As I sped towards my latest vacation destination on a speedboat, I couldn’t help but notice the numerous honeymooning couples surrounding me. The boat operators and I were the only single people on the vessel. However, I was not alone – I was with two girlfriends on a trip I like to call a “we-moon.”
This concept is simple: a we-moon is a celebration of life milestones and a desire for companionship and adventure, but without the romantic partner. It’s an opportunity for single women to travel and commemorate their achievements, whether it’s a promotion, a new job, or a book deal.
A we-moon is not just a girls’ trip; it’s a deliberate celebration of a significant life event. For my recent we-moon, I was invited to the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla with two friends. We were there to celebrate my first book, and it was a chance for us to acknowledge and honor each other’s accomplishments.
According to Joy Harden Bradford, PhD, author of Sisterhood Heals, a successful we-moon requires some planning and consideration. She recommends booking separate rooms, if possible, to allow for a balance of time together and time alone.
Dr. Bradford suggests discussing budget and expectations ahead of time to avoid any misunderstandings. She also emphasizes the importance of having private sleeping quarters, where everyone can retreat and have alone time. This was ideal for our Anguilla trip, where we stayed in a villa rental with our own rooms and bathrooms.
Scheduling alone time is also essential. Dr. Bradford advises discussing the number of group excursions everyone is willing to participate in, as people may have different expectations for their vacation. Having optional activities is important, so everyone can choose what they want to do.
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For our we-moon, we worked with our villa concierge to create an itinerary that included both group and individual activities. We had a private yoga session. We also made time for new experiences.
A we-moon is an opportunity to try new things, learn new skills, and deepen friendships. It’s essential to set the mood for meaningful conversations, whether it’s during a quiet evening in the villa or a relaxing afternoon by the beach. Dr. Bradford notes that girls’ trips provide a great backdrop for vulnerability and openness, allowing friends to grow closer and strengthen their relationships.
As I reflected on my we-moon experience, I realized that it’s not just about the destination or the activities; it’s about the company and the opportunity to celebrate life’s milestones with friends. In a world where romantic getaways often take center stage, it’s refreshing to see single women creating their own unique celebrations, like the we-moon, to commemorate their achievements.
Single women are reclaiming their right to commemorate their achievements and nurture their friendships by creating their own celebrations. This shift in perspective highlights the importance of female friendships and the need for women to support and celebrate each other, regardless of their relationship status, which is also linked to health risks and other factors.
For those considering a we-moon, it’s essential to approach the planning process with an open mind and a willingness to be flexible. By doing so, you can create a unique and memorable experience that celebrates your achievements and strengthens your bonds with friends.
They can create a memorable experience by being flexible and open-minded during the planning process.
