Recently, I ran into one of my GaGa Sisterhood members who was having dinner with her sister. When she introduced us, she said: “My sister’s not a grandma yet but she hopes to be some day!”
“Well then, she should celebrate Auntie’s Day! It’s on July 22 this year.”
Auntie’s Day is the brainchild of Melanie Notkin who first became an Auntie in 2001. Leave it to a savvy lifestyle expert to come up with a celebration for nearly 50 percent of American women who are not moms but do a lot for the children in their lives.
Notkin found herself concerned by the lack of modern resources for Aunties—especially those who had no children of their own, were having children later in life, or opting out of motherhood. After interviewing dozens of Aunties, she understood that with an authentic love for children and discretionary income, these modern Aunts had the potential to become Savvy Aunties and put their time and money where their heart is.
In 2007, Melanie founded SavvyAuntie.com and two years later Auntie’s Day. The holiday is intended to thank, honor and celebrate the aunt in a child’s life, whether she is an Auntie by Relation, Auntie by Choice, or godmother, for everything she does for a child not-her-own. Melanie has dubbed this powerful and influential segment of American women PANKs—Professional Aunts No Kids.
This year the Savvy Auntie website is featuring a count-down of articles with ways to celebrate the Aunts in your life. There are Auntie’s Day posters, Eco-party ideas, tea party ideas and five suggestions for Auntie’s Day playdates:
- A Picnic for Two (or More!): It’s summer and an outdoor picnic is a perfect way to have some major fun in the sun. Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket full of delicious treats like mac and cheese and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, or whatever else you know your GourmAuntie will love.
- Trip to the Zoo: Perfect daytime fun for our Adventurer Aunties, celebrate Auntie’s Day with a few extra furry friends. Make sure to let Auntie choose an exhibit or two of her choice, and don’t forget to talk about all the natural wonders you’re sure to witness!
- Niece and Nephew Night In: Getting all dressed up for a night on the town isn’t the only way to celebrate our Aunties (though it is a fun option!) Dust off your favorite board games, snacks, and playing cards, and get ready for a night of unforgettable QualAuntie time. Scrabble anyone?
- Evening at the Museum: Research shows that taking nieces and nephews out to museums can be an extremely positive experience, but even greater news is that Aunties love museums too!
- Movie Magic: Take your Auntie to go see a movie of her choice, but don’t argue if she insists on springing for the popcorn. A cozier alternative–rent her favorite classic DVDs. Auntie Mame (1958) is a great choice!
