** Go for a walk in the park or hike in the woods. Spending time in nature can have a profound impact on your mental and physical health.

According to Statista Statista, the global wellness market is booming, with consumers increasingly investing in products and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the importance of self-care and its impact on overall quality of life.

Amanda’s Galentine’s Day 2026 gift guide is all about creating meaningful experiences, prioritizing self-care, and celebrating the incredible women in your life. By following her advice, you can create a Galentine’s Day celebration that’s both fun and fulfilling.

Sustainability Considerations for Galentine’s Day

In 2026, consumers are more conscious than ever about the environmental impact of their purchases. Amanda emphasizes the importance of making sustainable choices when selecting Galentine’s Day gifts.

Here are some ways to incorporate sustainability into your Galentine’s Day celebration:

* **Choose Eco-Friendly Products:** Opt for products made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled materials. Look for brands that prioritize ethical and environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.
* **Support Local Businesses:** Shopping at local businesses reduces your carbon footprint and supports your community.
* **Reduce Waste:** Avoid single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives. Wrap your gifts in recycled paper or fabric instead of traditional wrapping paper.
* **Give Experiences Instead of Things:** Experiences are often more sustainable than material possessions. Consider gifting a cooking class, a concert, or a weekend getaway.
* **Donate to Charity:** In lieu of gifts, consider donating to a charity that supports women’s causes.

By making conscious choices, you can celebrate Galentine’s Day in a way that’s both fun and sustainable.

FAQ: Your Galentine’s Day Questions Answered

What exactly *is* Galentine’s Day?

Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13th, is a day dedicated to celebrating friendships, particularly female friendships. It’s a time to gather with your girlfriends, show your appreciation for each other, and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Galentine’s Day just for single women?

Absolutely not! Galentine’s Day is for *all* women, regardless of their relationship status. It’s a celebration of female friendship, and that’s something everyone can participate in.

What’s the best way to celebrate Galentine’s Day on a budget?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a fun and memorable Galentine’s Day. Some budget-friendly ideas include hosting a potluck dinner, having a movie night, organizing a DIY spa day, or going for a hike or picnic in the park. The most important thing is to spend quality time together.

What if my friends live far away? Can we still celebrate Galentine’s Day?

Of course! Technology makes it easy to connect with friends who live far away. You can host a virtual Galentine’s Day party via video chat, watch a movie together online, or simply schedule a phone call to catch up and celebrate your friendship.

What kind of gifts are appropriate for Galentine’s Day?

The best Galentine’s Day gifts are thoughtful and personalized. Consider your friends’ individual interests and preferences when choosing a gift. Some popular options include beauty products, candles, books, jewelry, personalized items, and experiences.

How can I make Galentine’s Day feel special and meaningful?

The key to making Galentine’s Day feel special is to put thought and effort into it. Take the time to plan activities that your friends will enjoy, write heartfelt notes expressing your appreciation, and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!

Should I bring a gift if I am invited to a Galentine’s Day party?

It’s a nice gesture to bring a small gift if you’re invited to a Galentine’s Day party, but it’s not required. A bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, or a small handmade gift are all appropriate options. If you’re unsure what to bring, you can always ask the host if there’s anything you can contribute.

How do I handle it if I don’t have a large group of female friends for Galentine’s Day?

Galentine’s Day can be celebrated with just one or two close friends! The focus is on the quality of the friendships, not the quantity. You can also use Galentine’s Day as an opportunity to reach out to women you admire and build new connections.