5 Steps to Starting a New Creative Habit

Creativity is good for your soul. Your heart. Your body and brain. And with all the time we're spending on social media and the Internet, endless creative inspiration is always around us. While I adore the ability to see works from artists around the world, find a quote of inspiration at just the right moment and be able to peek into someone's home at any given moment, all this consumption can lull us into thinking that we, ourselves, were actually creative that day. But actually creating with your hands, your heart and your mind has so many proven benefits for your overall health and wellbeing.

Mentally, it reduces stress and increases joy and happiness, all while increasing problem solving + innovative thinking. Physically, it boosts your immune system and lowers cortisol levels, so good in today's always-on world. Emotionally, it helps you to be more curious, present, and connected to daily life. Armed with all this good news, who's ready to jumpstart their own creative habit?

Today, I'm sharing my five best tips for taking the scary out of making art to help you restart your creative journey.

1. Get Organized + Stocked. Being able to sit down and just get started smoothly is key to getting excited about making art. Gather your materials — pencils, markers, crayons, paints, whatever paper you have around your space — collect them, organize them by type and find a particular spot to display them close to where you'll be making art.

For me, this is a corner in my kitchen. I keep brushes, pencils and markers displayed in vases and vessels on the countertop — almost as a beautiful reminder to make in any moments I have. Other tools — paints, paper, markers are stored neatly in a cabinet ready for easy access.

The set up is an invitation to calm your mind and start your practice. Make it special and keep it visible. Pick a spot, gather your materials and make it inviting.

2. Set a Timer, Work Small. Start with short and small daily doses of creativity. Start with 10-15 minutes at the beginning, during a time of day you're likely to stick to. Most days, I do mine first thing, with a cup of coffee or tea, before the crazy of my day sets in.

Work on small surfaces. I find these Strathmore 5" x 7" sheets to be perfect for most materials and a daily practice. The small size is approachable and easy to fill in a quick time.

Start small. Start doable. Keep it consistent. Start today.

3. Do It for the Process, Not the Outcome. The goal of daily practice, or any creative habit in my book, is to enjoy the process. As you know by now, a creative practice increases joy + purpose and invites connection and reflection. It quiets anxiety and reduces stress. By calming your mind and focusing on the process, you'll experience these moments of joy and fun daily — which will begin to carry over into the rest of your day.

That is the point.

The outcome? The actual art you make? Sometimes it might be terrible. Other times it might be great. Either way, not the point.

Focus on the process and the benefits. Let the art just be.

4. Set an Intention for Your Practice. Having an intention, beyond another daily to-do, is key to committing to a new habit. For creative habits, in particular, connect to the emotion you are seeking to invite.

Joy? Connection? Fun? Calm?

Whatever you're seeking in life, bring it into your creative practice. Choose materials, colors, and inspiration that sparks that emotion for you.

Creating daily can be a natural check-in to the emotion and connection you are pursuing. Starting each session, reminding yourself of WHY you choose to practice creativity is a great motivator to just keep going.

5. Cheat, Copy, Collect. At the start, sitting down to a blank piece of paper can be scary, overwhelming, intimidating. I suggest keeping a bank of inspiration on hand to influence your work.

Start a Pinterest board of favorite art pieces. Snap photos everywhere you go of color combinations, patterns, shapes and other interesting findings you might want to explore in your art.

Study, really study, your favorite artists + pieces. Make note of the colors, the shapes, the movement and seek to bring more of it into your own work.

Collect coasters, stamps, paper, fabric, cards, gift wrap, magazine swipe — anything that might inspire you in your art journey.

Your work will NEVER look exactly like the inspiration, and since we're in this for the practice and not to sell our work — it's okay to seek inspiration and influence from as many sources as needed as you get started. Soon you'll figure out your style, color combinations you love, and begin to be more free and liberal in your work.

But for now, cheat, copy, steal. Just don't make a life habit of it.

Every human is creative. We were all born to make.

Each of us is unique in our lives. In our art. In our approach to creativity.

So go, get making.

Make your marks. Share your art. Build your joy, your health, your connections.

Go, go, go!

As we head into 2025, wellness is not just about personal health, but also the spaces we live in. The latest trends in wellness focus on a holistic approach that balances the body, mind, and your environment. From smart technologies to ancient healing practices, these 15 wellness trends are set to transform how we care for ourselves and our homes. Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health, your physical well-being, or simply create a more nurturing space, these trends will help you kick off the new year with a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Bio-Hacking

Kaboompics.com

Biohacking trends like tracking sleep, nutrition, and exercise; using nootropics or cognitive enhancers; and practicing intermittent fasting are helping people optimize their health and wellness, and potentially their life span. According to a recent McKinsey report, more than 60 percent of people have said it’s extremely or very important to purchase longevity products, and 70 percent are planning to buy more products in the future. Wearables in the fitness industry are continuing to drive this trend, and allowing more people to turn their healthcare into a lifestyle, rather than waiting for an annual checkup. People are also using at-home diagnostic tools and e-health services to manage their health at home.

Gentle Workouts

Scarlett Alexandra DeGregorio

High-impact exercises can often leave our bodies feeling strained. By incorporating gentle exercise into your fitness routine, you allow your body to move in a way that reduces stress and tension. Workouts like yoga, pilates, or walking, help you become more in tune with your breathing and heart rate, which helps you feel calm. It's a great way to reach your 2025 fitness goals while also improving your mental health.

Digital Detoxing

Darina Belonogova

The constant need to check emails, texts, and social media has led to burnout and stress. The American Psychological Associations' Stress in America survey found that a fifth of U.S. adults cited technology use as a significant source of stress in their life. Constantly being plugged in can affect both our mental and physical health. Taking a conscious break from screens to reconnect with ourselves and others will become a necessity come 2025. Whether it’s an hour a day or a weekend getaway, we allow our minds to rest and reduce the overwhelming feeling caused by information overload.

Wellness Gardens

Billie Lentz

Wellness gardens are the perfect escape from the bustle of daily life, and can promote health and wellness with thoughtfully curated elements like aromatic plants, water features, and comfortable seating. Greenery, soothing sounds, and sitting outdoors in nature can encourage you to be more mindful and less stressed while homegrown food, herbs, and edible flowers nourish you for the season.

Light Therapy

Jemilla Mills-Smith

An estimated 10 million Americans are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), according to Psychology Today. Designing your home for better natural light, especially in winter, can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and energy levels. Use sheer curtains in active spaces like the kitchen, living room, and home office, and open up blinds to allow as much natural light in, stimulating vitamin D production to keep bone health and immune function in check. Mentally, natural light has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, and alleviate symptoms of depression by increasing serotonin levels. It can also improve focus, productivity, and creativity while you work. For long winter nights, invest in a light therapy lamp too.

At-Home Saunas

Wayfair

At-home saunas are the latest self care status symbol and will continue to trend into 2025 as they become more affordable (this portable sauna from Target is only $150!). Sauna blankets are also trending and help offer so many health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification through sweating, and relaxation of muscles and joints. A regular sauna routine can help reduce stress, promote better sleep, and boost heart health. The heat is also good for skin and your body's recover post-workout. Community saunas and bathhouses are also gaining in popularity, especially among younger generations who prefer the social aspect.

Wellness Journaling

Hannah Newberry

Wellness journaling helps you track your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By documenting your daily habits, moods, and goals, you can start to see patterns, manage stress, and focus mindfulness and on your personal growth. Check out this Papier journal for tracking your 2025 wellness goals.

Smart Indoor Air Monitors

Mikhail Nilov

Improving indoor air quality is so important for a healthy home. According to the EPA, Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of pollutants can be 2 to 5 times higher than they are outdoors. Open windows when possible or use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce allergens, dust, and pollutants. Houseplants like snake plants and spider plants can also help purify the air naturally. Regularly clean and vacuum to keep dust mites and mold at bay, and avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Invest in a smart air quality monitor to give yourself peace of mind.

Water Filtration Systems

Ron Lach

Home water filtration is becoming a vital wellness trend, as people seek cleaner, safer drinking water. Advanced filtration systems remove contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria, and eco-conscious designs, such as reverse osmosis and carbon filters, improve water quality while reducing our reliance on bottled water. Shower filtration systems are a great way to keep chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities out of your tap water, which can cause dryness, irritation, and dullness. Have dry skin or scalp? Shower filters help maintain skin’s natural moisture barrier and can be gentler on sensitive skin.

Sleep Divorcing

Photo by Kampus Production

A sleep divorce, when you sleep in separate beds or rooms to get a better night's sleep, can save your marriage. While it may sound extreme, many couples find that it improves both their sleep and relationship. Snoring, differing sleep schedules, or constant tossing and turning can keep you and your partner up all night, leading to fatigue and irritability (never great for communication). Sleep divorce is about prioritizing your health and theirs, and many couples report feeling more refreshed, connected, and happier in their relationships as a result. Not ready for a sleep divorce? Try this Scandinavian sleep method.

Dry Brushing

Vlada Karpovich

I always think of Gwyneth Paltrow when I think of dry brushing. She showed us during her typical Goop-inspired shower routine that she never takes a shower without one. It simply involves brushing your skin with a natural-bristle brush to exfoliate dead cells and stimulate circulation. It can help improve skin texture, unclog pores, and promote lymphatic drainage, which supports detoxification. Regular dry brushing may reduce the appearance of cellulite, increase energy, and leave the skin feeling smoother and more refreshed. For best results, brush before your shower for max benefits.

Functional Foods

Cora Pursley

Functional foods are nutrient-rich foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition — so foods filled with vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, or probiotics to support digestion, boost immunity, or reduce inflammation. Examples include fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi, which promote gut health, or fatty fish like salmon, rich in omega-3s, which support heart health. Next time you food shop, look out for these foods and incorporate them into daily meals to enhance your overall wellness and help prevent chronic health conditions.

Sexual Health

Ketut Subiyanto

Sexual wellness is becoming less taboo for 2025. As conversations around sexual health become more normalized, products and services like sex education, therapy, and health-enhancing products will become more accessible. Trends include the rise of personalized sexual health solutions, such as tailored supplements and tech-enabled devices for a better sex life. Platforms offering education, therapy, and community support will also grow, empowering us to explore our sexual wellness in a holistic, shame-free way.

Wild Swimming

Büşranur Aydın

Water wellness, a growing trend in 2025, emphasizes the health benefits of hydration and water-based therapies, like hydrotherapy (hot baths, cold plunges, steam rooms) to relieve pain, improve circulation, and reduce stress. Float therapy (a float tank filled with Epsom salt water), mineral baths using magnesium and sulfur to detoxify the body, and swimming in hot springs for relaxation, muscle tension relief, and improving circulation are giving rise to the therapeutic benefits of our natural waters.

Modern Pilgrimaging

Spencer Wirkkala

Modern pilgrimages, where you or you with a group travel to a sacred or meaningful site, nature retreat, or cultural landmark, with an emphasis on mindfulness, inner growth, and personal transformation, are forecasted to grow in 2025 as more people seek community and the great outdoors. Many people seek these experiences as a way to disconnect from daily routines, practice meditation, or explore new spiritual perspectives.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more wellness ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations for more on this go to brit.co

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu is on the way, and per menu leaks, it reportedly brings back a ton of seasonal favorites starting next week.

From a classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, the recent menu rumors say a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are on the way as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The speculated lineup is honestly wild. Starbucks teased that the holiday menu will hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering reportedly coming to your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

According to an Instagram post from Starbucks, new holiday drinks and snacks will come out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

We do anticipate that the Starbucks holiday menu will include some new holiday cup designs! Though we don't know what they'll look like just yet, previous holiday menus over the years have featured vibrant reds, greens, and pinks, plus stars, sparkles, Christmas trees, swirls, and stripes. Typically, Starbucks' holiday cups span across hot and iced drinks. Additionally, a new lineup of reusable cups and mugs should become available!

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

Per rumors around the Starbucks holiday menu, the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu.

Drinks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

The Starbucks holiday menu leak reported that this brand-new Refresher is packed with sweet orange, tart cranberry and warm spice. It also has cranberry inclusions and is order-able mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk.

Starbucks

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

Chai is a totally underrated holiday flavor in our opinion. This iced drink is crafted with warm chai spices and creamy oat milk, then gets topped with even more frothed oat milk infused with gingerbread-flavored syrup and a sprinkling of spice.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha

You know it, and you love it! The Peppermint Mocha has hit Starbucks menus year after year, making it a total statement sip for the holiday season. This drink (available hot or iced) combines peppermint syrup, mocha sauce, and your milk of choice with espresso for a festive feel. It's traditionally topped with whipped cream and tasty chocolate curls.

Starbucks

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha

Similar to the classic Peppermint Mocha, this bev swaps chocolate for white chocolate sauce.

Starbucks

Caramel Brûlée Latte

This rumored Starbucks holiday menu drink is very rich. The sweet caramel brûlée sauce totally completes the sip, along with plenty of whipped cream and crunchy lil' brûlée bits for textural variety.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Literally like a sugar cookie in liquid form, this super-sweet latte is handcrafted with blonde espresso (it's sweeter and lighter than Starbucks' traditional espresso shots), sugar cookie syrup, and almond milk for a little bit of a lighter effect. It's finished off with red and green sprinkles to up the seasonal vibes even more!

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte

This nutty latte – rumored to return for 2024 – brings on notes of chestnut and praline, which is a nice, flavorful departure from the very expected peppermint you'll see everywhere come holiday time.

Starbucks

Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Per the menu leak, Starbs will be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the predicted flavors below:

  • NEW! Gingerbread
  • NEW! Salted Pecan
  • Peppermint Chocolate
  • Sugar Cookie
  • Chestnut Praline
  • Caramel Brûlée

Snacks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Dark Toffee Bundt

Per the menu leak, this sweet toffee-flavored bundt will be topped with holly- and berry-shaped sprinkles. How perfect for the holiday season!

@markie_devo

NEW! Turkey Sage Danish

This savory snack reportedly includes "turkey sausage with creamy béchamel sauce in a pastry." It sounds like Thanksgiving in a single treat, and we can't wait to try it!

@markie_devo

NEW! Penguin Cookie

This cutie sugar cookie is decorated like a lil' penguin bundled up for the cold.

Starbucks

Snowman Cake Pop

Starbucks' classic vanilla cake pop gets a wintry twist with an adorable snowman face – this sweet really makes us crave the holiday season!

Starbucks

Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

This cream cheese-filled danish is topped with a slightly-spiced sugar plum jam. It's been one of our go-to's over the past few holiday seasons at Starbucks!

Starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bar

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay posted on the latest Starbucks news, including when the official holiday menu lineup drops!

This post has been updated.

Though often overlooked, one of life’s little luxuries is a dang good body wash. In the same way I shop for face cleansers that don’t strip my skin of its natural moisture (but still leaves it feelin’ fresh and clean), I’ve found the best body wash is one that’s undeniably moisturizing. Body washes with moisturizing and hydrating properties are great fits for any and all skin types – hydration is essential for preventing dryness, supplementing the skin’s elasticity, and strengthening the skin barrier – essentially giving your skin the best line of defense against accelerated signs of aging, environmental damage, and breakouts.

These are the best moisturizing body washes to banish dryness:

What body wash should I use for dry skin?

Amazon

Any hydrating body wash with a creamy or oily consistency can be beneficial for dry skin, helping deposit more moisture during the cleansing process without disturbing your skin’s barrier. We recommend Naturium’s The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash, which boasts a nourishing oil-to-lather formula. If you have dry, flaky skin, it also may be best to avoid body washes that have fragrances as they can dry you out even more. Gentle, fragrance-free body washes like Aveeno’s Triple Oat Skin Relief Body Wash are typically a safe, soothing choice.

Target

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

I personally used this body wash from Dove all throughout my high school years, where every single skincare concern I had on my face suddenly migrated to my body. I'm talkin' cystic acne, blackheads, and flaky patches. It was notenjoyable. While this body wash wasn't an immediate fix for what my extremely hormonal teenage skin was going through, it certainly helped soothe the intense dryness and didn't aggravate the other various issues at all. I can attest that it's definitely friendly for sensitive skin-havers! Plus, at $10 for around 30 fluid ounces of product, it's also easy on the wallet.

Target

Method Simply Nourish Body Wash

I was on a good Method body wash stint for a while and probably kept this $8 bottle on rotation for about a years worth of showers. I'd be lying if I said I loved it for its moisturizing qualities only – this body wash also smells like pure heaven, which really adds to the experience of using it. It boasts a nice balance of coconut, rice milk, and shea butter, which work for your skin, not against it. Just a warning though: the fragrance may be a bit harsh for those with especially sensitive skin.

Amazon

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Body Wash

First, I fell in love with SheaMoisture's Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream. Then, their body wash came along – it's only made my love for the brand grow, especially because it's given me undeniably nourished skin every time I hop out of the shower. According to SheaMoisture, this $12 pick is formulated to leave melanin-rich skin "visibly moisturized." I don't have melanin-rich skin by any means, but I still feel super moisturized after using this body wash, likely from the rich blend of shea butter, frankincense, myrrh, and ceramides in its formula.

Amazon

Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash

This $15 oil-to-cream body wash is the epitome of treat yourself. I really like that the bottle design can instantly upgrade to your shower set up, making every self-care night that much more luxurious. Not only does it look beautiful, it feels beautiful, too. This moisturizing body wash is made with glycerin, squalene, and a variety of rich oils that help replenish your skin's natural moisture and add even more nourishment with each use.

Sephora

Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra-Soothing + Moisturizing Body Wash

This $32 water-oil body wash formula lathers up just enough to lift and wash away impurities on your skin without being super harsh or amplifying dry skin woes. In fact, 100% of users in a product study agreed it was non-irritating for skin, and 91% of them said their skin felt more moisturized and comfortable over time – and I agree! To combat the noticeably-dry skin on my legs this fall, I've been using it routinely alongside Soft Services' Green Banana Buffing Bar and love how soft and supple my skin feels post-shower.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more editor-loved skincare recs!

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Since cooking a Thanksgiving dinner takes a hot minute, it's not a bad idea to have some appetizerson-hand to serve your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving guests. Of course, you don’t want to have to spend a ton of time making snacks when you’re also preparing a feast – but that’s where these last-minute bites come in! These Thanksgiving appetizers will keep your guests satisfied until dinner, and they’re so easy to make, you won’t have to deal with any extra kitchen drama.

Without further ado, let's dive into these quick and easy Thanksgiving appetizers!

Sarah Anderson

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are such a reliable crowd-pleaser when it comes to Thanksgiving appetizer, or starters for any occasion, really! These 'shrooms in particular take inspiration from Greek cuisine and include tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, feta cheese, and salami. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Plant Provisions

Italian Savory Hand Pies

These hand pies are 100% vegan, so you can confidently serve them to a party of all diets. They're meaty, cheesy, herby, and definitely filling if you need to prep a decent snack ahead of your fancy Thanksgiving feast. (via Plant Provisions for Brit + Co)

Parmigiano Reggiano

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

Chocolate and cheese work surprisingly well together, and these creative dipped bites will certainly have all the foodies at the function buzzing. (via Parmigiano Reggiano for Brit + Co)

Snixy Kitchen

Butternut Squash and Bacon Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are such a classic snack, but they can easily become yummy Thanksgiving appetizers when you add butternut squash and bacon to the centers! (via Snixy Kitchen)

The Pioneer Woman

Perfect Fall Cheese Board

Transform your famous charcuterie board with fall accents to make a Thanksgivingappetizer that'll hit all the right taste buds. (via The Pioneer Woman)

Nutmeg Nanny

Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups

Don't you just love a bite-sized snack that's super quick to make? (via Nutmeg Nanny)

The Home Cook's Kitchen

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Should your guests craves something that's creamy and crunchy, serve them these bready Thanksgiving appetizers. (via The Home Cook's Kitchen)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked French Onion Meatballs

What do you get when you combine the savory flavors of French onion soup and meatballs? We'll give you a hint — it has something to do with being irresistible. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Half Baked Harvest

Cheesy Bacon Holiday Crack

Warning: biting into these sweet, spicy, crispy, and cheesy chips is the point of no return, but it's so worth it. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Savory Tooth

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Two-ingredient appetizers are always a winner in our book, and this one is extra hearty. (via Savory Tooth)

Pizzazzerie

Candied Walnut Bruschetta

Candied walnuts are excellent on their own, so imagine how they taste with pears and goat cheese on toast. (via Pizzazzerie)

The Blond Cook

Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Soy sauce and brown sugar coat these mini hot dogs, and a touch of Sriracha makes them even more spice-tastic. (via The Blond Cook)

Sunkissed Kitchen

Roasted Carrot Hummus

Carrots and cinnamon are blended with classic hummus ingredients for a healthy dip to pair with pita chips. The pomegranate and pumpkin seed garnish really ups the presentation of this Thanksgiving appetizer. (via Sunkissed Kitchen)

Recipe Tin Eats

Caesar Salad Wonton Cups

Keep a package of wonton wrappers in the fridge, and you’ll never have to worry about what snacks to prep next for your party guests! This recipe stuffs the wraps with Caesar salad fixings, but the options are endless. (via Recipe Tin Eats)

The Real Food Dietitians

Chili and Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Even if you don’t have a ton of time, you can easily roast up a batch of these smoky mixed nuts before your guests arrive. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Tara's Multicultural Table

French Onion Soup Toasts

Turn French onion soup into a convenient appetizer with crusty bread, sautéed onions, and smoky cheese! Yummm. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)

The Recipe Critic

Raspberry Baked Brie

Smooth goat cheese and tart raspberry preserves are a match made in snack heaven. The crispy puff pastry layer makes it all worth it. (via The Recipe Critic)

Lavender and Lovage

Smoked Cheese and Onion Straws

If you have cheese lingering in your deli drawer, it’s the beginning of a tasty appetizer. Sprinkle it into some puff pastry for a twisty "straw" you'll reach for again and again. (via Lavender and Lovage)

The Seasoned Mom

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

The combo of chicken, bacon, and barbecue sauce results in a Thanksgiving appetizer that's almost impossible to stop eating. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Savory Tooth

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Bacon and Cheddar

Smokey bacon and salty, nutty cheddar top some earthy mushrooms for a new version of this classic stuffed app. (via Savory Tooth)

The Baking Fairy

Garlic-Stuffed Olives-in-a-Blanket

If you have vegetarian guests coming to your party, you’ll want to have a tasty option for them. These olives in a "blanket" do the trick nicely! As a bonus, most store-bought crescent roll dough is vegan. (via The Baking Fairy)

The Cookie Rookie

Best Cheese Ball

There's a reason why sharp cheddar cheese balls are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. Serve them with buttery Ritz crackers to reach total snack nirvana. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Half Baked Harvest

Whipped Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates

Sweet and savory, this goat cheese dip is perfect for dipping crostini and vegetables in. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Live Eat Learn

Savory Roasted Cranberry Salsa

Top a cracker with sour cream (or brie or goat cheese) and spread on this cranberry salsa for a light, yet spicy-sweet bite. (via Live Eat Learn)

Amanda Wilens

Pear and Gouda Puff Pastry

Pear really finds its life's purpose when it's tucked into a square of puff pastry and topped with salty gouda cheese. (via Amanda Wilens)

Get more ideas and inspiration for your Thanksgiving appetizers and other festive holiday entertaining tips by following us on Pinterest or joining our newsletter.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Sara Cagle,Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.

It seems Thanksgiving is barely a week away by the time we start thinking about the menu. But while ovens all over the country will be working overtime this year, don't forget your secret weapon — the crock pot! Kitchen strategy is key when you're trying to factor various cook and prep times for both oven and stovetop dishes. There just never seems to be enough time (or counter space).

Whether you're already finalizing your menu for the day or are just in charge of a few side dishes, we've scoured the web and found 18 Thanksgiving crock pot recipes that are perfect for any gathering.

Creamed Corn

Damn Delicious

Cornis a standard side dish for most Thanksgiving meals, but this recipe is a total game-changer. Five simple ingredients go in your crock pot, and three hours later you’re greeted by corn that is so creamy and delicious, you’ll never be able to eat the canned stuff again.

Wheat Bread Stuffing

Recipe Runner

Free up some room in your oven and cook the stuffing right on the counter this year. Crusty whole wheat bread, celery, onions and chicken broth will have you going back for seconds. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat to low and it will be ready whenever you are.

Brussels Sprouts

Damn Delicious

These aren’t Grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Covered in a brown sugar balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, these sprouts will have you converted after just one bite.

Sweet Potatoes

The Magical Slow Cooker

This one takes minimal effort, but packs maximum flavor. Wash and dry your sweet potatoes before wrapping them in tinfoil and piling into the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours, and resist the urge to open the lid so the steam doesn’t escape. Serve with butter, brown sugar and mini marshmallows.

Apple Cider

Damn Delicious

Your guests are going to need something to sip on. Made 100% from scratch, this apple cider recipe will definitely steal the show: Combine apples, cinnamon sticks and spices and cover with water, and drink in the delicious smell while it simmers in the slow cooker.

Candied Sweet Potato Casserole

Creme de la Crumb

Okay, so this does require a little oven time, but it’ll be the last thing you heat up before you can dig in (and it’s totally worth it). Peel and chop 5lbs of sweet potatoes and let your slow cooker do all the work for the next four hours. Transfer to a casserole dish, spread a layer of pecans over the sweet potato mixture then bake for 20 minutes to achieve maximum crunch before adding the mini marshmallows. Bake for five more minutes (or until marshmallows are golden brown) and dig in.

Caramel Fondue

Creme de la Crumb

From apple slices to pretzels, there’s no wrong way to dunk with this dip, made from only three ingredients — caramels, heavy cream and marshmallows. Say hello to your new post-Thanksgiving party trick.

Garlic Ranch Potatoes

The Cookie Rookie

Tender red potatoes are a great alternative to the typical mashed variety. Top the wedges with ranch seasoning, chives and garlic for a fresh side dish that no one will believe you made entirely in the crock pot.

Cranberry Sauce Crock Pot Recipe

Gimme Some Oven

This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Toss in the ingredients and come back in three hours for cranberry sauce that is the perfect combination of tart and sweet. Add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

Cinnamon Apples

A Spicy Perspective

The best side dishes double as dessert. Cover thinly sliced apples in brown sugar, cinnamon and bourbon, then simmer for four hours. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is — they’re delicious either way.

Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Trade out the usual jar of grape jelly in your famous meatball recipe for cranberry sauce to give it a holiday update. The sweet and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more. In fact, you better double the recipe.

Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

This tasty party snack is perfect for clearing out your cabinets: cereal, peanuts, pretzels, dried fruit and graham crackers all come together in a salty sweet crunch. Drench the mix in butter, maple syrup and pumpkin pie spices before testing your willpower for the next two hours.

Apple Pie Oatmeal

The Healthy Maven

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day (especially on Thanksgiving), but this oatmeal couldn’t be easier: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker before you go to bed and you’ll wake up to the aroma of nutmeg and maple syrup.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creme de la Crumb

A pile of fresh herbs, butter and garlic make these mashed potatoes stand out on the buffet table. Use red potatoes and leave the skins on for a rustic flair that not only adds a ton of flavor, it also saves you some work.

Spinach + Artichoke Dip

Damn Delicious

Keep your guests from getting hangry while they wait for dinner: Serve this creamy spinach and artichoke dip with bread, pretzels or pita for a Thanksgiving staple made super easy, thanks to your crock pot.

Butternut Squash Soup

Life Made Sweeter

Combine coconut milk with chunks of butternut squash and sweet potato, then cook in the crockpot for four hours. Once everything is fork tender, break out your immersion blender to make the texture velvety smooth. Top with extra coconut milk and toasted pumpkin seeds before devouring.

Pumpkin Cobbler

The Gunny Sack

Trade in your standard pumpkin pie for a cobbler that is made in the crock pot from start to finish. Pro tip: place a paper towel underneath the lid to keep the condensation off the food and ensure a crispy crust. Top the plated perfection with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel syrup.

Dinner Rolls

Lil Luna

The slow cooker might be the last place you'd think to bake dinner rolls, but trust us on this one. This trick comes in handy year-round, especially on hot summer days when you don't feel like blasting that oven. Genius.

Don't miss out on knocking out a dish or two this year with these Thanksgiving crock pot recipes and if you need more inspiration, join our newsletter or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes.