Hot Chocolate Essentials Every Cocoa Fanatic Needs

‘Tis the season for cute thermoses, instant hot cocoa packets and extra servings of marshmallows. Yep, when it’s winter, it’s hot chocolate season. If you’re a hot cocoa aficionado, then you already have the ingredients for creating the perfect liquid cup of chocolate. However, there are a few quirky essentials out there too. Luckily, we did some snooping and found a shopping cartful of fun finds that’ll take your hot cocoa to the next level.

Hosting for the holidays just got a whole lot more magical with Anthropologie’s goodies. From elegant tableware that'll totally "wow" your guests to whimsical decor that sets the perfect festive mood, Anthropologie is the premier destination for polished party essentials. Whether you're planning a chic dinner party or getting lit with your cousins, these are the best finishing touches for a spirited gathering. Get ready to impress your guests with our picks!

Our favorite holiday hosting necessities from Anthropologie:

Let's dive into some of the best holiday hosting pieces from Anthropologie, from tableware to decor!

    Anthropologie

    Holiday in the City Stoneware Dessert Plate

    These adorable dessert plates are available in several different designs, all of which depict a different city pictured in holiday snow. Your Christmas sweet treats will look stunning served on these!

    Anthropologie

    Bow Icon Juice Glasses

    Anthro's viral Icon Juice Glasses are super cute for a variety of occasions, but these bows feel especially holiday-esque. Snag a set for your next gathering's cocktail lineup!

    Anthropologie

    Waterfall Coupe Glasses

    Martini, anyone?! These stunning, shine-lined glasses have the perfect touch of elegance.

    Anthropologie

    Benedita Bow Ceramic Stoneware Serve Bowl

    This serving bowl is perfect for salads, pasta salads, soups, and more. Bring it to a holiday potluck, and everyone will be asking where you got it.

    Anthropologie

    Morgan Shot Glasses

    Now it's really gonna be a party with these colorful shot glasses. Practical in the moment and quite cute when not in use, your bar cart is begging for this set!

    Anthropologie

    Festive Bistro Tile Dessert Plate

    'Tis the season for more and more sweet treats, but you could even serve dinner or apps on these unique dessert plates.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday decor, hosting tips, and recipe ideas for the season!

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

    If Gilmore Girls andThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel have shown me anything, it's that creator Amy Sherman-Palladino always has an incredible story up her sleeve. Her new show Étoile, which is coming to Prime Video, promises to be a beautiful and sophisticated look at the world of dance, and if the fact that it's from Amy wasn't enough reason to watch it, it's also Prime's first new show to get a two-season order! Here's everything we know about the series.

    What is the next Sherman Palladino show?

    Writer/Producer/Director Amy Sherman-Palladino, Writer/Producer/Director Daniel Palladino seen at Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life premiere.Eric Charbonneau/Netflix

    Following our beloved Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Dan and Amy Sherman-Palladino's next series is Étoile, which is set at two world-famous ballet companies in New York City and Paris. When both companies run into some trouble, the decide to swap their most talented stars in a last-ditch effort to save themselves.

    And based on the first set leaks from New York City, it looks like Étoile will definitely be packing on the drama. This short clip shows Luke Kirby standing outside Lincoln Center in a serious conversation (probably about the fate of his ballet company, TBH).

    "Well, guess that plan for early retirement will have to wait," Dan and Amy said in a joint statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). "Instead, we’ve decided to embark on an international journey with an unbelievable group of players and the most talented ballet dancers in the world. We will sleep when we’re dead."

    But this isn't the first time ASP has forayed into the world of ballet! Her ABC Family series Bunheads (which premiered on June 11, 2012) follows Michelle (Sutton Foster) who moves to her hometown of Paradise and starts working at her mother-in-law's dance studio The Paradise Dance Academy.

    Who will star in the new show?

    Photo via WB

    The best part is that the role of Michelle's mother-in-law is played by Emily Gilmore herself, Kelly Bishop!

    When does Étoile premiere?

    Anya Juárez Tenorio/Pexels

    We don't have an official release date yet, but considering THR recently revealed the show will finish filming soon, we're hoping to see Étoile in 2025. Just like Gilmore Girls is the ultimate fall rewatch, maybe Étoile will be the ultimate winter rewatch!

    Who's in the Étoile cast?

    Luke Kirby attends the The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Finale Celebration at the Fonda Theater in Los Angeles on Mon, May 22, 2023. Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages/Prime Video

    So far, we know that Étoile will star Luke Kirby, Gideon Glick, Camille Cottin, Simon Callow, Lou de Laâge, and David Alvarez. Yanic Truesdale, who played our favorite Gilmore Girls concierge Michel, has also joined the series as a recurring character! I'm so excited to see Yanic working with Amy Sherman-Palladino again — it's like a Gilmore Girls reunion!

    What does Étoile mean?

    Jeremy Thomas/Unsplash

    Étoile translates to "star," and there are so many different connections here! We have the ballet stars themselves, but you also wish upon a star and reach for the stars when you're working towards a dream. If you ask me, Étoile is the perfect name for this series.

    How many episodes does Étoile have?

    Merve Sehirli Nasir/Unsplash

    The first season of Étoile will have eight episodes total, but considering Prime Video ordered two seasons, we'll definitely be getting more episodes.

    Are you excited to watch Étoile? Check back here for the latest news on the series, and stay updated on your favorite TV shows and movies on our Facebook!

    This post has been updated.

    Halloween may be the most popular October holiday, but we’re excited about one more fall event that gives us the perfect excuse to gorge on beer, brats, and soft pretzels. That’s right, people: We’re talkin’ Oktoberfest. If you’ve never thrown an Oktoberfest party, we’ve got everything you’ll need and more, from decor ideas to German-inspired menu items. So put on your best lederhosen, crack open a cold one, and get to party planning.

    Waiting on Martha

    Pumpkin Beer Cooler

    Oktoberfest is all about the beer (duh). So instead of carving out a jack-o-lantern, hollow out a pumpkin, fill it up with ice and get to cooling those seasonal ales you love so much.

    Brit + Co

    Sparkling Pumpkin Cider Beertail

    We love sipping on our pumpkin ale straight, but to switch things up, try this beertail made with pumpkin ale, sparkling cider, and lots of cinnamon.

    Amazon

    MyGift 2 Liter Das Boot Beer Glasses

    No, you are never, ever, EVER too old for a das boot. Invest in this set of four for your upcoming shindig because, well, it isn’t an Oktoberfest party without a big ol’ beer-filled boot floating around!

    Amazon

    TRUE Craft Beer Tasting Glasses

    These sleek glasses are the perfect beer vessel for your German-themed get-together, and they’re also just awesome bar staples. Any excuse to grow the home bar, right?

    Amazon

    Libbey Heidelberg Glass Beer Mugs, Set of 4

    Clink the night away with these festive (and hefty!) beer mugs.

    The Flair Exchange

    DIY Harlequin Garland

    No Oktoberfest party is complete without the standard harlequin garland. DIY this puppy and string it up right before your guests arrive.

    Braided Crown

    A little dress-up never hurt anybody! Complete your Oktoberfest look with this feminine and effortless braided crown. (via Camille Styles)

    Etsy

    Lederhosen Set

    For all moms out there, dress yourlittle one for the occasion. There’s no reason they have to miss out on the party just because of… well… obvious reasons.

    A Beautiful Mess

    Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

    Roast up the pumpkin seeds from your beer cooler for a light and salty beer snack.

    Taryn Williford

    Pretzel Necklaces

    Right when your guests walk in, hand them one of these adorable pretzel necklaces. Who doesn’t love a good wearable snack?

    Fashion Edible

    Homemade Oktoberfest Pretzels

    If beer is the Batman of Oktoberfest, then homemade soft pretzels are certainly the Robin. Serve these puppies up warm with some tangy yellow mustard for the perfect party snack.

    Dine & Dish

    Homemade Pretzel Bites

    Not into full-size pretzels? No problem! These pretzel bites are the bomb.com.

    The Flair Exchange

    Pretzel Bite Mini Bucket Holders

    If you go the pretzel-bite route, be sure to craft up some adorable p-bite holders, like these minibuckets lined with Oktoberfest colors.

    Amazon

    Maille Mustard Variety Pack

    And you best not be serving up all of these pretzels without a little mustard.

    Pillsbury

    Pretzel Bar

    A food bar is always a good idea, especially if you’re expecting lots of guests. Create a pretzel sampling bar, complete with various mustards and cheesy dips, to really get the Oktoberfest-ivities started.

    Deliciously Yum

    Pretzel Rolls

    For those of you planning on having a DIY sandwich station, bake up these yummy pretzel rolls to stick with the theme.

    Host the Toast

    Pull-Apart Pretzel Skillet With Beer Cheese Dip

    Pull-apart breads are everything, especially when there’s beer cheese dip involved.

    Brit + Co

    Wisconsin Beer Brats With Sauerkraut

    Grilled brats topped with homemade sauerkraut? There’s absolutely nothing better.

    Love and Lemons

    Grilled Potato Arugula Salad

    Serve this lovely grilled potato salad alongside those brats for the perfect Oktoberfest meal.

    Gimme Some Oven

    Pumpkin Beer Bread

    Fully commit to the beer theme and whip up this scrumptious pumpkin beer bread made with pumpkin puree.

    The Kitchn

    Chocolate-Dipped Beer Marshmallows

    Beer marshmallows??? Tell us more!

    Tablespoon

    Beer Mug Cupcakes

    These are so ridiculously amazing, we can’t. even. stand it. Those fondant beer mugs are filled with chocolate cake and with Bailey’s Irish Cream chocolate ganache…!!!

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more yummy fall recipes!

    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.

    Opening my stocking is absolutely my favorite part of Christmas morning. There’s nothing a tiny lil’ gift can’t fix! If you’re looking to bulk up your fam’s stockings this year, Target’s got you covered with tons of fun finds under $5. I scoured 300+ Target stocking stuffers and found some truly stunning (and cute) options just in time for Christmas!

    Scroll on for the best Target stocking stuffers you can shop for $5 or less!

    Target

    Wondershop Winter Road Trip Cozy Crew Socks

    You can't ever go wrong with a cozy pair of socks! These recall the holiday season in the cutest way.

    Target

    Favorite Day Reindeer Christmas Cocoa Mix

    This readymade hot chocolate mix comes complete with marshmallows for the tastiest cup around. Plus, how adorable (erm, a-deer-able) is that packaging?

    Target

    Room Essentials Disco Notepad + Pen Set

    This shiny notepad will come in handy for collecting New Year's goals, work notes, and, of course, miscellaneous doodles.

    Target

    Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge + Travel Case Ornament

    Whether you hang it on the Christmas tree or stuff it in their stocking, any beauty lover will appreciate a brand-new blending sponge (and the handy travel case)!

    Target

    Teak + Tobacco Reading Light Candle

    Got a bookworm in your life? They're sure to love this cozy candle that smells like a robust blend of teak and tobacco for their reading sessions.

    Target

    Anihana Aromatherapy Shower Steamer

    Gift 'em a dose of self-care with this calming, sinus-relieving shower steamer! The aroma is truly heaven.

    Target

    Burt's Bees Lip Balm Set

    This lip + hand care duo comes in the cutest Christmas-y packaging to evoke so much cheer.

    Target

    Wondershop Christmas Tree Mug

    A $5 mug will always get me. This one comes in the shape of a festive Christmas tree for hosting all sorts of hot chocolates, teas, and hot toddies.

    Target

    Wild Fable Essential Gloves

    Gloves make the perfect practical gift for those who live somewhere cold. These even have touch screen compatibility on the fingertips so they don't have to sacrifice comfort to make a call or send a text.

    Target

    Chapstick 4-Piece Lip Balm Set

    If your giftee is anything like me, they'll always adore a new set of lip balms (even though their collection may be overflowing).

    Target

    Favorite Day Hot Chocolate Drink Bomb

    I fear it truly doesn't get any more festive than a chocolate and peppermint combo. This $4 find is sweet.

    Target

    A New Day Cozy Knit Ribbed Embroidered Cherry Crew Socks

    Oh, these socks are so cute! They have little embroidered cherries on the top and even come with an attached gift tag so you don't necessarily have to wrap them.

    Target

    Wondershop Christmas Cat Mug

    Any cat lover will want to reach for this festive feline all year long!

    Target

    Da Bomb Bath Fizzer Snowflake Gingerbread Bath Bomb

    This delicious-smelling bath bomb will infuse their next soak with notes of freshly-baked gingerbread. Plus, once it fizzes away, a little surprise (both adult- and kid-friendly) awaits inside!

    Target

    SpaLife Radiance Eye Masks 3-Pack

    These under eye masks wake up tired eyes with vitamin C and coffee – the perfect post-holiday refresh.

    Target

    Vitamasques Candy Cane Lip Butter Balm

    This sweet lip butter smells like a candy cane, all while nourishing dry winter lips. I'll take 5, thanks.

    Target

    eos Holiday Candy Cane Lip Sugar Scrub

    This $5 lip scrub is a total treat to dehydrated, flaky lips. They'll be reaching for it every day!

    Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing gift ideas!

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

    The holidays are great, but they can be pretty taxing on bank accounts. We all want to buy gifts for our friends and families that feel like we went out but don't break the budget. We've worked hard to dig through Amazon and find the hottest gifts of the year that feel like a splurge but are wallet-friendly. No matter who you want to impress with your gifts, we've got what you need. From gadgets to purses to trending kitchen buys, you'll find just what you need to finish your holiday shopping.

    Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

    This Purse Gives a Designer Feel Without a Designer Price

    Amazon

    Accessories don't have to be a huge, expensive gift. Made from premium vegan leather, this purse brings the style to any outfit, whether they lean more towards casual or upscale.

    See it on Amazon

    This Hydrating Cuticle Oil Is a Fan Favorite

    Amazon

    Reviewers rave about the restorative effects of this Cuccio Naturale Revitalizing-Hydrating Oil for Repaired Cuticles. This overnight moisturizing treatment repairs damaged cuticles, leaving them soft, smooth, and healthy.

    See it on Amazon

    This Winter Scarf Looks Like a Million Bucks

    Amazon

    They'll reach for this thick scarf on a daily basis. The gorgeous, elegant layer keeps them cozy and stylish whether they pair it with a formal outfit or their favorite tee and jeans combo.

    See it on Amazon

    A Rainfall Showerhead With Incredible Water Pressure

    Amazon

    Your giftee can swap out their old showerhead for this rainfall showerhead in just minutes. It's easy to install yourself and provides increased water pressure and a filtered system that's better for your hair and skin.

    See it on Amazon

    This Set of Bags Keeps Everything Organized

    Amazon

    Give them the gift of organization with these bags. The set offers two bags that look luxurious and pricey, giving them the perfect place to pack up those smaller necessities and keep them organized.

    See it on Amazon

    These Earrings Look Like a Luxury Piece

    Amazon

    Even when it comes to jewelry, you can spend far less and get far more than you think. These heart earrings are a dangling dream, making it look like you spent way too much on their gift.

    See it on Amazon

    This JBL Speaker Is Made for Adventures

    Amazon

    This awesome Bluetooth speaker is prepped and ready to go anywhere. The water- and dustproof body and the five hours of playtime make it a great gift for the music lover in your life.

    See it on Amazon

    These Cocktail Mixers Make Things Simple

    Amazon

    Gift them these mixers along with a gorgeous set of glasses and you've got a great, upscale gift. The variety pack offers tons of skinny, non-alcoholic flavors they can enjoy on their own or with their favorite liquor.

    See it on Amazon

    This Teddy Fleece Is So Luxurious

    Amazon

    Gift them this jacket and give them years of a luxurious look they can style with all their wardrobe favorites. The affordable buy looks like it stepped right off a J.Crew runway!

    See it on Amazon

    This Mask Is Like a Salon Treatment

    Amazon

    This awesome Amika hair mask is deeply nourishing and hydrating, helping to restore and heal your hair with every use. Gifting this is like gifting a much more affordable trip to the salon.

    See it on Amazon

    These Sea Salt Flakes Make Every Meal a Splurge

    Amazon

    If you've got a chef on your list, amateur or pro, this box of Maldon sea salt flakes is a must-have. The flakes are delicious and rich, adding so much flavor to every meal they make.

    See it on Amazon

    Elevate Any Look With These Earrings

    Amazon

    These chunky earrings are 14k gold-filled, hypoallergenic, and beautifully huggie. The set is a thoughtful, affordable option for the friend in your life who likes a little luxurious sparkle.

    See it on Amazon

    These Cozy Slippers Feel So Bougie

    Amazon

    These slippers are so soft and warm and look like the sort of slippers you'd pay an entire paycheck to buy. The Amazon Essentials are an affordable way to share a little luxury with friends.

    See it on Amazon

    These Socks Are the Ultimate Purchase

    Amazon

    It might seem like a lot of money for socks, but if you have a hiker in your life, they'll be thrilled to get nothing but this pair. The socks last for years, are comfortable, and provide plenty of cushion.

    See it on Amazon

    This Sol de Janeiro Set Makes the Brand Affordable

    Amazon

    If you want to gift a pricier product without hurting your bank account, this set of top sellers is a must. Featuring body wash, body butter, and perfume, this set screams "splurge" for a steal.

    See it on Amazon

    This Packing Cube Set Is So Glamorous

    Amazon

    The traveler on your list is going to fall in love with this set of packing cubes. These Baggu bags don't just organize and store all their essentials; they also add plenty of style to their luggage.

    See it on Amazon

    This Wallet Is Perfectly Coquette

    Amazon

    The Coquette Girly in your life is going to love this elegant wallet. With a bright gold bow taking center stage and plenty of storage space inside, this wallet looks so luxurious.

    See it on Amazon

    Give Them a Good Grip With This Paddle

    Amazon

    Featuring a cushioned, anti-slip grip, this pickleball paddle is a must-have for newbies and pros alike. The carbon fiber material means they'll be able to use this paddle for years of use.

    See it on Amazon

    This Initial Necklace Is Beautifully Dainty

    Amazon

    Jewelry is an easy gift, but it's also easy to mess up. This gorgeous, dainty necklace comes at an affordable price and is a great buy for the friend in your life who appreciates a personal touch.

    See it on Amazon

    This Puzzle Is the Height of Luxury

    Amazon

    Jonathan Adler is one of the most luxurious brands out there, but this puzzle isn't the splurge it seems. Your style-forward friend is going to love putting together and displaying this piece.

    See it on Amazon

    A Coffee Table Book Always Looks Fancy

    Amazon

    Not only does a coffee table book feel like a splurge purchase it also instantly elevates any space it's added to. The Art Book is a beautiful piece that's going to take center stage in the recipient's home.

    See it on Amazon

    These Glasses Steal the Show

    Amazon

    Gift them a beautiful tablescape when you give them these crystal glasses. The gorgeous, rich, jewel-toned cups instantly take center stage in anyone's home, no matter their personal style.

    See it on Amazon

    Give the Gift of Style With These Nails

    Amazon

    Gift them these Glamnetic nails and they'll have nails not just for weeks, but years. The reusable press-ons are built to last and come in a gorgeous array of colors, patterns, and shapes.

    See it on Amazon

    This Fishwife Set Is All the Rage

    Amazon

    The internet is obsessed with Fishwife and all the delicious flavors of tinned fish they have. Give your bestie the gift of delicious flavors and all sorts of cool points when they have visitors over.

    See it on Amazon

    This Purse Has Plenty of Storage and No Shortage of Style

    Amazon

    This Amazon Essentials purse looks a lot like some of the fancier, name-brand purses, but it comes in at half the price. Choose from four classic colors and give them something they'll use daily.

    See it on Amazon

    Elevate Entertaining With These Tapers

    Amazon

    These stunning tapers steal the show. If you have someone on your list who loves entertaining, they'll love these unscented, long-lasting candles in any color you choose.

    See it on Amazon

    This Might Be the Ultimate Gym Bag

    Amazon

    The gym rat in your life is going to love this gorgeous duffle bag. The lightweight bag has a shoe compartment, a pocket for water bottles, and a strap for securing a yoga mat for easy carrying.

    See it on Amazon

    This Loungewewar Set Feels So Luxurious

    Amazon

    It might seem like you're splurging on this loungewear set, but it's so affordable! Gift them shorts, a top, and a cozy robe. The waffle-knit fabric is comfortable, breathable, and so trendy.

    See it on Amazon

    This Brush Is Worth Every Penny

    Amazon

    It might seem a little pricey, but this Drybar brush is truly worth every penny. This brush can stand out as a gift all on its own, offering easy detangling and silky smooth locks with every use.

    See it on Amazon

    This Soft Purse Goes With Everything

    Amazon

    This soft purse matches pretty much any style. Something about the texture and silhouette makes it a classic that won't ever go out of style. Choose from a handful of stunning, exciting colors.

    See it on Amazon

    This Bowl Dresses Up Their Petware

    Amazon

    If you love someone who has a pet, you already know how much they'll love this Jonathan Adler bowl. The removable no-skid cover helps minimize messes and spills while the pattern brings the style.

    See it on Amazon

    This Salad Bowl Instantly Elevates Dinnertime

    Amazon

    Whether they love to entertain and host or they just love sit-down meals, this glass salad bowl with the included tongs makes such a gorgeous statement piece on their dinner table.

    See it on Amazon

    This Dumpling Kit Brings the Restaurant to Their Kitchen

    Amazon

    No need to go out and buy pricey dumplings anymore. This kit gives them not only the chance to make those tasty treats in their home but also to try their hand at a brand new recipe.

    See it on Amazon

    This Cast Iron Skillet Looks Extra Fancy

    Amazon

    It might look like the fancier name brands, but this cast iron skillet is so much more affordable than that. The cream color really sells the idea that it's far more expensive than it really is.

    See it on Amazon

    This Hand Cream Smells Divine

    Amazon

    The Salt & Stone hand cream feels like an incredibly expensive purchase that you could find at a spa. The cream repairs dry, cracked skin and gives hands the nourishment they need.

    See it on Amazon

    This Seashell Necklace Is Dreamy

    Amazon

    If you want to gift them something that feels like a seaside luxury, this necklace is perfect. The shell-shaped pendant, coupled with the gorgeous pearls across the face, makes it look so luxurious.

    See it on Amazon

    Prepare Smooth, Delicious Espresso With This Tool

    Amazon

    With this gorgeous espresso pot, they can prepare it the old-fashioned way. This stovetop maker might look pricey, but it comes in under $20 and is a perfect gift alone or paired with some espresso beans.

    See it on Amazon

    This Candle Is an Internet Sensation

    Amazon

    The La Jolie Muse candle has been on gift list after gift list this year. This luxury candle makes a stunning gift for anyone on your list, adding not only a beautiful scent to their home but elegant style.

    See it on Amazon

    These Slippers Are Cozy and Cute

    Amazon

    Keep their feet toasty and warm for years with these slippers. The sherpa look, coupled with the lightweight, barefoot-style soles, makes them comfortable to be in all throughout the day.

    See it on Amazon

    This Glass Skin Set Is a Fabulous Find

    Amazon

    Your skincare-loving bestie is going to love this COSRX set. The products are made for daily use, gifting them radiant, glowing skin that feels nourished, hydrated, and fresh.

    See it on Amazon

    This Delicious Variety Pack Is So Tasty

    Amazon

    This Tony's Chocolonely bundle is such a sweet gift for the candy lover in your world. The chocolate is cruelty-free, made with plant-based ingredients, and chock full of flavor.

    See it on Amazon

    Complement Those Meals With This Olive Oil

    Amazon

    The internet is obsessed with this oil! This delicious extra virgin olive oil is always fresh and never blended, offering a bold, even taste that adds the finishing touches to their favorite meals.

    See it on Amazon