The Best Girls Night In
Planning a Girls Night In:
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants encompassed the power of women coming together, the pants acted as the literal and metaphorical fabric that wove them all together. One of my favorite memories as a young adult was a girls night in, where we all exchanged our gently used items that had found themselves in the giveaway pile. Sizes 4 through 16 were present and accounted for. And somehow in the magical melting pot of eclectic styles and sizes everyone found new threads to don. This evening was a celebration of the beauty of each of the girls present. In addition it showcased what can transpire when women are kind to one another instead of tearing into one another.
Moreover, we took risks in style and in trying something outside of our comfort zones. I watched girls remove items from the rack, and beam with pride as they felt newly made over in their new frock. This girls night was easy to do, the food was great, the wine delicious and the atmosphere was inviting. Exchanging clothes is a wonderful way to reduce waste, and create new friendships just as those denim blue jeans did in the Sisterhood.
Food:
Firstly, At our particular gathering we did charcuterie boards and everyone brought something to contribute. Themed parties are always easier to coordinate from pizza to a taco bar everyone can find something to enjoy. I always bring the gluten free elements for myself, and anyone else who may benefit.
Drink:
Wine
Cucumber Water
Kombucha
Hot Tea
Flavored Iced Tea
Non- Alcoholic Beverages
Presentation:
Subsequently, the hostess of our party held a job in Stagecraft and Design with a focus in costuming. The party had extra pizazz because the presentation of the items was considered. There was a rack with hangers to hang dresses on. This garment rack from Amazon would be the perfect size for a smaller party. Shoes were lined up neatly on the floor and smaller pieces were organized on the table using jewelry trees, fabric, and baskets. These elements made the evening feel even more special. Truly, it felt like we were in a chic fashion boutique, yet everything was free. You know this thrifty girl was in second hand paradise.In addition, to the rack, a full length mirror would be helpful for the girls when they are trying things on.
Appropriate Items for Exchange :
Though it may seem obvious ,you may want to make a note in the invites that all items being brought should be newly washed, free of holes and gently used.
Jewelry
Shoes
Purses
Jeans
Shirts
Skirts
Dresses
Workout Gear
How do the Girls Shop?
Since everyone brought something to contribute we just took turns shopping. Some girls took many items while others only took a few. The hostess announced that any items left at the party’s end would be donated to the local Goodwill. Since everyone willingly brought items no one worried about even exchanges (Some items were from Target and others were from Cache.) Another nice element here could be to provide reusable grocery bags to place clothes in. TJMaxx has awesome large size bags for $1.00 that would work beautifully and they are often vibrantly colored or covered in cute patterns.
Parenting Requires Selflessness :
We are naturally selfish people, there is a reason that children learn the word “mine” at a very young age. Your water bottle isn’t yours anymore and there is no such thing as privacy. It should be noted that I can’t remember the last time that I was able to go potty without an audience. I believe Jesus knew that parenting would require selflessness because he exercises that with us on a daily basis.
Happy Exchanging
-Patience
2 Comments
Carrie
What an awesome idea!!! This sounds like a fun way to bond with friends, clean out a closet and try some “new” threads!
Patience
Carrie this evening was so fun and I loved that everyone found new threads indeed. Am I sensing a Girls Night In for you?