National Girlfriends Day, celebrated on August 1, is a special day dedicated to celebrating female friendships. Contrary to the common belief that romantic relationships are more celebrated, this day is an opportunity for women to show appreciation for each other and celebrate the platonic connections and support they provide to one another.

While the exact origins of National Girlfriends Day are not certain, the most widely accepted story gives credit to Mistress Susan, the owner of a luxury lifestyle website. According to this account, she established National Girlfriends Day in 2004 as a day for female friends to show appreciation for each other.

Here are five ways to commemorate this yearly celebration of female friendships:

1.Send an appreciation note

A heartfelt, handwritten note expressing your gratitude for your friends presence in your life is a meaningful way to celebrate the day. In the letter, you can reflect on how you met, and the ways they have supported, encouraged, and made your life better. Ensure to let them know how much their friendship means to you.

2.Send a gift

Gift ideas to send to your girlfriends on this day are a flower bouquet, a self-care kit, accessories, shoes, a human hair wig, and so on. Sending gifts is a way to show your friends how much you care and think of them. Choose something you know theyll appreciate and truly enjoy, Make sure your gift is thoughtful.

3.Plan a date

Celebrate the day by planning an outing or activity with your friend that will be memorable. It could be a spa day, a movie night, a perfume-making class, a cooking session, or a visit to an art exhibition or a ceramic-making workshop. Whats important is to choose an experience that you both will enjoy. Ensure it combines your shared interests so fun memories can be created.

4.Plan a girls trip

Theres no grander way to celebrate this day than to go for a girls trip, vacation, or getaway with your girlfriends. Destinations like Italy, Japan, Morocco, Portugal, and Turkey are all great options to explore during this time of year. Immersing yourselves in new cultures, and trying delicious local cuisines, is the perfect way to create unforgettable experiences together.

5.Create a scrapbook or photo album

Finally, preserve the memories of your friendship by creating a scrapbook or photo album together. Gather and print your favourite pictures from over the years and fix them into a photo album. This will act as a keepsake that both of you can have copies of and treasure. This nostalgic activity will allow you to reminisce and relive the memories youve had. (The Guardian)