Girls’ Night In (Gemma Barder) reveals the best crafts, activities, eats and entertainment for the ultimate girls’ night in as chosen by four young friends. It’s one of the books that Sofia (aged seven) has borrowed from the library and can’t put down. It is just the sort of book I would have LOVED at her age.
I started flicking through to see if there were any ideas that could be adapted for a thirty-somethings girls’ night in. I reckon there are…
Girls’ night in ideas
Book’s version: Movie Star Punch
- Lemonade
- Fresh orange juice
- Strawberries
- Mint leaves
- Lemon slices
My version: Negroni Punch
I love a classic Negroni aperitif – one part gin, one part vermouth, one part Campari (a bit of orange peel as a garnish) – but this punch sounds like a great, longer drink alternative.
Book’s version: Plait perfection
A step-by-step guide to creating a French and fishtail plait.
My version: I nearly always wear my hair down and sometimes run straighteners through it if it looks really bad of a morning. I commented that a friend’s hair always looks nice (not over the top, just casually styled). She said it was really quick and easy to do – all part of the blow-dry apparently. She said we should organise a girls’ night in and she’d show me and others how. I want to do this.
Book’s version: Get swishing
“Swishing is when you swap clothes you no longer want with your friends.”
This would work on the school run
My version: Much as I would actually love to do this, the fact that I’m 5ft nothing is slightly limiting. However, accessories would be good. I don’t accessorise much at all so this could provide the opportunity!
Book’s version: Fun Times
A pure and simple games night with the girls, with the suggestion of everyone bringing around their favourite board game to play.
My version: Who’s in the Bag? (always great comedy value) with plenty of Prosecco followed by the Top Gun drinking game. Also, I’d take round the surprise hit of 2023/2024 Chicken vs Hotdog. It’s a silly game, but so much fun; it went down a storm at the New Year’s Eve party!
Book’s version: Movie Night
The suggestion is a ‘movie marathon’.
My version: Not sure I’d have the attention span for back-to-back films in one night. However, I’d definitely be up for a Sex and the City, Father Ted, The Sopranos or Cold Feet marathon.
Sofia is already asking if she can buy this book. I can really see the appeal. Alongside the inspiration for different themed nights in are recipes, craft ideas, quizzes (think Cosmopolitan mag quizzes but more age-appropriate), games and activities. I now really want to organise a girls’ night in.
