Nicki Minaj Is Starting a New Engagement Ring Trend

Nicki Minaj has never been one to blend in. One glance at her cotton candy-colored wigs and rainbow-colored makeup could tell you that. So when the time came for the Nicki to say “yes” to her bf Meek Mill, you can bet she sealed the deal with some seriously over-the-top bling.

While the ring’s specs haven’t been officially confirmed by the couple, E! News reports it’s most likely 15-carats and would retail for a whopping $500,000. We’ll give you a minute to take that in. If you’re in love with Nicki Minaj’s dual-toned stunner but don’t have that kind of cash to shell out (because who really does?), here are five options that offer up the same pop of color without that epic price tag.

1. Sapphire Fancy Halo Diamond Ring ($3,000): Swap out Nicki’s heart-shape for a classic oval look but keep the color combo and halo effect with this option.

2. Peach Champagne Sapphire Engagement Ring ($2,750): For a dual-toned ring that isn’t too loud, try this peach-champagne sapphire ring that’s wrapped in diamonds and a trendy rose gold setting.

3. Emerald Tiara Ring ($5,500): For those of you who want to totally forget about the idea of a basic diamond ring, opt for this Victorian-inspired number. Not only is the shape super unique, but it will definitely also stand out with that bold pop of green.

4. Ruby Ring ($8,250): That pale pink wasn’t quite vibrant enough for you? Spare no subtly by rocking this ultra-girly rock. But move fast: this pretty little thing is a one of a kind, Edwardian relic.

5. Opal and Diamond Ring ($1,064): If you just can’t settle on one pop of color, opt for this antique looking opal ring which can look super classic in one light and then give off a whole array of colors in another.

Do you have a two-toned engagement ring? Share a picture of it in the comments below.

(Photos via @nickiminaj, Featured Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

Like us, you may be on the hunt for the perfect gold ring rotation that won't break the bank — but also won't turn your fingers green. It can be hard sometimes to find quality jewelry at an affordable price point, but we've done all the research so you don't have to. These are the best and trendiest gold rings on the internet, and they're made with high quality materials that won't disappoint. We've found simple stacking pieces and even some statement dome rings! No matter what you're in the market for, we've got something for everyone. Take a look — this is one jewelry trend that's not going anywhere.

These Gold Rings Are Worth Their Weight In Gold ;)

Jenny Bird Supernova Gold Ring

We love Jenny Bird because they're known for their unique and quality pieces, and this ring is no different! With its artistic dome shape, it's trendy and looks luxurious while being under $120! This is made with a gold ion-plated brass known for its longevity and durability, and it's sure to score you some compliments. So 100 percent there will be no green fingers here!

Mejuri Figure Ring

This Mejuri gold ring is a fun little twist (get it?) on our favorite gold band. Not only does it have a unique shape, but it's got a great price point. Mejuri is known for their quality, and all their gold pieces are sterling silver with a thick and durable layer of 18k solid gold. This ring is meant to show longevity, which we love! Plus, it comes with a two-year warranty!! Definitely add this one to cart.

Anthropologie Ribbed Fanned Stacking Ring

If you're looking for something that stacks nicely, then we'd highly recommend this gold ring from Anthropologie! We love how it was styled in the above picture — lots of gold jewelry looks great with a simple white button down. And as an added bonus, its shape was inspired by a croissant! So it can also serve as your daily dessert reminder. We love pieces with dual purpose. This ring is listed at $38 so it's a great price-point. We would definitely recommend this fun piece!

Nordstrom Rack Winding Snake Ring

Are you also waiting in anticipation for Taylor Swift's Reputation (Taylor's Version) announcement? Then this snake ring is perfect for you! The crystals make for a fun touch alongside the winding shape and crystal detail at the head of the snake. And with its amazing reviews, and the fact it's currently 91 percent off (meaning it's $19 instead of $225), it's definitely a must-have statement accessory! Grab it while it's still on sale, and in preparation for Reputation (TV), because this one will definitely sell out quickly.

Anthropologie Crystal Fanned Stacking Gold Ring

This ring is one of our favorites to use as a stacked ring, and since it has the crystal in the middle, it makes for the perfect statement. The thick dome shape is super trendy right now so you'll definitely be up-to-date on the latest jewelry trends. It also has gold-plated brass to ensure its longevity. For under $45, it's also at a super affordable price point!

Brook and York Custom Signet Ring

This gold ring is our favorite because you can customize the surface with your name for only only $84! Signet rings are actually trending right now, so definitely add this to your current ring rotation. We even think it could even make a great gift to someone you love since it's personalized. How sweet would it be to have matching name signet rings with your bestie?! We say it's a must.

Jenny Bird Daphne Imitation Pearl Ring

Who doesn't love a vintage touch with pearls? This ring is so reminiscent of vintage styles and it would be perfect stacked with a simple gold band. It has a timeless, classic look that could also be paired with simple, dainty rings or just on its own like in the above picture! Jenny Bird uses a high polish, 18k gold to plate all of their items, so not only is it stylish but it'll last you a long time.

Monica Vinader Siren Ring

If you're wanting to invest in a good quality, classic band, we'd highly recommend this hammered, 18k gold-plated ring from Monica Vinader. We'd prefer to style it with some of our aforementioned statement rings for a fun and accessorized look, but you can also wear it by itself for a dainty and petite look. With its great quality, it'll definitely stand the test of time while making for a classic stacking piece you won't ever want to take off.

Mejuri Boa Gemstone Coil Gold Ring

Looking for something with a little flair? We're seriously obsessed with this coil ring with the pop of red in it! You can get it with a beautiful garnet or simple white topaz! Both are sure to make a statement. This one is at a higher price-point, but with the quality we've seen from Mejuri, it will be sure to last a long time. But as an added security measure, just remember that you also have a 2-year warranty with this one as well. It's a great policy we'd definitely recommend taking advantage of when you need it!

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

All images via retailers, lead image via Jenny Bird.

"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!

Rumor has it that diamonds are facing some major challenges to their status as a girl’s best friend these days, but whoever thought diamonds were going out of style definitely didn’t know about chocolate ring pops! With Valentine’s Day, and the now-popular Galentine’s Day, coming up quick, you might need a quick DIY to let your gal pals know that you’re ready to bring on the bling.

Not only are we showing you how to make some edible bling, but we’ve also got some fun phrases as inspiration for what to attach to your ring pops. Now all you need are some fun party games and a DIY Conversation Heart Piñata, and you’re covered for the best Valentine’s Day party around!

Materials:

  • Candy melts in various colors
  • Ring pop rings
  • Edible glitter

Tools:

  • Gemstone silicone mold
  • Microwave

Instructions:

  1. Melt the candy melts in the microwave per the instructions on the package. Set aside.
  2. Dump a small amount of edible glitter into your gemstone mold and move it around to coat all sides of the mold.
  3. Pour the chocolate into the mold until the mold is filled to the top and tap the mold on the table to remove any bubbles.
  4. Put the ring pop ring into the mold and place in freezer to harden.
  5. Once hardened, remove the rings from the mold and attach a fun tag to give to your BFF!

Make sure to dump out any excess glitter after you’ve coated the mold so there’s an equal amount of glitter on all sides.

Don’t worry if you can’t get all of the bubbles out! You can use a toothpick in the chocolate to pop any hard-to-get bubbles.

When you’re removing the rings from the mold, don’t pull by the ring pop ring. If you pull too hard on the ring, it might break out of the chocolate and crack.

If you liked it then you should have put a ring on it, right?! (wink)

Who says you can't have more than one?

Almost too cute to eat (almost)!

Feel free to add funny quotes or stickers to your rings.

Enough chocolate ring pops for everyone!

Who would you give your chocolate rings to? Let us know in the comments and check out our email newsletter for more one-of-a-kind Valentine's Day content.

This post has been updated.

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.

Pixabay

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.

Oleksandr P

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.

Darren Lawrence

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.

Jimmy Teoh

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.

Chait Goli

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.

Rudy Kirchner

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.

youseflns

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.

Pixabay

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.

Prabin Sunar

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.

Mateusz Popek

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.

Helena I

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.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

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.