Valentine’s Day Isn’t Just for Couples — It’s for the Gals, the Giggles, and the Memories

“Some of the greatest love stories in our lives are the friendships that grow with us.” Andrea Peponakis

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be candlelit dinners for two. Some of the sweetest memories are made laughing too loud, sharing dessert, and celebrating the women who’ve walked through life beside us.

This year, let’s turn Valentine’s Day into a friendship celebration. Long Island is filled with cozy, creative, and memory-making ways to spend time with your favorite women.

Here are some ideas for a beautiful Galentine’s Day on Long Island.

 Wine, Chats & Charcuterie Afternoons

Gather your girlfriends for an afternoon at a local North Fork winery. Winter vineyard visits feel extra special. They are quieter, cozier, and perfect for long conversations. Order a charcuterie board, sip something new, and go around the table answering one question:
“What moment this past year made you feel most grateful?”

Candlelight Concerts & Live Music

There is something magical about music by candlelight. These intimate concerts feel elegant but relaxed. I attended the Bach to Beatles Candlelight Concert at the Performing Arts Center in Oakdale last month. It was truly an impressive and uplifting experience. Check feverup.com for upcoming candlelight shows. Dress up a little. Take photos. Make it an occasion. Music has a way of wrapping around memories… all the way back to 1964 when the Beatles landed in JFK.

Sweet Treat Crawls

Who says you have to pick just one dessert? Make it a Sweet Crawl:

• Hot chocolate stop
  • Bakery stop
  • Chocolate shop stop

Share everything. Laugh about calories later. Valentine’s Day is about joy, not rules.

Pamper & Unwind

Book massages, facials, or just a spa lounge day. No rushing. No obligations. Just deep breaths and time together. Before the day ends, take one group photo even if your hair is messy. One day, photos like these become treasures. And that’s exactly why preserving moments matters.

Which brings me to something close to my heart…

A Gift That Lasts “For Eternity”

Valentine’s Day is about love — but the most powerful love stories are the ones we leave behind.

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for grandchildren, family, or even a friend who treasures memories, my “For Eternity” children’s book collection is all about passing love forward from one generation to the next. These are stories about the kind of love that never ends, the kind our grandchildren carry with them forever.

Available on Amazon or at my website:
www.grandmagrandmatellmemore.com

And for those who still adore a good love story, grab a copy of Past the Pavement by Robin A. Lieberman on Amazon and join us for a special Meet & Greet on February 18th. It’s the perfect excuse for a girls’ afternoon filled with conversation, connection, and book lovers. If you’d like to attend, email me at andreapeponakis@gmail.com. I’d love to see you there!

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the women who know your stories, your struggles, your laughter, and your heart.

Romantic love is beautiful.
But a lifelong friendship?
That’s unforgettable.