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(Images via Kohl's)
Looking for more holiday inspo? Follow us on Pinterest.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
(Images via Kohl's)
I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.
You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.
Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.
Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.
You’ll Need:
Steps:
Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.
I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.
Photo by Tatiana Syrikova
A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.
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Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.
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Many fans believe that Mike White, the mastermind behind the dark comedy-drama The White Lotus, is a genius. He created the gripping TV series, which follows privileged guests as they visit a new luxurious resort location each season and wind up caught in shocking (or even deadly) antics as their picture-perfect lives begin to unravel.
Season 3 is currently underway, but while seven episodes have been released thus far, it remains to be seen what characters will perish by the finale. Plenty of viewers have taken to social media to share their own theories, but some fans are calling attention to possible "Easter eggs," or hidden secret references, that have been right under our noses the whole time.
We're talking about the different books that numerous characters, from Victoria Ratliff to Chelsea and even Laurie, have been reading in the show. Perhaps the plots of each title are telling clues about their fates.
HBO & Amazon
We simply must begin with Victoria, played by Parker Posey, who couldn't have picked a more fitting book to read: The Beautiful and the Damned by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The 1922 novel tells the story of a privileged couple named Patch and Gloria who revel in their extravagant 1920s New York lifestyle. However, as their fortune begins to fade, they struggle to adapt, and Patch is led down a path of depression and alcoholism.
In Season 3 of The White Lotus, the Ratliffs start as a wealthy Durham, North Carolina, family, but then Timothy finds out that he's facing financial ruin and possible jail time, which begins to undo his character. The parallels are uncanny.
Amazon & HBO
As one of the only two returning characters from Season 2, viewers have been on the edge of their seats watching Belinda grapple with the whole Greg/Gary situation. Still, you might not have noticed that her character was reading the self-help book Surrounded by Narcissists: Or, How to Stop Other People's Egos Ruining Your Life by Thomas Erikson.
You can probably gather from the title that it delves into what drives narcissists and how to deal with them. Given Season 3's themes of spirituality, as well as Belinda's moral struggle over what to do about Greg/Gary, some speculate that perhaps her reading choice is foreshadowing a final showdown where she takes control.
HBO & Amazon
Compared to his arguably obnoxious brother, Saxon Ratliff, Lochlan Ratliff, played by Sam Nivola, is a more subdued character. Even so, he was actually seen reading Hunger by Knut Hamsun, which has been called one of the most unsettling novels ever written.
This book follows a young man who wanders the world and is subjected to the silent judgment of others. Still, he continues exposing himself to the outside world, and his own thoughts become a form of self-inflicted torment.
The link between Lochlan and Hunger seems pretty straightforward. He and the protagonist are both searching for their identity, and since Lochlan is part of such a chaotic and critical family, it's understandable why he's struggling.
Amazon & HBO
Laurie, played by Carrie Coon, also picked up an extremely appropriate title: Modern Lovers by Emma Straub. It mirrors Laurie's getaway with Jaclyn and Kate, following three lifelong friends as they navigate a summer of change.
In the book, the children of friends Elizabeth, Andrew, and Zoe come of age and entangle themselves in new relationships, which causes long-buried secrets and unresolved tensions to surface.
If Modern Lovers is any indication of what's to come in The White Lotus, it's safe to say that Laurie, Jaclyn, and Kate's bond won't be repaired by the season's end.
HBO & Amazon
Chelsea, played by Aimee Lou Wood, has actually been caught reading two different books this season, including Start Where You Are: A Guide to Compassionate Living by Pema Chodron and The Essential Rumi by Jalal Al-Din Rumi.
Both books revolve around themes of spirituality, self-reflection, and inner peace. The former offers self-help advice based on traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings, while the latter is a collection of spiritual short stories.
The real question is, who is Chelsea seeking wisdom for? Is she on her own self-discovery journey, or is she trying to help her boyfriend, Rick? Only time will tell.
Amazon & HBO
Last but not least, Jaclyn, portrayed by Michelle Monaghan, was spotted reading My Name Is Barbra by Barbra Streisand. In her memoir, Barbra reflects on the defining moments of her career and personal life.
This makes sense because Jaclyn is also an actress who's balancing a high-profile marriage to a fellow actor and confronting the realities of aging in the public eye. Still, it's unclear what My Name Is Barbra is hinting about Jaclyn's fate on The White Lotus, if anything.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Targetis always full of fun surprises, and their current lineup of under-$15 finds is seriously stunning. From chic home decor pieces to trendy fashion picks and affordable beauty essentials, these budget-friendly hidden gems prove you really don’t have to spend big to give your space, wardrobe, or daily routine a lil’ refresh. If you love a good deal (same here!), get ready to add some of these affordable must-haves from Target to your cart.
Target
The internet's favorite body lotion scent is now available in a dreamy body wash format! With standout notes of vanilla and cashmere and a creamy concoction of shea butter, cocoa butter, and argan butter to keep your skin feelin' nourished as ever, this $10 bottle is a shower must-have.
Target
Swarmed in LoveShackFancy’s signature floral prints, this $10 mini brush is the perfect piece to keep in your purse for on-the-go touch-ups. The collection, shoppable at Target, also includes everything from regular-sized brushes to hair curling sets and cute claw clips!
Target
Versed's new makeup collection has been living in our heads rent-free, especially because we love their skincare goodies so much. Of course, they whipped up a wonderfully smooth $15 blush stick to add to the glow. The lightweight formula is super easy to build up depending on your mood, plus each stick is packed full of jojoba seed oil and fatty acids to help hydrate your complexion!
Target
Moving onto the grocery aisle, this brand-new creamer flavor from Chobani is sure to infuse your mornings with utter joy. Aside from the cheery packaging, this $5 birthday cake-flavored coffee creamer adds some really nice sweetness, whether you splash some into a mug of hot coffee or add a bit to your iced lattes. It's a limited-edition flavor, so make sure to try it before it's gone from shelves!
Target
We're huge suckers for anything checkered. This $15 planter is such a cutie, add will most certainly bring some major springtime energy to your windowsill, bookshelf, or dining room table!
Target
Two words: mushroom lamp. Yep – Target's selling this baby for just $14 (was $20), and the best part is that it's cordless, so you can move it around your space as you please for a trendy home decor touch.
Target
When it comes to spring basics, tube tops should be at the top of your list. They're easy to put on and even easier to wear, plus this solid black number makes putting together a comfy outfit unbelievably seamless! You can snag this top for just $6 (was $8), along with three more solid shades that fit the season.
Target
Oh, it's giving Anthro vibes, for sure. This $15 pair of flower-shaped candle holders will add some cheer and color to your springtime table spreads, and what's more is they're also perfect for sunny Easter celebrations!
Target
For a nice boost in hydration, hyaluronic acid is where it's at. This $12 bottle from Good Molecules truly packs a punch and boosts the performance of your traditional moisturizer!
Target
This ever-so-trendy tank top boasts an asymmetrical cinched hem for a fun touch. Right now, it's on sale for just $8 (was $12)! It also comes in pink, green, and blue if you're seeking a bright pop of color.
Target
We're seeing this puffy pattern everywhere these days, from bags to jackets. Target put it on an adorable little pillow, and we're obsessed! Snag this $7 cutie for an inexpensive living room or bedroom upgrade.
Target
Two vases for just $10?! Count us in. These playful designs work well together, though you could easily disperse them throughout your home to host all the blooms of spring!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
The controversial adoption of Natalia Grace has continued to capture nationwide intrigue, particularly after Hulu's latest release of the crime drama Good American Family. And while the fictionalized version of the story is captivating, nothing made our collective jaws drop more than Natalia Grace Barnett's real story that unfolded in her documentary, The Curious Case of Natalia Grace. From her time with the Barnett family to navigating life with The Mans family as an adult, there's certainly a lot to unpack. Here's everything you need to know about how Natalia Grace is right now.
Hulu
Only four episodes of the dramatization, starring Ellen Pompeo as Kristine Barnett, Mark Duplass as Michael Barnett, and Imogen Faith Reid as Natalia Grace, have come out thus far, with the fifth being released on Wednesday, April 9.
It follows the Barnetts, a family from Indiana, who adopted Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian orphan with dwarfism, in 2010. Natalia, whose birth certificate said she was born in 2003, was thought to be about 6 years old at the time, but the Barnetts eventually accused her of lying about her age and terrorizing their family.
Max
After adopting her, Kristine and Michael Barnett alleged that Natalia had traits that suggested she wasn't a child, such as adult teeth and body hair. Plus, Natalia was accused of standing at the end of Kristine and Michael's bed with a knife, trying to poison Kristine's coffee, and attempting to push Kristine into an electric fence.
So, in 2012, the Barnetts petitioned the court to have Natalia's birth date changed from 2003 to 1989. This made her legally 22 years old, and Natalia was put in her own Lafayette apartment. At the same time, the Barnett family cut contact with her and moved to Canada in order to pursue their biological son Jacob's education.
"I didn't understand why I was alone. I just knew I had this instinct in me to push and survive. All I was told was, 'You're 22 now. Whenever somebody asks you what your age is, you say you're 22 and you tried to murder your family.' I was taught to lie," Natalia told People earlier this year.
Max
Natalia befriended a neighbor, Cynthia Mans, after she began living alone as a child. Cynthia and her pastor husband, Antwon, had 10 children and ultimately invited Natalia to live with them.
The Mans then worked to obtain Natalia's guardianship, but this meant her prior age-change order would need to be vacated via more court petitions. Following DNA analyses and medical examinations, which reportedly proved Natalia was 22 years old at the time and, therefore, a child when the Barnetts moved to Canada, Natalia's birthdate was changed back to 2003, and in 2023, the Mans finally adopted her.
The same year, public interest in Natalia's adoption story skyrocketed due to the docuseries The Curious Case of Natalia Grace. She got a chance to speak out about the allegations against her during the series' second season, but by the end, Antwon and Cynthia Mans surprisingly echoed the concerns of Natalia's past adoptive parents, saying she'd become "the enemy of the house."
Season 3 of The Curious Case of Natalia Grace expanded on why Natalia wound up leaving the Mans family at the tail end of 2023. She accused them of being controlling, and a UK man she met online named Neil claimed they were financially exploiting her.
Natalia proceeded to leave Nashville, where the Mans family had relocated, and get on a plane with Nicole DePaul, a woman who'd tried to adopt her in 2009. Neil reportedly helped concoct the plan.
Max
Today, Natalia lives in upstate New York with Nicole DePaul and her husband, Vince, who both have dwarfism. In an interview with People, Nicole detailed, "At first, it was bumpy because the Mans were still involved. They were calling Natalia constantly and trying to wheel her back in."
Max
She has been diagnosed with multiple conditions, including anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and reactive attachment disorder. In January, Natalia was learning how to drive and studying for her GED with the goal of becoming a teacher. She also expressed her desire to get married and have kids.
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It's probably safe to say that most fans of The White Lotus were heartbroken over how Tanya McQuoid, played by the iconic Jennifer Coolidge (A Cinderella Story), met her end in Season 2. After delivering a riveting performance as an insecure and arguably unstable rich heiress, Jennifer's character was killed off, and no one saw the murder coming.
And now that Season 3 is underway, most people have understandably shrugged off the possibility that Tanya may make a comeback because, well, she's dead. However, fans online may have found a workaround for this problem.
HBO
One TikTok user posted a shocking yet potentially plausible The White Lotustheory on their account @longmirelp. They call attention to the monitor lizard that keeps showing up in Belinda's storyline and suggest it could be the reincarnation of Tanya trying to protect her.
"The lizard is not random; it's not just some throwaway thing. It keeps popping up and following specifically Belinda," the TikToker said.
HBO
Remember, Belinda is one of the only two characters who returned from Season 2 for the series' latest season, along with Greg/Gary. It's also worth underscoring how both Belinda and Greg/Gary played critical roles in relation to Tanya's Season 2 storyline.
Then, following Tanya's tragic death, Natasha Rothwell reprises her role as Belinda and travels to Thailand for a wellness training exchange. It was during her tour of the latest The White Lotus hotel that she first saw a monitor lizard and got startled, to which her tour guide responded, "In time, the lizards will become your friend."
Later, Belinda calls her son, Zion, who will soon be arriving at the hotel, and during their conversation, she hears the trees rustling. She thought it could be snakes, but it actually could've been a lizard, given they're excellent climbers.
HBO
Another clue surfaced more recently after Belinda called Greg/Gary out for knowing Tanya, and he initially denied it. Following that interaction, Belinda was in her bedroom when, again, she heard rustling.
Pornchai, who'd previously given Belinda her tour when she encountered a lizard for the first time, proceeded to move a dresser and (shocker) reveal a lizard inside her bedroom. Is it just a coincidence that the camera then showed Belinda's laptop, and she'd been researching Tanya's murder the night prior? Some fans don't think so.
HBO
And even though Belinda is in Thailand for the wellness training exchange, it's no secret that she is a spiritual character. This has led many to speculate that Tanya's spirit might've been reincarnated as the lizard and is attempting to protect Belinda as she navigates the Greg/Gary situation.
Finally, since Tanya dreamt of being on an Asian mountain with a cyanide pill back in Season 2, fans think that could've been foreshadowing, and Tanya in lizard form may help Belinda in her showdown with Greg/Gary.
HBO
If this theory seems totally out there, we get it. But the first episode of Season 3 was entitled "Same spirits, new forms" — and prior to the season's premiere, HBO's EVP Francesca Orsi even noted it was "an exploration about spirituality versus the ego, and it's set against the Eastern religion."
HBO
The TikToker's video has amassed more than 884,000 views and over 64,000 likes, with plenty of commenters commending their detective work.
"This is actually the best fan theory I've ever seen. Even if it's wrong, it's insane," one user wrote.
"I'm gonna try, this is such an amazing take," echoed another.
What do you think about Tanya making a possible comeback as a lizard? Is it too out there, even for The White Lotus, or an idea that's worth considering?
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