18 Best Planners + Tools To Help You Stay Organized This Holiday Season

best plannersbest planners

Organization, planning, and self-care are all critical pieces of actually *enjoying* the holiday season. Between festive get-togethers, an extensive to-do list, and getting ahead on projects at work, the things you have to get done seem to layer on the stress and anxiety. That's we we love using organizational and planning tools to help keep us sane (and to add some cheery upbeat vibes into our life — this time if year is supposed to be FUN, after all). Here are some of the best planners, calendars, gift trackers, party checklists, and tools to help you take the season one day at a time.

PLANNERS

Rifle Paper Co. 2021-2022 Planner ($16)

This absolutely stunning planner is technically an academic planner, which actually makes it perfect for the holiday season. Why? Because it starts in 2021 and goes through 2022, and it's chock full of to-do lists and places to track deadlines (you know, like the day you *really* need to have your SO's big gift ordered by).

Erin Condren LifePlanner ($64)

Another planner that spans late 2021 and 2022, the Erin Condren LifePlanner is our go-to recommendation for anyone who wants to keep track of ALL the the aspects of their life. You can choose from vertical, horizontal, or hourly spreads, and each month starts with a dashboard where you can keep track of events, deadlines, and goals. The holiday-themed interchangeable cover options make this a fantastic planner to have during the festive season and beyond.

Day Designer 2021-2022 Daily Planner ($41, was 59)

Last up in our traditional planner lineup, the Day Designer is one of the most gorgeous organizers out there. Its sturdy hard-cover design makes it incredibly durable, and everything from the fonts to the coils are aesthetically pleasing. We love this orange blossom-inspired design for the late fall/early winter time of year.

Ban.do To-Do Planner ($23)

This planner from Ban.do isn't a full-on personal organization system... It's simply a place to keep track of all your to-dos, making it the perfect option for someone who just wants a place to brain dump all their necessary thoughts and lists. We also think the quote on the cover is the perfect motto for not letting the holidays stress you out: "One day at a time."

Rifle Paper Co. for Cambridge Spiral Chunky Pad ($13)

Another option for the minimalist planner, this super-pretty notepad is the perfect place to jot down all your need-to-knows.

CALENDARS

Anthropologie Spectrum Wall Planner ($48)

Not ready to commit to maintaining a planner? Use an old-fashioned calendar instead. Although simple, this wall planner is hardly your average calendar. Each month, you remove the month's page from your wall and replace it with another, making it ideal for those with flexible, changeable planning needs (aka, EVERYONE during the holidays). Its beautiful minimalist design doesn't hurt, either.

Anthropologie Acrylic Dry Erase Calendar ($98)

For a more permanent option, invest in this dry-erase calendar you can mount right above your desk. It's the perfect place to take notes as you make your way through the week.

Rifle Paper Co. for Cambridge Dry Erase Board ($29)

What desk wouldn't look prettier with this dry-erase calendar above it? The best part is that if your plans change, all you have to do is wipe if off your board. Stress? Never heard of her.

PARTY PLANNING

Party Planning Guide

Dipping your toes into holiday party planning this year? You absolutely need to check out this guide, which is focused on planning Pin-worthy parties. Put your hostess hat on and get to merry-making. (via Brit + Co)

Photo via Cathryn Lavery/Unsplash

Party Planning Countdown Checklist

Another fantastic resource for aspiring party planners, this checklist is arranged in a countdown format, walking you through the to-dos you should tackle from five weeks before your party onward. (via Brit + Co)

Erin Condren Snap-In Party Planner Dashboard ($8)

If you have an Erin Condren LifePlanner, this snap-in dashboard is the perfect addition for the holiday season. Since you can easily put it in and take it out, you can tuck it away anytime you're not in party-planning mode.

GIFT TRACKERS

Gift Tracker Stickers ($5)

Let's not forget one of the most stressful but rewarding parts of holiday planning: Getting thoughtful gifts for all of your loved ones. These stickers work in any planner or notebook and help you keep track of all your gift-buying activities (including your budget).

Printable Gift Tracker ($2)

This printable gift tracker can be downloaded and printed right in the comfort of your home, giving you the added flexibility of picking what kind of paper to print it on. Use a hole punch to put it right into your current planner, or print it on traditional paper and keep it in a folder or pinned to a your cork board above your desk.

Photo via the App Store

Gift Tracker App

Not into paper products and written checklists? This app counts down the days until your big holiday, tracks your budget, and helps you stay organized with a detailed list of who you need to buy for.

Thank-You Note Tracker ($19)

Don't forget that it's not just gift BUYING you need to stay on top of during the holidays... you'll also be receiving some gifts yourself (yay!) that dictate sending thank-you notes. Manners still matter!

MENTAL HEALTH & SELF-CARE JOURNALS

Papier Wellness Journal ($33)

No matter what happens as you navigate the season, never forget that your own self-care is crucially important. This wellness journal will help you stay on top of your physical and mental health goals.

Erin Condren PetitePlanner Self-Care Journal ($14)

Another fantastic option for tracking your wellness, this journal is specifically focused on self-care. Track the habits you know are important for your well-being, and take notes on how you feel each day.

Silk + Sonder Monthly Journal Subscription ($20)

This monthly subscription service provides you with a journal every 30 days. In each one, you'll answer prompts inspired by positive psychology and designed with bullet journaling techniques in mind. It takes the extra work out of journaling, making it super easy to stay on track with your mental health and wellness goals.


What are the best planners and tools you use each the holiday season? Tweet us at @BritandCo and let us know!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Now that we're nearing the end of winter, it'll soon be time for spring cleaning. But in addition to just breaking out your duster, wiping down your baseboards, or finally tackling that soap scum in your shower, why not organize as well?

Think about it: as you go about your spring cleaning checklist this year, you're probably going to move from one room to another. While you're already getting down and dirty, it can be super helpful to streamline each area of your home.

Not only will you feel fully refreshed (and not like you're simply straightening up clutter), but you'll also make your life easier for all those "Sunday resets" to come this year.

So, whether you choose to start in your bedroom or kitchen, here are our top organizing tips for organizing every room of your house.

Scroll to find out how to best organize every room in your house!

1. Entryway

Max Vakhtbovycn

From work commutes to errand runs, you're probably on the go a lot. Why waste time getting out the door by dealing with a disorganized entryway every single day?

Think of your front door as a "launching pad." In other words, whatever you need to help make leaving and arriving home easier should be right there for simple access.

If you have a closet to work with, that's great. Otherwise, cubbies or even a utility shelf will work. Make sure your most used shoes, coats, and other accessories are neatly stacked, hung, or put away. You can take those heels you only wear for date nights or random extra scarves back to your bedroom.

Then, set up a space for your personal items, like your purse, keys, sunglasses, and any mail you grab on the way in. You'll know exactly where they are the next time you're running late, and you can add personal touches like greenery or artwork to make your launch pad more aesthetically pleasing.

2. Living Room

Martin Lang

Next up is the living room, where you probably spent the bulk of your time with family and friends. This fact means it tends to naturally become the most cluttered room in everyone's home.

If you feel like you're lacking storage, don't forget to utilize vertical space. You can install shelving, for instance, or buy tall open-shelving cabinets that look like built-ins.

Either way, by adding decor pieces, books, or other commonly used items, like speakers and games, you'll infuse the room with more character and dimension while saving floor space.

Don't underestimate the functionality of baskets, either. They're great for holding everything from pet toys to blankets and even magazines or photo albums.

Plus, if you have kids and constantly feel inundated by their toys, say goodbye to the typical storage container solution. Even though it may work for some parents, these containers are still an eyesore and never really leave your line of sight in the living room.

Instead, you can transform an old or thrifted dresser into a toy storage area. Select one that matches your interior design style to keep your space looking clean and uncluttered while allowing your kids to easily grab whatever they want to play with.

3. Bedroom & Closet

Shared or not, the bedroom has a way of collecting clutter like nobody's business. That's why we have to get creative to save space and make our lives easier.

One of the most overlooked areas is right under your bed. You can store anything from hobby items, like art supplies, to seasonal clothing and less frequently worn shoes.

Search for storage containers with wheels under the bed. Or, if your bedframe needs an upgrade, look for one that has drawers!

Anastasia Shuraeva

Then, in your closet, make sure your clothing and accessories are arranged in a way that makes sense.

For example, if you work a corporate job, group all of your business attire, like slacks, blazers, and loafers, in one section to quickly get dressed and go in the morning. The same goes for casual wear, workout attire, and evening wear or pajamas.

Finally, if you have shelving, add labeled bins to store clunkier garments like sweaters and sweatshirts. Any remaining room can be used to hold extra clutter that you clear off horizontal surfaces, like your desk, vanity, or dresser, to make your bedroom feel more light.

4. Bathroom

Kaboompics.com

Last but not least is the dreaded bathroom. This room of the house can become a dumping ground for all sorts of products and beauty tools.

Just like in your living room, you should use any empty wall space to your advantage. Hang up hooks to hold your towels and clothing while you bathe, or use an over-the-door organizer to give your extra towels and robes a home.

Also, if you live with multiple people, it can be helpful to give each family member their own designated cabinet. This will keep everyone's products separate and prevent any from becoming a "junk drawer."

Last but not least, our top tip for keeping your bathroom fresh and organized is to get rid of your personal items on a regular basis. Stop holding onto that old tube of toothpaste that's practically flat or accumulating multiple bottles of face wash.

Rather, go through your products once a month to purge anything that's expired or no longer used. This simple act alone will make a real difference.

Looking for more home & organization tips? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Sarah J. Maas is keeping readers in the dark about ACOTAR book 6 book 6, but that hasn't stopped fans from sharing elaborate theories about its plot! Our favorite ones revolve around Feyre's middle sister Elain and her overdue POV. For five books, we've watched her live in the shadows of her sister even after being thrown into a cauldron by the despicable King Hybern. She's only shared glimpses of her personality, but that's nothing compared to what readers feels she deserves.

Here's what BookTok thinks about ACOTAR book 6 being the moment we see Elain step into her power or worse

The first theory that stands out is one TikTok user @savannahlueckk shared in this video. Her caption says, "i have a theory that everyone is going to switch up on her and love her all the sudden lmao," in regards to Elain. I don't think anyone truly doubts where she's loved, but it's clear they're not allowing her to come into her own either. From there, the text overlay on the video compares Elain to "Rapunzel," calling out how she's been "sheltered and underestimated by everyone around her."

The first comment on the video says, "She is going to be a whole different person once we get her POV and I can’t wait" while the second comment refers to Frozen 2's song "Into the Unknown." "...just her hearing voices and getting frustrated with them and what they mean as well and learning to embrace her seer powers," user @emlechoppaa wrote.

Another theory by @thundernoblechristine refers to Elain's naturally extroverted personality and how she's currently dealing with everything she's experienced. She says, "Elain is unique in that out of all three of these sisters, she is the most extroverted and she clearly likes making friends...So it makes perfect sense to explore Elain's story as someone who processes trauma and gets to know people differently than Nesta and Feyre."

Only one comment mentioned Elain's potential mate which is great! @imaginedrealism wrote, "As goofy as it sounds, I want Elian with none of the people she is shipped with. She deserves someone totally normal not apart of the Far royalty drama, & it would be more interesting to see..."

But, we're not above leaning into the "Elain and Azriel Endgame theory. Tiktok user @abi.reads2 made her own video about why she thinks Elain and Azriel are meant to be together. She starts off reading a passage from A Court of Mist and Fury before revealing there's a point where the book left by the queen mentions "sing me." @abi.reads2 then points out that Azriel is a "shadowsinger," meaning he's able to detect things most people are unable to.

But @Shelbyaj319 has other thoughts. "I think Elain will manipulate them [Lucien and Azriel] into a blood duel or died or whatever and start a war. I think she’s the villain. She should have already denied the bond [with Lucien] by now yet hasn’t," she says.

There's so many different theories that could be right, but only Sarah J. Maas knows how ACOTAR book 6 will end!

Follow us on Facebook for more updates!

By now, you know that we're crazy about queso, but the reality is that we like any sort substance that is fit for a chip plunge! And with the best chip-dipping day on the horizon (ahem, the Super Bowl), we are dreaming of dips 24/7.

Hopefully you've already scoped out our ahh-mazingtaco dip recipe – not to mention a host of Super Bowl appetizersand probably this perfect punch recipe, too. But if you're really going to dip it (dip it real good), you need more delicious options for the big game day. And we're here to give you just that.

Scroll on for 40 delicious Super Bowl dips that'll please the whole party!

Greek Yogurt Dip, 3 Ways

Brit + Co

These three Greek yogurt dip recipes are all super simple. Whip these up in a matter of minutes pre-game for a healthy, protein-packed, and flavorful snack. (via Brit + Co)

Bacon Chive Dip

Brit + Co

Not a fan of sour cream? Try this innovative Greek-yogurt-based dip instead! (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Turkey Queso

Brit + Co

We may have mentioned it before… we've got it bad for queso. And this recipe is us hitting all the food groups with a turkey, bean, and guac-boosted queso! (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Feta Dip

Brit + Co

This seven-ingredient spicy feta dip features greek yogurt, olive oil, spring onion, parsley, jalapeño, and of course the star of the dish: crumbled feta. It comes together quickly and will be ready to serve at your Super Bowl party before your guests even arrive. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Queso

Brit + Co

This vegan queso dip tastes awesomely good. Roasted and blended cashew nuts offer a unique but tasty base along with a dash of nutritional yeast for some cheesy flavor. (via Brit + Co)

Hot Corn Dip

Culinary Hill

This delicious dip can be made ahead with fresh, frozen, or canned corn and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips. (via Culinary Hill for Brit + Co)

Roasted Lemon & Spinach Artichoke Dip

Half Baked Harvest

Elevate your Super Bowl party dip game with this just-a-little-bit-extra spinach dip with tangy roasted lemons. Yum! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Crockpot White Queso Dip

Barley & Sage

Smooth, creamy and super easy to make in a Crock Pot, this white queso dip will soon become your game day favorite. (via Barley & Sage)

Bacon Cheeseburger Skillet Dip

Cabot Creamery

Feeding a crowd? This is the perfect dip for meat lovers and game day fans. (via Cabot Creamery)

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Cabot Creamery

This recipe is made easy with rotisserie chicken and so delicious with veggies, chips, or bread. (via Cabot Creamery)

The Perfect Guacamole

The Kitchn

The perfect guac deserves a ingenious tip for keeping it green for days. (via The Kitchn)

French Onion Dip

Saveur

No soup packets here, just onions three ways — fried, fresh, and roasted — whipped with mayo, cream cheese, and sour cream into a tempting homemade dip. (via Saveur)

Garlic-Herb Yogurt Cheese Dip

Martha Stewart Living

Low-fat yogurt is key to creating this creamy chive dip. You can also swap that for soy yogurt for your vegan friends. (via Martha Stewart Living)

Skinny Taco Dip

Damn Delicious

No time to assemble a full 7 layer dip? Whip up this lightened-up take that boasts all of the same flavors and none of the fuss. (via Damn Delicious)

Cheesy Rotel Sausage Dip

Salt & Lavender

With a mix of pork sausage, Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and a delicious layer of cheddar, this dip says game on all over it. (via Salt & Lavender)

Hot Artichoke & Spinach Dip

Food Network

Cannellini beans and Neufchatel cheese lighten up this creamy crowd pleaser. (via Food Network)

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Feel Good Foodie

This is a great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken and feeds a crowd fast. (via Feel Good Foodie)

3-Ingredient Beer Cheese Dip

A Spicy Perspective

This dip has just a hint of spice and takes just three ingredients: cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, and beer! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Spicy Sriracha White Bean Dip

White On Rice Couple

Slices of crispy rosemary flatbread or pieces of crudité make the perfect scoops for this beautiful bean dip. (via White On Rice Couple)

Paleo French Onion Dip

Olive You Whole

Keep it on the lighter, dairy-free side with cashew milk yogurt and loads of delicious herbs and spices. (via Olive You Whole)

Lebanese Garlic Dip

Forks & Foliage

Pair this easy toum with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and french fries. You don't even need a food processor! (via Forks & Foliage)

Spicy Feta Dip

Fancy Peasant

Otherwise known as tirokafteri, this simple dip is nicely spicy and so easy to love. (via Fancy Peasant)

Lasagna Dip

Rachel Mansfield

Made with gluten-free chips, this meat lasagna inspired dip will stand out from the potluck crowd. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Roasted Red Pepper Dip

The Endless Meal

Serve up some shrimp and veggie skewers with this delicious dip. (viaThe Endless Meal)

Sour Cream & Onion Dip

Cozy Cravings

This classic dip starts with a sour cream base, sautéd onion, dried spices, fresh chives, and a little Worcestershire. Just add ruffled chips! (via Cozy Cravings)

Cheddar-Jalapeño Cheese Dip

My Food and Family

Be sure to set aside a can of beer to whip up this dip that's perked up with fresh jalapeños. You can never serve enough cheese dip. Or beer-laden foods. (via My Food and Family)

Mom's 7 Layer Dip

Sweet Pea's Kitchen

20 minutes is all you need to create this yummy dip — but we bet it'll be eaten is less time than that! (via Sweet Pea's Kitchen)

Roasted Cauliflower White Pizza Dip

Half Baked Harvest

Forget delivery. This cheesy-pizza dip is sure to be a hit when served with crackers. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Bean Dip

Live Eat Learn

Whip up this vegetarian bean dip in only 5 minutes. (via Live Eat Learn)

Smoked Salmon Dip

Chez Us

This luscious concoction works well with both beer and bubbly to wash it down! (via Chez Us)

Roasted Beet Hummus

Chef Bai

Add a colorful dip to your veggie platter with this yummy beet hummus recipe. (via Chef Bai)

Buffalo Chicken Dip

The Primal Kitchen

Buffalo wings are a classic Super Bowl snack that, we are happy to announce, you can now enjoy in dip form. (via The Primal Kitchen)

Ethereally Smooth Hummus

Smitten Kitchen

Peeling the skin from each bean is a tedious step, but it's the the trick for creating unbelievably creamy hummus. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Cheese Chorizo Caramelized Onion Dip

Foodie Crush

Talk about flavor packed! This slightly-smoky, spicy chorizo dip is impossible to resist. (via Foodie Crush)

Restaurant-Style Salsa

The Pioneer Woman

Make this salsa along with your guacamole and queso to create the ultimate hat trick of dips! (via The Pioneer Woman)

Jalapeño Popper Dip

Carlsbad Cravings

Another classic football finger food gets a makeover in dip form! (via Carlsbad Cravings)

Hot Crab Dip

Food Network

Treat your favorite team to this delightful dip. (via Food Network)

Toffee Fruit Dip

I'm Topsy Turvy

This creamy, toffee-dotted dessert dip is a great way to sweeten up your Super Bowl spread. (viaI'm Topsy Turvy)

Smoked Fish Dip

Cilantro Parsley

This creamy dip has a smoky flavor and can be served with water crackers or tortilla chips. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Simple Cheesy Bean Dip

The Original Dish

Made with white beans, canned tomatoes, and plenty of cheese, this easy dip recipe comes together in a mere 20 minutes. (via The Original Dish)

What's your go-to dip to serve for the Super Bowl? Find more delicious Super Bowl dip recipes on our Food page!

This post has been updated.

I never shut up about Marvel, and I will continue to talk about it because my girl Sadie Sink is joining Spider-Man 4! Sources tell Deadline that the Stranger Things actress (who's starring in Broadway's John Proctor Is The Villain this spring) is set to join Tom Holland in his new superhero movie. Here's everything we know — from an absolute fangirl you can trust.

Sadie Sink is joining Tom Holland's Spider-Man 4, set to start filming this summer.

Sadie Sink will have a "significant" role in 'Spider-Man 4.'

Tom Holland confirmed that Spider-Man 4 is set to start filming in the summer of 2025, and Deadline reports that Sadie's role is "significant." Brit + Co reached out to Sony and Sadie Sink's reps for comment.

While we don't have any official news on the specifics of Sadie's character, considering the movie comes a couple of months after 2026's Avengers: Doomsday, I think there are a few characters Sadie would knock out of the park.

Is Sadie Sink playing Jean Grey?


With Sadie Sink's red hair, she would make a perfect variant for Zendaya's MJ (who is, herself, a version of Mary Jane from the comics). But with her sunny disposition and confidence, I could totally see her as Gwen Stacy too. My lead theory surrounding Avengers: Doomsday is that the characters we know so well will wind up in another universe — and could finally bring the X-Men into the MCU.

Even before Sadie's casting was confirmed, the leading rumor was that she'd join the MCU as Jean Grey/Phoenix, a role held by Famke Janssen and Sophie Turner in previous X-Men adaptations. And this is the role I hope we see her in!

Spider-Man fans will remember that No Way Home ended by erasing Peter Parker's existence from the world...but if Peter meets characters from another world (ahem, Jean), or if all our favorite heroes wind up in another world, the spell shouldn't affect them. And fighting to get back home is exactly the kind of theme I'd love to see in Spider-Man 4.

Check out the 5 New Marvel Movies Worth Watching for more!

Trader Joe’s carries much more than groceries – from skincare goodies to alcohol, you can find some pretty neat stuff between their aisles. You’re going to want to make a beeline to their home goods section ASAP though, because TJ’s just dropped a delightful $4 tomato-scented candle that’s being compared to bougie brands like Loewe and Maison Margiela!

Scroll on to discover more about Trader Joe’s new Tomato Leaf candle.

@traderjoesobsessed

On shelves now, Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle smells like – you guessed it – fragrant tomato leaves. Some shoppers have said it comes across as “verdant and fresh” while others say it’s “slightly sweeter.” So far, the aroma has been divisive among TJ’s fans, but smelling it myself, I think it smells exactly like tomato leaves with a hint of refreshing sweetness – making it a perfect scent to ease you into springtime!

Julia Nagy / PEXELS

This iteration of the Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is technically a remake of the same scent they released several years ago, but stopped stocking because the glass jars it was cased in posed a safety hazard (ahem, exploding). But fret not – this new container is made of metal, so you shouldn’t expect any glass malfunctions. Plus, it boasts the same precise scent – nothing’s changed in that department!

Reddit

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the new find with their Instagram followers, and plenty of customers sounded off with excitement.

“Omg yes this is the best one!!!!” one person said.

“This is their greatest candle to date imo,” another person wrote.

“I was actually talking about this a couple days ago with my boyfriend and then magically it appeared!!” someone else commented. “Glad it’s in a tin option even though the glass was beautiful!”

Agence Mald / PEXELS

The Trader Joe’s Reddit page also had some thoughts about the new scent:

“I love this friggin candle,” one person said. “It really took me by surprise.”

“I’m so excited!!” another rejoiced. “This is my all time favorite candle scent of any line ever!”

While some Trader Joe’s shoppers praised it, others had some strong opinions.

“Soapy with a hint of tomato,” someone else noted. “I personally really like it, but I like green, fresher-smelling candles. I hate bakery or sweet candle scents.”

“I love this candle and everyone I know hates it and I’m not allowed to light it when I have my friends over 😆😆,” another said. “It’s SO divisive!!”

Maison Margiela

Across both Instagram and Reddit, several shoppers compared the new Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle to brands that are so bougie. Some comparisons that were made include the Loewe Tomato Leaves candle, Maison Margiela's From The Garden perfume, and the Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle from Flamingo Estate. The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle costs just $4 for 5.3 ounces worth of candle, so you could absolutely get a similar luxe effect for way less.

Flamingo Estate

The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is crafted from a blend of soy wax, coconut oil, and beeswax. It also comes complete with a lead-free cotton wick to ensure a clean burn. Totally fresh and definitely unique, I’d say it’s worth the money – especially for a fresh feel during spring!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more Trader Joe's hidden gems!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.