15 Foodie Stocking Stuffers Under $20

Mel Burke
Dec 03, 2018
Before you stuff your stockings by the fire, consult this list to help you find just the right mix of useful and fun gifts without breaking the bank.
Multifunctional Garlic Press ($2): With this tool, grate and press garlic, ginger, nutmeg, and any other flavorful little ingredient that needs mincing.
Stord Coconut Opener ($8): Relive your favorite moments from your last tropical adventure by having fresh coconut at home — but without having to figure out exactly how to open the coconut in the first place.
Hiware 200-Pack Biodegradable Paper Straws ($9): Sometimes you gotta stick with your sipping habit, but it doesn’t always need to happen with plastic.

Taylor Oven Thermometer ($9): Some of us have supernova ovens that burn all of our cookies, and it’s horrifying. An in-oven thermometer like this one takes the guesswork out of baking.

OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer ($10): You’re going to be the hero of the gift-giving game this year by making everyone’s avocado life this easy.
Ayesha Curry 2-Piece Spoonula/Spatula Set ($10): You can always use an extra spatula in your life, and this two-piece set from Ayesha Curry’s line is durable and adorable.
Cravings by Chrissy Teigen 2 Piece Acacia Wood Salad Serving Set ($10): All right, we know — we’re obsessed with Chrissy Teigen, and we refuse to be sorry about it. Her latest cookware line with Target is chic and functional, like this salad serving set.
Obliviate Harry Potter Inspired Shot Glass ($10): Here's a Wizarding World shot glass for all of those tequila memories you’d rather not keep.
Mickey Mouse Whisk Set ($13): Whisk together all the ingredients you need for a happy treat to pair with your Disney movie marathon.
Thirstystone Gold Tone Arrow Bottle Stopper ($13): A stunning gold arrow tops this bottle stopper, making it a total upgrade from those neon-colored plastic ones we’ve all picked up at checkout in the grocery store.
Unicorn Silicone Pop Molds ($14): Make your next batch of popsicles or fudge bars magical with unicorn molds.
Joseph Joseph Spiro Spiralizer ($15): This handheld take on the food world’s trendiest accessory lets you spiralize for one.
Magnetic Kitchen Timer ($15): These sweet little retro kitchen timers can stick to any metallic surface, making them extra handy when you need space for rolling dough or making a mess.

Houdini Electric Corkscrew ($16): Help the people in your life stop struggling with wine openers — and get one for yourself while you’re at it.

Pottery Barn Mezze Salt & Pepper Shakers ($20): Squeaking in under the budget limit are these stunning salt and pepper shakers. Everyone needs a little table pizzazz in their home, and these babies deliver.

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

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

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7 "Outdated" Gifts You Should Never Give Your Valentine

Valentine’s Day is all about love, but let’s be real: some gifts just don’t say “I adore you” the way they used to! While romancenever goes out of style, it’s easy for certain Valentine’s Day gifts to feel more like a last-minute grabthan a compassionate, heartfelt expression of love.

If you want to impress your special someone this Valentine's Day, it’s time to retire these 7 “outdated” and overdone gifts that scream predictable.

Scroll on for the 7 “outdated” Valentine’s Day gifts you should definitely skip this year – and what to give instead!

The Glorious Studio / PEXELS

1. Heart-shaped jewelry

Now don’t get me wrong – heart-shaped jewelry can be super cute, but oftentimes, it can feel a little cheesy and predictable for Valentine’s Day.

Instead, consider your Valentine’s personal interests and search for some jewelry that way. Whether it’s sports, animals, or astrology, you’ll surely be able to find something that suits them more closely.

Hassan Ouajbir / PEXELS

2. Huge teddy bears

Those big teddies – or even just the cheap stuffed animals from the drugstore – are not practical whatsoever and tend to collect dust. Unless you know of a very specific plush that your Valentine's been wanting, it’s okay to skip the stuffed animals.

Picjumbo / PEXELS

3. A dozen roses

While red roses can be a romantic gesture, there are so many other flowers to consider. Roses are simply generic AF and very expected – instead, get to the bottom of what your Valentine’s favorite flower is and run with that! From lilies to mums, you could even create your own bouquet with just a little extra effort.

Ksenia Chernaya / PEXELS

4. Fake plants

The same idea goes for fake plants. Why invest in a fake plant when a real one can be so much more meaningful? This way, every time your Valentine goes to water the plant you gave them, they’ll be thinking of you. ❤️

5. Matching gifts

Matching t-shirts, mugs, socks, and the like are honestly pretty cringeworthy, unless you’re really into them. Your Valentine will definitely appreciate a unique gift a lot more this year.

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6. Cheap chocolates

Cheap chocolates are good for a last-minute gift, but if you want your gift to feel special to your Valentine, please take the extra time (and money!) to opt for a fancier box. They’ll look better and taste better.

Jill Wellington / PEXELS

7. Anything impersonal

All of this goes to say that anything impersonal makes a cliche and outdated Valentine’s Day gift. You don’t even have to go insanely above and beyond for your date this year – just a little extra consideration will definitely make them feel loved.

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5 "Outdated" Engagement Ring Trends That Have Lost Their Touch

Surprise proposals are always magical (hi, Benny Blanco & Selena Gomez!), but we've gotten picky about which engagement rings make us swoon these days. Some of our prior favorite trends have become outdated, and it would more sad if they weren't other gorgeous options on the market. Even so, it's not easy to narrow down which ones will overpower or age your hands. Thankfully we've solved the big mystery for you so you can flaunt your fiancée title with the best accessory!

Scroll for engagement rings that aren't worth adding to your "secret" Pinterest board!

Gabriel & Co.

1. Double Halo Engagement Rings: Gabriel & Co. 14K White Gold Double Halo Ring

Once upon a time, double halo engagement rings were widely popular and a good indicator that someone was willing to make your hand look extremely good. But that's not the case anymore! As coveted as this style used to be, it now comes across as gaudy and overpowering.

If you're dropping hints to your partner, perhaps leave this "outdated" style in your drafts!

Kay Jewelers

2. Princess Cut Engagement Rings: Kay Jewelers Lab Grown Princess-Cut Solitaire Ring

We were sure princess cut engagement rings meant we were going to embody the lives of our favorite Disney princesses — mainly Cinderella. We even told ourselves we'd be 100% okay with just a single diamond in the middle of a plain band. Now we know there's other options we can choose from. From cushion to emerald cut, none of us have to relegate ourselves to a style of the past!

Brilliant Earth

3. Thick Band Engagement Rings: Brilliant Earth Alden Ring

Did you just yelp or was that us? Maybe it was a collective sound heard around the world because wearing an engagement ring with a thick band seems like something our grandmothers would love. Though we don't always question their personal style, there's something "vintage" about this trend that doesn't make us feel great. Also, this ring will likely swallow your finger if your hand is on the slender side!

Shane Co.

4. Excessively Vintage Engagement Rings: Shane Co. Natasha Lab-Grown Engagement Ring

Hear us out — vintage rings are gorgeous and have the rare ability of being unique in a sea of familiar engagement choices. But reaching for something that feels like you can buy it from somewhere like Shein for way less than the market price shouldn't make anyone feel good.

Believe us when we say this trend is "outdated!"

Vrai

5. Rose Gold Engagement Rings: Vrai Side Cluster Cathedral Oval Engagement Ring

Rose gold engagement rings were an alternative to the general metals we're used to seeing (i.e., white gold, platinum or yellow gold), but we think they're losing their touch. We've also noticed that some jewelers have their own definition of how this trend looks so it's not as easy to tell what people consider to be "rose gold."

Your best bet is to try engagement rings on in person to see what looks best on your skin so your partner's able to make a more informed decision!

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The 15 Best Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts You Can Get On Amazon

Waited 'til the last minute to snag a Valentine's Day gift for your boo? Fret not, my friend! Amazon has a ton of great gift options, and the 15 items I've hand-selected below will all arrive before Feb. 14. You'll find a little something for every kind of Valentine here, from cute kitchen finds to stunning beauty products like makeup and fragrances.

Scroll on for the 15 best last-minute Valentine's Day gifts on Amazon!

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Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug

This mug warmer will keep their morning coffee fresh all day long. Snag it in a V-Day-friendly color to really embrace the holiday!

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Kendra Scott Haven Strand Necklace

Everyone loves a lil' heart-shaped jewelry moment!

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NYX Buttermelt Powder Blush

This super buttery blush comes in plenty of different shades to suit your Valentine's skin tone. The texture is simply amazing, plus it's considerably pigmented, so a little goes a long way.

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Philosophy Fresh Cream Eau de Toilette

With notes of creamy vanilla and tonka bean, this is quite literally the sweetest scent to gift this Valentine's Day. The bottle itself is a work of art!

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Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler

You can't really go wrong with a classic Stanley tumbler for the person who loves to stay hydrated.

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Coach Lana Shoulder Bag

This adorable Coach bag is more of a splurge when it comes to last-minute Valentine's Day gifts, but there's no doubt it'll make your Valentine feel special as ever. This red color is also ideal for commemorating the holiday!

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UGG Euphoria Plush Faux Fur Reversible Throw Blanket

Snuggle up with your S.O. in this lavish faux fur blanket! It's a gift for them and for you. Score.

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Paris Hilton French Press

This French press will help your giftee craft the perfect brew. Plus, it's adorably covered in heart cut-outs!

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Apricot Lamb Plant Plush Toy

In favor of live flowers that'll wilt quickly, snag this cutie little plant plush to remind them of your undying love.

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Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

For the bougie beauty lover, the Shark FlexStyle is a must for locking down the perfect hairstyle!

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UGG Disquette Slippers

These plush slippers feel like luxury during every wear. They'll keep your giftee's feet and toes expertly warm in these cold winter months!

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Sol De Janeiro Cheirosa '68 Jet Set

This set of body cream, body wash, and perfume smells so delicious. The bottles are perfectly travel-sized, so your Valentine can take 'em on the go for a nice refresh.

Amazon

Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick

This cult-fave lipstick is guaranteed to get good reception from your beauty-loving Valentine!

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Smeg Electric Kettle

This electric kettle is as much a practical kitchen piece as it is a work of art. Think of it as counter eye candy that you and your boo can enjoy together for fresh teas, coffees, and more!

Amazon

Lego Botanicals Rose Bouquet Set

Build them this adorable Lego rose bouquet to gift alongside any beauty pick, fashion find, or homemade treat to truly impress your S.O.

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Leighton Meester Just Revealed A Surprising Detail About Her 2 Kids With Adam Brody

Adam Brody and Leighton Meester are definitely one of our favorite celebrity couples, but they’re also some of our favorite celeb parents. The couple has two children together, and they keep their family life pretty private.

But while getting all dolled up during a video interview on February 27, Leighton Meester offered a rare update about their kids, including a glimpse into their work-life balance as a family of 4.

Adam Brody & Leighton Meester’s kids aren't "fazed at all" by the Hollywood life.

Leighton Meester's kids understand the Hollywood of it all.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

While recording a Vogue Beauty Secrets video, Leighton Meester revealed that her kids are pretty used to traveling for her and Adam Brody's work.

“My kids, they get what we do," she says. "They come on location a lot." And while both Leighton and Adam have worked on some pretty big projects (and Leighton just joined Nobody Wants This season 2!), the Gossip Girl actress doesn't "think they're fazed at all."

"They get a lot of us off set and a lot of us not working, which has been always a really big benefit for both of us," she continues.

She also revealed to Brit + Co exclusively that Arlo is pretty helpful in the kitchen. “What I try to do is meal prep as much as I can. Sometimes that doesn't work out for me, but for my kids — I'll make things ahead of time," she says, adding that she's in “one of the luckiest positions that a mom could be.”

“When I was still nursing or my babies were still young, I had plenty of space and time to [be with my kids]," she continues. "And I know most women who are mothers don't have that opportunity at all.”

What has Adam Brody said about his parenting style?

Stefania Rosini/Netflix

When asked about his parenting style with Leighton Meester, Adam Brody told Today's Hoda & Jenna that he feels like their parenting is the "perfect" balance. "Of course, I’m going to feel like it’s the perfect balance of all of it," he says, adding that they're "very honest."

"We have some very truthful conversations, for better or worse. But other than that, I wouldn’t say overly strict," he continues. "There is a helicopter, you know, to keep them safe. I’m not overly strict but I see the sharp edges, literally...I want to keep those heads maintained."

What has Leighton Meester said about their family traditions?

Paulina Stevens/Exmas Film Inc/Amazon Freevee

When it comes to spending time together during the holidays, Leighton also opened up to Brit + Co exclusively about their go-to activities in an interview for her 2023 rom-com EXmas.

"We do a lot of hanging out," Leighton says in our conversation. "It's infuriating to people who live in cold weather but we go to the beach or we go in our pool or jacuzzi. We have snacks by the jacuzzi — we call it jajuterie!" Can I get in on that?

How many children does Leighton Meester have?

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

Adam Brody and Leighton Meester have two children, a daughter named Arlo, and a son whose name they haven't told us yet.

What are Leighton Meester's kids ages?

Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Arlo is 9 years old and was born on August 4, 2015. Leighton Meester and Adam Brody's son was born in 2020 and is 4 years old.

How old was Leighton Meester when she had her first child?

Angela Weiss/Getty Images

Leighton Meester was 27 years old when she had Arlo in 2015.

Check out Ryan Reynolds And Blake Lively Want Their Kids To Have “As Normal A Life As Possible” for the latest news on another Gossip Girl cast member's family.

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This Sci-Fi Young Adult Book Just Won The Highest Literary Honor!

Millions of Americans tune into award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys every single year. Yet, you may not know that the Newbery Medal predates all of them — and this great literary honor historically celebrated and exulted some of your favorite childhood reads.

The latest Youth Media Awards took place on January 27, 2025, at the LibLearnX conference in Phoenix, Arizona. There, this year's Newbery Medal winner was officially announced. Keep reading to find out the exciting new winner!

Here's everything you need to know about the 2025 Newbery Medal winning book!

What is the Newbery Medal?

Amazon

The Newberry Medal is awarded to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children on a yearly basis. The American Library Association (ALA) gave the very first Newbery Medal to Hendrik Willem van Loon, author of "The Story of Mankind," in 1922.

This honor, named after John Newbery, an English children's book publisher, ultimately became the world's first children's book award.

Since its inception, the Newbery Medal has been awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children. Numerous revered works have been given this honor, ranging from The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle in 1923 to Summer of the Swans in 1971 and The Tale of Despereaux in 2004.

Who won the 2025 Newbery Medal?

Erin Entrada Kelly

The honor was given to The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly. The book, which came out on March 5, 2024, is set in 1999 and follows a 12-year-old boy named Michael Rosario, who is consumed by anxiety as he prepares for a potential Y2K disaster.

Then, one day, Michael encounters a teenager named Ridge, who stands out with his unusual clothing and strange way of speaking. It turns out that Ridge traveled back in time from the year 2199 with the help of his mom's scientific experiments following a dare from his siblings.

Michael is tempted by the opportunity to find out about the future. However, he realizes that his priority is helping Ridge return to his own time.

This feat represents Erin Entrada Kelly's second Newbery Medal win. She previously won the honor for the first time in 2018 with her book, Hello, Universe.

Along with this prestigious award, the committee also awarded Newbery Honors to other books deemed attention-worthy. These titles included Across So Many Seas by Ruth Behar, Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All by Chanel Miller, One Big Open Sky by Lesa Cline-Ransome, and The Wrong Way Home by Kate O'Shaughnessy.

Amazon

While the Newbery Medal is perhaps the most famous children's book award, the ALA also recognizes outstanding literature across a variety of categories. These awards, including the Randolph Caldecott Medal, the Coretta Scott King Book Award, the William C. Morris Award, and the Michael L. Printz Award, are determined by committees of children's librarians and other literary experts.

This year, the Randolph Caldecott Medal was presented to Chooch Helped by Andrea L. Rogers and illustrated by Rebecca Lee Kunz. It's awarded to the most distinguished American picture book for kids.

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Twenty-four Seconds from Now... by Jason Reynolds received the Coretta Scott King Book Award, which honors African American authors and illustrators who create exceptional books for both children and young adults. My Daddy Is a Cowboy, illustrated by C.G. Esperanza, won the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Book Award.

The William C. Morris Award, given to books by debut authors writing for teen audiences, was presented to Not Like Other Girls by Meredith Adamo. Finally, the Michael L. Printz Award, which recognizes excellent works across YA fiction, nonfiction, poetry, graphic novels, and anthologies, was awarded to Brownstone by Samuel Teer and illustrated by Mar Julia.

Order 'The First State of Being' Here!

Amazon

The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly

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