A big part of any Girls Night Out is getting all gussied up. And since the holiday party season is already upon us, Steph and I decided to kick it up a notch or two in the ol' beautifying department. That's why this week, instead of painting the town red, we painted our nails red (well, I did anyway - Steph went with a bold Mediterranean orange).

We indulged in Vida's "Girls Night Out" spa package at the Sutton Place, a pampering special that goes for $185 (valid at all Vida locations in the Lower Mainland, Monday-Friday) and includes a $50 gift card to use towards a Valmont skin care product (a high-end Swiss line exclusive to Vida).

Our three-hour pamper session started off with a one-hour hydrating Valmont Renewal Facial, something many of us gals need this time year because lord knows, subzero temperatures can be murder on the complexion.

Then it was time to hang out and chat as we got side-by-side pedicures. Which may sound odd, considering it's too cold to wear open-toe shoes these days. But still, it's nice to look down and see pretty feet. Besides, Murphy's law dictates that if you leave the house with gnarly toes, that'll be the night you get lucky at the staff Xmas party.

After that, we were treated to manicures and sparkling wine. We left looking shiny and new and all caught up on each other's lives. It was the perfect Girls Night Out.

In addition to pampering yourself this holiday, the chicks from Girls Night Out have the following survival tips for singletons this season:

1) ATTEND EVERY PARTY YOU'RE INVITED TO

Come January, it's usually deadsville in this town and the party circuit dries up. So best to take advantage while you can. And ladies, let's face it, December is the only time of year you can kick out your bling and not look like a gaudy Vegas skank.

2) HOST YOUR OWN PARTY

After spending "quality time" with your family, an intimate gathering with friends might be in order. And it doesn't have to be a big to-do event. Just invite a few of your favourite people over during that lull (or "taint") season between Boxing Day and New Year's Eve. Buy some light finger food and make sure you have plenty of bubbly on hand (Hint: Never underestimate the power of a Kir Royale).

Or, if you're in the mood for a bash and live in an apartment building, throw an nondenominational floor party. (Tip: you might want to run this one by your neighbours first and while you're at it, make sure they don't have any klepto friends).

3) VOLUNTEER

If you're bummed about your love life, the best way to cure that is to get out of your head and stop self-obsessing. And helping a person or critter in need might do the trick.

4) GET ON YOUR GOALS

Instead of talking about your New Year's resolutions (which many people never keep anyway), get a head start on your 2010 projects. Less talk. More action.

5) PRACTICE GRATITUDE

Take some time out to thank those who made a difference in your life in 2009. Be it the friends that were there for you on those lonely breakup nights, the co-workers that made you laugh during the November blahs or the local barista who pretended to care how your day was going - drop 'em line or send a card.