LIFE

Whether you're spilling juicy info about your latest crush or having a laugh attack about nothing, a good time with your girl group is almost always guaranteed. Good friends hype you up when you're feeling confident and give you the *best* support when you're feeling down. With a group of gals that always has your back, you become more empowered to take on school, sports, relationships and everything in between.

But how can you make your girl group even stronger? I mean, we def want to make sure that friendship lasts forever, right? Luckily for you, we've compiled six activities that will help bring you and your BFFs even closer together. Think Taylor Swift's girl group in the "Bad Blood" music video. You'll be that close. Just trust us. 

1. Try a new hobby together

Even if you and your BFFs are almost inseparable, it's unlikely that you all enjoy the same activities. Your one bestie might be the school's MVP volleyball player, while the other stars in *every* theater production. It can be a challenge to find something entertaining for everyone, so why not try something new? Sign up for a hot yoga class or buy some yarn to try out crocheting cute hats for each other. Try an activity that puts everyone outside of their comfort zone (scuba diving, anyone?). You'll learn a new skill and get to share that joy with your best girls. 

@itsgretawilson

2. Share the love

On events like birthdays and holidays, it's all about showing your friends how much you heart them. The perfect canvas tote or the earrings she's been dying to get her hands on will mean a lot, but a handwritten note will take your thoughtfulness to the next level. Whether you're writing in a homemade birthday card or pouring your heart out on binder paper, sharing all your fave parts of your friendship, reflecting on the 10/10 memories and making plans for the future shows your pals how grateful you are to have them around.

3. Start a monthly book club 

Want to get to know your besties better? Host a monthly book club for a crash course in your BFF's literary interests. Each month, one of your friends will select a book for everyone in your squad to read. This can be a fave that they have already read or a new book they would love to try out (or a selection from @glbestiebookclub!). At the end of the month, you can all meet up and discuss: Who wished the book were longer? Who was struggling to finish? Who secretly fell in love with the villain? You'll be surprised how much you'll learn about your besties' personalities. 

@bruandthebooks

4. Keep the screen time to a minimum

Whether you're a newly-formed group struggling to keep the convo going or practically sisters who have done every activity under the sun, it's easy to go straight to your phone when there's a lull in the action. While screen time definitely gives you something to do, it totally cuts off the chance for any bonding time. Next time the gang gets together, recommend that everyone tries to limit time on their phone.

Want to make the phone detox into a fun and friendly competition? When you notice your friends reaching for their devices, yell "phone stack!" and have everyone put their phones in a pile on the nearest surface.

@momonatamada

5. Challenge your besties to a baking competition

 If you and your friends are always obsessing over shows like Nailed It or The Great British Bake Off, this is the *perfect* activity for you. Pick your best cake recipe, gather some sugary decorating supplies and pick a theme—it's time to bake! You can choose to work in pairs or small groups, depending on your friend group size. At the end of your pastry chef saga, you can select a panel of judges (other friends, your parents or your Instagram story) to determine the winner. Categories can range from the most aesthetic bake to the funniest-looking treat. You will have a blast and figure out which friend you'll want to whip up your next birthday cake. 

@nataliezacek

6. Host a PowerPoint Potluck night

PowerPoint parties are so trendy rn, and they also happen to be a great way to spend time with the squad! Each girl can choose their own topic—bonus points for creative themes like "Which dino nugget each of us would be" or "Which celebrities prefer pancakes over waffles, based on random evidence." As an added bonus, have each presenter bring their fave food. That way, you'll get to learn about a topic they're passionate about while digging in to their fave dish.

@emilyskinner

The fun with friends doesn't end here. Check out these other posts!
👯‍♀️ Affordable birthday gifts your bestie will love
👯‍♀️ 10 ways to show your bestie you're thankful for her
👯‍♀️ The perfect carpool games to play with your BFF

We want to see your cutest squad hangouts!
Tag us in your Insta stories @girlslifemag for a chance to be featured.

Top image: @alexasbrutus
Slider image: @thatmilliedavis
GIF via Giphy

by Laila Mayfield and Riley Yates | 2/13/2023