

6 Dope Ideas For An Unforgettable Girls' Night
It's golden hour on a Friday night and your girls night has once again turned into half-Netflixing and aimless texting. You go around the room, once, twice asking each of your girlfriends what they want to do and the conversation goes something like this:
"Do you want to see a movie?"
"Nope, not really."
"Face masks and wine night?"
"We did that last weekend…"
"Fine, do y'all want to order food?"
"Nah, I'm good."
"We can go out – head to the club?"
"Girl what? Absolutely not!"
"WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO??"
"Hmmm not sure."
Finding fun activities to do with your girls really shouldn't be that hard, and doesn't have to be. The first step is knowing how your friend group prefers to plan outings. Do they need a lot of notice? Are they open to trying new things? Are they on another restrictive budget? Depending on your city and friend group, the options can be endless. Tired of the same old, same old? Check out our guide below of 6 dope activities to do with your girls.
6 Fun Girls Night In Ideas
1.Take a Twerk Fitness or Cardio Pole Dancing Class
Trying to get that body right? Want to get active with your girls? I strongly recommend taking a dance fitness class, especially a twerk fitness class. Of all the group activities I've done with my friends, twerk cardio just might be near the top. You get all of the exercise benefits and music choices of going to the club without the fuss of getting ready and unpleasant social dynamics.
It's the best of both worlds.
2.Try a Paint & Sip Class
Also an underrated group activity, paint and sip classes can be both relaxing while structuring a set time for you to bond with your girls. It's even a great choice for your busy friend who prefers to do their own thing. Depending on the location, you can bring your own wine, select the painting, and even make music requests. Further, you don't need to have previous experience or be the next Van Gogh since the instructor guides everyone through the stages of making the painting a step at a time. With the right group of friends, from one friend to a large group, there is something for everyone to do.
3.Book a Staycation
You don't have to go far to "get away." Sometimes just getting out of your same environment – home, office, man's house – can help you recharge and reset. Grab a few of your girlfriends who you haven't seen in a while due to hectic schedules, and book a hotel room in your city for one or two days. Watch movies, order takeout, delve into some ~spicy~ conversations that you have been wanting to discuss for months. Have your own mini-getaway within your own city!
4.Start or Join a Bookclub
Courtesy of Instagram/@ReadBetweenTheWineClub
Be it a reoccurring book club or just making the commitment to all read a certain book together as a friend group, like Michelle Obama's, Becoming, intellectual discourse can be fun and refreshing. Sometimes the hardest part about reading is sitting down and finding the time, but once you get absorbed, it's impossible to stop.
I joined a book club of young, vibrant, professional black women when I first moved to NYC and it singlehandedly became my favorite part of the month. Finding safe spaces to discuss issues, build support networks, and make new friends are incredibly important, especially as a growing 20-something. Try finding or creating those spaces in a book club.
5.Take a Cooking or Bartending Class
Why order sushi when you can learn to make it? A fun and tasty girls' night option, search for one-time or reoccurring cooking and bartending classes in your city. It not only guarantees that your girls will find the time to come together, but will leave with a new skill! A lower maintenance option for those resistant to the idea of formal class is to go wine tasting at a local wine cellar. Both options guarantee that you will try something new.
6.Go to an Outdoor Movie Screening
Rather than opt for your typical movie theater, like Issa's birthday outing in Season 3 of Insecure, grab a bunch of friends, blankets, and snacks, and head to an outdoor movie screening. While city-specific and more of a spring/summer activity, it's a great twist on a traditional activity and still lets you bond with your girls.
Featured image by Getty Images.
Related Articles:
Pajamas & Lipstick Is The Girls' Night In Experience We Didn't Know We Needed - Read More
5 Melanin Magic-Inspired Cocktails For A Girls' Night In - Read More
5 Date Night Ideas that Are Better Than Your Average Dinner - Read More
- Join Us For Girls' Night Out At A 'What Men Want' Screening In Your ... ›
- 10 Fun & Creative Summer Date Ideas - xoNecole: Women's Interest ... ›
- National Girls' Night In Day Is This Sunday. Here's How To Kick It ... ›
- 30 Girls Night Out Ideas - Unusual Activities to Do with Friends ›
- The Best Ideas for a Girls' Night In ›
- 26 Fun (And Easy) Ideas For Your Girls' Night In | Thought Catalog ›
- 15 Girls Night In Ideas You'll Love for the Perfect Ladies Night - Holly ... ›
- Girls Night In Ideas For Galentine's Day - Run To Radiance ›
Lydia is a recent Ivy League graduate and lifestyle writer based out of NYC. Storytelling her way through her 20-somethings, her lens is all things career, self-care, and #BlackGirlMagic. Meet Lydia on Instagram @hello_lydia.
How Content Creators Hey Fran Hey And Shameless Maya Embraced The Pivot
This article is in partnership with Meta Elevate.
If you’ve been on the internet at all within the past decade, chances are the names Hey Fran Hey and Shameless Maya (aka Maya Washington) have come across your screen. These content creators have touched every platform on the web, spreading joy to help women everywhere live their best lives. From Fran’s healing natural remedies to Maya’s words of wisdom, both of these content creators have built a loyal following by sharing honest, useful, and vulnerable content. But in search of a life that lends to more creativity, freedom, and space, these digital mavens have moved from their bustling big cities (New York City and Los Angeles respectively) to more remote locations, taking their popular digital brands with them.
Content Creators Hey Fran Hey and Maya Washington Talk "Embracing The Pivot"www.youtube.com
In partnership with Meta Elevate — an online learning platform that provides Black, Hispanic, and Latinx-owned businesses access to 1:1 mentoring, digital skills training, and community — xoNecole teamed up with Franscheska Medina and Maya Washington on IG live recently for a candid conversation about how they’ve embraced the pivot by changing their surroundings to ultimately bring out the best in themselves and their work. Fran, a New York City native, moved from the Big Apple to Portland, Oregon a year ago. Feeling overstimulated by the hustle and bustle of city life, Fran headed to the Pacific Northwest in search of a more easeful life.
Her cross-country move is the backdrop for her new campaign with Meta Elevate— a perfectly-timed commercial that shows how you can level up from wherever you land with the support of free resources like Meta Elevate. Similarly, Maya packed up her life in Los Angeles and moved to Sweden, where she now resides with her husband and adorable daughter. Maya’s life is much more rural and farm-like than it had been in California, but she is thriving in this peaceful new setting while finding her groove as a new mom.
While Maya is steadily building and growing her digital brand as a self-proclaimed “mom coming out of early retirement,” Fran is redefining her own professional grind. “It’s been a year since I moved from New York City to Portland, Oregon,” says Fran. “I think the season I’m in is figuring out how to stay successful while also slowing down.” A slower-paced life has unlocked so many creative possibilities and opportunities for these ladies, and our conversation with them is a well-needed reminder that your success is not tied to your location…especially with the internet at your fingertips. Tapping into a community like Meta Elevate can help Black, Hispanic, and Latinx entrepreneurs and content creators stay connected to like minds and educated on new digital skills and tools that can help scale their businesses.
During a beautiful moment in the conversation, Fran gives Maya her flowers for being an innovator in the digital space. Back when “influencing” was in its infancy and creators were just trying to find their way, Fran says Maya was way ahead of her time. “I give Maya credit for being one of the pioneers in the digital space,” Fran said. “Maya is a one-person machine, and I always tell her she really changed the game on what ads, campaigns, and videos, in general, should look like.”
When asked what advice she’d give content creators, Maya says the key is having faith even when you don’t see the results just yet. “It’s so easy to look at what is, despite you pouring your heart into this thing that may not be giving you the returns that you thought,” she says. “Still operate from a place of love and authenticity. Have faith and do the work. A lot of people are positive thinkers, but that’s the thinking part. You also have to put your faith into work and do the work.”
Fran ultimately encourages content creators and budding entrepreneurs to take full advantage of Meta Elevate’s vast offerings to educate themselves on how to build and grow their businesses online. “It took me ten years to get to the point where I’m making ads at this level,” she says. “I didn’t have those resources in 2010. I love the partnership with Meta Elevate because they’re providing these resources for free. I just think of the people that wouldn’t be able to afford that education and information otherwise. So to amplify a company like this just feels right.”
Watch the full conversation with the link above, and join the Meta Elevate community to connect with fellow businesses and creatives that are #OnTheRiseTogether.
Featured image courtesy of Shameless Maya and Hey Fran Hey
If you haven’t been to Africa, this is your sign to go. My first time visiting the continent of Africa also happened to be my first time working on the continent of Africa. I worked there for a little over a month and did minimal research before I went. I was very well aware of the picture that America has painted of Africa since I was a child, so I wanted to go there without any additional preconceived notions, and I’m glad I did.
I learned so much, saw so much, and unlearned even more. Africa is rich in culture, views, traditions, and many more. In talking to the citizens there, it is clear that their love for the U.S. and the perception of who they think we are runs deep. However, their adoration for America was a hard pill to swallow for me sometimes because America/Americans are often looked at as the prize. While I can understand their viewpoint, I will respectfully have to disagree. That’s a story for a different day, but I will say that I am so thankful to have experienced Africa first-hand and that so many of my previous ideas and understandings were debunked.
Most people who’ve visited the motherland will talk highly about Ghana, Kenya, and Liberia (as they should). But Cape Town, South Africa, should be held to the same standard. From the food, the views, the activities, and most importantly, its citizens, Cape Town has fast become one of the most popular places to visit in Africa. If you need a good head start on where to go, this list of places below should give you a good head start.
Places to visit in Cape Town
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Photo courtesy of Chivone Smith
Bo Kaap – This beautiful residential neighborhood in Cape Town has quickly become an Instagramable favorite for many tourists visiting the capital city. Many people enjoy taking pictures in this neighborhood because the homes are so colorful and vibrant. Visitors are also welcome to tour Bo Kaap and learn about the neighborhood and its history.
Aquila Private Game Reserve – What’s a visit to Africa without touring one of their most notable safari’s? Aquila Private Game Reserve is also where they house “The Big 5;” elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. This location also offers horseback riding, among other festivities.
Quad Biking – ATV’ing is one thing in the States, but in South Africa, it’s a whole other experience.
Newlands Forest – If you’re looking for a good walking/biking trail or for some good views, Newlands Forest is a must-stop. If you’re driving, just be careful. The street entryway is right off the street and can get a little dangerous if you’re not careful.
Kloof Street – Kloof Street is a popular street in Cape Town. It’s full of various restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and so much more!
Soi Bar – A personal favorite of mine, Soi Bar is a semi-new bar spot infused with various Asian dishes. If nothing else, you must try their creative drinks. Be sure to ask for the drink they offer on the hidden menu. Included with the drink is a security escort.
Green Street Market - talk about supporting Black businesses. Be sure to stop by Green Street Market to find the latest jewels, hand-stitched fabrics, and more! Cause what’s a trip without souvenirs?
Table Mountain
Photo courtesy of Chivone Smith
Chapmans Peak - Be sure to take your time and drive slowly as you’re en route to Chapmans Peak. Also, note that it will be like nothing you’ve ever seen before.
Table Mountain – You’ve not been to Cape Town if you haven’t visited Table Mountain. For all my SpongeBob Squarepants fans, you’ll also be able to learn a little back story about The Flying Dutchman. Most, if not all, people who’ve gone will tell you to take the cable car up the mountain. One, it’s a five-minute glide-up, and the view is worth it. But, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike up the mountain. And I mean hike! Depending on where you start, hiking up the mountain will take a minimum of 2 1/2 hours up, and be sure to release your inner Meg knees for that walk down. It’s the hardest part!
Canal Walk Shopping Center - If you’re looking for more urban or modern attire, then head on over to one of, if not the biggest mall in Cape Town, which is located at Canal Walk shopping center. It’s even got a grocery store inside.
Banana Jam Cafe – As for late-night festivities or if you and some friends just want to wind down for some drinks and good food, Banana Jam Cafe is a great place to start. It’s a nice Caribbean vibe. They brew their own beer, and the music is just right. You won’t be disappointed!
Boulders Beach – I’ve heard of horses at the beach, maybe even pigs, but have you ever seen penguins on the beach? You will at Boulders Beach!
Whether you’re traveling solo or with some friends, you’ll get bonus points if you know some phrases and words to help you along your journey. Here are a few words and phrases that I picked up while in Cape Town:
Quad biking
Photo courtesy of Chivone Smith
- Kushushu (Koo-Shu-Shu)- Hot
- Iza (E-za) - Come
- Izapha (E-za-puh) - Come here
- Imma (Ee-ma) - Wait
- Bamba (Bam-Buh) - Hold
- Tata (Tah-Tah) - Carry or take
- Langa (Lan-guh) - Sun
- Amanzi (Uh-man-zi) - Water
- Puza (Pu-zah) - Drink
- Ewe (Eh-wei)– Yes
- Hamba (Ham-ba)/ Vaya (Vi-ya) – Go
- Ke Sharp (Ke-Shap) – It’s good
- Ndilambile (Dee-lam-bee-leh) – I’m hungry
- Lala (La-la) - Sleep
- Mzanzi (Mm-Zan-zee) – South Africa
- A con (A-con) - Air conditioner
- Dankie (Dan-kee) - Thank you
- Chomey (Cho-me)/Mikey (Mikey) - Friend
- Baie (Bai) Dankie (Dan-kee) - Thank you very much
- Cheers – Goodbye
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image courtesy of Chivone Smith