It’s time for our favorite holiday that celebrates accordingly with chocolate, hearts and the color pink: Galentine's Day! The love between gal pals is undeniable and totally worth celebrating. During this stage of life that we so lovingly call “adulthood,” we rely on our girls to support us through our jobs, the modern and scary world of online dating and any and all quarter-life crises. Let’s face it: We love and need our girlfriends. That’s why a day like Galentine’s Day is quite possibly the best day of the year!
Today we’re teaming up with Studio Ink to show you how to host the most epic Galentine’s Day brunch. We’ve got everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine card writing stations. Studio Ink has an awesome collection of cards that are the perfect mix of sweet, sentimental, funny and cute. It’s not truly Galentine’s Day unless you send your besties Valentines… I mean, Galentines! Alright, let’s dive in.
What does Galentine mean?
Galentines are like Valentines, but for the girls! Though you may have a lover in your life, this holiday is all about celebrating your platonic friendships with your girl friends and just having fun with it! The holiday is slated for Feburary 13, the day before Valentine's Day, so you can have all the time to cherish your gal pals. Funnily enough, the day was coined by none other than the iconic Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation.
What food is eaten on Galentine's Day?
Your Galentine's Day grub is really up to you and the girls, but the most popular bites include dips and chips, stuffed peppers, veggie skewers, waffles, cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, deviled eggs, bruschettas and charcuterie snacks. Finger foods are always a good way to go for any gathering.
What do you bring to a Galentine's Day brunch?
For a Galentine's brunch, you can bring food items like cute snacks, desserts (topped with heart sprinkles, of course), healthy meals, drink mixers or mocktails. You can also bring handmade cards or gifts for each of your friends, and of course you have to bring your love!
The Spread
First, let’s talk about the food. It’s not brunch without a fabulous array of treats. For our Galentine’s Day brunch, the perfect setup includes: berry parfaits, donut skewers, mini muffins, bellinis and a red velvet waffle bar, displayed under a simple backdrop of letter balloons, paper hearts and tassels.
Decorate your table with a few gold bottles and single flower stems. You don’t want your table to be too cluttered, because you’ll want to also have space for all the card writing you’ll do!
Galentine’s Day Card Mailboxes
All your Galentine’s Day cards now have a home.
Add some stickers to your mailbox for extra cute flair. You can download these Studio Ink Galentine’s Day stickers here. Just print on sticker paper and cut them out!
You’ve got mail!
I see more mail in the future. <3
Check out how cute these cards are!
I don’t know about you… but all this card writing is getting me hungry. Which brings me to….
Galentine's Brunch Foods
These red velvet waffles were a hit when we tested the recipe at the Brit + Co kitchen, and they certainly will be a hit on your Galentine’s Day brunch table.
Red Velvet Heart Waffles With Cream Cheese Glaze
Make these waffles with your favorite mix or from your go-to cookbook. Place the waffles on a platter along with the glaze and other toppings. We’re using heart-shaped sprinkles, obviously.
Drizzle the glaze on your waffles with a spoon or with a pitcher. No matter how you do that drizz, your waffles will be delicious!
Mmm, delightful!
Okay, I already know I want seconds. What better way to wash down your second (and maybe third) helping of waffles than with a bellini? Check out this downloadable signature recipe here!
Brunch babes!
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This post has been updated.
Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.
We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.
We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?
I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?
Amazon
I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.
Did she announce the name of book no. 3?
YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.
Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.
Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.
And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.
There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.
When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?
Rebecca Yarros/Instagram
On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.
She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.
When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?
Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.
She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.
As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.
However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.
Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.
I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!
Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?
Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing
Onyx Storm
Yes!
TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.
Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"
Are you excited for the release of Onyx Storm? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!
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This post has been updated.
In honor of International Women's Day (and month!), we're finding ways to celebrate and inspire all of the leading ladies in our life. That's why we've teamed up with Cambria Estate Winery, a female-led and operated winery leading the way toward empowering women in their industry. From sparking meaningful conversation to serving an amazing bottle of wine, we'll help you prep for hosting an outdoor get-together, in-person soirée, or Zoom call that will leave everyone feeling confident, energized, and empowered. Ready?
Celebrate International Women's Day With These Fun Ideas
Tip 1: Build a group playlist of your all-time favorite feminist anthems.
Good tunes can make or break the mood of a get-together, but there's no need to play DJ all night. The best hosts do a little work up front to make sure they can join in once the good conversation starts! Before you Zoom or have a few pod friends over, set up a shared playlist and ask each of your attendees to add their go-to empowering female artists to the musical line-up. You'll end the night with the knowledge of new songs and feel accomplished knowing that you all contributed to the party. Here's our Female Empowerment Playlist to get the evening started.
Tip 2: Invite everyone to bring a book that has impacted their year and inspired them to take action. Share + swap for good measure.
With 2023 in full swing, everyone is already itching to see what the year has in store. Your best gals have amazing taste and will know just what to recommend to motivate one another to make a difference. Allow each friend a moment to share about their newest book and make the trades. Bonus points if you have a take-home goodie to give, like this mouth-watering english toffee!
Tip 3: Treat your ladies to a bottle from a female-operated winery.
Everybody knows that the best conversations happen over a nice bottle of wine. This get-together is no exception. You'll want to stock up on our go-tos: Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir and Cambria Katherine's Vineyard Chardonnay. Don't forget to mention to your pals that by sipping, they're also supporting a winery that recognizes and inspires female leaders. Unlike many others in the industry, Cambria Winery is women-owned and operated from top to bottom! Sounds like a win-win.
Tip 4: Serving a Pinot Noir? Pair it with a simple chicken recipe, like this Cheesy Mustard Chicken.
The hearty flavor of the chicken will pair well with the flavor notes in a red wine, like Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir. See the full recipe in our chicken breast recipe roundup and get ready to impress your guests!
Tip 5: For a Chardonnay, whip up some smoked salmon deviled eggs.
These picnic apps are a modern twist on a classic recipe (move over, paprika!) and will complement a tropically lush white wine, like Cambria Katherine's Vineyard Chardonnay. You'll score extra kudos for serving a dish that is low-carb too! Get the full recipe here.
Tip 6: Use ice breakers that will prompt purposeful discussion.
When you’re surrounded by smart and interesting women, there’s no need to default to chit-chat about the weather.Help your guests skip the small talk in favor of some more stimulating dialogue by posing a few conversation starters throughout the evening:
What women inspire you and why?
What qualities make a great female leader?
How are we teaching the young girls in our lives to be strong women?
How do you want to make an impact this year?
Leave room to hear each unique perspective by separating into smaller conversations or going around the room in a group setting.
Tip 7: Most importantly: Remind your pals why you value their friendship and take time to encourage them.
Use the evening as an opportunity to lift up the women in your life for their strengths and courage. After all, your ultimate goal for the night is that everyone will leave feeling appreciated and inspired to continue to grow and lead!
Will you host an outdoor get-together or Zoom for your fave ladies? Share your International Women's Day plans with us on Twitter by tagging @BritandCo and @CambriaWines.
(Photos via Brittany Griffin/Brit + Co)
This post has been updated from a previous post.
Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.
Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.
Marvel Studios/YouTube
Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!
We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.
Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios
And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”
What is the plot of Thunderbolts?
Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
Thunderbolts* Plot
Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.
Thunderbolts* Release Date
Jesse Grant/Disney
Thunderbolts* Release Date
Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.
Who's on the Thunderbolts team?
Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
Thunderbolts* Cast
Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.
This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"
Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”
Jesse Grant/Disney
The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”
“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”
Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.
Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
This post has been updated.