A Pro Designer’s Secrets to Decorating for the Ultimate Galentine’s Day Gathering

Love is in the air, and we’re not just talking about Valentine’s Day. Galentine’s Day falls on Friday, Feb. 13—the perfect date for hosting a party for all your friends (and family) to attend. If you haven’t yet figured out your party decorations, there’s still time. We spoke to interior designer Taniya Nayak to get a sense of the biggest Galentine’s Day decorating tips for 2026.

Put Maximalism at the Center

“One aesthetic I’ve been loving is the return of maximalist themed decor,” Nayak says. “The layering of pinks and reds, pattern-mixing, and adorable decor accents make every event feel light-hearted and joyful. For an event like Galentine’s Day, the more colors, patterns, and decor, the better.”

Try using fabric textures—like velvet, ruffles, or scallops—to make your favorite colors and patterns feel even more playful. Lean into bright colors like bold red or hot pink as well as jewel tones when you decorate for Galentine’s Day.

Spread Love All Around the Dining Room

There are a few decorations, Nayak says, that absolutely can’t be missed at a Galentine’s party.

“When hosting any themed event, I always focus on the focal point of the room–the dining table!” she says. “A few key pieces make all the difference—think patterned plates, colorful glassware, or embroidered napkins! These small but thoughtful touches instantly elevate your space, adding festive charm without breaking the bank.”

Feel free to mix and match your plates or glassware within your Galentine’s Day color scheme. A soft pink table runner or set of taper candles can help pull it all together. If you’re running low on dinnerware, hit up your local thrift store for a wealth of plates and napkins in Valentine’s colors.

Creating a Dreamy Galentine’s Tablescape

“My favorite part of any tablescape is the place setting—it’s where you can really personalize your decor,” Nayak says. “I love to layer different plates to introduce pops of color and pair them with napkins that complement the selected palette to add some dimension. Incorporating some playful themed glassware is another trick to make each guest feel special while still creating a beautifully cohesive look.”

Collections like Anthropologie’s Valentine’s Day Icon Glasses will create a fun and sweet array of glassware for your dining table. Adding DIY decor such as wax-painted candlesticks, an embroidered tablecloth, or personalized place cards is a thoughtful touch we think Nayak would approve of.

Embrace the Differences

If you’re hosting a Valentine’s date night and a Galentine’s party this year, it’s important you make the two events feel different from one another. Galentine’s Day is about celebrating your close platonic loves, and you can distinguish it from Valentine’s Day with your decor. Valentine’s decor is often more serious than it is playful—an intimate table setting, low mood lighting, and elegant decorations. But for Feb. 13, having fun is key.

“When it’s time to celebrate Galentine’s Day, I lean into playful patterns, bold color palettes, and themed accents to bring some personality into my space,” Nayak says.

Don’t be shy when playing around with colors, patterns, and cute Galentine’s motifs. You want your space to feel exciting and inviting as soon as your friends walk through the door.