How to Host a Girls’ Night In | Welcome to Better

Though some of us don’t like to admit it, most women enjoy one particular part of “chick flick” films the most: the girls’ nights in. There’s nothing more relatable or memorable than fun times with your best friends in your home. From the never-ending bowls of popcorn and the wine that doesn’t stop pouring, to the face masks, card games, and silly storytelling, these movies give us all the urge to plan our own girls’ night in (GNI). But how do you ensure that your night in with the gals is “movie-worthy”? Have no fear! Use our quick guide to learn how to plan the ultimate girls’ night in!

Picking the Right Spread of Snacks and Beverages

No matter the event or venue, there’s one major piece in play that determines how long people will stay: the food and drinks. Make sure your friends are given all the options they need!

Prepare a charcuterie board with well-paired wines. Though charcuterie looks exquisite and expensive, there are many Pinterest guides on creating your own spread on a budget! Also, don’t be afraid to introduce non-traditional snacks to the board. Cookie dough dip paired with cinnamon graham crackers is a great addition to your charcuterie board and add a little bit of sweetness. Spruce up the final spread with a few loose pieces of fresh greenery and you’re all set!

As for the beverages, make sure you actually have the drinks of your girls’ choice. Though most of us enjoy a crisp glass of wine, it’s not everybody’s cup of tea (pun intended!). If one friend is more of a cocktail person, ensure you have that on the countertop, ready for her to indulge! Remembering your friends’ favorite drinks is an easy way to make them feel appreciated.

Creating the Backdrop

The second most-important part of any get-together is going to be the environment. Movie theaters turn off lights, restaurants dim lights and light candles, and you prep your home to ensure your GNI will be the comfiest, coziest, cutest venue for your friends! There are three major parts to the perfect backdrop for your girls’ night:

Part I: The Décor

Though it is likely just a GNI and not a birthday, anniversary, or any other significant life event, you’re still allowed to decorate! Pick a theme and run with it. (Spoiler alert: tie together the décor and the “activity” that we’ll talk about later!)

Some of my favorite themes are (1) pink, rose gold, and white colors along with soft decorations like poufs, pillows, balloons, etc. These all remind me of excitement; (2) Nature colors with lots of greenery or plants, if you’re going for relaxation; or (3) gold, orange, and white colors along with floral décor, because this scheme just screams sunshine and happiness. Simply think of your girls and what they remind you of and go from there!

Part II: The Movie

I’m personally a big fan of background noise and movement. There’s something about a classic chick flick that we all know all of the words to that brings some comfort and, more importantly, laughter! Have a movie starting as the girls arrive. Some of my personal recommendations are: Bridesmaids, 27 Dresses, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, 13 Going on 30, Crazy, Stupid, Love, and Dirty Dancing.

Part III: The Playlist

For when the movie is over, you’ll want to be sure to have a Spotify playlist on deck! While there are numerous playlists on different music streaming platforms, you may opt to create your own playlist specifically with songs that remind you of your besties.

When I’m creating a girls’ night in playlist, I start by adding some top hits from favorite artists (hello Taylor Swift’s Lover album) and then add in some throwback staples that every girl knows every word to (I’m looking at you, Shania Twain’s “MAN! I Feel Like a Woman!”) There are really no rules here; just be sure to include some throwbacks that will guide you all on a walk down memory lane.

Planning for the Main Event

Even though we all enjoy a good sitting-on-the-couch-with-wine-in-hand-while-talking-about-good-times chat, sometimes it’s nice to take a break and do something different!

This can be elaborate or inexpensive; it’s truly up to you as the host. While Pinterest has many ideas, I’ve taken down a list of some of those that either I’ve attended or those that stick out:

Paint and Sip – Paint a canvas while you sip on an adult beverage. Be sure to put down some plastic on your painting surface so you avoid stains!
Spa Day – Cucumber eyes, face masks, or hot towels steamed in your crockpot (really!) – this one is pretty easy and relaxing.
Card Games – If you’re not a big card player, remember other card games exist, such as Cards Against Humanity and What Do You Meme?
DIY Wine Glasses – Get paint markers and cheap wine glasses and create a piece of art on the cup you’ll be sipping from all night.
S’mores Galore – Make a s’mores station and light the bonfire!

Every GNI should be a direct reflection of the relationship you have with your girls, so don’t be afraid to try something new! If it fails, you can always go away to a hotel and order room service next time.

Do you have any favorite activities or planning/executing tips on how to host a girls’ night in? Share a photo from your last big success and tag @mihomes!

A Guide to the Ultimate Girls’ Night In

June 23, 2020