Here’s Why a Candle-Painting Party Is the Only Galentine’s Day Event You Need This Year

It’s no secret that getting your friends together for a cute Galentine’s Day party is just as much (if not more) fun than spending the holiday with your special someone. If you want to host a Galentine’s Day get-together this year but don’t have the budget or time to host an extravagant dinner party, try this unique and easy party idea instead.

What Is a Candle-Painting Party

Like the name says, a candle-painting party is where you gather friends and paint small designs onto taper candles for your home’s decor. While you can host a candle painting party any time of the year, many social media influencers think it pairs well with Galentine’s Day.

TikToker @thaatgirlcarlie shared her Galentine’s candle-painting party, and instead of stopping with the paint, she added other Galentine’s Day decor like balloons, flowers, and a spread of appetizers and desserts.

If you’re booked for Valentine’s Day but still want to host a candle-painting party, base your candle and paint colors and designs on the current season. Paint flowers and strawberries on white candles for spring, or host a Christmas-themed candle painting party like user @karolinecollstad, and paint mini Christmas trees and bows on red and green candles.

Tips for Hosting a Candle Painting Party

The best part about hosting a Galentine’s candle-painting party is how easy and budget-friendly it is. The only supplies you need are candles (we recommend taper candles), paint, and paintbrushes—everything else is up to your discretion. If you’re looking to dress up your party, take inspiration from these tips for Valentine’s decorations and food options.

Make Candle Painting the Center

When setting up for your candle-painting party, make your dining or coffee table the hub of the party, decking it out with all the supplies you need to paint candles. That way, your guests can settle in and enjoy the craft without getting up and down each time they want a new paint color.

Set up your table like you would for a dinner party, but instead of using plates, glasses, and silverware, set paint palettes, candles, and brushes on the table. Scatter small flower bouquets, pots of paint, or a homemade Valentine’s-themed paper chain down the center along with the candle holders. Layer paper doilies on the table and ribbon bows on the candles for an extra sweet touch.

Keep the Menu Simple

No party is complete without an assortment of yummy foods. Being a host and doing the cooking yourself can get overwhelming, so keep the menu simple and candle painting as the main event. Instead of serving up a five-course meal, make a spread of apps and finger foods for guests to munch on while painting. Put a twist on classic Valentine’s Day desserts (like chocolate-covered strawberries and cupcakes) by decorating them with vibrant colors and funky designs.

For a savory option, try fondue with pretzels, bread, and veggies. Add other dips, jams, and protein options so guests can customize their appetizers. And don’t forget on-theme drinks to boost Galentine’s Day spirits.