Four years ago, I was struggling pretty hard, mentally. In short, I was telling myself a really terrible story about myself, living inside my failures, unable to really see anything positive I was doing (work-wise). This was around the time when TikTok disrupted media so much, dispersing the attention away from blogs and even IG (it’s shifted back, thank god), which affected all of our numbers drastically. So my reliance on social media had to increase. And listen, I’m extremely grateful for social media because it basically supports my team and my family, but living inside it can be super toxic if you aren’t mentally taking care of yourself, which apparently I wasn’t at the time. I constantly compared myself to others (my looks, my weight, my likes/views, my house, even just sheer volume of content I was able or unable to produce). I only saw myself falling short, looking old, and not performing at the level that others were. And then I shamed myself for caring about all of those things, knowing that I was also failing at being as evolved as I thought I was. And while I was proud of the boundaries that I had in place to protect my time with my kids (done by 5 pm, no weekend posting), it seemed as though restricting my social media usage wasn’t good for business. So I felt trapped – not wanting to sacrifice my time with my kids for something that I didn’t value, but fearful that if I didn’t, the business would dive off a cliff, and then what? While I never wanted to fully give up, I stopped saying yes to annual contracts or anything that would lock me in for more than a few months, giving myself the out if I needed it, or just a sabbatical to be able to rethink it all with a clear head. And then I would feel so much guilt and shame around that – to even think about giving up a career that provided so much autonomy, fun, and financial security felt like a slap in the face to everyone else stuck in jobs that they actively didn’t like. I still loved the work, and I adored my team, but I didn’t feel like I was good at parts of it anymore (mostly the social media part). I was just beating myself to a pulp. I worried severely that I was a relic from the past, totally irrelevant and not keeping up with the times (let alone the Joneses). I was really grateful for everything my career had given us, but I was so clouded by my negative self-talk that I was spiritually very sick. I needed a massive mental shift. Outwardly, I was still positive; only Brian and my closest friends knew I was struggling. It’s not that I thought my life sucked, just that I sucked. It was a genuine midlife career crisis, a spiral so long and deep that I didn’t know how to reset it on my own. 

For years, I had done a winter girls trip with my three best friends from childhood, but this year was a 911 for me. These are my soul sisters (so cheesy, but no other descriptors make sense). Thirty-five years of friendship, support, and deep spiritual connection. The four of us are open to anything (we’ve always incorporated some sort of spirituality in our weekends – sound baths, tarot, mediums, spiritual counselors, etc). So I pitched a “wellness resort” – Canyon Ranch in Tucson (I admittedly cringe at the word ‘wellness’ these days). My newly minted sister-in-law worked there at the time and could get us all 90% off with a friends and family discount. What was typically $1,200 per person, per day, would be $120 for us. Truly insane. The kicker? No alcohol. No sipping on wine. No end-of-day martinis. But it was planned for January when I don’t drink anyway, so we were like, yeah, let’s go for it. (Canyon Ranch now has some alcohol, but it’s restricted to just an hour happy hour.)

One of my best friends brought us all the book Super Attractor by Gabrielle Bernstein. Admittedly, it’s a TERRIBLE cover, but I was willing to do/read anything that might help (and honestly, sometimes the exact material doesn’t matter; it’s the act and dedication to the process that is effective). I dove headfirst into it, doing the work (mantras, journaling, dismantling my blockages, calling on my spiritual guide). I’m a good student, and while skeptical, I had had a few spiritual experiences in the past that changed my life/perspective, so this didn’t feel too foreign to me. And this 100% changed my life (again). I’ve read a lot of these books and they all circle the same things (The Four Agreements, Lacy Phillips’s How to Manifest and Many Lives, Many Masters also had massive impacts) but I think this one hit harder not just because of how she writes (which is friendly and entertaining) but because of this combination of the weekend – exercise, friends, sleep, time, nature, space. I also just started Tara Swart’s The Signs. Her first book The Source, was more about manifestation (she’s a neuroscientist), but this one is about talking to the other side, and it’s WILD.

We exercised 2-4 hours a day (including hiking), ate so healthily, slept so much, read, journaled and then verbally digested for hours with my best friends, who were reading the exact same book. 

It was an epiphany. I felt watered and fed on all levels, and I was bursting with new growth. I came back from that weekend bouncing off the walls, filled with so much love, not just from my friends and me, but from the universe/God. I know how that sounds, but there is no other way to say it. I was so positive, filled with lightness, I saw everything so differently, like I was literally wearing rose colored glasses. The same things that triggered me 6 days before, I now saw as a gift, an opportunity, a fun challenge. It wasn’t that “only” 60k people viewed my reel, it was “how lucky am I that 60k people viewed our reel”. 

Ladies, we can not make meaningful change without giving ourselves healthy time and space away from our triggers and chaos to dive into learning and growing. You can’t just “get better” or “figure things out,” especially if you are a working mom, which means you have two full-time jobs, ripped apart on a daily basis, desperate to be great at both, and likely beating yourself up for falling short at all. 

We went back three more times to Canyon Ranch (once just Brian and me) until my sister in law stopped working there. But I’ve now re-prioritized my girls’ weekends to be focused on feeling better (inside and out) instead of just “fun”. Life is just too short to come back needing to recover. Obviously, these weekends are very, very fun, too, just in a different way.

I’ve now been to 6 different “wellness resorts” (none as high-end as Canyon Ranch, but some even better in my opinion). If you are interested, I could review them all. It’s a bougie topic for sure (even having the time to get away is a privilege, let alone the budget) – so I want to make sure the appetite is there. I’ve even conducted 2 DIY retreats at Airbnbs when we wanted to save money and get a similar result. When the elements are there, you can kinda do it anywhere.

Now, not everyone is in the same life mind-frame, and this might just seem so boring to some. But it’s all I want to do now, I’ve consistently felt so much improvement in my mental and physical health after each one. If you are interested, I’ll review the resorts that I’ve been to (trust me, it was hard to find reviews online from people I trusted). None were sponsored or discounted; I don’t think I even posted organically while there. Just some middle-aged ladies taking a break from it all to connect with each other and our spirituality, workout, eat healthy foods, read, journal, sleep, spa like crazy, and come home like 40% better humans 🙂 

Growing up Mormon, you wear a CTR ring – a constant reminder to “Choose The Right”. As an adult non-Mormon, I actually really love this concept – just not with affiliation with any religion or even morality. CTR is the Mormon version of WWJD, which I also like – a symbol that reminds you to make good choices. But today I’m not talking about choosing “good” over “bad,” it’s choosing what makes me feel better when I’m stuck in a meh or sad mood (long dark wet winters here are challenging). Last April, I read something that was pretty life-altering (and almost stupid in its simplicity). It was by a famous happiness psychologist (sorry, I forget who) who defined their “key to feeling happy”. Listen, I’m wary like most people about privileged gurus telling others how they should be happier (*cough* myself included), but every now and again a nugget really hits, and then as a compulsive sharer I want to tell you. You see when I’m stressed, sad or in a negative loop, I can easily cope with not the healthiest things (french fries, wine, chocolate, holing myself up in the dark binging Love is Blind, avoiding everyone and everything, procrastinating in the name of “self care,” blah blah) and sometimes these are totally fine but those almost never contribute to me feeling better. And I know it. And then I get so mad at myself for not making a better choice, and thus the loop begins. It’s not always easy or natural for me; I have to force it, but when I do, it has always worked.

Here it is (don’t laugh): Step 1: Identify the things that make you feel good, and then, Step 2: Do them as often as possible. 

It sounds almost too easy. Now obviously there are a ton of things out of our control that deeply affect our individual “happiness” (including, you know, societal systems of oppression, health/marriage/money problems, daily dangers, childhood trauma, mental health, chronic disease/pain, the patriarchy) so this is not meant to fix any of those – it’s just about what we have in our power to control which is our perspective and mood. Coincidentally, I’m sure in a better position to tackle any larger problems or think bigger when I’m in a more positive mood. When I started doing this 2-step approach six months ago, it absolutely shifted my day (and life) a lot, and this next year I want to make a conscious effort to do it more (November/December is always a bit slippery for me, so it’s so nice to be back at it).

Now, we can all easily list stuff we “like to do,” stuff that is “fun” for us, or even our “favorite” things to do, but this list is different. It’s less “bottomless mimosa brunch” (which is fine!) and more about what makes you feel really good about yourself, both during and more importantly after you’ve done it. And the hope is that these little micro “goods” can add up to a better day (and then life). 

So in the name of internet self-indulgence, I figured I’d list mine for you: 

1. Long walks: with the pups, with kids, with close friends, or Brian talking through all problems or simply with a great podcast – weighted or not, nature or street. JUST WALK.
2. Engaging my kids by doing something they want to do: Doing a craft with Elliot and playing chess with Charlie (and no, I don’t always feel like it, but it always feels good after).
3. “Connecting” with Brian
4. Any date night conversation where we don’t talk about logistics (which helps with #3)
5. Making and eating a healthy soup or any Sunday meal prep (I’m always so proud of myself! And my week goes so much better) – always done with a podcast if kids aren’t helping. And so enjoyable.
6. Cleaning or organizing while listening to a gripping podcast (Can this be considered a “hobby”? But yes, I also use this to avoid other things, so I have to be careful here…)
7. Weeknight TV shows snuggled with my family: Watching something that we all love equally. Simple shared experiences with a lot of physical touch (right now it’s past seasons of Survivor – we are addicted!). No phones. No scrolling. Lots of snuggles.
8. Any exercise (duh): But doesn’t have to be Orange Theory (which works but oof). I love yoga, pilates, or my Peloton (specifically with Cody or Sam Yo), a quick HIIT training, or lifting weights with a podcast. 20 minutes does WONDERS.
9. Quick fun room makeovers for my friends and family (my fantasy job – such a win/win).
10. Cold plunging or sauna blanket (sorry, I still love it – always boosts my mood).
11. Any time in nature: Hiking, cross country, staring at waterfalls, just sitting amongst trees. Turns out I need trees to thrive, rain or shine.
12. Reading in bed with Charlie or “Girl talk” with Elliot: So easy to just put them to bed, but when we make the time to go up early and connect all our nervous systems calm down, and it’s a big love fest. 
13. Having “the hard conversation” (that are so easy to put off but you feel so good afterwards – JUST DO IT!!!)
14. Helping others: Decorating for people who need the help (probably my favorite part of my job, win/win). Hoping to do even more this year (including readers and more folks struggling).
15. Leading team meetings with clarity and organization because I was prepared (so easy for me to think I can wing it or that we are just a well-oiled machine that doesn’t need tending to).
16. Team retreats! (See above!) We all feel so excited and committed after a few days together.
17. Quick family game after dinner (sometimes it sounds like so much work TBH, but we never regret it).
18. Reading blog comments and responding (I feel so connected to you and my career more, I feel more part of this community, I’m reminded why I love being here, and feel so grateful instantly).
19. Having my family over for a big, fun meal (always chaotic, always fun): The six cousins together are so heartwarming – something we never had growing up.
20. Dancing (why don’t I do this more???)
21. Listening to musicals on full blast and singing super loud.
22. Journaling (with a heavy gratefulness practice – it absolutely shifts my day). 
23. Romance novels (or any gripping novel): also helps with #3. My recs HERE.
24. Reading or listening to anything by Brenne Brown, Esther Perel or Adam Grant – my heroes: I always feel empowered, seen, and just more ready to tackle my personal challenges after spending time with them.
25. Family dog walks (kids will complain, and yet we have the best conversations).
26. Hot bath with face/hair mask, herbal tea or coffee (rainy weekend mornings are the best, also helps with #3). Hot water releases oxytocin (I think all of the above do, actually).

It’s honestly a really fun exercise to list them all (and I also printed them out for my daily reference). Sure, many of these things I enjoy or don’t mind, but most of the time it’s about the good feelings that come afterwards – the dopamine, oxytocin, or just pride that I checked the box and made a good choice. Looking at the list, it’s clear that “connecting” is my vehicle towards feeling “better”. I feel the most “good” when I connect with my kids, my husband, my friends, my team, my pets, my family, my home, my health/body, and YOU. These things don’t deplete me; they just fill me up. If I know all of this, then why do I put them off? Why do I not bake 2-3 of these into my day every day??? They are all free, and many don’t require more than 20 minutes!

Actually doing them is often the barrier, right? And it’s not about “finding” the time, I know I have to carve it out. I have to get out of my seat and off my phone. So last year I started implementing Mel Robbins’ “Rocket” 5,4,3,2,1 method to actually get myself to do any of the above things on a daily basis. Now, TBH, I’m not a massive Mel fan (I don’t currently connect with her “tough love” borderline know-it-all personality, but I can take some of what she says and implement it in my own way), but boy does this work for me. You just stop putting off the thing you know you should do and count down like a rocket ship announcer, out loud, “FIVE! FOUR! THREE! TWO! ONE!” and you MUST, like a rocket, get out of your chair and go do it. It’s so stupid! And yet it works! Brian has caught me multiple times chanting it to myself at my desk, then getting on my workout clothes and forcing a 20-minute Peloton. And then, you guessed it, I feel better. 

So my New Year’s resolution is to do more of the above (which has been pretty derailed since Thanksgiving). Choose connection and health over depletion, K, Emily? Instead of drinks with friends, offer a walk with friends. Instead of indulging in a reality show full of toxic ladies screaming at each other, get in the bath with a romance novel, then connect with Brian. No more end-of-night doom scrolling, comparing yourself to others, just cozy up with a book.

Identify what makes you feel good, and do it as often as possible.

I know that for me, this works. I’ve tested it so many times – and every time I feel better. No real problems will be solved, but I’m able to move through it feeling so much happier. Life can feel so heavy right now, and we have such little control. Letting the SAD overtake us helps no one (both seasonal as well as just the general existential anxious feeling that can easily permeate us all if we let it).

I would love, love, love to hear what the simple things are that make you feel good inside, what lifts you when you feel a bit down (or if you just want to feel EVEN better). Maybe for some of you it would be going out to dinner to a new place, heading to a museum and staring at art, doing a DIY while listening to music, or a weekend away from the city. Maybe it’s meditation and prayer. Maybe it’s just long dog snuggles in the middle of the day. Leave them in the comment section, and it can become a big repository, an inventory of “good things” for any of us when we need a new idea or a boost to feel better. Let’s hear it (and thanks so much for listening). Cheers to 2026 🙂

Opening Image Credit: Photo by Kailtin Green

I know that a lot of you might have some hours coming up, whether that’s traveling for the holidays or some much-needed time off! So here is my updated list of the best and most gripping podcasts I’ve listened to.

I listen to no less than 10 hours a week of podcasts, usually nearing 15 hours. It’s a real thing. Brian and I started listening to This American Life and Slate’s Political Gabfest in 2001, when we moved to New York for our subway commutes, when the internet was a tiny little baby. Point is – we are podcast enthusiasts, more than any other medium for sure (besides design blogs, of course). Now, I’m not sitting on my back porch staring at our flowers growing while listening, no, this is all while I’m doing something that was once menial, but with a podcast is now enjoyable. This is my dog walking and doing house chores time. The hobby turned into a real habit during lockdown when Brian and I would divide up the house on Sundays and clean for four hours straight, each taking a floor (the kids also did their chores and otherwise learned to not bug us). We actually came to love this time, and it was only in the last two months that we’ve hired a bi-weekly cleaning service again – not because we were self-righteously rejecting the help, but because we legit enjoyed our podcast time that much (and there is a lot of dopamine you get from completing housework).

But like all media right now, there is just SO MUCH OUT THERE. I rely heavily on friends’ recs and some help from my algorithm to find the best podcasts. I listen to almost every genre, but they all HAVE to be entertaining – whether it’s psychology, self-help, parenting, news, culture/society, true crime, or comedy. They HAVE to keep me entertained. This is why I feel like I’m a great resource here for today’s list, which is the best bingeable podcast series – i.e., the ones that you don’t want to stop listening to because you have to find out how it ends. Think “page-turners” and “unput-down-able” books. Today’s list will be less about single episodes (I’ll do that, too) and more 6-10 part series with a beginning and an end. Grab your laundry and a mop, because these will make your Sunday chores FLY BY.

The Classics – The Podcast Series That Made This Genre

I would be amiss not to go back in time for those of you who might have missed the podcast series that really made this form of media:

Serial, S-Town, Dr. Death, and Dirty John. Sometimes I want to listen to them again, almost like watching a classic movie. These totally transformed journalism and frankly gave hope to an industry that is increasingly being forced to chase headlines (to all of our demise).

Important Gripping Cultural Stories

These were mind-broadening and highly educational, and entertaining. These are the ones that you can’t stop talking about at dinner parties – big cultural stories/movements that make you smarter.

Rabbit Hole: A deep dive into how the Internet and social media radicalize people (specifically young men). Sounds boring, but totally gripping, I promise.

1619: A must listen to better understand Black American history. I learned so much. Extremely well produced with a momentum that drives, but with really good pacing (there is a whole episode about racial appropriation in Yacht Rock).

The Witchhunt of JK Rowling: Oof. Controversial and only one side. This documents the last 20 years of society, culture, social media, feminism, trans rights/backlash against trans rights, cancel culture, extreme religion, and even Harry Potter (??) As a curious person, I found it wild and prefer to listen and add it to a bank of information to help me form my opinions (that always remain open). I absolutely believe in trans rights and have so much compassion and love for any trans person trying to exist in this hard world.

Bone Valley: This bridges true crime and the justice system. It’s incredibly well-researched about someone wrongly fully convicted of a crime, serving decades, and how that even happened. It also goes into the childhood of the real killer, which I always find to be a fascinating layer.

Nice White Parents: About a public school in New York and how white liberals don’t necessarily always put their money where their mouth is when personally challenged. Definitely forced me to take a look at myself after this one. Nimbyism anyone?

Cover Story – Seed Monday: About two White Fish billionaires and a potential sex scandal. A large subplot about how the super-rich are changing Montana, not for the better, and the pushback they are getting from locals.

Cover Story – A Power Trip: Y’all, this made me absolutely question how we might potentially use psychedelic drugs for trauma and PTSD therapy. Shows you how any industry can be corrupted and we shouldn’t just take “data” at face value.

The Telepathy Tapes: Probably the most talked about amongst my mom friends. This one is about how non-verbal kids are telepathic and goes through lengths to prove it. I’m excited to see this in documentary form, as at times listening was slow, but my goodness, it’s compelling.

The Retrievals: Women’s pain has always been dismissed or not believed, especially around childbirth. Two seasons of the same theme, and while this sounds boring, it’s absolutely enraging. What some of these women went through and were gaslit that they weren’t in pain is horrifying (very well done and fully researched).

Sold A Story: I never finished this one, but it’s basically how a few people in higher education changed how kids learned to read. It was politicized by the left, and generations of kids suffered by not learning phonics. It has been mostly reversed, but just a reminder that both sides make huge mistakes in the name of pushing their agendas forward.

True Crime (More Gripping Than Scary)

I need to give a caveat here – I don’t listen to any podcasts that give me fear/anxiety around my kids (aka missing kids, mysterious accidents, etc), which there are a lot of. Most of the true-crime I love is more white collar, cult, or, sure, “creepy old murders” that feel far away from my own life. I also don’t love the one-offs as much as other people, but I also haven’t tried that hard.

To Live and Die in LA: Both seasons are so gripping and are about the mysterious disappearance of a woman in LA. And the publishing of these podcasts has led to information about who dunnit. Just excellently produced, and as you can imagine, it’s someone close to them (which always makes me feel better somehow).

Root of Evil: The history of the Black Dahlia murderer, as told by his relatives, who are younger journalists. This was fairly disturbing at times, but my goodness, it was excellent, and I couldn’t stop listening. They deep dive hard, and even after they prove the murderer, there is a follow-up episode that offers some hope and redemption re inherited trauma/abuse.

Your Own Backyard: This was a huge story when I was in college, so I was genuinely curious who did it. This podcast was so well researched with intrepid and relentless journalism that it actually helped bring justice. So good.

Looking For The Todt Family: Truly disturbing, but I couldn’t stop. This does have to do with kids, but the circumstances are so bizarre and family-related so for whatever reason, it didn’t give me anxiety (but totally creeped me out). Extremely unsettling (and generally not what I love).

Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen: Not my favorite of them all, but a fun listen. Also, Wild Boys (second season) is really weird and good.

Harsh Reality: The Story of Miriam Rivera: Really sad.

Suspect: Mislaid justice via a Halloween party crime – it’s so good. (I haven’t listened to season 3 yet.)

The Preventionist: Brian and I just binged this in a car. A real “worst nightmare” case for parents about so many families ripped apart by doctors (from one particular hospital) who thought they were abusing their kids. No evidence. No investigation. And sometimes kept apart for YEARS. Let’s just say there are a lot of lawsuits happening right now, and I pray these families get some relief from the years of hell.

BETH’S DEAD: Ooooh, a real Nancy Drew mystery by two seasoned Podcasters – Monica Padman and Nobody is Listening, Right? I found this so gripping as it’s about a parasocial relationship from a listener (that ended up eventually shutting down their original popular podcast 10 years ago). A lot of twists and turns, and the unexpected ending was epic.

Noble: A weird case for sure. Hundreds of human bones were found in the woods, but no murder was committed. That’s all I’ll say.

Long Island Serial Killer: Terrifying but so well done. And just so shocking who it was and how long it went on for.

Betrayal/Double Lives/Scams/Cults, Etc.

The Shrink Next Door: LOVED. Kinda Stockholm syndrome-y, and dealing with Hamptons wealth culture (always a favorite). So good.

Sweet Bobby: I stopped this the first time around because I felt it was the usual catfish story (which, honestly, I find myself not really relating to). But out of desperation, I picked it back up, and then it blew my mind. There is a twist. Just wait for it.

Twin Flames: UGH, SO GOOD. This is about a self-help relationship cult and how they guided people to do disturbing things in the name of finding their true love.

Scamanda: A blogger who uses cancer to make money from followers. Oof. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but as a blogger, I was gripped.

Betrayal: Definitely made me start tracking Brian on “Find My Phone”. As someone who is currently happily married, it’s honestly so hard to believe when people say that they had NO IDEA about their partner’s double life, but the first season specifically feels so true, and I had such empathy for her. The second season is your worst nightmare as well!

Escaping NXIVM: Growing up religious, I have a real place in my heart for self-help or enlightenment cults. This is a good one.

OC Swingers: Exactly what you think it is, and then worse.

Queen of Con: Admittedly, I didn’t finish this yet because I had heard so much about the ending, but it was good and felt like it should be included here.

Something Was Wrong: I loved the first few seasons, then it fell off for me (now there are 17 seasons, so I’m sure there are some really good ones in there). But the first two follow specific relationships and how one person was unbelievably betrayed and manipulated.

The Teacher’s Pet: One of my favorites of the year. A cold case in Australia about a teacher whose wife went missing. A MUST LISTEN.

The Con: Kaitlyn’s Baby: Truly odd and unimaginable. Let’s just say it’s about a con regarding someone with the strangest addiction, and midwives were the victims.

Deep Dives Into Infamous News Stories

I love these because they confirm in my mind how much “growing the business” so fast is not always the healthiest choice, and how we in America push for MORE MORE MORE at all costs.

WeCrashed: Loved it. Just another story of a dude abusing his power with greed and narcissism.

The Dropout (and Bad Blood – I think I listened to both, strangely): You might know the story too well, but if you haven’t seen the documentary or the TV series, I loved this one.

Flipping The Bird: I mean, such a douche. It’s about Elon Musk, obviously, and his life and purchase of Twitter.

The Just Enough Family: SO GOOOOOOOOOD. It’s about a famous and rich New York family and how they reacted to and squandered their fortune. My old boss, Jonathan Adler, is on it a lot as he was great friends with Liz Lange, the heiress of the fortune. I signed up and paid for season 2 the second it was over (which I rarely do, and they still haven’t delivered).

What Podcasts Am I Missing???

I KNOW I’m forgetting so many – please leave them in the comments (for me, too!). And if you are into this, I’m SO happy to also do a list of my favorite one-off podcast episodes in all my favorite categories (self-improvement, parenting, relationship, science, work/business, etc). Leave your favorites in all categories below!!!

P.S. If you are in need of long-lasting headphones that stay in your ears, these are my all-time favorites. I don’t know how people do chores with AirPods in without falling out one million times a day, so I know that these look dorky, but I literally couldn’t care less – they stay in, the battery lasts for 5-6 hours straight, and they aren’t tiny, so they don’t get lost easily. Hot Tip: I only listen with one in at a time (especially while walking), so even when the battery wears out, I can just switch to the other side.

Opening Image Credits: Photos by Kaitlin Green | From: The Farmhouse Kitchen Reveal And All My Thoughts And Feelings About It

Em here! Caitlin wrote this fantastic Christmas movie must-watch list back in 2022, so we thought it might be time for an update. I added a few more of MY fave holiday flicks to the list, most of which are fairly current. Some perfectly sweet and festive rom coms and plenty of movies the whole family will love. Caitlin’s recs still hold up, so make sure to read on if you’re in need of some holiday movie inspiration!

My Christmas Flick Picks

Home Sweet Home Alone (2021): Absolutely laugh-out-loud funny, and with such a sweet message at the end. This was my favorite holiday movie the year it came out. 10/10

8 Bit Christmas (2021): A real favorite for all of us. Set in the analog 80s, this kid and parent pleaser is nostalgic, sweet, and so much fun.

Spirited (2022): Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell reinvent The Christmas Carol, with music. This is absolutely one of my favorites EVER MADE. It’s a bit raunchy and not for everyone, but I can’t get enough of it.

The Family Switch (2023): Can not love this more. I love a body switch movie, but this one goes so far as to add a dog in the mix. 10/10 in my book (Jennifer Garner always FTW).

Red One (2024): Action, adventure, and just so clever. Y’all, it has the Rock!! My family LOVES this one.

Nutcrackers (2024): Sweet and earnest, with a lot of funny moments. Ben Stiller nails this film (that is more of a 7/10 but still great).

Noelle (2019): So sweet, charming, and checks all the rom-com boxes that I want.

Let it Snow (2019): A sweet YA rom-com that has a fantastic cast, set over one night in the Midwest. Coming of age + holidays = my perfect film.

Now on to Caitlin’s round-up…

It’s time for my yearly magnum opus: an overly comprehensive roundup of holiday movies. In 2020 and 2021, I limited myself to Netflix original films (and you can catch up on those rankings right here!)…but today, I want to expand the pool a bit. After chatting with the rest of the EHD team, we identified four key Christmas movie categories – romantic comedies (because our team is a little corny, obviously), movies that are comfortable to watch with your adult friends and family (no awkward encounters!), classic films that are fun for the whole family (you’ll know these by heart), and picks that kids will love (both new and old!).

The other kicker: the movies had to actually be pretty good (or SO bad that it circles back into being hilarious – it’s weird how that works, isn’t it?). A lot of holiday films are formulaic, or forgettable, or just not worth your time (looking at you, Falling for Christmas – a devastating disappointment!), so I only included movies that are fun to watch. It’s a big list – get ready to skim, and keep an eye out for any new titles to add to your streaming service queue of choice! – but I’m sure there are a ton of other great Christmas movies out there that I missed or haven’t seen yet, so feel free to drop your favorites in the comments. LET’S BEGIN.

Rom Coms

Love Actually (2003): Nine (!!!) intertwined storylines; too many iconic moments to count. (Fun fact: Kiera Knightley was 18 and Thomas Brodie was 13 when this film was released.)

The Family Man (2000): A high-rolling Wall Street banker wakes in an alternate reality to find himself married to his college sweetheart. It’s nice to finally see a man have to choose between career and love in a Christmas movie for once, you know? (No shade to the whole “domineering woman meets small-town single dad” genre, of course).

Last Holiday (2006): After learning of a surprise terminal illness, Queen Latifah quits her job, cashes out her life savings, jets off to Europe, and lives the rest of her life to the fullest. (Spoiler: her work crush follows her across the world, too). This is my favorite Christmas rom-com, y’all!

Love Hard (2021): An LA blogger with a cute apartment (I’m halfway there, guys) spends the holidays in Lake Placid, NY (my childhood haunt!) with the guy who catfished her and his family. It’s sweet and fun.

The Holiday (2006): Two women swap homes for the holidays – one moves into a Hollywood mansion, the other takes residence in an English village – and naturally fall in love with local men. (Poll: would you go for Jack Black or Jude Law? I’m a Jack Black girl all the way!!!)

Holidate (2020): Two strangers-turned-friends agree to become each other’s platonic plus-ones for a year’s worth of holidays before catching feelings. It’s a Christmas movie you can watch all year long!

Serendipity (2001): John Cusak and Kate Beckinsale fall in love after reaching for the same pair of black cashmere gloves (cute). 10 years later – and living on opposite coasts – they trust fate to bring them together again. A must-watch for all my fellow ~woo woo~ “put it out into the universe” pals out there!

Single All The Way (2021): Tired of his family’s pestering, a man convinces his best friend to pose as his boyfriend on a trip home for the holidays. (Added bonus: Jennifer Coolidge also stars in it).

The Preacher’s Wife (1996): An angel is sent to answer a preacher’s prayer and then he, uh, falls for the preacher’s wife. Beyond that: Denzel! Whitney Houston! What else do you need?

New Year’s Eve (2011): Not totally Christmas, but still seasonally appropriate. It’s the Garry Marshall version of Love Actually, with an all-star cast and cheesy intertwined plot.

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001): It’s not not a Christmas movie, you know? An early 30s woman finds herself in a love triangle with Colin Firth and Hugh Grant. It’s famously relatable (except for the fact that most of us will never find ourselves in a love triangle with Colin Firth and Hugh Grant).

Happiest Season (2020): A woman plans to propose to her girlfriend at a family Christmas party before learning that her partner hasn’t come out to her conservative parents. (Bonus: it was written and directed by Clea DuVall, who played Marjorie on Veep!).

Last Christmas (2019): Emilia Clarke works as an elf in a year-round Christmas store. Henry Golding sweeps her off her feet. Michelle Yeoh plays Santa!!! Why isn’t this movie bigger?!

While You Were Sleeping (1995): Festive, but not overwhelming, with lots of classic tropes – mistaken identity! A coma! Amnesia! Love triangles! Wedding disruption! It’s an easy watch.

Why Him (2016): This was an EHD team recommendation that’s also not technically a Christmas movie, but still pretty Christmas-y – a dad travels to Silicon Valley for the holidays and realizes that his daughter’s boyfriend, a tech multimillionaire who’s a little bit of a loose cannon, is about to propose. (I don’t know if you can tell from the poster, but he’s not a fan). FYI this is more of a “watch with friends,” not family:)

Friends & Family

The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017): Christmas wasn’t always this big of a deal, you know? Based on a true story, the film tells the story of Charles Dickens – who was nearly broke after three consecutive flops! – and his creation of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ which changed the world (and the literal meaning of Christmas) forever. If you’re going to watch one new holiday movie this year, this should be it.

Four Christmases (2008): After their yearly holiday vacation is canceled, a couple visits all four of their divorced parents’ homes on Christmas Day.

The Family Stone (2005): An uptight career-oriented woman finally meets her boyfriend’s free-wheeling, relaxed family at Christmas…and it doesn’t go as planned. (Also, the casting here is incredible. Diane Keaton should be in every Christmas movie).

Meet Me In St. Louis (1944): It’s the musical that launched “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” everyone! Track a year in the life of the Smith family leading up to the 1904 World’s Fair. (Fun fact: Judy Garland and director Vincent Minnelli were dating while filming, and Liza Minnelli was born 2 years after the film’s release!).

The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2009): This is – and I am not joking – the worst movie I have ever seen. I loved it. A dog needs to learn to bark by Christmas, lest his family return him to the shelter for failing to live up to his guard dog duties. Mario Lopez voices the dog. It’s a mess. Make a drinking game out of it or throw it on when you’re a little slaphappy and overtired with friends. It’s awful. You’ll have a blast.

The Knight Before Christmas (2019): This is similar to the film above. It’s supposed to be romantic – a time-traveling medieval knight falls in love with Vannesa Hudgens – but it’s absolutely goofy. My mom and I have never laughed harder at a Christmas movie.

Scrooged (1988): A curmudgeonly but wildly successful TV executive (Bill Murray!) is haunted by three ghosts after firing a staffer on Christmas Eve. (I’m sure you can guess where this is going, right?).

A Bad Moms Christmas (2017): This is an Em recommendation! Three stressed-out moms are overwhelmed by the holidays (they’re juggling crafting memorable experiences for their families while hosting their own moms – woof) and they decide to rebel against expectations.

Die Hard (1988): It takes place during a holiday office party. There are 4 Christmas songs throughout the film. It’s a Christmas movie. Case closed.

El Camino Christmas (2017): But if Die Hard isn’t overtly holiday enough for you, this one may do the trick – a guy ends up barricaded in a liquor store with five other people during a shootout on Christmas Eve. (This is a great choice for those who are looking for something a little less saccharine – like, your stoic dad would probably watch this with you).

Christmas on the Square (2020): A wealthy woman plans to sell her small town to a developer – putting all her neighbors’ homes and businesses at risk – and then Dolly Parton (an angel both in the movie and in real life, I think) shows up. It’s kind of a slog, but you’ve gotta watch it once, you know?

Jingle All The Way (1996): A workaholic dad spends Christmas Eve hunting down the hottest toy on the market for his son. Classic 90s vibes.

Gremlins (1984): This is a movie about what happens when men don’t listen to directions. (I’m kidding…but I’m also not kidding?) A guy doesn’t take care of his new pet (a Gremlin, obviously) and ends up unleashing a horde of tiny monsters on his idyllic town on Christmas Eve. (Bonus: this film was one of the reasons the PG-13 rating was created, so proceed with caution if you have younger kids!).

Fred Claus (2007): Santa’s brother, Fred, gets bailed out of jail and heads to work at the North Pole in an attempt to pay off his debts. It’s a cute sibling rivalry and enjoyable for the whole family (…but maybe skip this one if you don’t want your kids to see Santa getting beat up by his bitter older brother).

Trading Places (1983): Christmas meets social commentary meets insider trading – it’s almost 40 years old (and some of the jokes haven’t aged well, to be fair), but this film still feels relevant. Two financial firm owners take the “nature v. nuture” debate to the next level when they frame a wealthy manager for a crime and hire a street-smart unhoused man (Eddie Murphy!) to take over his position, betting that Eddie Murphy will turn into a rich jerk and that the disgraced manager will fall into poverty. It’s pretty heavy, but served with a big dose of Christmas cheer. (It also apparently plays every Christmas Eve in parts of Italy, which is hilarious).

Edward Scissorhands (1990): Group this in with Gremlins and Die Hard on the “alternative Christmas movie” list. I mean…the whole thing is a long story about why it always snows on Christmas, you know?

Jack Frost (1998): Michael Keaton, a touring musician who prioritizes fame over family, dies in a car accident on Christmas Day (no!) but is brought back to life as a snowman the following year after his son plays a sad tune on a harmonica. Can a father and son make amends? (I’ll let you guess how it turns out.)

A Very Murray Christmas (2015): An all-star cast (Bill Murray, George Clooney, Amy Poehler, Jason Schwartzman, Chris Rock, Miley Cyrus, Maya Rudolph, Michael Cera, Rashida Jones…I’m only stopping because I’m running out of space) stars in a quick and unassuming holiday special. The original song by Phoenix is the icing on the cake.

Classics for Everyone

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992): The Muppets and Michael Caine take on the classic Dickens tale. (I think this is my all-time favorite Christmas movie, everyone! I loved it as a kid and I still love it in my 30s. It’ll never get old).

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965): I KNOW, I KNOW. It’s technically a TV special, not a movie. TOO BAD – it’s a classic. Charlie Brown is disappointed by the commercialization of Christmas (me too, cutie!) and searches for the meaning of the season. It’s very tender!

Elf (2003): “I thought maybe we could make gingerbread houses, and eat cookie dough, and go ice skating, and maybe even hold hands.”

The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974): Watch this Rankin/Bass original that inspired the art direction of Elf – it’s sweet and heartwarming. When Santa comes down with a cold and a bad case of ennui, Mrs. Claus and the elves need to lift his spirits. SO HEARTWARMING. (And not just because of Heat Miser!).

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964): Tune in for more Elf inspiration here – like, Buddy’s outfit was ripped straight outta this film). The stop motion is timeless and gentle and kind – if it’s been a few years since your last watch, take an hour, grab some hot chocolate, and enjoy. (Also, we need more movies inspired by songs).

The Home Alone Franchise (1990): This is the most popular Christmas movie in America for a reason. (Let it be a lesson to all of us that precocious troublemakers are surprisingly self-sufficient).

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946): Believe it or not, a movie about a man’s suicidal ideation on Christmas Eve was not an immediate hit!!! This film initially tanked at the box office and didn’t even come close to breaking it even – it only became a classic after it entered the public domain, which allowed it to be broadcast without licensing or royalty fees.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020): A depressed toymaker finds new hope when his jubilant granddaughter shows up on his doorstep. It’s like the Greatest Showman, holiday edition – a modern classic for sure.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947): A man named Kris Kringle fills in for a drunk Santa at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade (some stories really do last the test of time, right?) and is eventually hired to make regular appearances as Santa at the Macy’s in Manhattan. When Kringle claims that he really is Santa, he’s taken to court (of course) to judge his mental health and authenticity. It still feels timely, doesn’t it?

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989): I mean…a guy who cares this much about getting the perfect tree and setting up the most beautiful decorations kind of seems like a keeper, no?

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): It’s a Q4 hit. Enjoy it in October! Enjoy it in November! Enjoy it in December! It’s got everything the end-of-the-year needs, from the Pumpkin King to Sandy Claws.

It Happened On 5th Avenue (1947): Two unhoused men move into a seemingly-vacant NYC mansion while its owner is vacationing in the south. It’s a classic tale of “money poor, but rich where it counts.”

A Christmas Story (1983): “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966): Technically another TV special, but…it’s my list, and I’m making the rules. It’s bright, it’s cheery, there are some iconic (and now gif-able) animation moments, and it’s almost entirely narrated (which almost feels fresh today!). Set aside 25 minutes and tune in – it’s worth it.

Kid-Friendly

Klaus (2019): A failed postman is exiled to a frozen town, where he forms an unlikely partnership with a reclusive toymaker. Together, they bring a lot of joy to a dark town that needs it most. IT’S GORGEOUSLY DONE.

The Santa Clause Franchise (1994): A divorced dad becomes Santa (both physically and occupationally) while everyone thinks he’s a nutjob. His son – the world’s cutest kid, I think – steps in to help save Christmas. It never gets old, does it?

The Polar Express (2004): If you’re a fan of the uncanny valley, this is for you. (It’s not for me, but I can acknowledge that it’s still a good movie!). After the entire town has gone to bed on Christmas Eve, a skeptical boy boards a magical train for the North Pole in an attempt to learn the truth about Santa.

The Snowman (1982): This, however, is WAY more my speed. A boy makes a snowman on Christmas Eve; it comes to life and brings him to meet Santa. The animation is so soft and lovely. (Still great for adults, too! It’s like a bubble bath for your eyes).

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000): Little ones love Jim Carrey and his dog in this movie, y’all. Ron Howard directed this version and it’s safe to say that he is a national treasure.

Alien Xmas (2020): This is my favorite Netflix animation special (and it’s from Jon Favreau, the director of Elf)!! When aliens team up to steal the earth’s gravity (and, consequently, all of the presents), a tiny alien named X falls in love with the Christmas spirit and works to thwart their kleptomaniac plans. So much heart and SO, SO CUTE.

Arthur Christmas (2011): When Santa forgets to deliver presents to one child (out of, uh, 600 million), it’s up to his youngest son, Arthur, to deliver a present before Christmas morning. Super underrated.

Eloise at Christmastime (2003): Eloise (of the Plaza Hotel, of course) decides to involve herself in everyone’s business. (Literally, SO much happens in this movie that it cannot be condensed into a small blurb.) Julie Andrews stars as the nanny, too.

The Christmas Chronicles Franchise (2018): After two siblings accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh, they team up with Santa to save Christmas. Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn should play Santa and Mrs. Claus in EVERY MOVIE. They’re incredibly endearing (and a little sarcastic? It’s refreshing).

PHEW. Lotta words here. Did you find anything new to watch? Do you have any recommendations or synopses to share? What’s your favorite Christmas movie? LET’S TALK ABOUT IT. Happy Friday – see ya in the comments 🙂 xx

Opening Photo Credits: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Emily’s “Messy” But FULL Of Memories Christmas Family Room

Okay, local Portland folks, this one is for you (and me). No town loves supporting local more than Portland (I mean, our incredible airport with all the indie restaurants is proof!). And while we have to link up a lot of national brand products here for the business (and so all of you can benefit/shop), I really, really want these local businesses to thrive, not just during the holidays but year-round. So we dedicated two days to cruising around town and shooting our favorite stores to share with you. I couldn’t find a comprehensive list anywhere on the internet (and we still missed some, I know), but this list is pretty dang good, and we’ll keep adding to it (please let us know who we missed in the comments!). Portland, I love you.

Oh, and we even made a Google Map to help you find all of these wonderful businesses, much easier at the end of the post:)

Central Eastside Shops

CES (Central EastSide) is my go-to neighborhood when I need a fix (or any decor for a project/shoot). There are so many stores near each other that are all pretty incredible. The neighborhood itself has a lot of cool murals and is very industrial. Feel free to eat at Boke Bowl, Shalom Y’all, Olympic Provisions, or Clark Lewis (for dinner), or if you want to walk a few blocks, Hat Yai is incredible and where I took my family again for my birthday lunch (after Urbanite).

Urbanite

Urbanite is a no-miss, whether you are a local or visiting. It’s a vintage mall that is simply excellent. So many booths of highly curated vintage at prices that feel totally fair, with a lot of contemporary makers. There is furniture, decor, a lot of gifts, books, and fashion. I have never left without buying like 5 things.

My friend, Purl (who made our coffee table, corbels, and so much art that I’ve bought), has a super eclectic booth that always surprises and delights.

Vessel – A great example of a contemporary local maker that has these awesome lamps as well as vintage (I almost bought these lamps for my team for Christmas last year at the Christmas Bazaar, but she sold them all out!).

There isn’t a ton of furniture, but I’ve certainly walked away with some larger pieces. Shout out to Gray (not shown), who is a designer in town who has a fantastic booth.

There are Moroccan rugs (shout out to Nomadic Vintage), pop art (Moderna), and so much up-cycled fashion. I know that I’m missing so many tags, handles, and links to websites, so please leave your favorites in the comments. Their website has most of them featured, which I appreciate, and they keep their Instagram pretty up-to-date. Urbanite is also where I discovered so many artists/makers/curators who have grown into their own spaces that are mostly by appointment, but very much worth the effort. I’m talking about you – Fabius Grange and ShopWilma (both INCREDIBLE vintage art and furniture curators, respectively).

Across the street from Urbanite is Rejuvenation – which we didn’t take new photos in, but obviously a fantastic, locally owned, larger company we love that has furniture, lighting, decor, and a lot of vintage, too.

Just up the street is Spartan Shop, which is incredible – more of a gallery, featuring contemporary makers’ furniture and decor (and very splurgy but inspirational). If you are looking for a larger selection of vintage rugs (especially Moroccan or Turkish), Nomadic also has its own storefront just down the road.

Primecut

New to me but nearby is Primecut – a gift store with a lot of dope leather bags and smaller curated gifts.

Extremely stylish and design-forward gifts for someone who likes the less expected but very cool.

Cargo

Cargo isn’t just a makers mall – it’s a whole experience. It’s a fantastic place to bring people visiting Portland for the first time.

It’s such an exciting store, beautifully curated with a lot of pop-up shops from so many of our favorite local designers or retailers. Think Pigeon Toe Ceramics, Woonwinkel, and Lisa Congdon (amongst so many others).

If you only have time to shop for gifts at one place in Portland, I’d nominate Cargo.

Cargo has plants, jewelry, records, books, pottery, vintage, up-cycled fashion, party supplies, crafts, stationery, and contemporary home decor. It’s seriously incredible.

Lisa Congdon is a famous Portland illustrator and graphic designer who sells a lot of her wares there. I love her playful and colorful vibe (so does Elliot).

Woonwinkel has a storefront in downtown Portland, but a pretty incredible pop-up here. Fantastic gifts for the design-forward, color-lover. I’m a massive fan.

20th Century Interiors

It took me WAY too long to discover this store – 20th Century. Hidden from easy view, it’s a warehouse of Scandinavian vintage that is incredible. I’ve bought a few paintings from here (splurgy, but fairly priced), and it is a fantastic place for inspiration.

Currently, mid-century isn’t as “trendy” as it has been in the past, but it has my heart (especially the greats), and it’s coming back fast.

KABINETT PDX

Next door to 20th Century is KABINETT PDX, which has new and vintage furniture, plus a vermouth shop that has a ton of beautiful barware and gifts.

It’s a lot of eye candy, with some extremely cool, larger-scale European posters (prints) that I’m always so tempted by. My team and I spent a while flipping through them all.

Memory Den Vintage Mall

Of all the vintage malls in Portland, Memory Den is my kid’s favorite. It has booth after booth of curated but still affordable, really fun finds.

Memory Den has fashion, home decor, records, and a lot of thriftstore-y furniture (great finds to redo or upgrade).

Plus, they serve cocktails. So while the kids play with the huge chess piece game on the first floor, Brian and I might walk around with a cocktail after lunch, and it’s a great indoor winter afternoon.

City Home

I love City Home. They have carved out a really important niche where you can go in and walk out with anything in the store that day (including furniture). No lead times, no ordering, and no following up. You need a dining table? You can literally go in and take one home.

There are multiple City Home locations, and they are all so good (Lake Oswego and Cedar Hills are the other two I frequent).

loveTEAK

We unintentionally stumbled upon loveTeak, which is more of a global import outdoor furniture store, but I wanted to give it some love because they have a lot of high-quality furniture in a really pretty space.

Filthy Antiques

Another happy stumble upon – Filthy Antiques is new and a really fun vintage store full of a ton of denim, rustic furniture, and really well priced.

The owner has been a picker for decades and has a great eye for a more masculine vintage vibe in a really cool space.

Hoppe Shoppe

Hoppe Shoppe is by far the best home decor store in Portland for those of us excited to stare at, hold, and splurge on the prettiest things for your home.

The owner is a former stylist in New York and has an incredible eye for both antiques and new pieces. Think gorgeous dinnerware, candles, lighting, and textiles. I WANTED EVERY SINGLE THING. It was so refreshing to shop here. The quality and curation are next level and show that there is a market in Portland for all these beautiful gifts for the design enthusiast.

You can easily spend an hour in here looking at every single thing (if you love design). It’s a real dream and a fantastic place to buy a home/kitchen enthusiast a gift.

Now, before you leave the Eastside, head over to quite possibly my favorite antique mall – Monticello. We didn’t have time to go this day, but trust me when I say that every time I go, I leave with far more than I intended. The pricing is really fair, the curation is excellent, and the attached cafe sells mimosas that you can walk around with while shopping (making this a fantastic girls’ day activity). For my birthday, I brought Kaitlin here, and we sipped mimosas and shopped (and likely bought far more with the softened judgment).

Here are some more that we didn’t make it to that day, but I want to make sure you know about:

Storied Vintage: Not far from Monticello, this is a sweet vintage store one of you recommended! Great vintage furniture and homewares.
Artemisia: A really sweet plant and natural perfume shop that also offers workshops, like making your own perfumes or creating a terrarium to take home.
Starflower: Another great plant and flower shop. They create some really magical arrangements, and their shop is inspiring.
Day Goods: A great store with colorful, design-forward homewares that carries some of our favorites mentioned above, like Primecut and Vessel. Pop into the other great shops next door, Seven Sisters and OURstore Vintage, for a fun selection of clothes (both vintage and small-batch) and a variety of home goods and great gifts.
Motif: A small but mighty vintage homewares shop with an excellent curation and awesome vibe.
Hippo Hardware: A classic Portland staple, Hippo sells all kinds of vintage building salvage, like hardware, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. A ton of cool, old stuff to check out.
Vintage Pink: An awesome midcentury-leaning store with a great selection of furniture, lighting, art & decor.
Deep Lake: The cutest consignment store that carries a ton of cool vintage and nicer modern brands.
Goodbye Horses: A great vintage store located right nearby a TON of fantastic food & entertainment spots- Güero, Cheese & Crack, Laurelhurst Theater.
Wild Cactus: A great little gift shop with wonderful home/kitchen/bath goods, plus a small selection of clothes.
Artifact: A staple on Hawthorne. Awesome vintage store with great furniture and well-curated fashion.
Happy Anyway: A tiny little gift shop with a big selection of goods.
OLO: A delightful perfumery with incredible scents and a great atmosphere.
Wellspent Market: A little neighborhood market with lots of great culinary gifts.

Sellwood Shops

Sticking to the Eastside but heading deeper South is our Sellwood neighborhood – another one of my faves for vintage shopping and more. An easy neighborhood to spend a day poking around.

Notary Ceramics

Notary Ceramics is a Portland staple that has mastered the art of gorgeous kitchen ceramics. Another store where I want most everything in it (and have purchased many pieces).

The owner and ceramicist, Sarah, is such a lovely person, and you can feel so good about supporting her and her store. Her work is special.

Plural Collective

Plural is a sweet shop with a lot of local and small makers selling jewelry, plants, kids’ clothes, and a lot of accessories.

When my team came to visit for the first time, I gave them a gift bag full of local Portland favorites and bought a few pieces here (candles and matches, I think). It’s just a sweet spot to grab a gift or three.

Stars Antiques

I don’t think there is one antique mall that I’ve spent more time in over the decades I’ve been in Portland (or visiting). In Sellwood, there are two Stars antique malls, both just fantastic. So many curated booths that have the most variety of vintage pieces (everything from hyper-kitchy/retro to fashion to more of a thrift style, dig-through-bins booths).

We ran out of time to shoot in every store that day, but I want to link up the rest in this neighborhood that we love:
Midtown Mod: A funky, great vintage shop with many great midcentury finds and color-coordinated home goods.
Adored Vintage: An awesomely curated clothing boutique and gift store that feels warm and inviting.
Silly Daisy: An adorable children’s and women’s boutique with sweet soft goods and clothes, homewares, and great gifts.
The Collective: “A group of dedicated dealers selling a variety of vintage, collectible, antique, and other unique curated items.” They don’t have a website, but they’ve been around forever, and their shop is worth a peek.

North/Northeast Shops

Truth be told, this is an area I spend the least amount of time in as it’s furthest from my neighborhood. If there are shops here that simply can’t be missed, please tell us about them in the comments! Ones I do know of and love are:
Mantel PDX: This is a wonderful space full of handmade ceramics, homewares, and jewelry. They work with small, independent artists and have an awesome selection of pieces that would make a great gift for yourself or a loved one.
Vein of Gold: This is a high-end consignment store that has a ton of cool brands and great vintage.
Letterpress PDX: A reader suggestion for great handmade cards and prints.
Solabee Flowers & Botanicals: A wonderful, whimsical plant store. Easy to get lost in all the natural beauty in here!
Honey I’m Home: An adorable home goods and clothing store with a punchy, colorful stock of new and vintage.
Paxton Gate: This shop is just rad. A great spot to bring a curious kid and look around or buy an off-the-wall gift for the nature-obsessed. Think taxidermy, crystals, plants, and books about every curiosity.
Flutter: A maximalist gift shop full of great finds. A fun atmosphere with art, books, clothing, home goods, tarot decks, and more.
Zig Zag Vintage: A great, eclectic vintage clothing store with fair prices and a fun selection. A nice spot to shop around while you’re waiting for your name to be called at Tin Shed for brunch.
Milk Glass Market: A reader submission for great food gifts. A cute shop to poke around in, too.
Laundry: An awesome “vintage teamwear” shop. They’ve got hats, jerseys, sweatshirts – you name it. A great spot to find a special gift for the sports-obsessed.
Estate Store: This is an awesome spot that gives back to the local community with every purchase! Fantastic vintage pieces and all proceeds directly support their connected nonprofit furniture bank, Community Warehouse, helping families in need.
Arium Botanicals: One of my favorite places to shop for unique plants. They always have a great selection.
Circle Round: A fantastic consignment shop with vintage & high end clothing.

Northwest Shops

One of my favorite neighborhoods to walk around in is Northwest Portland. It is just so pretty. I secretly wish there were way more design shops, but I fear retail must be so expensive. Here are some of our favorites, both on and off the beaten path (we didn’t have time to shoot here this time!).

Tender Loving Empire

photos by tender loving empire

A classic Portland indie store that has a lot of locations, Tender Loving Empire, and is full of gifts and Portland souvenirs – jewelry, mugs, candles, books. They champion small makers and designers, and their stores are really fun and exciting to be in.

The Yo Store

The Yo Store is an extremely popular design-forward store full of fashion, gifts, home, and kids’ stuff. So well curated, full of color, and just really cool stuff (Kaitlin shoots for them and has bought very cool stuff from here).

Schoolhouse

One of my favorite stores of all time, in a gorgeous building with a coffee shop. Schoolhouse Electric is a Portland classic and much beloved. Furniture, home, gifts, art, kitchen, lighting – anything you want that is design forward and scandy/midcentury/industrial in spirit. There is a lovely irreverence to this place, with everything being heirloom quality. Check hours/days as they aren’t open a lot during the week (which is my only beef with them :))

A few more honorable mentions in this general area:
Porch Light: A mix of old and new, from plants to jewelry, glassware, ceramics, candles, and plenty more beautiful objects for your home.
Pistils Nursery: A stunning plant shop (they also do wonderful landscape design) that offers workshops and a wide variety of plant life. It’s great to get lost in here.
Betsy & Iya: Incredible handmade jewelry store where everything is made in-house. A beautiful storefront that also sells slow fashion, ceramics, and other pretty homewares.
Oblation Papers & Press: A reader submission! Beautiful store with an assortment of handmade goods like stationery, notebooks/journals, cute office supplies and gifts.
Kat + Maouche: Another awesome reader submission…amazing vintage rug inventory!
The Good Mod: A Portland classic for high-end vintage furniture and fine art (think midcentury and Danish).

Southwest Shops:

These are the Southwest shops downtown that I love to frequent or have been dying to check out. Sadly, we didn’t have time to stop by for pictures, but these stores are worth a visit:

Storied Objects: A tiny and well-curated gallery that always has such stunning art (think sculptures, pottery, glass).
Canoe: One of my favorites for years, Canoe has high-end gifts, home, kitchen, tech, and jewelry. A perfect place to shop for anyone who loves the most beautiful mug or bookend.
Midnight Sunlight: I’m so embarrassed to say I’ve never been here, but I follow on IG and LOVE their pieces. Rather famous in Portland, Midnight Sunlight has awesome vintage and a lot of it.
Frances May: Fashion, jewelry, and accessories for the very fashion-forward (with a budget). I love to browse to see what will happen in fashion next (it’s extremely splurgy and not mainstream). Wilma did a pop-up on the second floor with her vintage this year, and the owner of Frances May is a huge advocate for reviving Portland’s downtown, so know that shopping here supports people who support our community.
Powell’s: You can’t come to Portland without popping into Powell’s – our famously large, exceptional used (and new) bookstore (that also sells games, merch, and gifts).

Multnomah Village

I’m going to be really biased here because this is my personal neighborhood hangout, but for good reason. Multnomah Village is ridiculously cute and full of so much to do (and so safe for our kids – they cruise around by themselves). We are here weekly, if not more, in the summer. Beers at Level (while kids play pinball), lunch at Johns (biggest beer selection this side of the Mississippi), delicious food at Yalla (you’ll want reservations), breakfast at Fat City Cafe (so much kitchy charm), family meal at Marcos, great drinks at The Gibson, Proper Pint and Hide-A-While, Thai food at Thai Herbs, Mexican at Titos Taquitos, Upscale American at Zinc and don’t forget two of Portland best dive bars (seriously so good) Renners and The Ship (just make sure to Uber home – these drinks are strong). If you are with kids and dogs and want a guaranteed spot outside, head to Lucky Lab (beers and pizza) or the food carts at French Quarter (both charming in their own ways). That’s all to say, there is a ton to eat while you come to shop. We only shot at a few places that are my personal favorites for home design (also because it was pouring and we ran out of time).

Form & Function

In my top three favorite/best stores in Portland is Form & Function. A fantastically curated mix of vintage and new Scandinavian design that hits all price points and is just exciting to be in. I can’t say enough great things about this store, and I really, really want it to do so well this Christmas. They just got a huge container from their shopping in Denmark, Finland, Sweden – such beautiful furniture (and free delivery in Portland). It’s one block off the main drag and full of a lot of art and small accessories as well, so please don’t miss it.

JP General

I love this store, and it’s where Brian gets all of my birthday presents (he brings the kids here and they pick something out). A great curation of design-forward tabletop, jewelry, gardening, barware, and even some tech.

Indigo Traders

Such a lovely store of imported Turkish, Moroccan, and Middle Eastern goods. Everything from towels to rugs, baskets, kitchen supplies, cookbooks, and olive oils. If you know someone into tea or Moroccan cooking (or so many pretty towels), this store is great.

Consign Couture

A fantastic high-end resale shop where I sell all my clothes and have to close my eyes when I go in to sell as to not buy more (or buy back something that I missed, LOL). It’s really, really good.

ComeUnityPDX

This shop has so many local artists and designers and celebrates them well. I’m headed back for a few things next week, actually 🙂 I love that they expose me to new artists.

Thinker Toys

Everyone in SW Portland knows this adorable toy shop (and has spent hundreds on birthday gifts here). An abundance of toys for all ages and a great shopping experience.

Village Cheer

Probably my kids’ favorite store – full of great gifts and party supplies and run by lovely people.

I wanted to link up and promote the rest of the businesses that we didn’t pop into but are also GREAT in this neighborhood:
Multnomah Antiques: I love popping into this shop when I need a fix. It’s more antique-y than vintage, but I’ve walked away with a quilt or two, and my kids love it.
Annie Bloom Books: Another classic in the village, Annie Bloom is the indie book store (outside of Powell’s). I actually tried to get them to do a book signing for my last book, and no one responded, but I love this place, and we go often with the kids.
Magpie: Great jewelry and gifts that are unique and easy to love.
Village Kids Supply Co: We donate most of the kids’ gently used clothes here (fantastic, especially for baby or toddler supplies).
Mad Sass Soap Co: Homemade soaps make fantastic gifts because it’s something we all need (and it’s a consumable, so less of a risk).
Nurture: This just opened and has the sweetest wooden and handmade stuffed animals. I love a really specific store like this, so for the perfect baby toy for parents who love aesthetic design, head here (I really want it to stay in business!).
Peggy Sundays: Great for pretty mugs, frames, cocktail napkins – think gifts for ladies that like to host.
Peachtree Gifts: Wait, this might be my kids’ favorite store. It’s where they buy their dad’s funny socks and candy shaped like food. Think greeting cards, fun stocking stuffers, and beanies.
SAGE. flowers: Sage opened last year, and it was much needed. A beautiful floral and plant shop that the locals love.
Narrative Home Design: New to me (I’m so embarrassed I haven’t popped in), but a place I’d love to donate my good home things to. Narrative has great vintage or secondhand furniture and home decor (right next to Katelyn’s Closet, which is a non-designer fashion consignment shop).

Who Did We Miss???

Of course, you simply CAN’T miss Aurora (an adorable town 30 minutes away full of 10-15 antique stores, including the famous Aurora Mills), but the outskirts might need their own big blog post. Please tell us who we missed because we’d love to include and promote them (be patient, as my team is off for the holidays, but we’ll try to add to the list next week!). Happy shopping, Portland. xx

We Made A Map!!

Here’s a little interactive Google map Marlee put together to make finding all of these great places easy! So definitely bookmark it. And when you are using it on your phone, you can also filter by gifts, home goods, etc. THANK YOU, MARLEE!

*Unless Otherwise Noted, Photos by Kailtin Green

Hello there! Your friendly neighborhood blogger is here and reporting for duty. Every year, we work to bring you the best Cyber Monday sale list on the internet – and this year, I’d like to think we nailed it! Below, you’ll find our new, easier-to-use sales guide. We’re walking you through the best discounts this weekend on everything from appliances and furniture to dresses and boots – we’re talking upwards of 40-70% off here! – so if you’re looking to save some cash, you’re in the right spot.

Added bonus: if you’re in the market for a gift or two, an overwhelming majority of the pieces featured in our 2025 gift guides are also on sale over the next few days. (Selfishly, I’ve enjoyed scrolling our “for her,” “for home,” and “under $50” guides while on the hunt for presents for myself. If you have no idea what to ask for this season, you might find some on-sale inspiration there!)

Updated: 12/1, 7:00 AM EST

Home

AllModern: Take up to 50% off EHD favorites like the luxe rug from Mal’s living room makeover, the $500 sideboard from Gretchen’s guest room update, or the pre-lit Christmas tree that blew us all away.

Anthropologie: Take 30% off site-wide and grab an extra 40% off sale styles. If you need some inspiration, might I suggest Em’s holiday decor essentials? (That bow!)

Article: Up to 40% off styles for every room – I’m especially partial to the graphic mirror from Kaitlin’s living room. (This entry bench is so simple and chic, too!)

Brooklinen: Take 25% off site-wide, plus up to 40% off select bundles (looking at you, waffle bath towels).

CB2: Score up to 50% off furniture, decor, and more. We’d recommend stocking up on the Marta drinking glasses – they’re an EHD favorite for good reason.

Crate & Barrel: Nab home essentials for up to 50% off, like Em’s linen family room lamps. (Now offered in a perfectly petite 15″ size – how cute are they?)

Design Within Reach: Take 25% off site-wide with up to 50% off select items. These recycled crates start at $4.50 and would make a great gift box for any of your design-loving friends this holiday!

Elsie Green: Land 20% off your entire order with code THANKFUL. We’re still loving Em’s reclaimed farm table (it’s perfect in her sunroom!), but the entire site is packed with beautifully curated pieces. (Scroll the decor page for some splurgy eye candy.)

Etsy: Save up to 60% on gifts, decor, and more – you can see Em’s recent holiday buys right here. (I must confess that I would love to receive those little gingerbread men-shaped candles as a gift!)

Flamingo Estate: Take 20% off site-wide off world-class pantry and home goods. This indulgent soap brick lasts forever and is worth every penny, even at full price; I’d be thrilled to give this box of beautiful kitchen essentials to any hard-to-please loved one.

Food52: Land 25% off site-wide and 30% off product from the Five Two brand. I’ve had this Five Two apron for 6 years and couldn’t love it more – would make a great gift for the chef in your life. (And if anyone would like to buy me Em’s market tote, I wouldn’t be opposed.)

H&M: Snag 15% off $75, 20% off $100, or 25% off orders over $100. I’d recommend shopping the kids section (hello, Rejuvenation hook dupe) and loading up on ultra-affordable textiles.

Interior Define: Take 25% off site-wide and 30% off orders over $3,000. This timeless modular loveseat is one of our bestsellers this year – you can add to it as your seating needs grow.

Jayson Home: Take 20% off site-wide with code CYBER. If you’re shopping for a design lover, Jayson carries the best gift selection on the internet. (I ordered this enormous, under-$15 brass paper clip.)

Joss & Main: Nab up to 50% off finds for every room, like these $109 flush mounts. (They’re a budget-friendly fix and a welcome alternative to the dreaded boob light!)

Leesa: Save 30% on mattresses, bases, and bedding. Em swears by the Sapira Hybrid Chill – she has 3 of them at the Farm House! (PS. Take an extra $50 off with EMILY50.)

Lowe’s: Save big here – they’re offering up to 50% off major appliances, with even bigger discounts (up to 25% more off!) for bundling 2 or more. The biggest savings are on these refrigerators – many even have next-day delivery available!

Lulu and Georgia: Take up to 30% off site-wide, including almost $1,000 off Em’s traditional living room sofas!

Macy’s: Bring home deals for up to 60% off, like Em’s new slow cooker or her kids’ much-loved $99 arcade machine.

McGee & Co.: Save up to 30% site-wide. How charming are the tie knot details on the back of these wood and leather counter stools? (Don’t get me started on these mini easels, either!)

Neighbor: Land 15% off site-wide with 20% off orders over $5,000 and up to 40% off select styles.

Parachute: Save 25% site-wide. Em gave me this linen bedding set a few years back when I first upgraded to a king bed, and they’re broken in like a dream – they’re the only sheets I want to use!

Pottery Barn: Bring home pieces for every room for up to 60% off, like the bookcases-turned-sofa tables from Em’s family room. These French return curtain rods are great, too.

Rejuvenation: Up to 60% off lighting, furniture, and more. This chandelier is gorgeous (and nearly half-priced!); the huge River House living room pendants are also on clearance! (See them in action here.)

Roan Iris: Take up to 25% off site-wide with our new favorite small business! I bought this beautiful brass wall vessel – I’ve been eyeing for months after spotting it above the sink in Les’ cabin. (The whole site is affordable and beautifully curated. It was hard not to add everything here to my cart!)

RugsUSA: Take 15% off site-wide and 20% off orders over $300 – we obviously love this quiet striped number from the River House game room and this textural broken stripe from the dining room reveal!

Schoolhouse: 25% off site-wide has me feeling like a kid in a candy shop! I’m eyeing the sweetest Christmas accessories, the cheery and punchy decor, and these to-die-for quilts.

Serena & Lily: Snag up to 70% off (!!!) everything from furniture and decor to bedding and bath. I’ll never get over the proportions of these Windsor chairs – invite me over for dinner! (Especially if you grab them in Parsley, Blue Bell, or Paprika. So good!)

Soho Home: Enjoy a rare 25% off select designs – we’d recommend these luxe chairs that can work in any room, as seen in this breakfast nook makeover! (This graphic lamp is a total dream, too.)

Target: So many great offers here, but up the 40% off indoor furniture stands out – there are so many fabulous Hearth & Hand and Studio McGee end tables on sale! For scent lovers, there’s also a huge BOGO offer on all Threshold candles – stock up and save while you can.

Terrain: Take an extra 40% off sale – this is a must-visit for the seasonal decorator or gardener! You can see Em’s holiday picks at the farm here. (I’m grabbing these simple floral pins to dress up my pillar candles this winter!)

Visual Comfort: Bring home lighting for 20% off site-wide – I’d splurge on this unexpected chandelier or this cordless, rechargeable table lamp by Kelly Wearstler (perfect for an outlet-less end table!).

Wayfair: Snag up to 80% off pieces for every room – no one will believe this floor lamp (from the River House family room) was only $179! You can save big on our sofa line, too. (I’m very partial to the Milo sectional!)

West Elm: Land up to 60% off some of our EHD favorites, like this reclining sectional (!!!) and sofa recommended by Arlyn. (See more of her reclining recs here!)

World Market: Save up to 30% on select furniture, like this sub-$200 trestle dining table (the joinery is gorgeous!), this 6′ vintage-inspired entry table, or this cushy, comfortable swivel chair.

Lifestyle

Abercrombie & Fitch: Save 25-50% off everything at the new, grown-up Abercrombie! Em loves this $60 plush, textural cardigan – the sleeve detail is a nice touch. (If you’re a bit more indoorsy, she swears by this sweatsuit – catch her full review here.)

Aerie: It’s 40% off everything! But best deals are on sweatshirts and pullovers, starting at only $29. Several members of the EHD team will vouch for this cozy, drape-y crewneck (seen on Em here!).

Amazon: Everything’s on sale! But we know that’s overwhelming, so consider knocking out your beauty shopping here – you can grab 55% off our beloved pore exfoliating pads or 20% off Em’s go-to makeup sticks.

American Eagle: Bring home 30-50% site-wide. We’re loving this budget-friendly Fair Isle sweater (seen here), but more adventurous dressers might love these ultra-wide leg jeans (they’re easier to style than you’d think!).

Anthropologie: Take 30% off must-have styles, with an extra 50% off the sale section! We’ve been loving this classic trench and these budget-friendly scarves (only $7.50!).

Athleta: If you’re the “new year, new me” type, you’ll love saving up to 50% on everything from tops and bras to leggings and pullovers.

Evereve: Take 10% off site-wide! We’d recommend these Seychelles leather boots – you can watch Em’s quick video review here.

Everlane: Stock up with up to 50% off everything, including Em’s wear-all-day ballet flats (seen here – so cute) and my all-time favorite jeans in a modern silhouette.

Faherty: Take up to 50% off sale – we recommend pieces like this elevated jacket and cozy flannel from Brian’s gift guide. (It’s filled with ideas for all the men in your life!) We’re offering an extra 20% off with code EMHENDERSON20, too.

Frank & Eileen: Bring home up to 70% off styles from the warehouse sale! The savings are massive – this pretty spring dress is over $400 off (!!!); the deeply-discounted travel sets are an indulgence for any frequent flyer.

Free People: Land up to 50% off over 300 styles – we love this cardigan that channels The Great at a fraction of the price. (Size up, she’s a bit cropped!)

Gap: 40% off everything, plus 60% off giftable pieces. Stock up on the basics here, like a $42 oxford made from organic cotton or these $36 cashmere-soft sweaters (I have two – they wear like a dream!).

HigherDose: Take 20% off site-wide or bring home any bundle for 30% off. Go for the Sauna Blanket Starter Kit – it has everything you need. (See Em’s one year review and three year review for more!)

J. Crew: Take 40% off your entire purchase – we recommend saving big on some holiday party-ready dresses! Em’s cropped barn jacket is also an extra 50% off (see it styled here).

J. Crew Factory: I swear that Factory is the best-kept secret on the internet – they’re offering 50-70% off everything (!!!). This belt is less than half the price of Em’s Madewell equivalent; there’s a near-endless selection of sub-$40 skirts that channel 2009 J. Crew. Don’t miss this one!

Lululemon: Score over 50% off (!!!) some favorite styles, like these $49 high-rise leggings or this throw-and-go oversized hoodie, perfect for tossing on after yoga. (This is the best Lululemon deal I’ve seen in the six years I’ve been pulling this guide together – don’t miss it!)

Madewell: This one is huge: you’re going to take 40% off (!!!) your purchase. Em’s favorite flare jeans are jut $50 – down from $148! – and my much-loved cherry merino sweater starts at only $75! (This $42 blouse is adorable, too.)

Nike: Take up to 50% off select styles, and grab an extra 25% off pieces like these $54 throw-and-go sneakers that will elevate any outfit.

Nisolo: Another big one – take 40% off site-wide (and get a free gift on orders over $195!). We get near-daily DMs about Em’s go-to mules, but I’m especially charmed by these grown-up, cherry red Mary Janes!

Nordstrom: Check this one out if you’re looking for great gifts – they’re offering up to 60% off. If you’re just shopping for yourself, Marlee and I both swear by this comfortable wireless bra and this mascara!

Nordstrom Rack: If you love online window shopping, this one’s for you – there’s up to 70% off over 15,000 pieces. You’ll find the biggest savings on accessories and footwear.

Old Navy: ICYMI, Old Navy is having a renaissance! Bring home 50% off some great steals, like these $30 matching family pajama sets (like Hanna Andersson on a budget!) or this $30 puffer with near-perfect reviews.

Pistola: Nab 30% off site-wide, plus up to 75% off sale styles (like our favorite romper – see it on several of the EHD gals here!). The holiday collection is great, too – it’s filled with elevated essentials you’ll be able to wear year-round.

Quince: Shop a rotating cast of daily deals – Quince’s prices are already great, so these are a total steal. We own and love this long, responsible down puffer coat and this classic washable silk slip dress (I’d recommend this over the skirt version – it’s a bit more versatile!).

Sephora: Snag up to 50% off select beauty and tools – check here for the day’s biggest savings. EHD loves these eyeshadow sticks – they make application a breeze, even for novices!

SKIMS: Grab 30% off site-wide – we’d suggest going for this ultra-soft PJ set, which Em reviewed in depth here! (Spoiler: it was the most flattering pair. I’m not surprised.)

TA3: Bring home our all-time favorite shaping swimwear for 40-70% off! I keep this semi-modest suit in my car for any swim emergencies – it makes me feel like a million bucks.

Taylor Stitch: Bring home 20% on select styles – Brian loves the workhorse hoodie. (You can’t go wrong with anything here, though – they design ultra-sturdy, heirloom-quality basics for men. I’m eyeing this wool sweater for Dennis!)

See you back here soon! Check in often – we’ll be updating all weekend as new deals drop. Happy saving!

The “wellness” industry will tell you that you need allllllll of the things, with honestly 60% of it being fake news (I should know, I’m a professional sucker). But there are some fitness and health apps/products that I love that do really work for me that could make good gifts for someone in your life, or you, looking to gather together the tools for 2026. None of this is sponsored, and very few affiliate links in this post, just good old-fashioned recommendations.

The Workouts That Work For Us

Brian and I both love Peloton, which at this point, you either have one or don’t want one, so no real selling there. But if you need extra motivation, might I suggest doing Sam Wu’s “Wicked” ride (so fun, I scream-sing the whole 1/2 hour and time fliiiiiieees by). Brian wants me to suggest the K-pop demon hunter ride (he loves it), and I do Cody’s rides. I also do Emma’s Hamilton rides every often (I know every lyric). The point is Cody and Sam are our favorites, and leaning into musicals makes the time fly so fast (would love to hear any of your favorite Peloton trainers or ride suggestions).

Brian – Fight Camp Boxing Bag And App

This is year 7 of Brian boxing with Fight Camp – a floor-mounted boxing bag that comes with a training app that kicks his ass. Don’t get this as a surprise for someone – it’s a big enough purchase (both physically and financially), but boy does he swear by it. Sometimes he just does 15 minutes and comes out drenched in sweat. Also great for getting out stress, obviously (Charlie does it now, too).

My Favorite Workout Apps

When I want to do a HITT workout or strength training, I have two apps I go between that I think would make great subscriptions (they are cheap, like 7-10$ a month, but like everything can add up).

1. Playbook – this has a ton of trainers to choose from, but I love Hannah Pointer. It’s 30-45 minutes a day, and since it’s not an audio app, I can listen to my favorite podcasts (Pivot and Armchair), and the time flies. I learn and sweat at the same time.
2. Aaptiv – I’m on year 8 with this app, my favorite trainer being Akeem. This is an audio training app, with music included (or you use your own), they pump you up and guide you through it, and you choose from thousands of workouts based on time, trainer, body part, body weight versus dumbbells, yoga, etc. Many are also videos, but I prefer just audio. Honestly, a 20-minute Akeem workout does the job so fast. I like their pilates, but don’t love their yoga (but I haven’t tried any in a couple of years, so if you know of a great Aaptiv yoga instructor, let me know – I want it to be really challenging).

The Now Famous Weighted Vest Walks

Y’all, not to brag, but I’ve been rucking for a few years now (remember that I was a dog walker in my 20s in New York, so walking is one of my best hobbies… ). With my bragging behind us, I have a lot of thoughts/feelings about weighted vests based on my vast vest experience.

1. If you are a first timer, just get a 15 OR 20 lb weighted vest. I started with a 12lb, but quickly it felt like nothing (I use it for chores now). I upgraded to 25lbs, which is aggressively heavy, and I do it, but at times it’s just too much. I wish I had a 20lb (but I’m not getting three). There are some that are adjustable, but I don’t love parts that I would lose. I like how simple mine are. But get 15, 18, or 20. No less or more.
2. Go for the hills – flat walking with a weighted vest might not be as good for us as we think (possibly just wear and tear on joints, research is inconclusive). But up hills or stairs, it’s incredible for your leg muscles and bone density. My legs will get so tired and feel toned. My muscles feel it, especially when I push myself (I feel it that night for sure). And your heart rate won’t rise unless you do hills, so for the cardiovascular/heart workout, you’ll need to step it up, literally.
3. It’s enjoyable!! Weighted walks with a podcast and a coffee (or a friend to dinner and back) is my favorite form of moving my body. I listen to Armchair Expert, anything Brenne Brown or Adam Grant, so much true crime (not the creepy, more the journalistic uncovering), and I literally look forward to it daily. Dogs certainly help with the motivation because it’s a win/win for the whole family when they get exercise.
4. It’s the key to a long life. Sanjay Gupta carved into my brain the key to a long, healthy life: It’s simple – “Walk with a friend and talk about your feelings”. Essentially, moving your body (exercise), with someone you feel connected to (deep family-level-friendship) while processing your inner world (intimacy and emotional release/therapy) are the three main elements that will keep us healthy, holistically. Do it at the same time and add in nature (amongst trees!) and BOOM – the health SUPERFECTA!!!!

My Daily Supplements

Ugh. This is where I’m a genuine sucker, so I won’t show you my supplement drawer. But there are a few things that I can say have been effective (because they are targeted).

1. Nutrafol – Like every person on the internet, I started Nutrafol after my hair started thinning and I was panicking. I started last May, and five months later, my new growth is incredible, and even my hairstylist is shocked. Running my fingers through my hair at my scalp feels so much thicker than it did months ago. It’s expensive ($80/month), which is why an annual membership would be a killer gift. Don’t wait til your hair is thinning (I wish I hadn’t). I used to have a sponsorship with them like 6 years ago, when my hair wasn’t in bad shape, and I liked it, but since it wasn’t a dire situation, the results were harder to physically see (and I think I was only on it for three months before COVID hit). This time around, I started out of dire need, and it’s clear that this stuff really works. To be transparent, right now I have some extensions that I clip in until the hair grows long again, btw. Hoping to be done with them and be back to long, healthy, thick hair in a year. But I’d vote Nutrafol for president.
2. Vitamins, protein, creatine, and fiber. I definitely just try to eat whole foods to get all the good stuff, but of course, I have a dumb library of help. The options are endless, but I love the Grüns gummy vitamins (Athletic Greens hurt my stomach), and I’ve been buying Barebells and David for protein bars and Floura for fiber bars. Zero spons – just stuff I love that is kinda expensive, therefore good presents (I would love them, BTH). I also just started taking hydrogen pills, which medical researchers swear by, but you can’t really feel anything different. More to come as I just started testing a lot more…

The “Function Health” Test

The algorithm gods finally broke me down, and I bought the Function Health full blood tests for me and Brian – and I’m so happy that I did. It’s expensive (starts at $500) with a lot of add-ons (like early cancer detection). You get your blood drawn three times over a few weeks, once during your period, to ensure that alllllll the tests are accurate. Then you get your results through a portal, which is extremely user-friendly and intuitive. These are tests that no GP or insurance will do unless you are sick, which I’m not.

What Does Function Health Test For?

I tested literally all the organs, proteins, cells, hormone health, thyroid, vitamin levels, immune health, cancer detection, gut, heart, liver, kidney, sensitivities, and allergies. All the things. Many are part of the $500 package, but many are “add-ons” that, of course, add up to way more (I spent $1,000).

What Were My Results?

My results were generally less awesome than I would have predicted, even though I have zero symptoms and a lot of energy. Turns out I have a lot of heart inflammation (specific proteins detected) and very high cholesterol (which I knew, but I didn’t know about the heart inflammation, and combined was terrifying). Did it give me anxiety? Yes. For a bit. But then I felt empowered. Since it’s not dire, everything is reversible, and I’m now seeing a functional medicine doctor who I never would have booked before, who has me on a lot of supplements to lower the inflammation without hardcore medicine (my lifestyle is healthy, but now even healthier). I love that it’s an online portal and I can retest at any time (I’m testing now for food allergies, which I didn’t do the first time around). You can 100% get obsessed with it in a bad way, and people with health anxiety might not love it. But I am finding it really empowering and finally taking charge of prevention.

I haven’t had a GP since we moved here (which is so dumb), so I was overwhelmed with health-guilt/anxiety that I wasn’t doing any preventative work (kids will do that to you – I want to be alive for grandkids!). I couldn’t get in to any good doctor for MONTHS, so I always gave up. This was a great way to check a box on my own terms. I also want to recognize that I know this is for privileged people due to the cost (insurance doesn’t cover it), and I wish it were available for everyone. The guy at Quest Diagnostic Lab mentioned that it’s like $15k worth of lab tests for $500, so they are definitely losing money on just the OG program, meaning that there is likely an alternative business model – either developing future supplements or selling our information for research. I guess I just don’t really care because I like the platform so much and appreciate knowing the results that I wouldn’t have gotten through mainstream healthcare with no symptoms. I’m very excited to re-test in March and see how all these holistic supplements have changed the heart inflammation (before I go on a statin and get even more hardcore about diet and exercise).

Saunas, Redlight Therapy, And Cold Plunges…

Now to the stuff that is definitely specific and luxurious – i.e., not gifts for anyone. But here’s my experience:

Cold Plunge – I’ve always been a polar plunger in lakes, and I’m still a cold plunger, mostly for mood boosting and stress relief. I actually do it way more in the winter to get the dopamine hit during the more depressing times of year. I have a Plunge, which has worked great. Listen, you have to do it frequently, or it’s 100% not worth the expense of the product and the energy. If you don’t like jumping in cold lakes, you will not all of a sudden like cold plunging. Be real with yourself (for a lot of people, it’s torture, but Brian, I, and Elliot love it).

Sauna Blanket – I laid in this 3-4 nights a week during lockdown – I love it. You can lie in it while watching TV, you sweat a ton, burn calories, and of course, boost your mood. The only drawback is that you sweat so much that you have to shower, and since I have curly hair, I can’t go to bed with wet hair, so I then have to dry my hair. That was fine when the kids went to bed at 8, but now that they go to bed at 9:30, I find that I don’t have the time to shower/dry afterwards if I want to be asleep by 10. That’s all to say that it’s an expensive purchase, so make sure it fits into your lifestyle. I started modifying and just having my legs in and not doing the full 50 minutes, so that I didn’t have to wash my hair because I didn’t get quite so hot. But I just pulled it back out for winter, and I’m excited to get back in while watching Survivor with the kids (we are binging all 40 seasons, lol). And something VERY exciting, here’s a 20% off sitewide code – BFCM2025

Red Light Mask – Every year, I say that I’m going to do this twice a week because you can’t get any results unless you are consistent. And yet that lasts a couple of months. All the evidence says overwhelmingly that red light therapy so great for your skin. Maybe 2026 is the year I do it all year long. It’s a fantastic gift. This is the Higher Dose Red Light Skin Starter Kit that includes a “mask” for your neck and chest, too. Jess has this Dr. Gross one and loves it.

Red Light Hat – We know that red light therapy is meant to be really good for your skin and now scalp. I’m getting this for Brian and I both to share – so easy to wear while I work from home, and it promises hair regrowth, which I really can’t get enough of these days.

More Fun Products

NIKE ZOOM VOMERO 5 $170

NIKE VEST $110

My favorite shoes (for cross training, walking, and honestly just to walk around all day – lightweight and extremely comfortable). The vest is really cute and perfectly covers my weighted vest on my walks.

WEIGHTED VEST $29

HEADPHONES $55

This is basically my walking formula – the vest and what I think are the best headphones (the charge lasts hours and hours, and they never fall out of my ears – no mic though).

DUMBBELL CONVERTER $135

This bar and kettlebell converter is really awesome, especially if you don’t have a ton of room for tons of gym equipment.

ARCHED YOGA MAT $99

PICKLE BALL PADDLE & BALL SET $94

Arched yoga mats are all the rage, folks (I haven’t tried this one, but people love it), and if you know someone who is pickleball curious, this set is cute (there is a pattern on the other side).

KEEN H2 SANDALS $130

WOMENS LONG JACKET $65

I’m SO excited that Keens are having a moment – they are a PNW staple for all of our water sports (rafting, hiking through rivers – lightweight, feet stay cool, and so comfortable). And my Columbia jacket is on a huge sale and is my favorite lightweight but highly warm jacket (with patented technology). I have it in black but wish I had bought it in this dark burgundy.

OURA RING $500

THERAGUN $160

For a splurgier health enthusiast, people are either obsessed with these (above) or they aren’t. It might be worth a conversation with your fitness friend/family member to see if they are into it.

GRUNS VITAMINS $65

NUTRAFOL HAIR SUPPLEMENT $79+

SALAD POD $25

Vitamins are a weird gift to give, I’m just saying, I like these a lot. Nutrafol hair supplements are an absolute game changer for me – I have five months of new growth now to prove it (Brian just got on it). And for the to-go salad enthusiast (Brian), this pod is extremely convenient.

I could link up a ton of clothes, but they are so specific to body type and performance, and I don’t have a ton of new ones that are linkable right now. I love Nike shoes, P.E. Nation or Lululemon tights, and a lot of Vuori and Free People. Maybe I’ll do a fashion post in January:)

Thanks for listening to my weighted vest rant, and if you have Function Health experience, let me know in the comments. I’m also open to doing a deeper dive on my results (and follow-up results) in the new year if you guys are interested. xx

Go To Out Easy-To-Use Gift Shopping Page!

OR TAKE A LOOK AT OUR OTHER 2025 GIFT GUIDE BLOG POSTS:

• Em’s Fashion and Beauty Gift Guide
• Em’s Home Decor Lover Gift Guide
• Kids/Tweens/Teens Gift Guide
• Brian’s “For Him” Gift Guide

*Photos by Kailtin Green

You know that scene in The Simpsons where we finally get a glimpse inside Homer’s closet to find it’s just a hundred sets of white shirts and blue pants? Well, if we men were left to our own devices, that’s what all our closets would look like. We don’t tend to shop for clothes, and when we do, we stick to the comfortable and familiar rather than take a risk on something that could potentially make us look like Zoolander. We just don’t trust our own taste enough to make that kind of decision. That’s why we need you— our spouses and partners, to help us. Is that childish? Of course it is! But come on, we all remember the day we showed up to middle school in a hot pink G&S windbreaker we thought made us look “hella cool,” only to have Dan Parrish say it looked like a scratch ‘n sniff sticker, don’t we, guys? It turned us into scaredy cats.

But here’s the secret— If someone we trust gives us something stylish to wear, we LOVE it. It’s like a stamp of approval. A green light. It takes the pressure off because we didn’t pick it out. Someone with actual taste did. We can wear it with pride. And with the holidays upon us, now is the perfect time to finally glow up our wardrobe. So this year, get a little risky with your dude’s apparel— push him out of his Homer-mode but assure him he won’t look like a Zoolander. He’s not gonna do it himself. And trust me, he’ll thank you for it. If he doesn’t, you can blame me— I’m hella fast in my aerodynamic pink windbreaker and can outrun him when he comes to exact revenge.

Threads

T-SHIRT $40

BEST FLANNEL EVER $198

J.Crew T-Shirt: J. Crew knows how to get the essentials right— a quality tee that fits right and will last forever. Give me a pocket on my T-shirt, please and thank you. I have many colors of this shirt.

Best Flannel Ever: This is the softest, coziest flannel I’ve ever worn. I would wear it every day if my pits didn’t stink it up so much. For 20% off, you can use code EMHENDERSON20

WATERPROOF SHOE $130

OXFORD BUTTON-DOWN $98

Waterproof Shoe: It rains a lot here in Portland. These keep the feet cozy and dry even when there’s an atmospheric river pouring down.

Oxford Button-Down: I have the green version, and it’s my go-to date night shirt. 

Taylor Stitch T-Shirt: I break this t-shirt out for special occasions. It’s got that casual-yet-special vibe that is hard to find, and looks more expensive than it is.

DU/ER No Sweat Pants: These are my go-to pants; I wear them almost every day. There’s a little stretch to them, which makes them super comfy, and they go with everything. A good option for someone who needs to break out of the ‘I only wear jeans’ mindset.

CAMP PANTS $48

Camp Pants: These babies are thicc. They feel like you could walk through walls without a scratch. But they’re good-looking enough to wear to dinner parties.

Rollneck Sweater: This looks good on any man and will make him feel like a salty sailor. Right after we took these pictures, I stole a tugboat and hit the high seas with a pipe in my mouth.

Jeans: I didn’t know jeans could feel indestructible. These from Taylor Stitch are like Apex Predator jeans. Not too tight, not super baggy, they win the denim game.

Workhorse Hooded Jacket: This thing is my number one winner this year. It’s tough and rugged with a waxed, water-resistant finish, but it’s stylish enough to make me want to wear it everywhere. 

Iron Ranger Boots: I put these on every year. Nothing feels more badass than wearing these boots. Your man will love them.

Cardigan: This thing rules. Everyone who sees it asks me where it’s from. It feels like a warm hug from your grandpa. And it’s so well-made, I think I’ll still have it when I’m a grandpa.

Henley: Emily compliments me every time I wear the black version of this. For that reason, I bought four more in different colors. Lots of places to find Henley’s, but J. Crew is my fave.

Sporty

NIKE SHORTS $65

A&F SWEATSHIRT $70

Nike Shorts: I have these in 5 and 7 inches. They’re amazing. And the built-in leggings mean you don’t need to wash as many undies. It’s time to set the upper-dude-thigh free!

A&F Sweatshirt: By far the softest, stretchiest, best-looking hoodie I own. It’s a huge step up from the Hanes zip-up I used to wear.

Lakeside Jacket: Love this casual, lightweight jacket. It can be worn over a button-up for a date night or over a t-shirt for a boys’ night. Again, get 20% off with code: EMHENDERSON20

Nikes: These are the perfect “casual but not-too-casual” shoes. I can literally wear them to any function and feel confident.

Slippers: Don’t get these if you aren’t into the feeling of walking on fluffy clouds. They’re so comfy and cozy, I wish I could wear them out to dinner or the grocery store. I mean, I guess I could try, Lebowski did, right?

Fun And Games

POKER SET $22

BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES $159

Bluetooth Headphones: These babies have been my go-to for years. I use them to drown out yard-work, plane rides, and middle-schoolers chanting “6-7!” They are much cleaner and noise-reducing than others I’ve tried. And cheaper than the “Beats” version.

Poker Set: A starter poker set that I play with my 12-year-old son (and he has now taught his friends poker). Whoops! The chips are heavy and sturdy and feel expensive for the price point. Plus, the metal case makes you feel like a gangster.

THERAGUN SENSE MASSAGE GUN $299

Theragun: I’ve heard the key to longevity is doing heavy squats. Whoever came up with that theory should get a punch in the privates. Squats suck. But I do them anyway. And when I’m sore, I use the Theragun to relax after, it’s a must-have for old-fart jocks like myself.

Office Comfort

INCREDIBLE OFFICE CHAIR $199

MUG WARMER $32

Incredible Office Chair: I went through THREE office chairs before finding this one. It’s by far the best for the price point— stylish, comfy, adjustable, and easy to assemble. It looks vintage without being try-hard.

Mug Warmer: I have the woodgrain version (I use my own ceramic mug), not the one included. Keeps coffee hot for hours and is MUCH cheaper than some others out there. I can’t believe it took me so long to use one of these.

Utility

STANDING DESK TOP $158

VIRAL SLIM WALLET $48

Standing Desk Top: When I’m writing for hours and my butt needs a break, I pop this baby on my desk and stand up to get some new energy. It’s also easy to fold up and tuck away when not being used.

Viral Slim Wallet: Two of our guy friends SWEAR by this wallet (scammers can’t get CC #, heavy, and stores all cards safely). I want one in my stocking.

Classically Masculine

BEST FOUNTAIN PEN $37

LEATHER CARD HOLDER $50

Best Fountain Pen: Hear me out – I know a fountain pen seems a little ridiculous, but my buddy gave me one when I graduated from my writing program, and I will never write with anything else. Something about scratching out notes with a fountain pen is such a vibe. It’s not messy like you’d think, just baller.

Leather Double-Sided Card Holder: A classic wallet that is very thin and chic. It holds cards on the sides and cash in the middle. No more Costanza cheek.

Backpack Cooler: Invaluable. This will be used on every outing. It’s big enough to fit everyone’s drinks and lunches, and comfy enough to hike with for hours.

Can Insulator: Must have for the beer or soda drinker in your life. Keeps your cold ones cold for hours. I was skeptical, but they really work.

Electric Yard Tools

ELECTRIC MOWER $499

ELECTRIC BLOWER $259

Electric Mower: All these power tools use the same interchangeable battery, so you can mix and match between the tools. The batteries are very powerful and last longer than you’d expect. If I had a garage with all these in it, I’d be stoked to do yardwork every Sunday.

Electric Blower: We use this a LOT during the fall season.

ELECTRIC MULTI-TOOL $189

ELECTRIC POWER WASHER $879

Electric Multi-Tool: This thing has so many uses around the yard. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for chores.

Electric Power Washer: Who doesn’t need a good power washer? And think of all the Christmas morning water fights!

Outdoorsy

SOLO STOVE $350

RECHARGEABLE FLASHLIGHT $99

Solo Stove: We use this all the time. I get to feel like a man by chopping wood, then get to stay manly when it makes the smoke disappear and my eyes don’t tear up.

Rechargeable Flashlight: Long-lasting, cool-looking. Reviews are great, and I can always use a reliable flashlight.

FOLDABLE ROCKER $80

Foldable Rocker: If you’re still sitting on a non-rocking lawn chair at your kid’s games, you don’t know what you’re missing.

Cooking

Smash Burger Press: I know there’s starting to be a push-back on smash burgers, but they’re still my fave to eat and to make. Roll some meatballs up, toss ’em on the flattop, and smash with this press. Makes a perfect burger every time.

Oven Mitts: I used to joke about all the torn and worn-out oven mitts in our kitchen— these have changed the game. They’re grippy, heat-resistant, and manly. Yes, Chef!

BBQ Books: Emily gifted me these BBQ books for my birthday, and I can’t wait to crack them open. They’re from the most legendary Austin BBQ restaurant I’ve ever been to.

Meater Thermometer: Best way to cook the perfect steak, turkey, or chicken. Dudes like apps, and this is more high-tech and precise than the traditional meat thermometer.

Gadgets

WEATHERPROOF SPEAKER $60

LEATHERMAN MULTITOOL $140

Weatherproof Speaker: We got this for backyard parties, but use it for everyday stuff- the sound is really great, especially the bass, it’s waterproof, and my kids love the light show it makes (you can switch that off if you want). 

Leatherman Multitool: The new color-ways on these babies make them a must-have. Just imagine how cool you’ll feel with this thing clipped to your belt loop.

Essentials

MONOGRAMMED CANVAS WEEKEND BAG $41

BEARD TRIMMER $60

Monogrammed Canvas Weekend Bag: What a serious deal. Fantastic looking bag and a great price. Plus, you can put my initials on it? I’m in.

Beard Trimmer: I haven’t fully shaved in like decades. This is the best trimmer I’ve found, hands down. It never snags and keeps its charge longer than any of the others.

Dopp Kit: A good toiletry kit is a must-have. I got the small one for Charlie to use on sleepovers and camping trips, and I use the leather one to hide all my gross bathroom stuff while traveling

Dr. Squatch Deodorant: I’m a sweaty dude, and unfortunately, I wore deodorant that had aluminum in it for most of my life, so I’ll probably grow metal plates in my pits eventually, but luckily, there are many natural options now. Their soap is also great.

Curl Balm: Did you notice my hair in the picture? I’ve been trying to run from my curly hair since I was in high school, because I wanted straight hair like Jordan Catalano. But now I’m embracing my curls, and this evo curl balm is pretty awesome; it also helps make my hair look thicker, which is huge for those of us who are thinning.

Nutrafol: Speaking of thinning, I take a Nutrafol every day, and I wish I had started years ago. I have definitely noticed a difference.

Random

FART BUILDER $19

CUSTOM HAT $65

BIDET $129

Fart Builder: I know, it’s juvenile, but trust me, your husband wants this. It’s a funny gag gift for the stocking. The kids will love it too.

Custom Hat: This one is really special— you can emboss a high-quality hat with anything you want. I’ve made hats with my dogs’ names or our kids’ elementary school. Make a custom hat with his favorite thing or slogan on it.

Bidet: Another weird one, but honestly, it’s a home run. We had a bidet at the Mountain House, and I miss it so much.

That’s all I’ve got this year. I hope it helps you with your dude-centric gift-giving. I know I’d be stoked to find any of these things beneath the tree. Then I could take the tree outside and chop it up, and blow it away with my new electric tools.

Happy Holidays!

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

My kids are 10/12 now (which is harder to shop for TBH – they still love stuffies and yet think they need laptops??). Some of the silliest things have maintained their attention (like the Simpson’s prank phone and a Magic 8 Ball). And others they’ve played with for 6-8 years, like the sculpture straw kit and fuse beads. It’s hard!! This year, I also enlisted a 16-year-old genuine teenager to send me what teenage girls want, which was SO helpful. And then at the bottom, I have my go-to gifts for small kids/babies (based on my experience).

Our Favorite Art Supplies (Ages 6-teen)

HEY CLAY $27

91PC MIXED MEDIA ART SET $30

Hey Clay: This is simply the best airdry clay, with the best colors, and the most inspirational guides, so the kids make the cutest dang creatures I ever did see – check out all those on the bulletin board in the art barn!!! So stinking cute! It doesn’t get sticky/tacky and dries fast. Just excellent (and a variety of themes).
Art Set: Elliot loves this 91-piece art set (from last year and was a big hit).

POSCA PAINT MARKERS $13

BEST WATER COLOR PENCILS $25

Posca Markers: These are Elliot’s favorite paint markers (better for older kids). Expensive and not for babies, but really good colors, and she loves the way it rolls.
artPOP! Watercolor Pencils: Her favorite, even though she uses them as normal colored pencils. She says the colors, how they draw, and the tubes they come in make them her favorite.

For her birthday this year, I bought her this LED art screen, and she is having a lot of fun with it (and her friends).

Fun Indoor Games (8+)

MAGNETIC DART BOARD $22

PAC-MAN COUNTERCADE $150

Magnetic Dartboard: I’m so excited about this magnetic dartboard for Charlie’s room. I tested it out and it’s great – sticks solidly and rolls up easily, should you not want it on your walls. We are always looking for indoor winter activities for him and his friends (that aren’t just video games).
Pac-Man Countercade: They need to make more of these countercades – this was their big present last year, and it’s much beloved.

CROSLEY RECORD PLAYER $71

INDOOR MINI BASKETBALL HOOP $30

Record Player: In our attempt at encouraging an analog life onto them, they play records when their friends are over, and it’s awesome. Both of their record collections are growing.
Electronic Indoor Hoop: Ok, we shot this hoop on the glass door outside for this gift guide (don’t use a glass door), and it’s awesome – keeps score and makes it interactive even when by yourself. Warning – lots of bells, so maybe don’t put next to a baby’s room 🙂

Three of Elliot’s favorite things:

• A lockable diary (locking is key)
• Hair Blinger (new this year – pretty dang fun to put gems in your hair)
• Hair Tinsel that clips into your hair (a great stocking stuffer).

Charlie’s favorite ‘Non-video Game’ Game

Charlie and I love playing chess together, and he even saved his allowance to buy this cool chess board, mostly because…

It’s magnetic!! It’s so rad. Sometimes we’ll start a game in the morning before school at the kitchen island, and if we don’t finish before he leaves for the bus, I can easily move it to another table if I need to clean or shoot in there. It also folds closed and stores all the pieces, making it easy to take on car trips.

MOE’S PRANK PHONE 36.48

ELECTRONIC PIGGY BANK ATM $23

The Simpsons’ prank phone is a real hit. It sits on Charlie’s desk, and his friends think it’s hilarious.
The kids both loved these mini ATM machines (electronic piggy bank) for a solid 5 years. It’s an ugly piece of plastic, but I think the fact that it’s secret and they control the code is the draw.

Two Non-Tech (But Still Fun”Tech”??) Gifts

Tin Can: I bought the first Wifi “landline” for each kid for Christmas, which they don’t know about, and I’m so excited. It’s made for parents like us who are waiting on smartphones but want our kids to communicate freely with their friends (or relatives). You control who can call in and out (no spam, no creeps).
Nex Playground: Meant to be a group TV-enabled active game where the camera clocks your body running, jumping, fighting, etc, through thousands of games to choose from. This is mostly for our kids and their friends during the rainy months, as an alternative to video games. This is our family’s big present this year, so we aren’t trying it til Christmas – if anyone has it and can review it in the comments, please let us know!!

Nighttime Fun Outside

NIGHT VISION GOGGLES $43

GLOW IN THE DARK BASKETBALL $28

AWARD WINNING LIGHTUP FRISBEE $40

It’s dark up in the PNW, so any way to get them outside for the next few months on the dryer days is the goal. Night vision goggles – a 12-year-old boy’s dream. Don’t forget walkie-talkies as well.
I’m very excited about the glow-in-the-dark basketball and these flying light-up frisbees that have really good reviews.

Fun Things For Their Rooms

CORDLESS TABLE LAMP $20

NEON SMILEY FACE LIGHT $35

CINEMA LIGHT BOX $24

Our kids have reached the age of posters and weird collectibles (which is cute). These were hits with our kids: Cordless graphic lamp (both kids responded to this when I showed them), Neon Smiley Face Light (in Charlie’s room, and it’s unplugged but looks cool), Cinema light box – Elliot keeps the words “Messy Beautiful Life” which is so sweet to me. Don’t forget LED light strips (that one integrates with Alexa/Google) and extremely soft faux fur blankets (our kids sleep exclusively on top of their sheets rolled up in one of these each.

Favorite Family Games

MöLKKY YARD GAME $41

RUMMIKUB $57

Mölkky Yard Game: We always play this Scandinavian wooden peg game on camping trips with other families, so I’m buying it for us this year (we call it Skittle Skattle, but not sure if that’s just our nickname).
Rummikub: It’s fun for all four of us – we play it a lot on trips.

Interactive Splurgy Classics

YOTO MINI $80

TOYBOX 3D PRINTER $340

YOTO Mini: When the first YOTO storytelling device came out, our kids were little and really liked it, but it wasn’t loud enough. Since then, it’s only gotten better and better, and people with younger kids swear by it.
Toybox 3D Printer: It’s been 5 years with this 3D printer, and our kids don’t play with it as much as they used to, but it’s still so cool. Requires one parent to be a bit tech savvy (it’s controlled by iPad, etc).

Family Dance Party

DISCO BALL LIGHT BULBS 16

These plug-in disco ball lightbulbs are SUCH A HIT and for $16 for TWO, a great price.

KITTEN-SHAPED NAIL FILE $16

KINDLE PAPERWHITE $159

Nail Files: I think the biggest hit will be these kitten-shaped nail files that I’m throwing in their stockings – you scratch their tummies as you file your nails!!!
Kindle Paperwhite: Both our kids read from Kindles – we started on longer trips, and they have just stuck. Elliot still likes real books at times (Dork Diaries right now), but Charlie reads on his Kindle every night – Wings of Fire.

Charlie's Favorite Clothes

BAGGY BOY’S JEANS $40

GLOW IN THE DARK HOODIE $50

NIKE SOCKS $18

It’s all chill, baggy, and don’t forget your silver chains (yes, for boys). I’m loving this stage of trying on identities and yet wanting to mostly just fit in. Tweens are the best. Oh, and that Vans hoodie glows in the dark:) Don’t forget to show your sock (preferably with a swoosh).

MAGIC KIT $45

Magic Kit: We have bought MANY magic kits over the years–this small one from Justin Willman (the best magician out there) is really, really good, clever, and SOLID.

PHOTO BOOK $20

AURA FRAME $179

JIGSAW PUZZLE $24

I needed help on this, so Marlee’s 16-year-old sister was our focus group of one for what teen girls want right now. She gave soooo many great recs for those of you who don’t want to blow it:)

At-Home Manicure System: A great set if you or a loved one prefers doing nails at home!
Benetint Lip + Cheek Stain: An awesome, easy blush + lip stain that Marlee has been using since middle school (and now her sister loves it!)

PHOTO BOOK $20

AURA FRAME $179

JIGSAW PUZZLE $24

Stanley Water Bottle: “It’s Owala for kids, and Stanley for teens” – Marlee’s sister
The Softest Hoodie: The teens these days are REALLY into their loungewear – this hoodie is a teen-vetted fave among both guys and gals. SUPER soft.
Garage Sweats: Marlee’s 16 y/o sister’s fave sweats that she and all her friends match in:)

SOL DE JANEIRO SAMPLER $39

TOUCHLAND HAND SANITIZER $10

Sol De Janeiro Sampler: This perfume brand is all over TikTok – their beachy scents smell SO good.
Touchland Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer that everyone at school wants a squeeze of!

SUMMER FRIDAYS BALM $24

THE BEST SMELLING DRY SHAMPOO $31

Summer Fridays Balm: One of the most popular lip glosses with the teens right now.
The Best Smelling Dry Shampoo: This is one of our fave dry shampoos, and this set comes with a big guy AND a little travel size. It smells AMAZING.

ROOM SPRAY $40

STARFACE PIMPLE PATCHES $15

Room Spray: The yummiest smelling room spray by a brand that’s super popular on TikTok.
Starface Pimple Patches: God, we wish we had these in high school. Teens wear these NONSTOP – they’re so fun and cute and make breakouts way more bearable:)

My Go-To For Babies/Littles

WOODEN BUSY BOARD $99

WILD BABY STUFFED ELEPHANT $20

BABY BUSY BOX TOY 149.00

Wooden Busy Board: Our kids were obsessed with these when they were toddlers.
Wild Baby Stuffed Elephant: This stuffy is great because you can microwave it and it stays warm for a LONG time. But you can also put it in the freezer. So comforting!
Baby Busy Box Toy: Any baby or toddler will spend hours trying to “figure” this out. My kids were obsessed.

WATER WOW! PADS $20

CONSTRUCTION PLATE SET $36

STEM BRISTLE BLOCKS $16

Water Wow! Pads: Best restaurant activity ever. A reusable coloring pad with water “pens” that are easy to refill and store in the front.
Construction Plate Set: Charlie loved this a lot when he was a toddler and made meal times far more fun for all.
STEM Bristle Blocks: Old school and still so fun. Bristle blocks tickle their creative + engineering brain in one.

Favorite Toys When They Were Littler

WOOD-LIKE SOFT BLOCKS $25

MAGNATILES $120

Wood-Like Soft Blocks: We bought these blocks when Charlie was 1 year old, and they played consistently with them for years. YEARS. They are foam (but look like wood).
Magnatiles: Go for a big inventory! Both our kids loved Legos of course (A LOT), but these are more fun, less messy, and strangely rewarding to play with.

WOODEN GROCERY CHECKOUT STAND $150

PLAY KITCHEN $96

Wooden Grocery Checkout Stand: Our kids played with that store (and all the wooden groceries) for years (it beeps when you scan the food).
Play Kitchen: I love that this play kitchen is under $100 and so cute. Oh, the pretend chicken nuggets they made us eat…

WOODEN PRETEND CLEANING SET $35

DOCTORS SET $70

Pretend cleaning gets them geared up for being ready for chores by 5-6 (lol, yeah right). And if you haven’t had a doctor’s exam by a 3-year-old, I highly recommend it – their sense of authority while wearing a stethoscope to listen to your heart is so cute I could cry.

APPLE WATCH $170

IPAD $299

When our kids were 8 and 10, we got them Gabb watches, which failed too frequently in our neighborhood, so I upgraded them to Apple watches (which still get caught in dead zones).
Both our kids have iPads (with lots of parental controls) that can store movies for long flights, and Elliot particularly loves using her stylus pen for drawing or creating on Canva.

Well, that’s it! These really are all kid-approved (aside from the ones we are giving them this year), but regardless, this is a no-fail list, and I hope it’s helpful. Oh, and there are LOTS more ideas (especially for teen boys) on our new gift guide shop! xx

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

Welcome to the gift guide for the home design enthusiast…or let’s face it, maybe you are the home enthusiast wanting to get your house more dialed in before hosting people. While shopping for this, I really curated with my gut – I only chose pieces that got me SO excited. Pieces that felt really noteworthy either by being really stylish and fresh, OR by being so affordable and good (and a few affordable and easy to style staples in the mix). Head to the home gift guide page to see so many other options that are also rad, and keep reading for the best pieces or coolest/most affordable out there right now IMHO.

I think the fastest way to make a room look cool is a piece of vintage art, but the second is a statement lamp. This is the power of styling, and I’m telling you, it elevates a simple sofa or a boring wall color so fast.

Really Good Affordable Or Splurge-Worthy Lamps

FLUTED LAMP WITH WOODEN BASE $110

SCALLOP DOLORES TABLE LAMP $299

Y’all, there are a lot of lamps out there – many really, really good ones (although honestly so many seem to be over $200 these days, which is pretty wild). I really fell in love with all of these and tried to keep them affordable.

Wood and Fabric Shade Lamp: The grain of the wood with the shape of the wavy shade makes this so pretty, and still really easy to mix into almost any style. Very elevated for the price.
Blue Scallop Lamp: I love the playfulness and whimsy of this Schoolhouse lamp (and it comes in a few different colors and as a sconce).

WOOD TRUMPETED FLOOR LAMP $130

WICKER TABLE LAMP $100

Wood Trumpeted Floor Lamp: The shape of the base and fabric shade on the standing lamp (which are typically more expensive) make this look really elevated.
Wicker Table Lamp: Similar wicker lamps were around $400, and we all know that wicker in modern shapes has a real ability to make a room feel warm and casual (I love this shape).

TRAVIATA TABLE LAMP $260

HANDMADE STRIPED LAMP $400

Traviata Table Lamp: When you think you’ve seen every lamp…Sezane did it.
Handmade Striped Lamp: I have and adore this lamp by a local maker. Support small!!

SCULPTURAL PAPER HANGING LAMP $119

SCULPTURAL TABLE LAMP $90

Both of these lamps make such a statement for the lower price point. Hang the paper lamp in a corner to engage it, pull your eye over, AND add a really pretty ambient light. The black base is so sculptural, graphic, and will edge up any room (and every room needs a hit of black – and I promise this can be mixed with more traditional design).

GREEN METAL DOME LAMP $60

IMANI TABLE LAMP $249

These two stood out for being striking in either color or shape. The green metal dome light is high gloss in the more muted green (so good), and the shape of the Imani lamp is just so pleasing to the eye while being in a really “safe” color.

FABRIC COVERED TABLE LAMP $85

VINCENZA LED TABLE LAMP $349

I’m pretty obsessed with both of these. The white fabric-covered lamp will give off really good ambient light in such a cool shape, while the Vincenza lamp has such a strong, striking base with the prettiest little brass knob for a more high-end piece.

Affordable Or Splurge-Worthy Decor

PERSONALIZED BRASS MATCHBOX $38

GLASS CLOCHE MATCH HOLDER $16

No doubt one of my favorite gifts to give is a candle with pretty matches. I think that brass matchbox is such a great gift – with their initials on it? Stop it. But if you want to save some money or not wait, Target finally came out with a great glass cloche match holder that would pair so nicely with a candle.

FLAMINGO ESTATES HEIRLOOM TOMATO CANDLE $57

GREEN SCALLOP CANDLE $24

I chose these two candles because they stood out to me, but goodness, there are so many on the market. The Flamingo Estate “Heirloom tomato” scent has such a cult following, sells out over and over and over, that I HAD to try it (despite its $$$ price tag). It’s so good. The green scallop candle is more of a really pretty coffee table piece (we used it in the dark burgundy at my brother’s), and the shape makes your eye dance in a really nice way (see it above).

Affordable Or Splurgeworthy Trays

SIN SCULPTURAL TRAY $160

EXCELLENT BLACK TRAY $70

That Sin tray is so beautiful (splurgy for a real design lover). The HUGE black tray also comes in a brown wood, and I promise, y’all, huge trays tend to be like $200 (or ugly). Every time I walk into World Market and see it, I’m like “wow, that’s a great tray”. Tempted to hoard it.

SIN CANDLE HOLDER $168

BURGUNDY MARBLE TRAY $119

The Sin Candle Holder: It’s splurgy, but it comes as a single and double for much less. The shape with or without candles in it is such a good styling move that adds so much movement to a stack of books (see my brother’s family room above for proof).
Burgundy Marble Tray: The tray that I can’t stop using. I bought this for Robyn’s living room and my brother’s house – the color, the shape, the lip, the size – it’s perfect for remotes, a candle, as a coaster, in a bathroom, entry, or to hold your pretty salt and butter dish on your counter.

COPENHAGEN TRAY $75

CALISTA VASE $98

Copenhagen Tray: I bought this tray at a local shop (shout out to Form and Function) and have the large version on my coffee table (the feet are very cute and I love the mixed finishes).
Calista Vase: If you only buy one big vase, I love this one (also comes in white). The shape is really easy to arrange flowers in (narrow mouth that widens), and the matte texture is soft and so easy to work into any style.

ABENTO HARDWOOD TRAY $55

HANDMADE SCANDI CANDLE HOLDER $20

Another solidly good tray that I have in both light oak and black (entry, coffee table, office). And I love this sweet little homemade Scandi candle holder from an Etsy maker.

KARME VASE $98

POTTERY TRAY $50

It’s true that I love the new Sarah Sherman Samuel collection with Lulu and Georgia – that vase is so sculptural and beautiful. The big creamy tray is a very good price for how “elevated farmhouse” it is.

VENTINA HANDMADE VASE $207

ROOK PICTURE FRAME $68

I became obsessed with this vase after I saw it in Jess’s room makeover. Those colors.
I am definitely in a “picture frames of family all over my house” phase. I love this one.

Affordable Or Worth The Splurge Kitchen Decor

BRASS OIL CRUET $48

ESSENTIAL GLASS OIL DECANTERS $14

JULEP OIL DECANTER $74

I harp on this every year because I believe in them as great gifts so much – Olive oil cruets that look really pretty on your kitchen counter bring me daily joy. The brass one is dope, but the glass ones are also really pretty (I have multiple versions). I also love the color and the large ball on the stoneware one!

SET OF SIX GLASSES $86

CASCADING SERVING BOWL $98

Colorful glasses are having a massive moment, and I don’t think that’s going away. These burgundy glasses would look gorgeous on a bar. And what a pretty bowl for your island for fruit or as a salad bowl.

TEPEZULA PITCHER $140

SCALLOPED CAKE PLATE $350

A couple splurgier pieces that I personally want. That blue pitcher is incredible – how stunning on a bar?? And I’m a massive fan of local pottery studio, Notary Ceramics, and while this scalloped cake plate is very expensive, if you can afford to support a small maker, this one is a fantastic one.

SCALLOP CENTERPIECE BOWL $89

WOOD SCALLOP BOWLS $98

Another gorgeous centerpiece hat makes your eyes dance. I also found this one on Etsy if you’d rather support a small maker. The wood scallop bowls would look stunning on a shelf (and think about nuts, olives, etc).

HANDMADE SALT CELLAR $36

BUTTER DISH $84

Another handmade Etsy gift (the salt cellar) that would look really pretty on a counter, perhaps next to a pretty butter dish (I have and love that one). I also love this butter dish by Studio McGee.

WALNUT SCALLOP CUTTING BOARD $80

PRETTY TEA KETTLE $90

I just bought myself this scallop cutting board (in the largest version) because it makes me so happy to use every day. And what a pretty tea kettle for someone who uses one daily on their counter.

THE PRETTIEST FRENCH PRESS $40

STONEWARE OLIVE OIL CRUET $48

Very impressed with this French press (that color is so pretty) and one more olive oil cruet for anyone who wants to go a bit more French country (I have this one, too).

2-PACK TEA TOWELS $10

SET OF THREE WOOD BOWLS $98

The ruffle on those affordable tea towels gets me (and comes in a few colors). While the trio of bowls is expensive, I think they could be great individual gifts with a pack of pistachios (is that just a weird stylist move?). But if you are into charcuterie, these are so pretty.

Throw Pillows And Blankets

PIECED VELVET PILLOW COVER $129

CHECK TOBACCO THROW $153

That pieced velvet pillow is so excellent (and can dress up any basic pillows nearby). Love that ochre check throw (year-round).

TAPESTRY PILLOW $35

PLAID WOOD BLANKET $139

The tapestry trend has finally hit an affordable price point with that pillow (thanks to Lone Fox + Joon Loloi). And a burgundy plaid blanket for those of us who love modern (non-80s) looking plaids.

VELVET PATCHWORK CUSHION $100

PIERCE & WARD PILLOW $64

Sezane launched some home items this year and KILLED IT with their velvet textiles and lamps. Probably the most talked about pillow of the year (lol) is the black and white round stripe from Pierce & Ward’s West Elm collection.

MODERN HOMESPUN QUILT $300

VELVET & LINEN CANVAS CUSHION $120

I saw this quilt in person and gasped. It also comes in a couple of other colorways, but how gorgeous! Another fantastic Sezane mixed material diagonal striped pillow (canvas and velvet).

WOOL PLAID BLANKET $199

ROUND VELVET PILLOW $129

A brand new collaboration between Schoolhouse and Pendleton (shout out to my Portland brands), this quilt is so beautiful with that pop of cobalt (clearly, I’m really into it). The round wine-toned pillow has a great contrasting trim on it, and I used it in the newest update of my living room.

FAUX FUR BLANKET $60

REVERSABLE TWILIGHT WOOL THROW $158

If you want my kid’s opinion, this is the softest faux fur blanket out there. I’m sure there are others (the Pottery Barn one below is also so soft), but we have this one in that icy blue and we LOVE IT. Love the blue/navy reversible throw to punch up a room.

WOVEN QUILT $310

SOFTEST FAUX FUR BLANKET $199

Another homespun quilt (clearly a theme for me) in a more contemporary colorway and pattern. And a bigger faux fur blanket (that comes in really rich colors). Also incredibly soft (they call it “the softest,” which is bold!).

SCHOOLHOUSE + PENDLETON QUILT $349

TWO-TONED BLANKET $200

The last blankets (my goodness, I love blankets). The Schoolhouse one was our #1 selling item from last year’s guide, and the colors and quality are too good not to include again. It’s just STUNNING. Buy a boring sofa and put this on the back to make it interesting immediately. But I also love this broken stripe blanket, too.

Affordable Original Art (Not Prints!)

ORIGINAL ABSTRACT PAINTING $69

ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING $110

Art is almost impossible for most people to buy (out of fear). I scoured Etsy to try to find any artists that had a nice inventory of original, affordable art that I loved (paintings, watercolor, collages) and found some solidly good options (and I love supporting small artists – do it if you can!). How pretty are both of those paintings???

ORIGINAL WATERCOLOR $50

ORIGINAL MIXED MEDIA COLLAGE $65

The watercolor artist has a huge inventory, with the prettiest colors, and you can frame them in readymade Target or Michaels frames so easily. For those who like more contemporary art, don’t sleep on these weird/cool collages.

Really Good Towels I Want

GREEN STRIPED PLUSH TOWELS $84

PLUSH TURKISH TOWEL $68

TWO TONED STRIPE TOWEL $23

BLUE WAFFLE TOWELS $58

WARM CHECK TOWEL $23

PLUSH BROOKLINEN ROBE $119

I’m pretty over white towels except in guest rooms. They just don’t stay super white long enough (I also use a lot of self-tanner, lol). So you are about to see a bunch of super cute, colorful towels that will last a lot longer (won’t stain) and can dress up your simple bathroom.

SCALLOPED LIDDED HAMPER $145

FLOOR BASKET $145

If you have to see your basket, make it pretty. The scalloped wicker is great for bathrooms/closets or bedrooms, while the floor basket I’ve had forever and holds blankets (because clearly I have a blanket hoarding problem).

Really Good Bed Essentials That I Love

CLASSIC PERCALE CORE SHEET SET $135+

BEST DOWN COMFORTER INSERT $330

MY FAVORITE MATTRESS $1,600

This is my bed basically, and I’m extremely picky (and a bit of a diva, TBH). I love these percale sheets so much (also love the pattern – light but not just white). I love their percale duvet cover as well – just really soft and cooling (and comes in a lot of colors and patterns). The duvet insert is so soft, and neither too hot nor cold (get the all-season for that). And my Leesa Sapira Chill Mattress is hands down the best mattress for what I love – soft on top (like a GD cloud!) and then supportive underneath. Elliot, my sister, and multiple friends now have it and LOVE IT. I love getting into bed every night so much.

Six More Solidly Good Decorative Pillows

TROVA PILLOW $88

FISHERMAN PILLOW COVER $40

VELVET LUMBAR PILLOW $70

EUROPEAN LINEN PILLOW COVER $30

RIBBED VELVET PILLOW $78

STRIPED PILLOW $120

While these aren’t as much show pieces, the linen and solid velvet options out there are necessary to mix in (and boy have I ever). I threw in the striped pillow because I think that it’s fantastic for being a neutral pattern (and everyone can use a broken black/white stripe in their life).

A Few Affordable Kitchen Essentials

STACKABLE RIBBED GLASSES $8

DUTCH OVEN $75

SKINNY MEASURING SPOONS $20

Stackable Ribbed Durable Glasses: They come in really pretty colors (and are affordable). These look so pretty for everyday glasses.
Dutch Oven: It’s my firm belief that you don’t need a Le Creuset (sure, they are great!). This is far less and still looks so good on your stove (or if you want a splurgier one I love this from Made-in).
Skinny Measuring Spoons: I know these measuring spoons aren’t design forward, but I’m done with the ones that don’t fit inside my spice jars and make a mess every time. These wash without rusting or having paint/enamel flake off and nest nicely in your drawer.

Wait… Just Really Good Gifts/Stylish Pieces That I Want

SOPHIA JEWELRY BOX $198

WOOD TRAY $60

CABLE KNIT CANDLE $15

What a pretty jewerly box for your nightstand, bathroom, or vanity and you could even put it by that adorable scallop tray. The cableknit candle + matches is such a great gift (and so affordable).

GREEN LACQUER TRAY $40

NESTING SHAKER BOXES $105

HANDMADE STASH BOX $25

Green Tray: Thank you for not putting handles in this tray (I like the streamlined look).
Nesting Shaker Boxes: I’ve had a thing for shaker boxes ever since I was 22 – Fantastic stacked, nested or broken up.
Stash Box: What a sweet little homemade stash box by an Etsy maker. Write a compliment, fold it and put inside for a really solidly sweet gift.

LEATHER WRAPPED ROCK $25

CERAMIC HANDMADE CUP $17

FOOTED BOWL $85

Leather Wrapped Rock: It’s not for everyone – but trust me that everyone on the EHD team has one or wants one (it’s Anthro rock adjacent but only $25 – IYKYK).
Patterned Porcelain Cups: This Etsy shop is so stinking cute (and a lot of other floral patterns as well). Think toothbrush holder, pen holder, vase or of course you could drink from them 🙂
Footed Bowl: So great and in a really pretty organic shape and color.

WALNUT CHEESE BOARD & RAMEKIN $75

PEYTON WOOD BOX $89

Cheese Board and Ramekin Set: I love this set, and perfect for the charcuterie lover (olives in the ramekin).
Wood Box: A pretty box with a nice texture and lovely brass metallic detail.

CLARE V CATCHALL $69

SIN CANDLE HOLDER $98

Burgundy Catchall: I used that Clare V. Catchall in so many shoots this year – it just catches the light in such a pretty way, with a really rich color and a shape that contrasts perfectly off a stack of books.
Candlestick Holder: Sin candlesticks, on more time – these architectural candle holders make such a statement.

OK y’all. I could obsess about this list for longer, but the good news is that I’ll be adding to the For The Home shop page almost daily, so keep checking over there and let me know if you have any requests in the comments! I feel like I know the entire internet now 🙂

*Unless Otherwise Noted, Photos by Kaitlin Green