If pretty much *all* of your friends got engaged over the holidays, you’re probably in the thick of bridal shower and bachelorette party planning. But before you start stressing or getting overwhelmed with that insane email chain, first things first: the theme. Pull out all the stops for your bestie’s spring bridal shower and create an event everyone will adore with a Kate Spade theme. The designer’s signature style of pink glam and luxury stripes was practically made for a bridal shower. Add a bit of gold and you’ll have the perfect blend of class and sass for your favorite girl. Check out the 20 Kate Spade-inspired accents below to bring a little sparkle to the party.
Mushrooms act as a wholesome, earthy base for easy, one-bite Christmas appetizers. Once the stems are twisted off, the ‘shrooms can be filed with a host of flavorful toppings like bacon, cheese, and aromatic veggies, then roasted or slow-cooked until bubbly and tender. Start prepping your turkey, because we have irresistible stuffed mushroom recipes below.
Slow-Cooked, Stuffed Mushrooms
Brit + Co
Feast your eyes on a stuffed mushroom that’s filled with spinach-artichoke dip. (via Brit + Co)
Easy Stuffed Mushrooms
Brit + Co
If you don't have a ton of time to bake your mushrooms, this is literally the perfect appetizer. It can be served cold, but between the onions, olives, cheese, and tomatoes, there are so many amazing flavors your guests won't even care. (via Brit + Co)
5-Ingredient-Stuffed Mushrooms
A Spicy Perspective
The star ingredient in these Asian-inspired bites is plum sauce, which offsets the savoriness of pork sausage, sesame oil, and mushrooms. (via A Spicy Perspective)Jalapeño-Cream-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms
Peas and Crayons
Looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried jalapeño poppers? These baked bites, which still taste indulgent, fit the bill. (via Peas and Crayons)Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms
The Real Food Dietitians
These vibrant, slightly spicy ‘shrooms make a flavorful appetizer for a Mexican-inspired meal. (via The Real Food Dietitians)Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms With Hollandaise
Foodie Crush
These three-cheese hollandaise-drizzled mushrooms are the new brunch attraction in town. (via Foodie Crush)Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms With Garlic and Gouda
Peas and Crayons
Make a platter of these, and your seafood-lovin’ friends won’t know what hit them. (via Peas and Crayons)French-Onion-Soup-Stuffed Mushrooms
The Veg Life
These mushrooms pack all of the flavors of French onion soup, including the signature cheesy crust, into one convenient bite. (via The Veg Life)Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms Wrapped in Bacon
Port and Fin
These cheesy mushrooms are wrapped in a crispy bacon hug. (via Port and Fin)Spanakopita-Stuffed Mushrooms
Wholesome Yum
Flaky, feta-rich spanakopita is a staple at cocktail parties. Enjoy a low-carb version by replacing the pastry with mushrooms. (via Wholesome Yum)Easy Pizza Portobello Stuffed Mushrooms
The Girl on Bloor
These stuffed mushrooms are basically just mini pizzas, and what could be better than that? Nothing. (via The Girl on Bloor)
Vegetarian, Italian-Stuffed Mushrooms
Bowl of Delicious
You don’t need meat to give stuffed mushrooms a robust flavor. These get plenty of pizzazz from shallots, garlic, parmesan, and herbs. (via Bowl of Delicious)Bacon-and-Blue-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms With Creamy Hot Sauce
The Food Charlatan
These saucy bites will be a welcome addition to any spread, be it a game-day party or movie night. (via The Food Charlatan)Vegan, Pesto-Stuffed Mushrooms
Hummusapien
This guilt-free appetizer gives you a healthy dose of greens from spinach and basil. (via Hummusapien)Shrimp-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Little Spice Jar
You’ll be transported to a little restaurant by the sea when you take a bite of these mushrooms. The breadcrumbs on top add a crunch that complements the tender shrimp. (via Little Spice Jar)Italian, Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
The Chunky Chef
These breakfast-friendly ‘shrooms would make a deliciously unexpected side to sweeter pancakes or French toast. (via The Chunky Chef)Buffalo-Chicken-Stuffed Mushrooms
My Life Cookbook
Whether or not you’re keto, you’ll find many things to enjoy about these low-carb, high-fat mushrooms like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken, and a touch of hot sauce. (via My Life Cookbook)Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms
Food Fanatic
In this case, stuffed mushrooms are really just an excuse to eat ample bites of gooey goat cheese, and we’re all for it. (via Food Fanatic)
Pizza-Stuffed Mushrooms
Plain Chicken
If you ask us, you can have pizza without crust but never without cheese. Enjoy all the flavors of a meat lover’s pie in these easy, stuffed mushrooms. (via Plain Chicken)Curry-Potato-Stuffed Mushrooms
The Pretty Bee
Indian flavors, including garam masala and coconut milk, fill these white button mushrooms. (via The Pretty Bee)Follow us on Pinterest for more stuffed mushroom recipes *and* more amazing ideas!
This post has been updated.
"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.
Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.
'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.
All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.
Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.
"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."
Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)
Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.
Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!
Forget what Big Internet is telling you: you don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars for a single dress. Target has tons of dress styles that rival that of Nordstrom and Reformation, available for way less. In fact, all of these Target party dresses are on sale right now through November 9. These luxe-looking designs will ensure your look is the talk of the party, no matter what you’re getting up to. From company Christmas parties to a New Year’s Eve night out, you’re most definitely going to find a dress fit for the occasion.
Our top 14 favorite Target party dresses for the 2024 season:
- Universal Thread Tie-Waist Midi A-Line Dress
- A New Day Midi Lace Trim Dress
- A New Day Sequin Midi A-Line Dress
- A New Day Drop Tier Maxi Dress
- Wild Fable Rosette Tube Maxi Bodycon Dress
- Wild Fable Long Sleeve Flocked Mini Fit & Flare Dress
- Future Collective Bubble Mini Tank Dress
- A New Day Mini Velvet Ruched Dress
- Wild Fable Tiered Bow Mini Lace Dress
- Wild Fable Satin Flutter Cap Sleeve Mini Bubble Dress
- A New Day Maxi Sundress
- Ava & Viv Long Sleeve Rosette Midi A-Line Dress
- Wild Fable Slip Mini Tank Dress
- Wild Fable Open Work Sequin Midi Dress
Target
A New Day Midi Lace Trim Dress
The chic v-neck on this silky midi dress is lined with a lace trim that make it all the more elegant. Pair this pick with a contrasting clutch and your favorite tall boots to totally rock the look!
Target
A New Day Drop Tier Maxi Dress
This is a dress style I gawk over all the time, thanks to none other than Sex and the City. The dramatic drop-waist helps elongate and flatter your figure, so you'll be feeling uber-confident the moment you walk into any party. Plus, this sultry burgundy color is such a perfect fit for winter functions.
Target
Wild Fable Rosette Tube Maxi Bodycon Dress
A tube dress is gonna get me every time. The strapless look is simply iconic because you can show up to the party covered up in a cardigan, then make the big reveal once things start to turn up. The statement rosette on this pick's neckline is a whole accessory in itself, so all you need is a good pair of statement earrings to complete the ensemble!
Target
Wild Fable Long Sleeve Flocked Mini Fit & Flare Dress
Want a bit of coverage, but still want to feel sexy? This off-the-shoulder party dress is for you! The long sleeves and textured velvet material make it feel much more winter-appropriate, but you still get to show off your neckline.
Target
Wild Fable Tiered Bow Mini Lace Dress
I am still thoroughly obsessed with bows, which is why I'm definitely snagging this style for any upcoming holiday shindigs. The tiered styling is undeniably flattering, and the black trim qualifies this party dress to be a good match with other black pieces, from jackets to boots.
Target
Ava & Viv Long Sleeve Rosette Midi A-Line Dress
When it comes to wintery fabrics, velvet reigns supreme. This playful square-neck mini dress is super soft to the touch and has the perfect amount of personality, thanks to the lil' rosette decal up front.
Target
Wild Fable Open Work Sequin Midi Dress
Yes, yes, and yes. This is my favorite Target party dress of them all. Though simple in its silhouette, the multicolored sequins do all the talking. Since this long dress makes a statement all on its own, I'd style it with some simple heels.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.
Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.
Venice, Italy
Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.Bali, Indonesia
Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.
Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
Machu Picchu, Peru
Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.
Tulum, Mexico
Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.
Santorini, Greece
Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.
Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)
This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.
Kyoto, Japan
Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.
Mount Everest, Nepal
The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.
Lisbon, Portugal
Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.
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Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.
If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.
The Noshery
Mantecaditos con Guayaba
These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)
Broma Bakery
Meringues
French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)
Pretty. Simple. Sweet.
Alfajores
Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)
Fancy Peasant
Melomakarona
These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)
Very Eatalian
Baci di Dama
The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)
Cooking Classy
Linzer Cookies
These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)
Olivia’s Cuisine
Basler Brunsli
If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)
Cilantro Parsley
Buñuelos
These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)
Chef Lindsey Farr
Apricot Kolachys
The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)
Life, Love and Sugar
Cutout Sugar Cookies
In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)
Saveur
Polvorones
You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)
A Healthy Life for Me
Pignoli
These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)
Fancy Peasant
Kourabiedes
These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)
Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.