10 Unique Gift Ideas for Your Art Lovin’ BFF

When your BFF is a creative genius, you have to get a little crafty to find her a unique present. Inspire her inner artist by handing her a pair of paint-splattered sneakers, a gorgeous print she can add to her growing wall collection, or a good ol’ fashioned coloring book. Keep reading for 10 clever gift ideas for the art lover in your life.

Get ready to sleigh your stocking stuffer game this holiday season, because we've curated the ultimate list of 30 must-have goodies under $35! From heart-shaped sunglasses that scream sass to the coziest fuzzy socks that will have you Netflix-and-chill ready, we've got you covered. Whether you're shopping for your BFF, sister, or treating yourself (because, let's be real, you deserve it), our lineup is bursting with trendy finds and timeless classics. So, grab your shopping list and dive into the holiday magic with these wallet-friendly treasures that are sure to spark joy and spread the festive cheer. Let the stocking stuffing begin!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Opaque Tights

Tights might sound like a strange gift, but gifting red tights is a sign that you know whats up with the trends!

Amazon

Maxdot Heart Shape Sunglasses Rimless Transparent

It's time to embrace those heart eyes, darling! Cutesy accessories are the perfect little gift for any stylish romantic.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Velvet Bow Hair Ties, Set Of 6

Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to a simple hairstyle, these hair ties are a must-have for achieving that Instagram-worthy look.

Target

Starface Hydro-Star Pimple Patches + Refillable Compact

Say goodbye to blemish blues with Starface Pimple Patches. Stick one on and let the healing magic begin!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Slip Scrunchie Ornament

Gentle on the locks and oh-so-chic, these scrunchies are the secret to achieving that effortlessly messy bun with a touch of glamour.

Urban Outfitters

Brand New

MOODEAUX Supercharged Skin Scent 2-in-1 Dry Oil Perfume Spray

Take someone's scent glands on a journey with MOODEAUX's fun-sized Supercharged Skin Scent Dry Oil Perfume Spray! Just like the name suggests, it has a delicious-smelling blend of fragrances and oils that help trigger a happier mood. From pink pepper to raspberry and saffron, your nose buds will be taken on a heavenly ride once they smell this for the first time.

We love MOODEAUX at Brit + Co and are excited to announce you'll be able to get your hands on the Dry Oil Perfume Sprays in 25 Urban Outfitters stores nationwide! Be sure to check out the official announcement here!

Anthropologie

Jingle Bell Bottle Opener

Now your fav boozy bae can pop open their favorite drinks with a jingle, and let the holiday vibes flow. It's a party in a bottle opener!

Anthropologie

Papier Pause Bookmark

A gentle reminder to slow down, relax, and take your time when getting lost in the pages of your favorite book.

Free People

Bow Taper Candles

Help set the mood with these cute and dainty candle sticks!

Sephora

Clinique Black Honey Lipstick

Universally flattering, this iconic shade adds a touch of mystery and allure to any pout.

Urban Outfitters

Chillhouse Chill Tips Press-On Manicure Kit

These trendy and hassle-free nails are a game-changer for anyone looking to level up their manicure game without the commitment.

Target

Fujifilm Quicksnap 135 Flash 400 2pk Camera

Forget filters and digital screens – these vintage-inspired cameras bring back the joy of film photography. Snap, click, and relive the memories!

Anthropologie

Mermade Hair Velcro Roller Set

Embrace the vintage aesthetic with Mermade Hair's pretty pink rollers. They're essential if you want to achieve a cute and flirty bedtime look.

Amazon

Ferrero Rocher 24 Count Chocolate Gift Box

Forrest Gump's mom didn't lie when she told him, "Life's like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get," because it often feels that way. But you can always count on Ferrero Rocher's chocolates to provide the same high-quality taste they're known for every time. We know your mom or grandma can't stop eating them so why not surprise them with their own gift boxes?

Sephora

Clarins Lip Comfort Hydrating Oil

Still can't get your hands on Dior? Opt for this luxe lip treatment from Clarins!

Skims

Skims Holiday Socks (2-Pack)

Comfy, cozy, and effortlessly cool, these holiday socks from Skims will help Santa decide if someone deserves an extra present or a lump of coal.

Skims

Skims Boyfriend Boxer

Comfort meets style in these chic boxers that redefine the meaning of intimate gifting. Because let's be real – everyone loves Skims!

Amazon

Magic 8 Ball

The Magic Eight Ball is your pocket-sized oracle for those burning questions. Will your crush text back? Shake it up and find out!

Anthropologie

The Petra Mini Drop Earrings

Delicate and charming, they add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Embrace the art of understated glam!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Classic Faux-Fur Earmuffs

A perfect blend of fashion and function, these earmuffs keep the "It Girl" warm while turning heads.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Sherpa Cozy Socks

Luxuriously soft and oh-so-cuddly, these socks are the perfect companions for a cozy night in.

Anthropologie

Tweezerman Enchanted Garden Mini Tweezer Set

These high-quality essentials are a game-changer for achieving perfectly groomed brows and precision plucking.

Urban Outfitters

Conair x Wicked Spa Satin Headband

From being a beauty routine essential to a casual brunch accessory, this accessory is the perfect blend of style and comfort.

Urban Outfitters

TONYMOLY All You Need Face Mask Set

Packed with skin-loving ingredients, these masks are your ticket to a radiant and refreshed complexion.

Nordstrom

Chunks Suki Claw Clip

This playful accessory is a statement piece that holds your tresses in style.

Free People

We're Not Really Strangers Card Game

Dive into deep and meaningful conversations with the We're Not Really Strangers Card Game. Perfect for game nights with friends or intimate moments with a loved one, this card game is a journey into connection and discovery.

Sephora

Beauty Blender Original Makeup Sponge

Because you can never have too many.

Sephora

Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum Travel Spray

This captivating scent is perfect for those who love a touch of enigma in their fragrance collection.

Target

Tile Mate

For those who are prone to misplacing things, Tile Mate is *the* trusty sidekick.

Salt Nails

Salt Nails Poppi Press-Ons

We swear by these easy-to-apply and study press-ons by Salt Nails! Not only are they stylish, but they don't interfere with everyday life! If you know a mom who dreads getting her nails done because of her baby or toddler's car seat, she'll love this stocking stuffer idea!

Amazon

Realsy Pitted & Stuffed Medjool Dates

We all know a few snackers in our lives who love eating on-the-go. With these yummy Medjool Dates, they'll be able to enjoy something that's fresh, tasty, and healthy. Plus, they're filled with mouth-watering natural nut butter from Realsy's "family-owned date farm!

Looking for more holidayhelp? Be sure to sign up for our weekly shopping newsletter for all your gifting inspo needs!

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

This post has been updated.

It's not Thanksgiving without the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (or appetizers, but that's a different conversation). The iconic event has been around since 1924, and this year's 98th parade is sure to be full of amazing surprises. (In case you're wondering, the parade shut down for two years during World War II, hence the 98th anniversary!). We'll see appearances from the Rockettes and the Wicked cast, and tons of show-stopping balloons. My personal fave? Charlie Brown's Snoopy!

Here's everything you need to know about this year's parade, including how to stream it at home and the acts to pay attention to.

The latest news on the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

  • The 98th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place November 28, 2024 at 8:30 AM.
  • The parade lasts three and a half hours, moving from the Upper West Side to Macy's on 34th Street.
  • Performers include The Outsiders, stars from Wicked, and The Rockettes.

Where can I stream the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade 2024?

Cara Howe/NBC

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is coming to NBC on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024 from 8:30 AM to 12 PM in every time zone. You can stream the program on Peacock. There's also a Spanish version on Telemundo!

They'll have a repeat of the parade starting at 2 PM EST.

Who's hosting the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year?

Beloved Today Show hosts Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, and Al Roker will host the iconic parade.

Who is performing at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade 2024?

There are tons of acts appearing in the parade this year, from A-listers to Broadway casts. Here's a list of performers and appearances!

  • The Rockettes
  • Jennifer Hudson
  • Kylie Minogue
  • Billy Porter
  • Death Becomes Her cast
  • Hell’s Kitchen cast
  • The Outsiders cast
  • Bishop Briggs
  • Kylie Cantrall
  • Chlöe
  • Dan + Shay
  • Dasha
  • Jimmy Fallon & The Roots
  • Coco Jones
  • Walker Hayes
  • Loud Luxury
  • Ariana Madix
  • Joey McIntyre
  • Idina Menzel
  • Natti Natasha
  • T-Pain
  • Rachel Platten
  • Lea Salonga
  • The Temptations
  • The War and Treaty
  • Alex Warren
  • Sebastián Yatra
  • Charli D’Amelio
  • NYC Ballet Principal Dancers Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia
  • Jonathan Bennett
  • Liza Colón-Zayas
  • Cynthia Erivo
  • Cole Escola
  • Tom Kenny
  • Ginna Claire Mason
  • And Santa Claus of course!

What's the parade route?

Macy's

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade makes a 2.5-mile trek alongside Central Park, starting at West 77th Street, circling round Columbus Circle, and ending in front of Macy's on 34th street.

What balloons will be in the parade?

There will be some fan favorite balloons returning to the parade this year, in addition to a new appearance by Minnie Mouse! Spider-Man, Snoopy, Ronald McDonald, the Pillsbury Doughboy are just a few balloons that we'll see.

Will you be watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year? Let us know what you're most excited to see on Facebook!

Your sister deserves the world — you know it, I know it, and she definitely knows it. But what do you give someone who deserves the world when there's so much to sift through? If finding the perfect gift for your sister feels like a herculean feat, join the club! I've got an older sister whose priorities have shifted after getting married and having kids, so I'm always on the hunt for the best present to get her. Fortunately, I've found all the best gifts for her that she'll actually use — and I'm ready to share them with you, too!

From the best of beauty finds to some self-care goodness, these top-notch gifts were carefully considered because this little sister knows Christmas is better when your sibling keeps you in mind!

The Best Beauty Gifts

Sephora

T3 Aire 360 Ceramic Air Styler Blowout Kit

Your sister's wash day routine won't be the same once you introduce her to this blowout kit. Before I got boho braids, I decided to use it to dry my natural hair and it literally cut my blowdrying time in half! I have thick coils so it usually takes a while for me to gently stretch my hair without damaging it, but not anymore!

This kit includes:

  • Aire 360 Base
  • 2 Curling Attachments (Left and Right)
  • Oval Brush Attachment
  • SoftAire® Drying Concentrator
  • Storage Tote

I personally love the drying concentrator and the oval brush attachment because they give me the softest blowout I've ever had!

Calista Tools

Calista Tools The Classic Volume Duo

If your sister already has the perfect curling iron and blow dryer, you can still gift her something that boosts her hair. Calista Tools' Classic Volume Duo includes a pro heated round brush and the embellish flex spray to create the same look she'd get with the T3 Aire 360 Ceramic Air Styler Blowout Kitfor a fraction of the price.

Kora Organics

Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening Trio

Give your sister the gift of powerful antioxidants in skincare form this year! Kora Organics has so many products that boosts skin's glow — trust me — so this brightening trio is a great place to start for anyone.

The set includes:

  • Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser: It's pH-friendly and works to clean skin without stripping it of moisture. Your sister will appreciate the Turmeric, Noni, Aloe and natural sugar complex that effortlessly works together.
  • Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask: Your sister can use this daily because it'll gently smooth and detoxify her skin.
  • Turmeric Glow Moisturizer: Your sister's skin will crave the benefits of this moisturizer because it'll add a healthy glow to her skin while making it a little tougher. External impurities don't stand a chance!

EADEM LLC

EADEM The Even Skin Set

Has your sister been complaining about her stubborn dark spots? She'll love if you surprise her with EADEM's Even Skin Set! She'll get the following:

  • Dew Dream: A yummy cleansing balm that removes all makeup and other icky things from skin
  • Cashmere Peel: A gentle exfoliant that specifically targets dark spots
  • Milk Marvel: A creamy serum especially created for BIPOC skin that struggles with dark spots
  • Cloud Cushion: A ultra hydrating moisturizer that 'cushions' skin

Fur

Fur Full Frontal Set

Has your sister been looking for the perfect bikini waxafter-care? Tell her to get intimate with Fur's Full Frontal Set! It's dedicated to providing the softest skin that doesn't suffer from inflammation and ingrown hairs which sounds like my kind of party. All products have been gynecologically tested, so they're 100% safe!

The set includes:

  • Fur Oil
  • Ingrown Concentrate
  • Stubble Cream

Supergoop!

Supergoop! Endless Glow SPF Set

Don't tell me it's 2024 and your sister still hasn't found a sunscreen she loves. *Sigh* Okay, lean in closer so I can hold your hand while I talk about the Supergoop! Endless Glow SPF Set. Besides being TSA-friendly, this gift will add an extra glow to your sister's visage and I know she'll love that.

She'll get:

  • Glow Screen Sunrise SPF 40
  • Glow Stick SPF 50
  • Soothing Oil

Sephora

Tower 28 Mini Lil Softies Tinted Lip Treatment

I've been wearing Tower 28's 'Ube Vanilla' shade in their Tinted Lip Treatment and I can't get enough. This means your sister deserves to know about this miniature set! Unlike other lip oilsand treatments, this formula isn't sticky whatsoever! It has shea butter, jojoba oil, and lysine in it to provide a super kissable pout.

P.S. I've noticed that my lips are visibly softer and haven't been peeling or cracking as much since I've been wearing this!

Sephora

Beautyblender Power Pocket Puff

Celebrity Makeup Artist Natalie Dresher has nothing but rave reviews about this cute pocket puff! She says, "My absolute favorite tool for on the go mattification (is that a word? Or did I just coin that?). A must have for those going out for special events, it’s compact and fits in the tiniest of purses."

Sephora

LYS Beauty Mini Higher Standard Cream Glow Blush Set

Why commit to just one blush when you can have three? At least that's what I think you'll say to your sister when she opens this cute gift. I love that it's by a black-owned brand, but I'm even more excited that these blushes are vegan. They have kaolin clay, avocado oil, and vitamin E in them which has all the makings of a smooth, hydrating finish.

Sephora

Armani Beauty Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow

Dresher says, "One swipe and your eyeshadow is done with these Armani Beauty eye tints. They are user friendly and even the most beginner makeup user can figure out how to apply these! I love shade 67S Sparkle because it looks great on all skin tones making it a universal shade."

Stila Cosmetics

Stila Cosmetics Meet the Icons 4-Piece Set

You think your sister's iconic, right? I sure think my sister is so I''d love to add this to the running list of gifts I'm choosing for her. Everything is, once again, TSA-friendly, so your sister can take everything with her at all times.

She'll love getting:

  • Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner in Intense Black
  • Full-size Huge Extreme Lash Mascara (Jet Black)
  • Full-size Convertible Color Dual Lip & Cheek Cream in Lillium (Nude Pink)
  • Travel-size Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in best-loved shade, Kitten (Shimmering Nude Pink)

Lilac St.

Gold In My Veins Press-On Nails

I've been wearing these press-on nails for the past two weeks because they're the best I've ever worn. I personally think you should gift your glamorous sister these cuties before Christmas because she'll want to have something nice on her nails when she goes to take holiday pictures.

Cult Gaia

Cult Gaia Mast Eau De Parfum

If your sister has been looking for a new fragrance that she and others will love, I'm sure she'll fall in love with Cult Gaia's new scent, 'Mast.' It's a mix of Italian Bergamot and tropical coconut — two blends that make me want to spray on every piece of clothing I have!.

I really love that your sister won't have to fret about parabens, sulfates, BHA, mineral oils or other formaldehydes! I mean, clean beauty is truly the way to go!

Amazon

Scent Beauty Sweet Tooth by Sabrina Carpenter Eau de Parfum

Does your sister love the sweet blend of gourmands and florals? If you answered yes, you absolutely have to gift her Sabrina Carpenter's Sweet Tooth Eau de Parfum. It smells like a decadent blend of cherries, chocolate, vanilla orchid, musk, and a few other things that'll make her smell divine.

Kohl's

Valentino Born In Roma The Gold Eau de Toilette

Not everyone loves wam or musky scents, including your sister. She may enjoy something that smells 'fresh' which is why Valentino's Born In Roma fragrance will work for her. It'll remind her a little of summer, helping to keep some of seasonal depression away.

Étoile

Étoile Duo Vanity Case

Your sister's going to need somewhere safe to store her new beauty goodies while traveling so make sure you gift her Étoile's Duo Vanity Case. It's eco-friendly, makeup-proof, and includes a portable mirror. Tell her to be careful if she decides to pack a couple of skincare products because oils can stain it.

The Best Self-Care Gifts 

Target

Stanley 40 Oz Quencher Tumbler

Staying hydrated is one of the best ways anyone can boost their wellbeing which is why your busy sister needs a Stanley Tumbler. She can't survive on coffee alone — even if she thinks she can! This tumbler is actually in collaboration with e.l.f. Cosmetics so you know the color payoff and water intake are the best things your sister needs to help power through her day.

Amazon

Allura & Arcia Stress Relief & SelfCare Cards

I'm not going to pretend self-care is easy because there are some days you and your sister aren't going to be in the mood. If it seems like your sister has forgotten how to take care of herself and fan the relaxation fans, surprise her with these stress relief cards. She'll be provided with an activity, it's objectives, and ways to implement it in her daily routine!

Skims

Skims Cozy Knit Unisex Robe

It's time for your sister to have an unparalleled spa day at home. Your only job is to gift her this Cozy Knit Unisex Robe from Skims! Not only is this robe super comfy, but it's also leopard print! I'm telling you now, your sister needs this.

Amazon

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel

My bias is showing with this gift idea, but I'm sharing it anyway! After a while, everyone needs a good eye product to keep dark circles at bay. If your sister is pulling late nights because she's studying or has to wake up with a newborn, she absolutely needs Good Molecules' Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel. It helps bring much needed life back into the under eye area and even plumps the delicate skin back up.

Amazon

The Sleep Guard Pure Silk Sleep Mask

When your sister's done placing her new eye gel on her eyes, make sure she opens the other gift that contains this Pure Silk Sleep Mask. It'll block out light and make sure her eyes stay protected.

Amazon

BEDELITE Satin Pillowcase

While you're at it, throw in a satin pillowcase for good measure. It's good for reducing frizz and breakage, especially if your sister has naturally curly hair or braids!

Amazon

Lucky Bear Spa Headband And Wristlets Set

Your sister's days of getting her hair and the sleeves of her shirt wet are over because you're absolutely getting her this spa set. I would ask, but I already know this is at the top of your gift idea list for her because you can't get enough of it.

The Best Style Gifts

Oomiay

Oomiay Gold Bubble Initial Letter Necklace

Sometimes big sisters aren't a huge fan of flashy jewelry, but that doesn't mean you have to stay away from dainty pieces! Oomiay has so many cute options that will fit her style, like this bubble initial letter necklace! I'm currently wearing one and I only take it off when I have to shower! It's sturdy and fits perfectly in the middle of the chest, making it the only necklace your sister will want to wear.

The Sage Vintage

The Sage Vintage Gold Dainty Custom Charm Bracelet

Does your sister prefer charm bracelets over necklaces? Your best bet is buying her one from The Sage Vintage! You'll be able to customize the charms based on things your sister likes and surprise her with something that feels 100% personalized.

The Best Home & Kitchen Gifts

Target

KitchenAid 5qt 10-Speed Stand Mixer

If your sister is always on cooking or baking duty, save the strength of her arms by investing in a KitchenAid Stand Mixer. She'll lose her mind over the 10 attachments that come with it and the depth of the mixer itself.

P.S. It's by Hearth & Hand Magnolia which may also score you the best sibling award if she loves this brand!

Target

Tabitha Brown 8qt Digital Air Fryer

Wait, an air fryer under $100 exists and it's available at Target? Yes! Tabitha Brown's exclusive collection has so many goodies, but I just know your sister likely doesn't have time to think about making elaborate meals multiple times per week. Ease her mind with this digital fryer that'll let her roast, dehydrate, or even reheat meals!

Your sister will probably brag about her weekly dinners once she starts using this, but she can because "that's her business!"

Bola Grills

BOLA Grill Master

If your sister wants to practice grilling without lugging around something heavy, she'll absolutely love the BOLA Grill Master. Though it looks tiny, it's filled with amazing features that will make everyone want to gather at her house for barbecues and even Thanksgiving. From it's cast iron grate to the thermometer that reads up to 900° F, this is a gift that keeps on giving!

Ruggable

Ruggable Frances Vintage Teal Blue Rug

If your sister's favorite rug has been dismantled by her pets or kids, she may have mentioned how she's in the market for something that won't show as many stains. Though it's more of a big ticket item, Ruggable's Frances Vintage Teal Blue Rug was made with your sister in mind.

It's one of those rugs that instantly gives a room personality and gets better with time. It's spill-proof, but she can still wash it if she feels like it needs to be refreshed!

Sweet July

Sweet July Alma Throw

It's cozy season so your sister needs a couple of throw blankets to choose from. I actually can't get enough of Sweet July's Alma design because it's so abstract and goes with any design aesthetic. It's also reversible so she can lighten or darken the mood as she sees fit!

Baloo

Baloo Weighted Blanket

I've recently invested in a weighted blanket and I'm not sure what I was doing before. This takes sleepmaxxing to another level so I'm sure your sister will appreciate it! It's sustainably made, but that. doesn't mean it's not washer friendly! She'll enjoy how easy it is to fall asleep and clean one of the best blankets on the market. Again, trust me!

Amazon

Preston Lane The Deluxe 3-Wick Candle

What's a home decor gift without a scented candle? I'm not sure I want to find out so don't make your sister suffer! Gift her the warm and inviting scents of bergamot, fresh lime, Jasmine, tuberose, sandalwood, and cedar. It'll even match her new throw or weighted blanket.

Target

Threshold Medium Faux Wood Table Lamp

I know your sister spends her nights reading a book instead of binge watching new shows sometimes so make sure she has a cute lamp on her bedside table. I personally have this same lamp on my desk and it's so soothing when I'm working in the morning instead of opening my blinds or turning on a bright overhead light.

The Best Motherhood Gifts

Amazon

OWSUMER New Mom Candle

Do I love uplifting moms? Uh, yes! They deserve so much love and tenderness considering all of the things they have to endure. If your sister has recently joined motherhood or is a seasoned mom who's expecting, this candle will bring a smile to her face. I promise you she'll never forget unwrapping it and knowing you're the one who gifted her this!

Amazon

Unboxme Gifts Cloud Socks

Moms are often getting up and down for various reasons, so make sure your sister has something cozy on her feet like these cloud socks. They'll provide a nice barrier between her feet and the carpet or hardwood floors she has to cross to find a snack or break up a little sibling quarrel.

Amazon

EverFoams Fuzzy Open-Toe Slippers

If she doesn't care for wearing socks around the house, you can always gift your sister these cute slippers. They're open-toe, making them the fuzzy, breathable footwear she'll love padding around in.

Amazon

KeaBabies Pregnancy Journal

I'll never forget when my sister gifted me a pregnancy journal when I was pregnant with my son. I still have it and love reviewing different moments from it. Plus, I always think about how it was such a nice gesture from my sister.

From one former pregnant mama to your eyes and ears, this is something you can give your sister if she's currently expecting. She'll always look at it and remember the moment she unwrapped it.

Amazon

MomCozy Breast Therapy Packs

It doesn't matter if your sister is on team breastfeeding or not, her boobs are going to be sore during and after pregnancy — blame it on the hormones. She'll need something soothing in her bra to help combat any aches and pains so please get her these therapy packs.

Amazon

Fourth Trimester Mama Affirmation Cards

The fourth trimester aka postpartum can be really tough for some moms. If your sister has recently given birth and is struggling, don't be afraid to let one of her gifts be these affirmation cards. She'll need reminders that she's not only doing a great job, but that she deserves to be patient with herself.

Amazon

Got You a Little Something Happy Hour Activity Cards

I so wish I would've discovered these activity cards during my sister's last pregnancy, but all that matters is that they're in my orbit now! In addition to affirmation cards, helping your sister rediscover things she likes post-birth is such a huge way of showing her that you still her as a person outside of motherhood.

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

This post has been updated.

Awkward silences on a first date. An embarrassing encounter at the office party. A cringe-y moment with family around the holiday table. We’ve all been in awkward situations that leave us ruminating for hours about what we could have said or done differently to make it less awkward. But trying to be less awkward may make you more awkward," saysHenna Pryor, a Philadelphia-based workplace performance expert and award-winning TEDx speaker. In her new book, Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become The Bravest You, Pryor suggests a mindset shift that can turn awkwardness into our greatest asset for professional and personal growth. So here's how to be less awkward by being...good awkward?

3 ways to avoid saying or doing awkward things during the holidays

First things first, what is good awkward? To answer that, Pryor starts with separating the good from the bad. “Bad awkward is when we experience the emotion of awkwardness and it keeps a grip on us. It makes us freeze in place, or it discourages us from taking that action the next time, raising our hand, putting ourselves in that room. We ruminate on it for hours in the shower.” Sound familiar? SAME.

“Good awkward speaks to this idea that a degree of risk-taking is required in order to grow and improve our circumstances or advance at work and in life," says Pryor.

But getting good at embracing those moments of awkwardness takes practice. "Awkwardness is a social emotion,” says Pryor. “We don't feel it when other people aren't around.” The holidays are the perfect time for flexing that muscle. We’re meeting new people. We’re facing family conflicts. We’re talking politics with more people who aren’t in our bubble. We’re having more social interactions at work and seeing relatives who may not always see our point of view.

Here are ways to survive holiday season awkwardness and face it with confidence and grace:

Photo by fauxels

Calibrate your expectations.

"You don't see these people all year long oftentimes, so there's a degree of uncertainty that if we can anticipate it and level set our expectations, it helps us go into it, says Pryor. Have some strategies to call on in the moment too. “The first thing is naming it,” says Pryor. “When no one says anything, the tension actually gets thicker. But if somebody can playfully go, 'Oh, that was awkward,' or kind of own it or name it, it actually diffuses the tension, everyone can relax." You can also strategically use humor. "We can have talk tracks to playfully change the subject or exit the room, but we need to mentally prepare for them so that we can have tools at our fingertips in the moment when we need them."

Flip the script.

To help build self-awareness around the emotion, ask yourself a few questions, like what are the childhood stories and narratives I tell myself? Are you thinking of your awkward feelings as a state or a trait? A state = "I feel awkward right now" (and it's something that will pass, and I can handle) vs. a trait ("I'm so awkward all the time"), which feels more permanent, and less easy to work with, says Pryor.

“A lot of times when we experience awkward moments, we just want to remove ourselves from the situation. We don't want to think about it anymore. But there's actually a ton of value in data after that moment has eventually passed, to thinking about why did that feel so cringey or awkward or embarrassing to me? What does that represent?,” she says. Pryor uses a personal and relatable example to illustrate this point.

"I grew up in a South Asian household where my parents would often say an expression that means, 'What will other people think?' There was a lot of that constantly, so peel back the layers, understand what are the stories you're telling yourself." That awareness can help alleviate the negative self talk that happens post-awkward situation.

Guilherme Almeida

Play back a redemptive story.

Citing research from Professor Dan McAdams at Northwestern University, Pryor says we can tell ourselves contamination stories or redemptive ones. “You can't control your first thought, but you can control your second one," says Pryor. It's natural to think 'Well, that was awkward or that was embarrassing. And that's OK. "Our second thought, however, can be to continue to ruminate or turn it into an alternative," says Pryor. A contamination story is, "Oh my gosh, I can't believe that happened. I'm never going to speak up at the table again with these relatives," or "I'm never going to contribute to the conversation."

Or you can turn it into a positive, which is, "'Well, that didn't go how I hoped, but I'm proud of myself considering I don't see these folks often that I contributed to the conversation, learned a lesson from it. The next time, maybe I'll handle it differently, but I spoke up and I'm proud because I don't typically do so.' Can you look for the gifts in the garbage of that situation?," asks Pryor.

Finally, recognize the universality of awkward moments. We all feel them, and we can’t avoid them. But by naming it, diffusing it (with humor or just calling it out), and reality-checking our emotions and self-doubt vs. letting it dictate our actions can help us breeze through them with confidence and ease.

“Look for the evidence and the facts,” says Pryor. “You can also ask yourself, "What else is true?" For example, "I may feel awkward right now, but I'm also having this conversation and that's a huge step for me and worth being proud of."

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Disney continues to keep your childhood alive because alongside several other remakes of beloved titles, a live-action remake of the 2002's Lilo and Stitch is now also in the works. While filming was supposed to begin in April 2023, a costume trailer fire delayed it until May. Thankfully, it looks like the production recovered — and that we'll be seeing Lilo, Stitch, and Scrump soon. Check out the rest of Disney's upcoming live-action remakes for more news!

Here's everything we know about the live-action Lilo and Stitch coming in 2025!

Watch the Lilo & Stitch teaser now!

Whoever decided to make the iconic Disney castle a sandcastle? Genius. Stitch has always been one of my favorite Disney characters and this new live-action version definitely has just as much chaos as the OG.

Who is playing Lilo in the live-action movie?

Maia Kealoha/Instagram

Lilo & Stitch Cast

Lilo will be played by Maia Kealoha. The adorable character was voiced by Daveigh Chase in the original 2002 movie, and by Dakota Fanning in the sequel.

Who else is in the Lilo and Stitch cast?

Sydney Agudong/Instagram

In Lilo and Stitch, we'll see Sydney Agudong as Nani, Amy Hill as Tūtū, Kaipo Dudoit as David, Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles, and Tia Carrere (the original voice of Nani!!) as Mrs. Kekoa. We'll also have Chris Sanders as the voice of Stitch, Billy Magnussen voicing Pleakley, and Zach Galifianakis voicing Jumba.

When is the live-action Lilo and Stitch coming out?

Walt Disney Studios

Lilo & Stitch Release Date

We'll see the brand new movie on May 23, 2025. The PERFECT early summer flick.

Where are they filming the live-action Lilo & Stitch?

Jess Loiterton/Pexels

The new Lilo & Stitch is filmed in Oahu. The original animated film takes place on Kauai, but we'll have to wait and see if they change the story's setting for the live-action remake.

Is there a live-action Lilo and Stitch coming out?

Walt Disney Studios

Yes! According to The Hollywood Reporter, the remake of the animated film will be done with both live-action and CGI. Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich, who worked on the live-action Aladdin, are producing, and up-and-coming screenwriter Mike Van Waes, who has previously worked primarily in horror, wrote the script.

The live-action Lilo and Stitch remake is the latest in a long list of classic titles Disney is reimagining for modern audiences. Are you excited about Disney’s latest remake? Let us know @BritandCo and check out the latest news on Disney's Snow White.

This post has been updated.