Get Ahead of “Galentine’s Day” with these American-made Gift and Activity Ideas

It’s always important to make time for your gal pals on this unofficial holiday that’s “like Lilith Fair, without the angst.”

Valentine’s Day may be this Saturday, but there’s an equally important (unofficial) holiday the day before: “Galentine’s Day.” Coined on the television sitcom Parks and Recreation by Amy Poehler’s character, the iconic Leslie Knope, Galentine’s Day is a celebration of female friendships everywhere. Whether you’re planning a girl’s day or looking for simple gifts, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of seven Made in America options for popular Galentine’s Day items.

Watercolors

There are plethora of Galentine’s Day-themed paint and sip events out there. If you like the vibe of painting with your girl friends but would rather stay in (and save some money!), check out the water color workbooks from Emily Lex Studio. They come in a variety of themes, and there’s also instructions for each painting, so they’re accessible to painters of all levels. You can even scan the QR code on the book for a free painting course. All the drawings are done by Emily Lex herself in Gig Harbor, Wash. Emily Lex also sells stickers, cards (including paintable ones) and more — some are even Valentine’s themed!

Mud Masks

Another popular Galentine’s activity is doing face masks together. Alaska Glacial Essentials Skincare has a selection of mud masks that makes a great pick. You can choose the mask that best fits your needs, or you can purchase a bundle with several other skincare options. Many of Alaska Glacial Essentials products are made in Cordova, Alaska using ingredients from the company’s natural surroundings, including glaciers (but not all items are American-made, so check labels!). Be sure to check out Alaska Glacial Essentials’ other skincare offerings as well.

Nail Polish

Painting nails can be a perfect hangtime activity and nail polish works as an easy gift. And many nail polish brands, like other beauty brands, are Made in the USA. One of these brands is ella+mila. All its polishes are vegan, cruelty-free and made without harsh chemicals. If you want to include some little gals in your Galentine’s Day celebration, ella+mila also sells nail polishes specifically designed for kids’ hands. You can also grab makeup products like eyeshadow palettes and liquid lipsticks from ella+mila as well.

Socks

There’s nothing like a cozy night in with your gal pals. Keep your feet warm and snug with the cute options from Solmate Socks. These socks are super colorful and come in a variety of designs. The options range from comfy crew socks to ankle socks designed to not be visible. No matter what pair you buy, every Solmate Sock is sustainably made in Hickory, N.C. Plus, you can purchase special pairs to support various charities! These are socks you can feel good about!

Pajamas

You can’t have a fun night in without some nice pajamas. Our PJ pick for Galentine’s Day that will provide coziness while also making you feel good are the pajamas from JJ Winks. The company was founded by two best friends who couldn’t find a good “in-the-middle” loungewear option that was both stylish and appropriate for hanging out with friends and family. JJ Winks pajamas and loungewear are specifically designed to allow women to go bra-free, so you can truly allow yourself to relax. There’s plenty of options available, including special Valentine’s Day items. All the clothes are made in Los Angeles from locally sourced fabrics.

Candles

A candle is a perfect way to set the vibe for whatever get-together you have planned. For a Made in USA option, try Milkhouse Candle Co. The company started in a husband-and-wife duo’s kitchen. It’s now exploded, and Milkhouse has sold over 32 million candles to date. What sets Milkhouse apart is that it’s made of all-natural ingredients like beeswax and soy. Milkhouse sources all its soy from farmers in the Midwest, near their homebase in St. Ansgar, Iowa. For Galentine’s Day (and Valentine’s) you’ll find several themed scents, including this bestie candle that’s perfect for the occasion.

Jewelry and More

A common Galentine’s gift is jewelry. Our pick for the best themed jewelry is Clay & Fern Co. They’re based in Minot, N.D., and all pieces are hand-made by the owner. There’s a huge Valentine’s/Galentine’s collection featuring necklaces, earrings and more adorned with a variety of love-themed designs. There’s of course the traditional hearts and chocolate designs to choose from, but I have to shout out these incredible dragon earrings. Jewelry not your friend group’s thing? No worries! Clay & Fern also sells other products including bookmarks and magnets.

Looking for something different for your Galentine’s Day celebrations? Check out our directory of 1,000+ Made in America products.

The Alliance for American Manufacturing does not receive a commission from purchases made through the above links, nor was the organization or author paid for favorable coverage.

Labeling Note: This story is intended to highlight companies that support American jobs and that make great products in the United States. We rely on the companies listed to provide accurate information regarding their domestic operations and their products. Each company featured is individually responsible for labeling and advertising their products according to applicable standards, such as the Federal Trade Commission’s “Made in USA” standard or California’s “Made in USA” labeling law. We do not review individual products for compliance or claim that because a company is listed in the guide that their products comply with specific labeling or advertising standards. Our focus is on supporting companies that create American jobs.

For more on the Federal Trade Commission’s standards for “Made in USA” claims and California’s “Made in USA” labeling law, please also read this guest post by Dustin Painter and Kristi Wolff of Kelly Drye & Warren, LLP.