Noah Home and Gifts: Any Excuse For A Girl's Night In .......

They say that staying in is the new going out. What with the recession, we are all watching our pennies and a good night out can be costly – there’s the taxi fair, drinks bill and of course food.

So what better excuse do you need to gather your friends for a fun filled girls night in? No matter what age you are, nothing beats a girly get together. Strong friendships are good for your health and well being so make sure your partner organises something with the kids if you have any, send him out if you don’t or do whatever you need to do to make sure you have the house to yourself for a few hours.

But what to do?

We have pulled together a few ideas to get your girls night in off to a swinging start …….

Spa night – Everyone loves to be pampered so why not invite along a mobile beauty therapist for an hour or two to treat you and friends to a mini treatment each - perhaps a speedy manicure, mini facial or neck massage? You could split the cost or if you're on a tight budget you could give each other some treatments.

Must haves – aromatherapy candles to create a relaxing ambiance, lots of soft cushions to help you get comfy, some relaxing music, dim lights and perhaps a glass of wine and chocolates.

Movie Night – Dust off those old faithful chick flicks, serve some popcorn and drinks, put your feet up and voila – a home cinema! Some of our favourites are Dirty Dancing, Grease, Thelma & Louise, Beaches, Mama Mia, Pretty Woman, Bridget Jones Diary, Pride & Prejudice – predictable we know but we still love them!!

Must haves – serving dishes for all those nibbles (we love this Fair Trade recycled aluminium bowl) or line these stylish heart shaped baskets with napkins and they are perfect for crisps and popcorn and plenty of comfortable seating.

Dinner party – 'Come Dine With Me' style – You could all take a turn of playing hostess and have a come dine style competition, scoring each other on hosting and culinary skills.

Must haves – a trendy chalk board to display your menu restaurant style; a serving bowl for salads or bread; a quirky apron to make sure you look the part; a clock to keep eye on your timings for dinner.

Afternoon tea with cocktails or a cheese and wine evening – Why not have the girls around for afternoon tea with cocktails or prosecco (or perhaps a wine tasting night)? You can have fun mixing up your own concoctions or cheat and choose from the widely available range of ready mixed cocktails. Put your baking skills to the test with some fancy cupcakes, scones and tray bakes.

Must haves – a pretty cake stand to do justice to your creations, wine charms to add a nice touch and ensure your guests keep track of their drinks, a stunning cheese platter to decorate your dining table, cocktail glasses and champagne flutes.