13 Halloween Party Decorations That Are Spooky-Chic

A scarecrow with a pumpkin head.

You can always count on a Halloween party to be fun, but an elevated affair? Not so much. Orange and black are not the bestest of friends, and most of the decorations you find in stores are cheap plastic if you aren't able splurge. And though exceptions do exist, who can really throw it down for party decorations?

Fortunately, there are ways to spook your place out without terrorizing your budget. Below, find 13 Halloween decor ideas to trick out your home for a spooky-chic party.

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#spookyscaryskeletons #spookyseason #halloween #decor #homedecor #diy #diyproject #diydecor #spookyszn #spookyvibes #craft

Gilded Skeleton

A plastic skeleton — or, you know, whatever bones you have on hand — gets a glitzy upgrade with gold metallic spray paint. Don't be afraid to dress her up and seat her in your nicest chair. (via @anmaynard)

www.instagram.com

𝕍𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕟𝕚𝕔𝕒|ℍ𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝔻𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕣|𝔻𝕀𝕐 on Instagram: "“I am all in a sea of wonders. I doubt; I fear; I think strange things, which I dare not confess to my own soul." Bram Stoker — Happy Wednesday friends sharing a sneak peek of my Halloween mantel — #thriftinandpickin #halloweendecor #halloweendecorations #spookydecor #booksandnooksdecor #vignetteswelove #mantelideas #manteldecor #diyhomedecor #holidaydecor #bhg #cottagesandbungalows #lmbpresets #creepyhome #creepyhomedecor #homedecor"

Ghostly Mantel

Ditch orange and black for this ghostly fireplace. All you need to do is complement the skull- and skeleton-clad mantel with a few delicately strung chains, dried Spanish moss, and white candles. (via @rockrosehome)

www.tiktok.com

How-to style a #halloween dining table💀 #halloweentiktok #halloweentutorial #halloweentok #halloweentable #halloweendecor #halloweenhomedecor #halloweendecorations #halloweendecoratingideas #witchtok #witchtiktok

All Dressed In Black

Set off a blonde wooden table in black, black, and more black. Pro tip: If pitch-black foliage just won't grow in your garden of death, spray paint some eucalyptus. (via @sbkliving)

www.instagram.com

shopsweetlulu on Instagram: "It’s time to switch those mantels to everything spooky! 👻 Taking a page from @threadmama_story and her amaaazing boho twist on a Halloween home! 🎃🧡"

Pretty in Pastel

Okay, not the most frightful party decor, but certainly some of the prettiest. Here, plastic dollar-store pumpkins become planters, peachy candles play nicely with porcelain doll pumpkins, and a trail of spiders bring just the right amount of creep factor. (via @shopsweetlulu)

www.tiktok.com

Fun simple Halloween table setting ##holidaytable##halloweentable##homedecor##halloween2022##halloweendiy##halloweenhome

Halloween Neutrals

If you're throwing a Halloween dinner party and want to keep it neutral, try mixing woven and wicker decor with plenty of white — and a few spooky shapes. (via @rockrosehome)

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Katherine on Instagram: "Time to bring out the #maskedancestors! I might add a few actual ancestors of mine to the mix this year. This fellow belongs to someone else’s family, but, since he’s hanging over my mantel, we’ve adopted him (and several others) as our own. You never know what’s going to turn up around here for #myvintagehalloween... . . . #vintagehalloween #halloweenmantel #vintagefinds #vintagedecor #halloweendecor #seasonaldecor #mypastperfectfind #myweatheredwares #weatheredandwonderful #vintagevignette #salvagedcommunity #simpleandstill #rusticgamestrong #vintagephoto"

Masked Portrait

Stick a mask on an old black-and-white portrait to create a haunted moment. (via @lalunedesigns)

www.tiktok.com

#halloween #halloweentable #fyp #OverwatchMe #foryoupage #foryou #halloween2021 #halloweenlook #halloweenishere #halloweenathome #halloweentablescape #halloweentabledecor #halloweentablesetting #jackolantern #plasticjackolantern #halloweenidea #halloween2022 #spookyseason

Pumpkin Risers

Cheap pumpkins turn into chic risers for a dessert table with a little spray paint and glue. And they can do it well before midnight. (via @mylittlewhitebarn)

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Katherine on Instagram: "I know people say they don’t decorate for Halloween, but getting in the spirit doesn’t have to mean witch hats or ten foot skeletons or something bleeding or the girl from The Ring standing in the corner. A little subtle spooky can be pulled together with bits you’ve already got around the house. Pull that coral from a beachy summer display, put it under a glass cloche and it’s suddenly a little bit “Snape’s classroom”. Old books, candlesticks, a baby pumpkin from the produce section... all parts of a cabinet of curiosities. Don’t get me wrong, Halloween is by far my favorite holiday, so the family room mantle is a total jumble of lit, vintage, pumpkin blow molds. But I’m all for using vintage to create an eerie scene, no Ring girl to be found. . #myvintagehalloween . . . #cabinetofcuriosities #vintagefinds #vintagehalloween #vintagehalloweendecor #fleamarketstyle #fleamarketfinds #fleamarketdecor #booksandnooksdecor #ouijaboard #darkacademiaaesthetic #authenticvintage #bhgcelebrate #countrylivingmag #myfleamarketstyle #livedinstylemag #halloweendecor #halloweenvintage"

Ouija Board Bookcase

Tuck an old Ouija board into a bookcase for some subtle spookiness. Bonus points for placing a stuffed raven in front of it. (via @lalunedesigns)

www.instagram.com

Nicki Bamford-Bowes on Instagram: "THE SECRET IS OUT. Watch this if you want to know how I created our Halloween mantel. I had so many DMs yesterday about people wanting to know how to achieve this look but not knowing where or how to start. So I have trawled through the archives and pieced together these unseen clips from last year. I hope they help and inspire. I would love to know! I would also love to see your editions, so tag me and I will share this week on Stories x #halloweenmantle#halloweendecorations#spookydecorations#seasonalstyling#styling#stylist#interiorstylist#fireplacelove#fireplacemantel#fireplacedecor#myhomevibe#myhomestyle#stylingtheseasons#mantelstyling#productstylist#productstyling#myinteriorstyletoday#interiordesign#interiorsinspo#interiordesigners#interiorstylin#halloweeninspiration"

Haunted Hearth

This isn't for casual Halloween decorators, but if you're proficient in floral installations or not afraid to try one, let this showstopper inspire you. (via @andtheywentwild)

www.instagram.com

@halloween_decor_ on Instagram: "A man's best friend 💀💀💀 #halloweendecorations #halloweendecor #halloween #halloween2016 #spooky #fall #autumn"

Gentleman Skeleton

While the most obvious takeaway from this scene is that dog skeletons exist, have you considered dressing up a human skeleton in a top hat and overcoat? It gives off an elevated, I-died-like-this look. (via @halloween+decor_)

www.instagram.com

@halloween_decor_ on Instagram: "💀🕸👻💀🕸👻💀 #halloweendecorations #halloweendecor #halloween #halloween2016 #decor #fall #autumn #skull"

Skull Vase

Dress up a table with this easy DIY. All you need a glass vase or jar, some Halloween candy, and a few mini skulls. Throw in a few glittery spiders for some creepy, crawly je ne sai qua. (via @halloween_decor_)

www.tiktok.com

Reply to @bimbomeetsemo ask and ye shall receive 🥴 👻 #cocktails #bartender #bartending #spooky #halloween

Drinkable Bubbling Cauldron

If you prefer your spooky punch without the dry ice (trust us — you do), put a glass container in the middle of a cauldron and surround it with dry ice. (via @barchemistry)

www.tiktok.com

The perfect punch bowl addition 🦷🧛 #halloweenishere #halloween2022 #halloweeninspo #halloweendrinks #falldrinks #amazonfinds #fundrinkideas #amazonhalloween #halloweenmocktail #mocktailrecipe #cocktailrecipie #halloweenathome #halloweendiy

Teeth Ice Cubes

Nothing says gross but intentional like a pink set of teeth (and gums) inside your cocktail. (via @genuinefred)

Featured image: Pexels/Charles Parker

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more spooky-good Halloween ideas, and tag us with your creations.

The absolute best part about Valentine’s Day is the heart-shapedeverything. And if there’s one place that truly knows how to do cute home decor right, it’s Anthropologie. The retailer just dropped their Valentine’s Day home decor collection, and all of it is super cute for celebrating the season.

Scroll on for the cutest Anthropologie Valentine’s Day decor pieces to shop now!

Anthropologie

Red Heart Icon Juice Glass

Anthropologie's iconic juice glasses come in all sorts of designs, but this red heart one fits the lovey-dovey holiday perfectly. You can also shop ones with little lips and winged hearts to recall V-Day!

Anthropologie

Capri Blue Volcano Valentine Jar Candle

This bougie candle smells like heaven with notes of tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons, limes, and exotic mountain greens. This Valentine's Day version includes a stunning red jar topped off with a lid that reads "XO."

Anthropologie

Scalloped Bow Coir Doormat

Bows definitely encapsulate the cutesy feeling of Valentine's Day. This doormat with a lovely scalloped design will instantly make any guest feel welcome around Feb. 14!

Anthropologie

Conversation Heart Plant Stakes

Show your greenery some extra TLC with these sturdy ceramic stakes that read like those classic conversation heart candies!

Anthropologie

Recycled Glass Heart Bud Vase

After all, you're gonna need a vessel for this year's Valentine's bouquet!

Anthropologie

The Bistro Tile Stoneware Dessert Plate: Valentine's Edition

This cute dessert plate with motifs of hearts and cupid's bows will be the perfect platter for the V-Day desserts you whip up this year.

Anthropologie

Metallic Bow Striker Match Holder

Lighters are so last year – light up your favorite V-Day candle with this match + striker set shaped adorably like a lil' bow!

Anthropologie

Heart Cut Glass Candle Holder

Set the mood even more with some warm candle light – these heart-shaped holders will definitely help you out.

Anthropologie

Claudette Frame

Put a picture of you and your Valentine in this adorably on-theme pink and red frame, and you've got yourself an unforgettable V-Day gift!

Anthropologie

Handpainted Amorette Heart Icon Coupe Glass

Time to pour up all those tasty Valentine's Day cocktail recipes! This year's concoction will look so cute in this coupe glass.

Anthropologie

Amor Metallic Heart Table Lamp

This heart-shaped lamp is definitely a splurge when it comes to Anthropologie's Valentine's Day decor, but if you can really see yourself setting it up year after year, it's so worth it.

Anthropologie

Red Rose Dog Felt Critter

This adorable lil' felt dog figure is such a mood for V-Day.

Anthropologie

grantLOVE x Amber Sakai Candle Holder & Chaparral Candle Set

This cute candle set comes complete with a 24K gold-plated brass holder that truly makes it feel luxe as ever. It'd make an amazing V-Day gift!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more cute home decor pieces!

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

In the midst of award show season, everything points to Oscar Sunday. The show, which celebrates achievement in film, is my most-important night of the year and my friends and I go all out. Themed snacks, ballots, and very loud celebrations when our favorite stars and movies win. But before the big day comes, we need to watch all the movies up for awards!

Here's where you can stream all the biggest movies of the year before the Oscars airs on March 2, 2025.

Dune: Part Two — Stream On Max

Niko Tavernise/Warner Bros. Pictures

This sequel opens after Paul has joined the Fremen, and after he escaped the murderous Harkonnen family. Now he's out to avenge his father — and come to terms with his destiny as a savior.

Dune: Part Two is on Max and stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgård, Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Charlotte Rampling, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Lea Seydoux, and Christopher Walken.

Twisters — Stream on Peacock

Universal Pictures

Twisters follows former storm chaser Kate. When she's roped back into chasing by her friend Javi, Kate meets social media star Tyler, and comes face-to-face with the biggest storms ever.

Twisters is on Peacock and stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Brandon Perea, Anthony Ramos, Maura Tierney, Sasha Lane, Harry Hadden-Paton, David Corenswet, Daryl McCormack, Tunde Adebimpe, Katy O’Brian, Nik Dodani, Kiernan Shipka, and Paul Scheer.

Emilia Pérez — Stream On Netflix

Netflix

In this musical thriller, Cartel leader Emilia enlists the help of Rita, a lawyer, to help her retire from a life of crime and live out her truth.

Emilia Pérez is on Netflix and stars Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, and Edgar Ramírez.

Wicked — Rent On Amazon Prime

Universal Pictures

But this year's biggest musical is definitely Wicked. This alternative origin story for the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good follows the college roommates as they come of age in Oz, and learn the Wizard isn't all as he seems. I can't for Part 2 this year!

Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, and Marissa Bode.

The Substance — Stream On MUBI

MUBI

Elisabeth Sparkle gets fired from her own fitness TV show after she turns 50. But she seems to find a solution when she acquires The Substance...and creates a younger version of herself. The absolutely crazy thriller was one of the buzziest movies of the year — and won Demi Moore her first Golden Globe!

The Substance is on MUBI and stars Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.

Challengers — Stream On Prime Video

Amazon MGM Studios

In Challengers, former tennis star Tashi coaches her husband Art, but her job gets way more complicated when he ends up in a match against his former best friend (and her ex) Patrick.

Challengers is on Prime Video and MGM+ and stars Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O'Connor.

Inside Out 2 — Stream On Disney+

Walt Disney Studios

Riley's becoming a teenager in Inside Out 2, which means Joy, Sadness, Anger, Envy, Fear, and Disgust have to make way for new emotions like Anxiety and Envy. What could go wrong?

Inside Out 2 is on Disney+ and stars Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Ayo Edebiri, Maya Hawke, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Paul Walter Hauser, Amy Poehler, Lewis Black, Phyllis Smith, Kensington Tallman, Lilimar, Diane Lane, and Kyle MacLachlan.

Deadpool & Wolverine — Stream On Disney+

Marvel Studios

Deadpool teams up with the one and only Wolverine (well, after meeting dozens throughout the multiverse) after learning the TVA plans on destroying his timeline and his loved ones.

Deadpool & Wolverine is on Disney+ and stars Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, Stefan Kapičić, Brianna Hildebrand, Shioli Kutsuna, Owen Wilson, Matthew Macfadyen, Emma Corrin, Jennifer Garner, Chris Evans, Wesley Snipes, Channing Tatum, Blake Lively, and Dafne Keen.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice  — Stream On Max

Warner Bros.

Lydia Deetz and her daughter Astrid return to Winter River after a family tragedy, and wind up enlisting Beetlejuice's help (if you can even call it that) after Astrid opens a portal to the afterlife.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is on Max and stars Jenna Ortega, Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, Willem Dafoe, and Justin Theroux.

Gladiator 2 — Rent On Amazon Prime

Aidan Monaghan/Paramount Pictures

After the death of his wife, Lucius becomes a gladiator with a mission: take revenge on the general responsible for her death.

Gladiator 2 is on Amazon Prime and stars Paul Mescal, Connie Nielsen, Fred Hechinger, Joseph Quinn, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington.

Anora — Rent On Amazon Prime

Neon

When sex worker Anora and politician's son Vanya tie the knot so Vanya can get a green card and escape his father, their lives totally flip upside down — and not just because Vanya's family sets out to end the marriage.

Anora is on Amazon Prime and stars Mikey Madison, Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov, Karren Karagulian, Vache Tovmasyan, and Aleksei Serebryakov.

Conclave — Stream On Peacock

Focus Features

This movie takes place during a conclave to choose the next pope, and is totally unprepared for the scandals he uncovers along the way.

Conclave is on Peacock and stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini.

A Real Pain — Rent On Amazon Prime

Searchlight Pictures

Two Jewish American cousins who reconnect and embark on a Holocaust tour in Poland after the death of their grandmother. This was one of my favorite movies of the year and I couldn't recommend it more!

A Real Pain is on Amazon Prime and stars Jesse Eisenberg, Kieran Culkin, Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey, Kurt Egyiawan, Liza Sadovy, and Daniel Oreskes.

The Wild Robot — Rent On Amazon Prime

Universal Pictures

Robot Roz crashes on a deserted island and quickly adopts an orphaned gosling, teaching him to fly and prepping him for the annual migration. Prepare to cry, like, a lot!!

The Wild Robot is on Amazon Prime and stars Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Catherine O'Hara, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, and Mark Hamill.

Alien: Romulus — Stream On Hulu

20th Century Studios

A group of young space colonizers are tasked with exploring an abandoned space station and must confront the most terrifying life form in the universe.

Alien: Romulus is on Hulu and stars Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu.

Stay tuned for the official 2025 Oscar nominations and check out 25 New TV Shows You NEED To Watch In 2025!

Buying my first home was a crash course in the unexpected. There’s so much you don’t know until you’re in the thick of it — piles of (actually important) paperwork, surprise maintenance and repairs, hidden costs that can throw off your budget, and navigating regulations you didn’t even realize existed. And through it all, there’s the excitement of finally owning a space you can truly call your own. As a home writer and enthusiast, I couldn’t wait to redesign my space in my cozy Scandi-style aesthetic, but I also had to budget for a new water heater, a new roof eventually, and other non-cosmetic but critical upgrades.

To help you on your journey, here are 13 essential tips every first-time homeowner should know.

Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Prepare for Hidden Costs

Beyond your mortgage, you'll need to pay property taxes, which can run in the multiple thousands each year, home owner's insurance, and maintenance for things like your HVAC (heating and cooling system), water heater (which can last up to 15 years vs. 8-10 with regular maintenance), and roof. You'll also have to pay for utilities, like water and gas, that you didn't have to as a renter. Make sure to set aside 1 to 3 percent of your home’s purchase price annually for unexpected repairs like plumbing issues or roof leaks. You also have to pay for your trash pickup and recycling. Create a budget to avoid surprises and save for a rainy day – that hopefully doesn't lead to a leaky roof.;)

Photo by Andres Ayrton

Understand Your Home Insurance Policy

It's important to know what your homeowner's insurance covers, especially if you live in an earthquake and wildfire-prone area like me. Consider additional coverage for floods or earthquakes or other location-specific concerns.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Create A Maintenance Schedule

Learn the basics of your home’s plumbing, electrical system, and HVAC, like where they are! Locate the main water shut-off valve and circuit breaker box, and create a maintenance schedule for tasks like changing HVAC filters (every three months recommended), cleaning gutters (every spring and fall), and servicing your appliances, plus when the warranties run out.

Shutterstock

Have Recommended Contractors On Hand

There's nothing worse than having a plumbing problem and not actually having a plumber on call to fix it. NextDoor is a great resource for finding recommended electricians, plumbers, and other contractors to fix things that you can't. My neighbors knew exactly who to recommend and it was easy to connect with the right people (and avoid the wrong ones).

Photo by Clarisse Meyer on Unsplash

Get To Know Your Neighbors

Before buying, walk around the neighborhood to get the vibe. I wish I had chosen a neighborhood with more kids on the block. On the flip side, we are in a very quiet neighborhood! Post-sale, building relationships with your neighbors can help you create a sense of community – and it feels good to know you have extra eyes on your home when you're away. My neighbors have my phone number and we text each other when we're heading out of town and need packages taken inside. We also share goodies from our gardens, have an annual block party, and have friendly chats on the way to our mailboxes. Welcome to 'burb life!

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Take Renovations Slowly

It's easy to get so excited about renovating and decorating your new home, but I highly recommend taking your time with renovations. I bought a major fixer upper and rushed getting it all done so that it was livable, but now I wish I had been more thoughtful about certain choices, and bargain-shopped a little more. Some things definitely could have waited. Live in your home for a while, get to know it better, before making major changes. Your budget will thank you!

Photo by Ksenia Chernaya

Invest In Good Repair Tools

This is a good time to invest in a quality toolkit (hammer, screwdriver set, drill, and tape measure...) and hand drill because there will be many times in your role as a homeowner that you'll need all of the above and you'll be grateful you have them on hand.

Photo by Helena Lopes

Check Your Safety Features

Make sure to install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, and note on your calendar to change the batteries every 6-12 months. If you decide it's right for you, you'll want to install a home security system too.

Photo By: Kaboompics.com

Keep a File for Important Documents

There is so much paperwork your first year of homeownership. Store warranty information, receipts, and maintenance records in an easily accessible place. If you're renovating, there are also permits you'll need to keep on file. And of course, you'll want your title, deed and mortgage docs in a secure place that you'll remember!

Photo by Kindel Media

Know Local Regulations

Speaking of permits, before I had the windows replaced in my home, I checked with the county office online to make sure I didn't need a permit to do so. Turns out, the county had different rules than the city (I had moved from the county limits to the city limits), which did require a permit. I will spare you the story of an inspector coming by just as we were installing the last window! This is all to say, make sure to check local ordinances or your HOA (Homeowner Association) rules that might impact any changes, like fencing, landscaping and upgrades, you decide to make to your property.

Photo by Samson Katt

Improve Your Energy Efficiency Early

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, windows, even solar if it makes sense for your home, can help reduce your utility bills and overtime pay for themselves.

Photo by Gustavo Fring

Plan for Landscaping

Yard maintenance requires you to invest in tools or services for mowing, planting, and upkeep. If you consider the cost of your time, it's often cheaper to hire someone to do regular yard maintenance. Also, as you upgrade your landscaping, consider choosing low-maintenance plants and trees. After adding just a small bit of lawn and irrigation to maintain it, my water bill was a bit of a shocker!

Photo by Dane Deaner on Unsplash

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

Either find a tax expert who can help you with your taxes, or research deductions or credits available to homeowners, such as mortgage interest or energy-efficiency upgrades. It's money you can use to cross things off your inevitable wish list!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more home advice and inspo!

One of the deep questions I asked myself on January 1 was, "How do you want to feel as a stay-at-home mom who's also a part of the WFH crew?" The first word that popped into my mind wasn't a full sentence; it was 'ease.'

I've spent the greater part of my life as a people pleaser who also has a Type A personality when inspired during work hours. There's nothing wrong with being ambitious, but I don't always know when to turn it off which leads to burnout. Does this sound like you?

If so, we're not doing this anymore bestie. This year we're changing the way we approach work so we're not on a first-name basis with stress 10 months out of the year. I've got tips from the following bada** ladies who know how imperative it is to not let work drain us:

  • Kayla Baum, CEO & Founder of Twello (a workplace wellness company!)
  • Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin, Founders at The Business Reboot

Keep scrolling for 8 expert-approved tips for how to make work less stressful — & trust me, you need these.

Karin Kaufer

1. Actually Use Your Planner In 2025

We're not buying pretty planners just so they can collect dust on our desks or coffee tables anymore. Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin want you to get serious because they feel "it starts with planning." They don't mean the kind you eventually flake on either.

"Effective planning is key to maintaining balance and reducing burnout. Whether you're mapping out tasks, meetings, or events, dedicated time for preparation ensures focus and reduces stress," they say. In other words, "the more intentional you are in planning, the more productive you'll be," according to them.

Ever since I've been blocking out my tasks by hour in planner, I've been able to get more done without feeling overwhelmed by splitting my time between writing and being in mommy mode. Frazier and Pepin suggest that you "set weekly planning sessions" that consist of "30-60 minutes each weekend to map out your upcoming week."

This eventually "reduces decision fatigue, fosters a sense of control, and helps you start Monday with clarity and purpose," they add. Yes, this is a sign that you'll be breaking up with the dreaded 'Sunday scaries' if you follow their advice. "You'll feel proactive and grounded rather than reacting to the week as it unfolds," they agree.

Zen Chung

2. Embrace A "Fake Commute" When Working From Home

One of Kayla Baum's tips is to switch up your routine if you're a remote worker. Rolling out of the bed at the last minute before logging on for work sounds appealing until you realize you're uninspired by your days. But, what is a "fake commute?"

"It mimics the structure of a traditional commute to establish a boundary between work and personal life. This could mean taking a walk around the block, doing a 10-minute guided meditation, or even just changing clothes at the end of the day," Baum mentions.

Based on her experience, she's found that "it works because it provides a psychological buffer, helping to separate work and home life." She feels it's "crucial for positive mental health and boosting productivity at work (and at home)."

You can also create a separate work space that's not in your bedroom to get work done! That's helped me tremendously so I'm not sleeping and working in the same area.

Anna Nekrashevich

3. Focus On High-Impact Tasks

Similar to planning your work days as best as you can, Frazier and Pepin want you to "prioritize the tasks that align with your goals." To minimize distractions, they want you to ask yourself:

  • What is the most effective use of my time right now?
"For instance, if you're preparing for a big presentation at work, concentrate on immediate needs rather than getting sidetracked by unrelated projects. This approach helps you conserve energy for what truly matters," they suggest.

Greta Hoffman

4. Stop Making Daily Decisions Hard

Tasks like your morning routine or figuring out what you'll eat don't have to take up a chunk of your time anymore. "Use productivity hacks, such as pre-planning meals or laying out weekly outfits," suggest Frazier and Pepin. They feel that "small routines like this eliminate unnecessary choices" to "make mornings smoother."

According to them, it's "especially helpful for families juggling multiple schedules." I couldn't agree more because I've spent so many frazzled mornings trying to make decisions about what myself and my toddler would wear or eat instead of planning them. With the help of my fiancé, we've cut so much time in half by being prepared ahead of time instead of 'winging it' before work.

Yan Krukau

5. Understand What Your Boundaries Are And Set Them

Worried that you'll be considered 'mean' if you tell your manager or coworkers what your boundaries are at work? Depending on your environment, it's 100% understandable. However, you're human and there's no reason you should be over-performing to your detriment. Frazier and Pepin say, "Set boundaries and communicate clearly. Adopt Brené Brown's mantra: 'To be clear is to be kind.'"

They encourage you to not only "be upfront about your schedule to manage others' expectations," but it's also so you can "avoid over-commitment." Say it with me: I will not make false promises just to appease others. Why?

Frazier and Pepin say, "Don't be afraid to say no to side projects or anything that doesn't align with your goals."

Kaboompics.com

6. Ignore Emails Sent After Your Work Hours

I've been guilty of sending an email after work to acknowledge that I saw something, but I never expect other people to feel obligated to respond until the next business day. On the flip side, I've felt pressured to answer something that feels timely and I've gone to sleep thinking about the sender's potential follow-up email.

"Just because a coworker chooses to work late at night doesn't mean you must answer. One helpful trick is to include your working days and hours in your signature, explaining that responses may be delayed outside of those times," Frazier and Pepin say. They even have a prompt you can use if you're not sure what to type:

  • "My working hours are [Your Working Hours, e.g., 9 AM - 4 PM ET]. Please note that these may differ from your local time zone. I appreciate your understanding and will respond to emails during my working hours."

I can't wait to start utilizing this...for research purposes only 👀.

Tima Miroshnichenko

7. Please, log off from work when it's time.

Unless you're scheduled to work late, take the time to log off from work and not think about it until the next day. Baum says, "Commit to fully logging off once the workday ends—no 'quick email replies' or sneaking in work over the weekend." I'm eyeing you Ms. "I just need to send a quick email" while you're on vacation or spending time with your significant other.

Baum says creating this separation works because "fully disconnecting allows your mind to reset and recharge" which ends up "making you more efficient, creative, and focused during actual work hours." According to her, you'll eventually "improve personal well-being" and "enhance long-term work performance."

As soon as my work day is over, I make a beeline for the shower so I can decompress. After that, I take my time with my skincare routine and keep my phone out of reach so I'm not tempted to look at anything work-related. I'm not always successful, but I've noticed a difference in my mood since making this shift.

Yan Krukau

8. Speak Up When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

And if you're 100% drained because you've been trying to tackle work tasks during and after hours, Frazier and Pepin want you to speak up. "If you're feeling overwhelmed with your workload, approach your manager with honesty and a focus on solutions," they suggest. Here's another prompt of theirs you can use:

  • "I've been noticing that my workload has extended beyond regular hours, and maintaining balance is becoming challenging. Could we discuss prioritizing tasks or adjusting expectations to ensure I can deliver quality work without compromising my well-being?"
What this does is "frame the conversation as collaborative and proactive, encouraging your manager to work with you on a resolution," Frazier and Pepin observe.

Visit more of our work-life articles when you need career advice or how to learn to part ways with burnout for good.

Eating out as a vegan can be a true challenge, especially if you don’t exactly know that what you’re ordering is 100% vegan. Fast food faves like McDonald’s and Taco Bell are secretly packed with vegan items, and Starbucks is no exception. From oat milk coffees to satisfyingly savory snacks, you’ve actually got plenty of plant-based choices when you pull up at your local Starbucks.

Scroll on to explore every vegan Starbucks drink and food item you can add to your order!

Vegan Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks

1. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado

This new-to-the-menu espresso drink combines brown sugar syrup and oat milk to balance out the punchy coffee notes.

Starbucks

2. Latte (Iced + Hot)

You can totally enjoy a latte at Starbucks if you're vegan. Their oat, almond, coconut, and soy milks are vegan, plus many of their syrups qualify as vegan, too, if you want to flavor up your drink. According to this Starbucks supervisor, all of Starbucks "clear" syrups are vegan and dairy-free. Starbucks' regular and white mocha sauces and caramel drizzle are also vegan and dairy-free.

Starbucks

3. Americano (Iced + Hot)

Starbucks' Americanos are just water and espresso, so you don't have to worry about any dairy being in there. Optionally, you could ask for a splash of non-dairy milk and pumps of your fave syrup.

Starbucks

4. Brewed Coffee (Iced + Hot)

Same goes for their brewed coffees, including iced coffee. Easily ask your barista to add in some non-dairy milk and a few pumps of syrup if you desire!

Starbucks

5. Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

This vegan cold brew drink is crafted with non-dairy cold foam that's flavored with salted caramel – and it's delish!

Starbucks

6. Nitro Cold Brew

A plain nitro cold brew from Starbucks is fully vegan and dairy-free. You can choose to add a splash of non-dairy milk, if you wish your sip to be a bit smoother and creamier.

Starbucks

7. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

This one's a classic: shots of espresso get shaken up with ice and brown sugar syrup to create a frothy foam, then the drink is topped off with oat milk to cut the bitterness. It's quite a delectable order, even if you're not eating fully vegan.

Starbucks

8. Starbucks Refreshers

All of Starbucks' fruity Refreshers are vegan. Plus, you can can add lemonade, tea, other flavor inclusions like strawberry and peach to add some extra oomph.

Starbucks

9. Iced Black Tea

Their refreshing iced black tea is certifiably vegan, too.

Starbucks

10. Iced Green Tea

If you prefer green tea, Starbucks' offering is vegan-friendly. If you tend to take your tea a bit sweeter, just order it with however many packets of your preferred sweetener, and your barista will add it in.

Starbucks

11. Lemonade

You truly can't go wrong with a lemonade!

Starbucks

12. Hot Teas

Starbucks' hot teas are totally vegan, too. If you want to make them fancier, ask for an additional splash of your go-to non-dairy milk!

Vegan Starbucks Foods

Starbucks

1. Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Now onto the food! First up is Starbucks' oatmeal, which you can fancy up with nuts, berries, and brown sugar. Make sure to order it with water to ensure it stays vegan.

Starbucks

2. Plain Bagel

Surprisingly, Starbucks' bagels are also vegan.

Starbucks

3. Everything Bagel

The plain and everything bagels will work for any vegan eater.

Starbucks

4. Avocado Spread

Plus, you can order your bagel with a side of this delicious avocado spread for a nutritious boost!

Starbucks

5. Spicy Falafel Pocket

This 100% vegan snack pocket is new to the Starbucks menu, but it's already become a fan-favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.

Starbucks

6. Chipotle Almond Dip

You can order the Spicy Falafel Pocket with a side of this fully-vegan Chipotle Almond Dip (AKA Bitchin’ Sauce). Yum.

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