Fresh Off A Breakup? There’s A Registry For That

Whatever your relationship status may be, a day that’s all about love can bring up a lot of feelings—even more so if you’re fresh off a breakup. The good news? Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic partnership anymore. Ever since Leslie Knope gathered her friends fora Galentine’s Day party on a 2010 episode of Parks and Recreation, popular culture has embraced February 13 as a moment for “ladies to celebrate ladies,” to paraphrase a beloved quote from the show. In other words? The girls have reclaimed Valentine’s Day.

As it turns out, Leslie Knope was onto something. “We tend to frame romantic relationships in focus,” says Dr. Jessica O’Reilly, a Toronto-based relationship expert who holds a PhD in human sexuality. “[But] female friendships offer continuity, care and reality checks—they can help ground you and remind you of who you are [outside] the context of a romantic partnership.” This is especially important when someone is going through a challenging time, like say, flying solo for the first time in a while. 

If you’re not sure how to show up for a friend post-breakup, O’Reilly says a small gift or gesture can help break the ice and let them know you’re thinking of them. It also takes the pressure off them having to articulate what they need. “We’re often too afraid to ask for help,” says O’Reilly. “It can feel easier to receive something concrete.”

Enter the breakup registry, a concept so brilliant we’re a little mad we didn’t think about it ourselves. Etsy—one of Team Chatelaine’s favourite online marketplace for cute gift ideas—is making it easy (and socially acceptable!) to celebrate the milestones that rarely get the fuss they deserve, whether it’s a new pet or singlehood. You can now create a wish list of cute stuff you’d like to receive as a little post-breakup treat—or shop your friends’ registries to surprise them with something they actually want. 

Not only should we make it a point to celebrate fresh starts no matter what they are, but there’s also a psychological reason why a gift registry makes sense after a breakup: “Research shows that emotional processing can be easier when the nervous system feels safer and more regulated,” explains O’Reilly, who suggests focusing on building new routines like sleep, movement and socializing. And those new routines can benefit from new surroundings or accessories to mark the transition into a new chapter. Curating a breakup registry is a great way to begin the healing process, whether it’s a cute pair of earrings to wear on your next first date or accessories to make your space your own again. 

Need inspo for your own breakup registry or for a friend who could use a little pick-me-up? We’ve found five thoughtful, Canadian-made gifts for a relationship-status reset.

Nightshift Ceramics Floral Ceramic Planter, $52

This cute ceramic planter handmade in Hamilton, Ont. pairs perfectly with a hardy plant for a gift that won’t wither. 

Scandinazn Juicy Blooms Flower Earrings, $34

Another take on blooms that last, these dopamine-boosting earrings are crafted from repurposed, hand-painted leather in Vancouver. 

Light + Paper x FitzyDesign Little Bits Leather Keychain, $68

New digs? New keys. An embossed leather lanyard—this one a collab between Toronto brands Light + Paper and Fitzy Design—is a cute and practical way to mark a big move.

Melissa Mary Jenkins Miniature Bow Painting, $60

A teeny-tiny piece of art hidden in an unexpected corner is guaranteed to make you smile every time you see it. Consider this piece by Erin, Ont.-based artist Melissa Mary Jenkins the start of your new collection. 

Mala the Brand Soy Wax Candle in Sundays, $42

Sundays are for resetting, and what better way to embrace a life refresh than with this aptly-named blend of lavender, apricot and sandalwood hand-poured in Vancouver?