Put Those Poinsettias in DIY Gold Leaf Flower Pots!

The holidays are in full swing here at Brit + Co: carols are blaring at Brit + Co SF, glitzy garland is hanging from just about every empty surface, and twinkling lights are strung over our office’s front door. Since poinsettias are starting to taking over the entryway to every grocery store, we couldn’t pass up a chance to add them to our own holiday decor by planting them in gold leaf pots, tricked out by yours truly.

Head to your local nursery to source the pots—we used terracotta clay pots for a more traditional Christmas vibe. Keep in mind that you might want to bring your poinsettias along for the ride so that you get the right size pot. Before you start, be sure to clean the outside of the pots—the gold won’t stick well to a dirty surface.

Materials:

– gold leaf

– gold leaf adhesive

– gold leaf sealer

– terracotta flower pots

– poinsettias

Tools:

– paint brush

– sponge brush

Instructions:

1. Clean the surface of your flower pot.

2. Paint a thin layer of gold leaf adhesive on the pot in the design you want. Let the adhesive dry for 20 minutes or until it becomes tacky.

3. Tear off some gold leaf and press it onto the adhesive.

4. Using cloth or a dry sponge brush, wipe away the remaining gold leaf.

5. Paint sealer over the gold. Make sure to stay on the gold as you will be able to see any sealer that gets on the pot.

6. Let dry, then plant your flowers in the pot.

First, decide on a few different golf leaf designs. We painted uneven lines on one, triangles on another (no surprise there—we love our geo prints!), and for our last one, we made the pot look weathered, as if it was antique with peeling gold. Once that’s settled, paint the adhesive in those shapes on the pot. For the more precise designs we used a thin paintbrush, and for the weathered look, we used a sponge brush since it should look a little splotchy. The instructions say to make a very thin layer, but we found that a slightly thicker layer worked better and created cleaner lines. Don’t let it pool or drip, but you should paint on at least two to three layers for maximum stickiness.

Let the adhesive dry for about 20 minutes. It should be tacky to the touch. Then it’s time to add some gold bling. Gently tear a piece of gold leaf and press it firmly onto the adhesive. It doesn’t need to be an exact fit since you’ll be brushing off the excess gold. When the gold has adhered to the pot, take a cloth or sponge brush and wipe away the extra gold. Save all the pieces that come off because you can still use it. It’s gold after all! Well, not really. But it’s gold colored, so it’s in high demand over here!

Now paint the sealer over the gold so that it doesn’t come off. Even though the sealer dries clear, it is visible on the terracotta, so make sure you keep it on the gold—use those skills you learned in kindergarten and stay in the lines ;)

Repeat that process for your two remaining designs.

Ta-dah! We’re glad we decided to go for the gold with this DIY. These rustic clay pots have never looked so glam! How regal does that triangle/crown design look?

Once the sealer is dry, plant your poinsettias in each pot and water them every few days to keep them happy. Our friends at the nursery gave us some pointers about watering the plants that we thought we’d share: poinsettias like water but not on their petals—you can place them in pan of water so their roots can soak, for about 10 minutes until the soil is damp. Then, bring ’em into the holiday mix.

These gilded pots are so pretty. They’d make great gifts, porch decorations, or centerpieces. Happy planting!

What holiday decorations are you DIY-ing this year? Share your plans and projects with us in the comments below!

If you’re looking to add a little luxury to your life, look no further. Apparently, there are gold plated, custom $15,000 vibrators out there — and And Just Like That’sSeema is a proud owner of one (Because of course she is!).

Seema’s golden vibrator is proudly made by “THE luxury pleasure brand” (their words), LELO, who are on a mission to offer “the experience of ecstasy without shame, the pleasure of discovering all the wonders of one’s body, arming our customers with confidence that leads to a fulfilled intimate life.” And we’re sure the custom-made, gold-clad Inez does just that. The g-spot vibrator is “defined by decadence and elegance…for those who understand you can’t put a price on pleasure.” But don’t worry — if gold isn’t to your liking, LELO also offers a stainless steel version for $7,900. Thank goodness.

Now, we certainly don’t have the Birkin-funded bank account to shell out a cool $15k. If you’re in the same boat (and also want to feel like luxury), we’ve got you covered. Here are our top Seema-approved pleasure toys that will guarantee a happy ending.

​LELO SONA 2 Travel ($99)

Prepare to escape on a journey of sexual wellness with a truly orgasmic companion. This petite travel vibrator is here to provide a clitorally mind-blowing experience anywhere you go in an elegant and discreet fashion.

​Nu Sensuelle Multi-Play Tulip ($99)

The Tulip is a multi-play vibrator that “cultivates your thirst for sexual pleasure,” delivering pinpoint stimulation for an abundance of erogenous zones. Equipped with ten speeds, five pulsations, and two independently controlled motors, this toy will leave you feeling good

plusOne travel bullet ($15)

One button, infinite orgasms. Don’t be fooled by its size — this toy packs a punch.

LELO DOT Cruise ($199)

The same company that brought you a $15k golden vibrator brings you this pinpoint clitoral stimulator. Thanks to LELO’s Infinite Loop™ technology, it moves in a unique elliptical motion with delicate precision, using the soft and bendable tip to provide a new type of sensation that will leave you wanting more.

​Unbound Ollie ($76)

It’s hard to go wrong with a classic wand. Whether you're a seasoned professional or sex toy newbie, this waterproof wand is ultra-reliable and ultra-satisfying.

Diosa Soft Touch by Bellesa ($179)

“Diosa’s dual action vibes hit your clit and g spot better than ever before — bringing you the highest quality blended orgasm you can find on the market.” But don’t just take their word for it, dozens of five star reviews will certainly convince you to click “add to cart.”

​Dame Pom ($99)

Dame means it when they call Pom “small vibe, big versatility.” For “first-time players looking for a place to start (and finish) to experienced pleasure-seekers craving flexibility and ease, Pom offers broad or targeted stimulation, plus a powerful motor with 5 intensities and 5 vibration patterns for anything you're in the mood for.”

​Nu Sensuelle Aluminium 60sx Amp ($100)

Experience the fusion of intense vibrations and gentle warmth with this versatile bullet. The Aluminium commands 12 vibration speeds, and combined with its aluminum composition ensures that its intensity and heating element withstand dampening, allowing for a “heavenly sensory experience.”

​Unbound Bender ($71)

This flexible internal vibrator caan hit all the right places. On the quieter side, this vibe is travel-friendly for those flying solo or with roomies.

​Dame Eva ($140)

Spice up partnered sex with this hands-free device that will blow your mind away. Designed for a secure and comfortable clitoral fit, Eva leaves your hands free so you can really be in the moment.

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

Header image courtesy of Wallshoppe, Craig Blakenhorn/Max,LELO.

Design by Olivia Taylor.

Get excited, because Trader Joe’s just brought back a seasonal flavor of one of their most beloved frozen desserts. Mini-sized and perfect for mid-day – or, let’s be real – midnight snacking, the Hold The Cone ice cream has gracefully returnedwith the taste of none other than coffee! Yum. TJ’s fans are already running to their nearest stores to grab a box (or two!), so you're definitely going to want to grab this limited-time item before it runs out.

Scroll on to discover more about the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones from Trader Joe’s.

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones category includes classics like strawberry, chocolate, and chocolate chip, but a newcomer just joined the lineup: coffee bean! The cones are truly a cult-favorite item amongst shoppers, including myself!

Trader Joe's

According to Trader Joe’s, the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones feature mini chocolate sugar cones lined with a “chocolatey” coating that are then packed with a rich and “strongly flavored” coffee bean ice cream.

Trader Joe's

Chocolate and coffee is a truly stunning food combo, so coffee and dessert lovers will adore this new iteration. Additionally, their small size makes them absolutely irresistible for snacking sessions – I could honestly eat the whole box in one sitting.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the returning find with their Instagram followers, and it was an instant hit among those who know and love ‘em, and people who have never tried the cones before.

“Yassss my favorite flavor!!!” one person commented.

“I will be buying two boxes tomorrow,” another declared.

“I don’t understand why this is a seasonal flavor!” someone else pointed out.

Reddit

One box of the Trader Joe’s Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones is just $4, and that guarantees you 8 mini-sized ice cream cones to share – or keep all to yourself.

You can find this new drop in between TJ’s freezer aisles next to so many more sweet finds like the Blood Orange Mochi and the Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream. I’m craving ice cream already!

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You read that right – the Phoebe Bridgers x Catbird jewelry collection is getting a restock on May 24.

The singer-songwriter's collaboration with Catbird Jewelry (that originally dropped in February and quickly sold out) features six enchanting charms that recall various themes and lyrics of her songs, and they are simply perfect. As part of the collaboration with Bridgers, the Catbird Giving Fund is donating $25,000 to The National Center for Transgender Equality in honor of their work in policy change. Supporting an amazing cause, and our favorite artist? We're in.

The collection flaunts a duo pair of charms. What better way to celebrate your bestie than splitting the pair with them? Whether you and your bestie are silver wearers, or more go-for-gold girlies, don't fret — Bridgers made sure both preferences are covered in the designs. Scroll for the collection and shop it when the pieces return on May 24. We're *dreaming* about wearing it.

www.catbirdnyc.com

Kissing Skull Friends Charms in Yellow Gold ($490)

We especially adore the Kissing Skull Friends Charms, which is the perfect gift to share between yourself and your closest Pheobe-fan friend.

www.catbirdnyc.com

Kissing Skull Friends Charms in Silver ($130)

The matching heart-shaped charms are also available in silver. The lyrics to "Garden Song" are etched on the backs of the charms, adding a sentimental touch we just need in our life.

www.catbirdnyc.com

Give You The Moon Charm in Yellow Gold ($398)

It's name hailing from one of Phoebe's sad girl anthems, "Moon Song", this sleek moonstone charm also boasts her handwriting etched on the back.

www.catbirdnyc.com

Give You The Moon Charm in Silver ($198)

Wear this beautiful charm on a necklace chain, or on a bracelet.

www.catbirdnyc.com

I Want To Go Home Charm in Yellow Gold ($290)

The dainty chains that dangle from this UFO-shaped charm are so sweet, and the fact that it's topped with a pearl adds to the *wow* factor.

www.catbirdnyc.com

I Want To Go Home Charm in Silver ($98)

Pop the charm on an earring hoop, and you've got your new favorite earring that'll also make you think of Phoebe each time you wear it.​

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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.

With an acting career that spans over four decades, Tom Hanks (born Thomas Jeffrey Hanks) is revered as one of the most beloved and well-respected actors in Hollywood. Whether he’s portraying a lovable man-child in Big or voicing a trustworthy cowboy sheriff doll in Toy Story, the now 68-year-old actor and filmmaker has managed to capture the hearts of audiences around the world, solidifying himself as an American cultural icon. Aside from having many prestigious awards under his belt, Hanks’ impressive acting catalog includes a movie or two that is an absolute must-watch. (Ahem, I’ve watched You’ve Got Mail more than a dozen times, but who’s counting?)

From Cast Away to Apollo 13, here’s a list of the best Tom Hanks movies everyone should watch at least once—if you haven’t already!

1. Forrest Gump

Paramount Pictures

One of the most memorable quotes from this widely-praised classic comes from Forrest Gump himself, where the titular character repeats a phrase often used by his late mother: “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”

That’s just one of the inspirational lessons you will take away throughout the film. Serving as an adaption of Winston Groom’s 1986 novel of the same title, Forrest Gump follows an Alabama man who doesn’t let his intellectual shortcomings stand in his way. From fighting on the front lines of the Vietnam War to captaining a shrimp boat, Forrest Gump is living his life to the fullest.

But he yearns to be with his childhood love, Jenny, who goes on to live a troubling life. Not only was Forrest Gump a box office success (garnering a whopping $678.2 million worldwide during its theatrical run, btw) but it was admired by critics and fans alike, earning an 8.8 out of 10 rating on IMDb and a 75 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. While this Tom Hanks movie has faced some controversy over the years, its redeeming qualities make it one of the most iconic movies of the 90s.

2. Toy Story

Disney

Woody is the true definition of best friend goals. Woody’s unwavering fearlessness and ability to go to infinity and beyond for Andy (AKA his owner) and his fellow toys is quite endearing. It’s hard to picture anyone other than Tom Hanks voicing the iconic vintage doll. From the moment Woody is first introduced on screen, Hanks brings a story of charm and je ne sais quoi to the character that can’t be replicated.

While the Toy Story movie franchise consists of four movies (with a fifth movie currently in the works, ICYMI), the first Toy Story movie will always be a fan favorite, earning an 8.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb and a perfect 100 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. Philadelphia

TriStar

Moving, poignant and unforgettable. Those are the three words that describe Hank’s phenomenal (and don’t forget Oscar-winning!) performance in 1993’s law drama Philadelphia. Meet Andrew Beckett, a lawyer working at a prestigious law firm in Philadelphia. In a desperate attempt to save his career, he keeps his HIV diagnosis and homosexuality a secret from his co-workers.

However, an employee discovers his secret, and as a result, Beckett is let go from the law firm. Angered by the firm’s decision, Beckett enlists the help of a Black lawyer named Joe Miller (played by Denzel Washington) and sues his former employer for discrimination.

From the talented ensemble cast to the film’s underlying message of social injustice and prejudice, Philadelphia is an absolute must-watch from beginning to end. And the ratings speak for themselves: Philadelphia has a 7.7/10 on IMDb and 81 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

4. ​Big

20th Century Fox

If you ask me, Big is like the big brother to 13 Going on 30 and 17 Again. Directed by Penny Marshall (who you may recognize from the TV sitcom Laverne & Shirley!), Big follows a 12-year-old boy named Josh Baskin, who wishes he was “big.”

One day, he wakes up as an adult. However, Josh longs for the days of childhood. But what makes this film so great? Hanks brings such a childlike innocence to the role that you can’t help but smile whenever he appears on screen. Whether he’s playing with toys or gleefully playing a sonnet on a life-size piano keyboard with his feet, Big makes you feel an enchanting sense of nostalgia, where you can think back to a time when life was so carefree and being a child wasn’t a distant memory. Also, it has a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb and a whopping 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

5. Sleepless in Seattle

TriStar

As someone who has watched Sleepless in Seattle more than once, I can’t say enough how much this timeless rom-com deserves a spot on this list. From the undeniable chemistry between Hanks and Meg Ryan to the talented ensemble cast, this is a movie I put on whenever I’m in the mood for a genuine, heartwarming romance. What’s not to love?

Following the death of his wife, Sam Baldwin and his son move to Seattle for a fresh start. One night, Jonah calls into a radio station to find his dad a new wife. While driving late at night, a journalist named Annie Reed is listening to the same radio segment and she falls for Sam, but—get this—she’s engaged.

Unable to get him off her mind, Annie takes a leap of faith and writes to Sam, asking him to meet up on top of the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day. If that doesn’t scream romance, then I don’t know what does. Though Sleepless in Seattle received a 6.8/10 rating on IMDb and 75 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, it remains one of my fave Nora Ephron films and Tom Hanks’ swoon-worthy portrayal of Sam is chef's kiss.

6. ​Cast Away

DreamWorks

If you were questioning Tom Hanks’ range as an actor, just put on Cast Away (which has a 7.8/10 rating on IMDb and 88 percent on Rotten Tomatoes) one time and you’ll see for yourself. I mean, the man is acting alongside a volleyball named Wilson for most of the movie, for crying out loud.

Hanks is a force to be reckoned with in this film, where he plays a FedEx executive who survives a plane crash and becomes stranded on a deserted island. As he fights to survive, he dreams of one day reuniting with a person he holds near and dear to his heart: his soon-to-be fiancée.

7. ​Saving Private Ryan

DreamWorks

The first time I watched Saving Private Ryan was in Social Studies class. Middle school, to be exact. Set during WWII, Saving Private Ryan follows Captain John Miller and his regiment as they embark on a journey to locate Private James Ryan, whose three brothers have been killed in combat.

This movie will stick with you after the screen fades to black and the end credits roll. And Hanks’ ability to capture Captain John Miller’s sincerity and valiantness with so much authenticity was nothing short of spectacular. But that’s not the only reason why it deserves a spot on everyone’s watch list. While it’s certainly not an easy watch, this film tells an impactful yet inspiring story about resilience, loss, and the disastrous conditions of war. Not to mention, it has an impressive 8.6/10 rating on IMDb and 94 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Need I say more?

8. ​Catch Me If You Can

DreamWorks

What do you get when you put Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio in a crime-action comedy? Catch Me If You Can, that’s what! Serving as a live adaptation of Frank Abagnale Jr.’s autobiographical book of the same name, Catch Me If You Can revolves around the young conman, who becomes the most successful bank robber in the history of the U.S. before the age of 19.

Frank has done it all: he’s worked as a doctor, a lawyer, and as a co-pilot for a major airline. In a cunning game of cat and mouse, FBI Agent Carl Hanratty (played by Hanks) tries to bring Frank to justice, only for Frank to be one step ahead. It garnered an 8.1/10 rating on IMDb and a 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. And don’t even get me started on Hanks and DiCaprio being the ultimate on-screen duo.

9. ​Apollo 13

Universal Pictures

“Houston, we have a problem!” If you heard this iconic phrase before, I bet you didn’t know that it came from the 1995 docu-drama Apollo 13. Aside from its stellar ensemble cast, the film was also praised for its accurate retelling of the Apollo 13 lunar mission.

The year is 1970. A crew of three astronauts boarded a NASA spacecraft in hopes of landing on the moon. When an oxygen tank explodes during their mission, the crew must find a way to survive and make it safely back to Earth. Not only is it regarded as one of the best movies of all time, but it also received praise from critics, earning a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb and a 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

10. Splash

Buena Vista Pictures

Last but not least: Splash. Sure, the plot may be a bit cheesy. But it has everything that makes an '80s rom-com great. Strong chemistry? Check. Quirky humor? Oh, there’s a lot of that! Splash follows a man who's reunited with a mermaid that saved him from drowning 20 years ago.

Now, as an adult, he falls in love with the mermaid after she ventures onto dry land to find him. However, their perfect love story is cut short when a scheming scientist tries to expose her secret to the world. Now, I know what you’re thinking: This movie has a 6.3/10 rating on IMDb and it somehow received a 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes (with an audience rating of 65 percent.) But Splash is an overall good time. If you’re looking for a chuckle or two, you’ll get it with Splash. (And can I just say that Tom Hanks is so charming and funny in this film?!)

What’s your favorite Tom Hanks movie? Did we miss one on the list? If so, let us know in the comments and read up on the 10 Cringy 90s Movies That Would Never Be Made Today for more!

I don't know whether to treat my period acne as guests or annoying pests. I'm familiar with balancing my hormones, but even that seems to be a great mystery when painful breakouts appear on my forehead or chin. Even relying on a face wash fromFarmacy Beautyisn't always a match for their stubbornness.

But esthetician Danielle Gronich wants to dispel the idea hormonal acne's impossible to treat. Plus, she's exposing the truth about ingredients that could be causing flareups 👀. Known as The Acne Guru, Gronich has over 10 years of experience treating cystic acne, and is the founder of both the San Diego Acne ClinicCLEARSTEM Skincare.

Ready for our acne to be in great hands?

Scroll to learn The Acne Guru's top 4 tips for treating stubborn hormonal breakouts

What's the biggest myth about hormonal acne?

Taylor Nicole/Dupe Photos

I love relying on TikTok to find cute matcha drink recipes to remake, but I know some of the skincare advice shared on the app shouldn't be followed. But there's one thing in particular Gronich isn't a fan of.

"The biggest myth about hormonal acne is that you have to be on birth control in order to solve it. This myth is all over social media, but I believe it comes from the medical world not really understanding hormones and having to rely on prescriptions to override them."

Would you believe me if I told you she's not wrong? I've been on birth control off and on since I was teenager, but I've yet to see it get to the root of my acne problem!

What are different types of hormonal acne?

Anna Nekrashevich/Pexels

Did you know not all hormonal acne stems directly from your period? According to Gronich, "there are many different triggers" for it with "the most common ones being stress and high sugar or processed foods" because they "impact our hormones." However, that's not all!

"Also extremely common is PCOS, estrogen dominance, progestin-related acne from certain birth control controls like the hormonal IUD, and then there is another type of hormonal acne caused by the vitamins and supplements we take," she adds. Going a step further, Gronich says "certain vitamins and supplements can spike testosterone or interfere with other enzyme processes that throw off our hormones."

I guess this is why my doctor always recommends I consult with her before taking random tablets so I'm not disrupting anything in my body!

Why do I see breakouts on my forehead, cheeks, or chin sometimes?

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Remember the face mapping tool we were introduced to years ago? There's truth to them which is why Gronich created a Pore-Clogging Ingredient Checker for you to get more insight about what you're putting on your skin. But back to what your breakouts are trying to tell you!

Given Gronich's experience, she knows "different areas of the face can represent different parts of the body." She sees "hormonal acne most on the chin and jawline" because "we have the deepest hair follicles there." Want to know what this means for our body's reaction to certain foods and products?

"Dairy has insulin-like growth factor hormone so many people who consume dairy regularly get hormonal acne right on their chin. Some people are taking too much vitamin B 12 which throws off their hormones and you see it on the jawline," she says.

Then there's our relationship with using a ton of beauty products. Gronich is firm about telling "people to remove pore-ingredients from their skin care ad makeup" because "acne that's all over your face" is the direct result of "something that's being put all over your face." Not being aware of what we're using "will flare with our PMS cycle, so we accidentally think it's hormonal," accodring to her. But nope!

"...it can also just be caused by those hidden pore-clogging ingredients," she states.

Okay, how do I treat what feels like hormonal acne?

Yan Krukau/Pexels

No matter your skin type, there's a few ingredients you can use to treat hormonal acne over time. "People can treat their hormonal acne with mandelic acid, and spot treatments like sulfur," Gronich shares. She also says, "Benzoyl peroxide can be a useful tool as well but must be used carefully so as not to over strip the skin. Don't take this advice lightly because I accidentally created more issues when I used this haphazardly.

If you don't want to use Benzoyl peroxide, she says you try "ice rolling." The amount of times you can use this tool depends on your skin type. "...if you are oily, you can use these treatments every day."

How do I treat dark spots left over from hormonal acne

Ron Lach/Pexels

Gronich's tips for treating dark spots are making me rethink my shower habits because I've been doing the opposite of what's considered helpful for my skin. She says, "Avoid using hot water in the shower as it continually inflames the skin and further damages the delicate scar tissue!" Furthermore, you can "use anti-inflammatory products," according to her.

"Serums that contain hyaluronic acid can be very helpful, as well as gentle massaging to activate circulation which stimulates our wound healing response in the skin. Red light therapy can also be fantastic for scarring, along with professional micro needling treatments," she remarks.

The best things you and I can do are being mindful of what we eat, supplements we take, and what we put on our faces. Also, a lot of patience goes a long way when treating hormonal acne.

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