These Are the Perfect DIY Favors for Your Friendsgiving Dinner

Nov 21, 2015

Between picking out the perfect decor and planning your yummy menu, we know you’re extra busy around Friendsgiving. That’s why we’re going to show you how to make a super simple project for the big day that you can complete in no time. Grab some clay and make these cute candle holders — you’ll have plenty of extra time for dipping your finger in the pumpkin pie whipped cream. Your guests will never know ;)

Materials:

— air-dry clay

— parchment paper

— white spray paint

— tea lights

Tools:

— X-ACTO knife or box cutter

— rolling pin

— pastry bag tip

— cylindrical object

Instructions:

1. Protect your surface by covering it with a piece of parchment paper. Then roll the clay between your hands until it’s soft and malleable.

2. Use your rolling pin to roll out the clay to about 1/3-inch thickness.

3. Cut out one long rectangular strip of clay.

4. Use the pastry bag tip to create a polka dot pattern, pressing it through the clay to cut out holes.

5. Once the shape is cut, protect your cylindrical item (or whatever you are using to get your desired shape) with a piece of parchment paper, then wrap your clay around it.

6. Roll out another piece of clay and cut out a circle that will fit on the bottom of your cylinder.

7. Use your fingertips to join the circle to the cylinder. Repeat the entire process to create a smaller candle holder.

8. Let dry, then spay paint with white acrylic. Wait until it’s completely dry before adding your tea light.

Get started by protecting your work surface with a piece of parchment paper. Next, roll out the clay until it’s about 1/3-inch thick. Grab your X-ACTO knife or box cutter and cut out a long rectangular strip as shown in the picture above. Then use your pastry bag tip to gently create a polka dot pattern.

At this point, wrap a piece of parchment paper around any cylindrical object. I used an old can of heat-protecting hair spray :) Then roll out a new piece of clay and use the top of the can to cut out a circle. Use your fingertips to join the cylinder of clay and the circle base, then repeat the process to create a smaller version (or as many as you want!).

Let the clay dry according to the specified time on your clay’s packaging, then spray paint with your desired color. Ta-dah! You’re done. Wasn’t that quick?

These little candle holders are such a great fall decor idea, and they’re perfect favors for Friendsgiving.

Do you celebrate Friendsgiving? What types of favors have you made in years past? Let us know in the comments below!

23 Thanksgiving Desserts You Won’t Believe Are Healthy

Between the stuffing, the mashed potatoes, the rolls, and the green bean casserole, it's quite the feat when you manage to leave room for pumpkin pie after aThanksgivingfeast. Luckily, dessert options that are healthy and delicious run rampant, and you'll want to make sure to save some room for a bite of each.

From Paleo pies to dairy-free ice creams, here are 20 healthy Thanksgiving desserts to please everyone at your table, regardless of their diet.

Brit + Co

Mini Chocolate-Pecan Pies

These smaller portions of chocolate pecan pie make snacking on something sweet way healthier and more realistic than reaching for an actual slice. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sweet Potato Parfait

You'll get a little bit of sweet and a little bit of savory with this aesthetically-pleasing Thanksgiving dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread

Though layered with chocolate, banana bread does have bananas in it, so that means it's healthy, right? (via Brit + Co)

Delicious Knowledge

Pumpkin Donuts with Pecan Frosting

No one can ever say no to a donut, and these can even double-duty as breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving. (via Delicious Knowledge)

Half Baked Harvest

Mini Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Candy Peanut Butter Cups

Who said Thanksgiving dessert had to be pie? Snack on these homemade Reese’s cups while you play games after dinner. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Natural Girl Modern World

Pumpkin Pie Parfait with Coconut Whipped Cream

The most “difficult” part of this recipe is the 24-hour wait to dig in, but don’t worry — this layered gluten-free and vegan dessert is a great way to tap into your creative skills. (via Natural Girl Modern World)

Bakerita

Paleo Pecan Pie

You won’t be in a sugar coma after a slice (or two!) of this paleo pecan pie. Coconut oil and almond flour make this a delicious grain-free and dairy-free dessert. (via Bakerita)

Healthy Maven

Spiralized Apple Crumble

Instead of spending all your time chopping apples for a healthy Thanksgiving dessert, cut your time in half by spiralizing them for a quick and healthy apple crumble. It’s sure to be a huge hit and is *totally* Instagram-worthy. (via Healthy Maven)

Joyful Healthy Eats

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Pecan Crust

Make these a few days in advance to take the stress out of the entire Thanksgiving dinner event. (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Gourmande in the Kitchen

Coconut Caramel Pecan Bars

These vegan and gluten-free bars look and taste fancy, but are a total breeze to make. (via Gourmande in the Kitchen)

Twin Stripe

Gluten-Free Apple Berry Crumble

Apple pie is so 2014. Instead, make a gluten-free crumble with those apples for a dessert that everyone can enjoy! (via Twin Stripe)

Amy’s Healthy Baking

Maple Cupcakes with Pumpkin Pie Frosting

No one will guess that these cupcakes are healthy and gluten-free. Serving cupcakes will keep you from having to wash extra plates and forks, too. (via Amy’s Healthy Baking)

Bakerita

Paleo Pumpkin Pie

Traditional pumpkin pie isn’t gluten-free or paleo. Swap it out for this pie that’s free of dairy and refined sugar, and healthy enough to have for breakfast the day after Thanksgiving. (via Bakerita)

Hungry Happenings

Cocoa Banana Ice Cream Turkeys

Banana ice cream is vegan and gluten-free, and won’t have you missing traditional pumpkin pie. You can have your turkey and eat it too with this adorable dessert, no matter if you’re a carnivore or not! (via Hungry Happenings)

Clean Raw Living

Vegan Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Can you believe raw, vegan cheesecake is a thing? These are perfect for a treat everyone can enjoy, no matter what kind of diet they may follow. (via Clean Raw Living)

The Real Food Dietitians

Gluten-Free Healthy Carrot Cake Bars

Loaded with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a velvety cream cheese drizzle, this treat is all about indulgence without all the guilt. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Clean Cuisine

Gingerbread Loaf

Deck the halls with boughs of gingerbread! This gingerbread loaf is a slice of holiday happiness that'll transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland. (via Clean Cuisine)

Crowded Kitchen

Granola Cookies

Packed with oats, nuts, and your choice of mix-ins, they're a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to perfection. These cookies offer a delightful crunch in every bite, and you can even make them ahead of time to ease your Thanksgiving prep. (via Crowded Kitchen)

A Virtual Vegan

Dark Chocolate Hummus

Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-decadent, this dessert dip will leave your guests swooning. It's the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, making it a delightful surprise on your Thanksgiving table. (via A Virtual Vegan)

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Browned Butter Banana Zucchini Cake

The browned butter in this healthy Thanksgiving dessert adds a rich, nutty note, while the bananas and zucchini keep it moist and sweet. This dessert is a Thanksgiving game-changer that'll have your family begging for seconds. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Where Is My Spoon?

Zucchini Bundt Cake

This beauty is all about turning a humble veggie into a dessert masterpiece. With its stunning spiral shape and tender crumb, it's a showstopper that'll have everyone reaching for another slice! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Vanilla and Bean

Blueberry Galette

Bursting with plump, juicy blueberries and encased in a flaky, buttery crust, this treat is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Gastroplant

Orange and Prune Scones

These are perfect bites for breakfast or as a charming addition to your Thanksgiving brunch spread. (via Gastroplant)

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This post has been updated, featuring former reporting from Kaitlyn Ingram and Cassandra Pisone.

10 Mike White Movies & TV Shows To Binge While You Wait For 'The White Lotus' Season 4

If you've spent the last couple of months glued to your screen watching The White Lotus, then you're already familiar with the genius of Mike White. The insanely popular HBO show just aired its divisive season 3 finale, and plenty of viewers are upset about parting ways with the series for now.

However,The White Lotus is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Mike White's filmography. He's had a hand in plenty of hidden gems and fan favorites, from the hit movie School of Rock to the rom-com The Good Girl and the teen drama Dawson's Creek.

So, as we eagerly await Season 4 of The White Lotus, you can still get your Mike White fix. Here are 10 TV shows and movies that he's worked on.

Scroll to see all the Mike White movies & TV shows you should watch while you wait for the next season of The White Lotus.

Black & White Productions

1. Year of the Dog

In Year of the Dog, Mike White delivers a powerful story about grief and transformation. It stars Molly Shannon as Peggy, a kindhearted woman whose life starts to unravel following the sudden death of her dog, Pencil.

But then, this story of loss turns into a journey of self-discovery as Peggy becomes an animal activist. Year of the Dog was both written and directed by Mike White.

Amazon Prime Studios

2. Brad's Status

This movie stars Ben Stiller as Brad, a guy who starts to question his achievements when comparing himself to his more "successful" college friends during a trip with his son.

The comedy-drama tackles themes of envy, regret, and insecurities, but still has Mike White's signature stamp of subtle humor. Other cast members in Brad's Status include Austin Abrams, Luke Wilson, and Michael Sheen.

Paramount

3. School of Rock

School of Rock is one of Mike White's most successful projects. While the 2003 film was actually directed by Richard Linklater, it was Mike who penned the script and let Jack Black shine as Dewey Finn, who fakes his way into a substitute teaching job.

To this day, School of Rock remains a cult classic that's high energy and takes viewers on a feel-good journey.

Editor's Note: Haley Sprankle wants the world to know this is her favorite movie of all time. In her opinion, it's truly a perfect film and should be a required viewing for everyone. Let's rock today!

HBO

4. Enlightened

Before The White Lotus, there was Enlightened, an HBO series that showcased Mike White's talent for creating complex and flawed characters.

Laura Dern stars as Amy Jellicoe, a corporate executive whose public meltdown leads her down a path of spiritual awakening and reinvention. It's a quiet but powerful precursor to Mike's storytelling style, which he perfected in The White Lotus.

Odeon Films

5. Chuck & Buck

Chuck & Buck is an uncomfortable yet oddly touching indie film that showcases Mike White's talent for balancing cringey humor with emotional depth.

He actually stars as Buck, a socially awkward man who's still clinging to a childhood friendship with Chuck, played by Chris Weitz. This early screenplay, which came out in 2000, laid the groundwork for his distinctive tone.

Fox Searchlight Pictures

6. The Good Girl

Jennifer Aniston stars as Justine, a bored and unhappily married retail worker in The Good Girl. Then, she has an affair with her younger coworker named Holden, played by Jake Gyllenhaal.

This lesser-known rom-com came out in 2002, and Mike White's writing style helps bring out the complexity of seemingly mundane lives. Other cast members in The Good Girl include John C. Reilly, Deborah Rush, Tim Blake Nelson, and Zooey Deschanel.

Paramount Pictures

7. Orange County

Again, Mike's unique perspective brought a clever twist to the teen comedy genre in Orange County. Colin Hanks stars as Shaun, a high school student who's desperate to get into Stanford, but because of an application mix-up, his dreams are derailed.

With the help of his brother Lance, portrayed by Jack Black, he tries to make things right and ultimately realizes he can achieve his dreams closer to home.

Paramount

8. Nacho Libre

You may not have known that Mike White co-wrote Nacho Libre, the strangely sweet 2006 comedy starring Jack Black. In the film, Jack plays Nacho, a monastery cook who secretly moonlights as a masked wrestler to help support the orphans he cares for.

Even in 2025, Nacho Libre remains a cult classic (and continues to inspire plenty of Halloween costumes every year).

Universal

9. Despicable Me 4

The heartwarming and family-friendly Despicable Me 4 is a far cry from The White Lotus, but believe it or not, Mike White had a hand in writing this massively successful animated film, too.

While it's definitely different than most of his filmography, viewers can still feel Mike's style in the movie's mix of bizarre humor and unexpected emotional beats. This iteration of the franchise follows Gru as he balances fatherhood while facing yet another villainous threat.

The WB

10. Dawson's Creek

Lastly, Mike White also flexed his writing muscles on the teen drama hit Dawson's Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003. The show followed a group of close-knit friends as they navigated the messiness of young adulthood and love in a small town.

Dawson's Creek featured stars like James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson, Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Chad Michael Murray.

Looking for more movie, TV, and entertainment news? Follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

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29 Stunning Tablescape Ideas For Your Thanksgiving Hosting

Hosting this year's Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving? Since the big meal day can be kind of stressful between scouring the Internet for the best turkey recipe and baking one or two (or three) pumpkin pies, we’ve rounded up all the tablescape inspo you’ll need to make your home feel cozy and festive. Scroll through our fave centerpiece ideas that will make this year’s feast *that* much better.

Creative Table Runners And Tablecloths

Photo by Andrea Imre

Etsy Gauze Table Runner

Anthropologie Plaid Tablecloth

Greenrow Narcissus Ruffle Tablecloth

Williams Sonoma Linen Table Runner

Bed Threads Oatmeal, Olive & Sage Table Bundle

Etsy Thankful Table Runner

Get Creative With Your Centerpiece

Shutterstock

Etsy Dried Citrus

Terrain Frosted Glass Pumpkins

Wayfair Faux Bay Laurel Garland

Etsy Twisted Candles

Etsy Eucalyptus Garland

Use Seasonal Tableware

Benedita Bow Stoneware Side Plates

Bed Threads French Flax Linen Scalloped Napkins

Meri Meri Earthy Reusable Bamboo Plates

Simply Eco Compostable Table Setting

Pomelo Casa Mini Plates

Food52 Cambridge Gaze Flatware

Perigold La Rochere Glassware

Terrain Harvest Place Setting Bunches

Terracotta Ribbon

Etsy Mushroom Decor

Meri Meri Fall Flower Crackers

Personalized Fabric Holiday Cracker

DIY Ideas

Use mini pumpkins at your place cards. (via Brit + Co)

Or gourds as your serving dish and save on washing dishes! (via Brit + Co)

Looking for more holiday inspo? Sign up for our weekly email newsletter so you never miss a thing!

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

Additional reporting by Theresa Gonzalez

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Um, Sophia Bush Finally Spoke On Why Peyton Skipped Brooke's Wedding In 'One Tree Hill': "I Went Ballistic"

One Tree Hill fans go through a lot throughout the show's 9-season run. Everything from family drama to psycho stalkers, kidnappers, and murder. But there's one down-to-earth moment in the series that confuses fans just as much as the outlandish ones: when Brooke (Sophia Bush) marries Julian (Austin Nichols) and her BFF Peyton (Hilarie Burton) isn't there.

Here's why Peyton (and Hilarie Burton) didn't come back for Brooke's wedding on One Tree Hill.

Why did Peyton not go to Brooke's wedding?

@dramaqueenspodcast hilarie wasn't invited back to Brooke wedding #brulian #austinnichols #julianbaker #sophiabush #brookedavis #haleyjamesscott #peytonsawyer #bethanyjoylenz #dramaqueensoth #dramaqueenspodcast #onetreehill #braley ♬ original sound - Drama Queens Podcast

In an episode of their Drama Queens rewatch podcast, Sophia Bush finally explained the real reason Peyton wasn't at Brooke's wedding: Hilarie Burton just...wasn't asked.

"Since you're talking about how much sh—t you got, I feel like this is a really important moment to tell our fans that we were told, Joy and I, that you had been invited back for the episode and said no," Sophia Bush says. "They had essentially asked us in the press to be like, 'Oh, well, you know, she was invited to come but was doing White Collar,' or whatever you were working on at the time...When I talked to you and found out that was a lie, I went ballistic. I was so mad. Oo I was mad!"

Sophia did tell Hollywood Life in 2011 that, "We really tried, and we of course would have been thrilled because their characters were big parts of our story. It doesn’t always work. So for the fans out there who always ask me on Twitter to get the bosses to ask them back, they’ve been asked back… but scheduling conflicts are scheduling conflicts.”

“Quite frankly, we just couldn’t make a deal,” creator Mark Schwahn also told TV Line at the time. “Everybody had the best intentions. But at the end of the day, it just didn’t work out.”

The fact that Peyton didn't show up to Brooke's wedding has always been a pain point with fans because it just doesn't make sense for her to miss her lifelong best friend's wedding! "Peyton should have been at Brooke's wedding," Bethany Joy Lenz says.

"Peyton should have been there and it wasn't up to any of us," Sophia adds.

Hilarie shed some light on the situation from her perspective, explaining that she only remembers getting one call to guest star, but she was heavily pregnant.

"I was pregnant with Gus, it was in October of I guess season 7, and my manager got a call that was like, 'Hilarie's on the board for this episode, so we're trying schedule her travel,'" she explains. "And we had had an epic fallout as I left the show, and my manager had been told all these things by our bosses that were just like horrific about me and that I'd never work again and all this stuff. And so it was just this really pleasant call from, like, a secretary...I was like super pregnant! And I was like 'Uh, I'm unavailable.'"

"We'll just have to do it again," Hilarie adds. Who knows, maybe the One Tree Hill sequel series will feature a vow renewal!

Does Brooke marry anyone in One Tree Hill?

Warner Bros. TV

Yes, Brooke Davis marries film producer Julian Davis after he proposes in the season 7 finale, "Almost Everything I Wish I'd Said the Last Time I Saw You" — my favorite episode of television ever!

What episode does Brooke get married in One Tree Hill?

Brooke and Julian get married in One Tree Hill season 8, episode 13, "The Other Half Of Me."

Check out The One Moment That Proves Brooke Davis Is The Best Character On One Tree Hill for more!

entertainment pop culture sophia bush tv

42 Fashion Finds to Perfect the 'Tennis-core' Aesthetic

The tennis-core aesthetic is making waves this season, and it's not just for the courts. It's all about bringing sporty elegance into everyday style with classic polos, pleated skirts, and accessories that add a touch of charm. These 42 stylish finds will help you master the trend, both on and off the court.

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.

Master the Look With a Pleated Tennis Skirt

Amazon

This pleated tennis skirt serves both style and function. It features built-in shorts to keep you secure and hidden pockets for extra convenience. And yes, it even has a spot for your phone.

These Are the Perfect DIY Favors for Your Friendsgiving Dinner

From Paleo pies to dairy-free ice creams, here are 20 healthy Thanksgiving desserts to please everyone at your table, regardless of their diet.

Scroll to see all the Mike White movies & TV shows you should watch while you wait for the next season of The White Lotus.

1. Year of the Dog

2. Brad's Status

3. School of Rock

4. Enlightened

5. Chuck & Buck

6. The Good Girl

7. Orange County

8. Nacho Libre

9. Despicable Me 4

10. Dawson's Creek

Creative Table Runners And Tablecloths

Get Creative With Your Centerpiece

Use Seasonal Tableware

DIY Ideas

Here's why Peyton (and Hilarie Burton) didn't come back for Brooke's wedding on One Tree Hill.

Why did Peyton not go to Brooke's wedding?

Does Brooke marry anyone in One Tree Hill?

What episode does Brooke get married in One Tree Hill?

Master the Look With a Pleated Tennis Skirt

Combine Fashion and Functionality With a Tennis Dress

Accessorize With a Lightweight Visor

Layer Your Look With a Court Approved Oversized Cardigan

Every Tennis Inspired Look Needs a Pair of Slouch Socks

You Can't Forget a Pair of Chunky White Sneakers

This Knit Tee Will Give Any Fit a Sporty Look

This Workout Jacket Is a Must-Have

Add Some Shine to Your Look With These Tennis Bracelets

Accessorize From Head-to-Toe With These Headbands

This Athletic Dress Has Plenty of Support

This Workout Set Was Made for the Tennis-Core Aesthetic

You Can Never Go Wrong With a Romper

Add a Neutral Toned Baseball Cap

This Pullover Has a Built-in Layered Look

Keep Your Look Elegant With a Cable-Knit Blouse

This Sports Bra Has Built-in Padding

These Workout Shorts Have All of the Important Details

This Tennis Dress Is Practical and Stylish

Make Your Outfit Pop With Coordinating Socks

Stay Comfortable and Stylish in These Platform Sneakers

Carry All the Essentials in This Puffer Tote Bag

Keep Your Look Simple With a Polo T-Shirt

You'll Never Want to Take These Sneakers Off

Pair This Flattering Skort With Anything in Your Closet

Mix and Match This Work Set

Keep Your Look Casual With This Oversized Sweater Vest

The Options for Styling This Sweater Vest Are Endless

Add Tennis-Core to Your Everyday Jewelry With This Charm Bracelet

Style Your Look With a Cozy Cardigan Shrug

Get This Sports Bra in Any Color

This Sleeveless Tank Is Made for Sunny Days

These Running Shorts Are Super Flattering

This Workout Dress Has Adjustable Straps

This Collared Pullover Is Sure to Keep You Comfy

Grab These Leggings in Any Color

This Cropped Top Goes With Any Bottoms

Style Your Updo With These Hair Bows