5 Techy Tips for How to Plan the Perfect Bridal Shower

L'Oreal Thompson Payton
Apr 22, 2015

Congratulations! You’re the MOH for your BFF and now it’s time to plan her bridal shower. But where do you begin when there are just So. Many. Options? Don’t stress — there is a way to bring all your fun ideas together and turn them into a reality. We sat down and talked with Diana Kelter, Brit + Co contributor and founder of Chicago-based Pinterest consulting firm Blair Curiosity, to share tips that will make your planning (and pinning) a piece of cake.

1. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. If brunch is your bestie’s favorite meal of the day, opt for a brunch-inspired bridal shower complete with a DIY mimosa bar. And if the wedding is rustic chic, consider a farmhouse brunch theme. “We’re seeing fusion food pop up all across the country, so why not for a party?” exclaims Diana. “I would say follow the overarching theme that is the focus of the wedding and then add in a few unique elements for the bridal shower. Just don’t go overboard!” (Photo via Smarty Had a Party)

2. Search and conquer. Once you’ve decided on a theme, you can move on to the fun part: pinning! For inspiration, Diana suggests lifestyle bloggers such as Oh Joy! and Oh Happy Day and the event planning blog 100 Layer Cake. “A great tip is to direct your search toward Pinterest boards versus individual pins,” she says. “This is a great way to get inspiration from individuals who have already done a lot of the heavy lifting from planning.” Looking for a little real-life inspo too? Don’t overlook Target. After all, you’ll probably end up shopping there for a lot of your party supplies. (Photo via 100 Layer Cake)

3. Plan with other maids. Using Pinterest is a great way to collaborate with other bridesmaids to plan the perfect party for your bride-to-be. “On the bridal shower invite, allow people who are active on Pinterest to contribute to a secret board,” Diana suggests. “Have them pin recipes, decor ideas and inspirational messages.” That way, everyone gets the chance to contribute and you can spend more time on other wedding duties like dress shopping, the bachelorette party, etc. (Photo via Lucky magazine)

4. Don’t let Pinterest get the best of you. Yes, Pinterest can get a bit overwhelming. “I would approach it as you would a brainstorm,” Diana advises. “First, go pinning crazy and pin everything that looks fun onto one board. Then after a day or so go back to that board and move in bulk the pins that are approachable, feasible and fit your theme the best onto a brand new board.” This will help you streamline the ideas to one final (and cohesive) place. (Photo via 100 Layer Cake)

5. Be realistic. Don’t forget that you have a day job and a million other priorities begging for your attention. So while you definitely shouldn’t leave planning until the last minute, you shouldn’t allow it to consume your life (and free time) either. “If something realistically will take 10 hours, make sure you have enough time to dedicate to it,” reminds Diana. “Otherwise, take a spark of inspiration from it and bring it to life in a more simple fashion.” (Photo via Wedding Chicks)

Have you used Pinterest to plan a bridal shower? Tell us about your experience in the comments!

(Feature photo via 100 Layer Cake)

12 Undeniably Chic, Slouchy Bags To Upgrade All Your Fall Outfits

Whether you've seen The Olsen twins' oversized bags and are finally starting to cave, or perhaps you've been looking for ways to achieve that "effortless" look — slouchy bags are all people are talking about online, and I can see why. Not only are they practical, giving you room to fit your whole skincare routine, beautyessentials, and daily must-haves, they're also incredibly chic!

I've been searching for the right slouchy bag to give me that "not trying too hard" vibe that looks high end, but isn't $1000. Upon my online shopping, I found some of the most perfect and undeniably chic options from all of our fave stores like Target, Reformation, and so many more! Keep scrolling to find your new favorite daily bag!

Reformation

Reformation Patricia Bag

Anyone else been hearing about how the Margeux bag from The Row is the new Birkin? It's everywhere on socials, and I've fallen victim to lusting after it as well. That all stopped when I found this insanely cheaper alternative from none other than Reformation. And unlike places selling The Row version, you won't have to pay $10,000!!! Grabbing this one immediately!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Love Knot Bag

White doesn't have to stop after Labor Day, especially in beautiful cream shades like this one here. I love the milky, creme color, along with the slouchy shape of the bag. It's seriously the ultimate slouchy bag I've been looking for — and all for under $100!

Free People Bobbi Slouch Bag

This Free People bag appears to be the perfect type of bag to "Jane Birkin-ify" — AKA grab your charms and necklaces and get to accessorizing it (like above)! It would look so cute with some added accessories to style it according to your personality!

Target

Target Slouchy Bucket Shoulder Bag

Brown suede is truly all I'm thinking about for fall, particularly in bag form. This bag from Target is an amazing option because while it's "slouchy", it still has some structure on the bottom, making it easier to sift through for your things. Because nobody likes spending 10 minutes looking for your lipstick!

Madewell

Madewell Curve Shoulder Bag

This style of curved-shoulder bag is everywhere ATM, and I can see why. Not only is it giving the effortless "I barely thought about my outfit, but it still looks like it's straight from a magazine shoot" vibe, but it's also so practical! The crossbody and shape of the bag help it to be comfortable for anybody that's on-the-go! I also happen to love this burgundy color — so on-trend this season!

Reformation

Reformation Silvana Bag

The always-chic Reformation just won't stop slaying the game with their accessories. From their shoes to their belts, and now bags, I truly can't get enough! Become an instant cool, city-girl in this suede bucket bag. I would pair it with a mini skirt, sweater, and knee-high boots!

Target

Target Crescent Sling

#BratSummer has left the chat and made room for #BratFall, because this color trend is not going anywhere! I'm loving this more watered down shade of green compared to the typical neon Brat color we've seen. It's definitely a fall-appropriate hue, while still bringing in some fun, autumnal color!

J.Crew

J.Crew Edie Shoulder Bag

J.Crew is always hitting the mark, and they've done it yet again with this year's hottest color: butter yellow. The typically summer color is breaking out for fall in an amazing way. I love incorporating this light hue to my more neutral outfits that need some color-love. This bag is also on sale, so you definitely wanna grab it now!

Mango

Mango Shopper Bag

A great, slouchy shopper bag like this one from Mango is great for all our commuters that work in-office and need a bag to fit all their must-haves for the day. This one is my fave, because it also could double as a chic travel bag to fit all your toiletries and travel essentials. We how affordable it is, too!

Reformation

Reformation Bucket Bag

This bucket bag is the ultimate luxe option for my girls that love to replicate Princess Diana's '90s style. I just know you'll feel oh-so chic with this heather gray bag slung over your shoulder. I recommend pairing this bag with a sweater-top like above, boyfriend jeans, and cute ballerina flats! Seriously, this would be my daily work outfit combo! And some bonus points for this bag? It looks like it could fit your entire office inside.

Target

Target Ruched Crossbody

This bag would have you thinking it's high end before you saw that the tag actually says "Target" on the inside. I love the chic ruching that is definitely trending this season. It's a great option if you're looking for something a bit more on-the-go and easier to carry around.

Reformation

Reformation Cylinder Bag

This bag genuinely looks like it came straight from The Row. It's a great alternative to their beloved '90s bagthat's taken the internet by storm! If you're looking for an alternative that isn't always sold out (and happens to be around $700 cheaper), then look no further!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more fall fashion picks!

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Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson Just Went On A Cozy BFF Date

Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson are two of my favorite people in Hollywood because of the fact they do literally whatever they want, and they don’t care what you think about it. I aspire to be this confident and unbothered!! They've both had pretty big years — Dakota led both Madame Web and Daddio, while Jennifer announced she's pregnant with her second child at the end of October, and when I saw they hung out together, I knew this was one celebrity friendship I'd LOVE.

Are Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson friends?

Yes, Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson are friends! The actresses were recently spotted on a stroll in Los Angeles, beverages in hand. Jennifer wore a tee and blue hoodie that showed off her growing baby bump while Dakota kept things chic with a black-on-black coat and v-neck sweater over a white tee shirt. They both looked super cozy! And, let's face it, beverages are basically an accessory at this point, and their drinks of choice prove they love little treats as much as we do!

And this isn't the first moment Jennifer Lawrence BFF moment that's made us fangirl this year! At the Oscars in March, Jennifer introduced Emma Stone, who ended up winning Best Actress for her role as Bella in Poor Things. Emma cried, Jennifer couldn't stop smiling, and it was an adorable moment for girls' girls everywhere.

Did Jennifer Lawrence date Chris Martin?

Not only are they two of Hollywood's "It" girls, but they also share an overlap in their dating history. Jennifer Lawrence (who's now married to Cooke Maroney) dated Dakota Johnson’s current beau Chris Martin between 2014 and 2015. Dakota started dating him just two years later.

Rumors started circulating in August that Dakota and Chris had called it quits, but thankfully, Dakota proved they were just rumors when her rep told Page Sixthe couple is still "happily together." The Social Network actress also told Bustle that when it comes to Chris' kids (whom he shares with ex Gwyneth Paltrow), she loves them "like my life depends on it. With all my heart." I'm simply obsessed.

Stay tuned for all the best Jennifer Lawrence & Dakota Johnson friendship moments, and read up on why Dakota Johnson's Book Club Isn't Your Average Celebrity Reading List.

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I Found Target’s Most Comfortable Heels For Every Fall Occasion

Every year I can't help but get excited about fall fashion — especially when it comes to Target's shoe section! Whether I'm eyeing loafers, Mary Janes, or anything leopard print, I need something to match all the chunky knit sweaters in my closet — especially if they'll add a little height to my look. So, here are all the best Target heels I could find, in all the trendy fall styles, that are both comfy and cute!

Target

Women's Diana Buckle Mule Heels

The buckle on these mule heels is giving "I'm rich" in all the right ways. There's just something about the contrast of the lighter gold paired with the smooth leather that's both classy and trendy all at once. Pair these slide-on heels with a gorgeous midi dress for an easy, early fall look!

Target

Women's Ricky Platform Heels with Memory Foam Insole

It's no secret that the '70s make their reappearance every time fall rolls back around. There's just something about the chunky heels and that "all the leaves are brown" vibes that really calls out, you know? These platform heels are perfect for embodying that chic nostalgia, while giving you all the comfort of memory foam insoles. Score!

Target

Journee Collection Womens Sylvia Sling Back Covered Block Heel Pumps

Slingbacks? Kitten heels? Together with a velvet finish? Yeah, these are really fantastic for anyone looking to add a black block heel to their closet this year! I can picture these paired with a dark jean, a crisp white button down, and a tan sweater over your shoulders for that "old money" look.

Target

Journee Collection Womens Shasta Tru Comfort Foam Mid Heel Square Toe Pumps

Remember what I said about the '70s? These gorgeous patent leather pumps are all that wrapped into a Mary Jane silhouette. You can wear these to the office, at your next girly happy hour, or when you wanna pull out a casually adorable look just for the heck of it! I can already picture an argyle sweater vest and some wide legged jeans...

Target

Women's Aubrey Slingback Pumps

If you're looking for a sexier slingback, look no further than these! They scream, "I'm confident!" no matter what you pair them with. These would just look too perfect with a slinky little slip dress and a leather jacket draped over your shoulders for date night!

Target

Perphy Women's Platform Buckle Ankle Strap Chunky High Heels Sandals

Another chunky heel for your fall wardrobe! This two-toned brown option is adorned with gold accents and tan stitching that give this pair a kitschier look. I love these for a day date with the girls, full of gabbing and baked brie and wine galore.

Target

Journee Collection Womens Junie Tru Comfort Foam Slip On Double Strap Sandals

These tan heels are sleek, sleek, sleek. Another pair of shoes that are the quiet luxury look that Sofia Richie seems to effortlessly pull off day after day. Add these to cart for a touch of chicness to any outfit.

Target

Pointed Toe Slip On Block Heel Slide Mules

Point me in the direction of all the leopard mules because they're my new version of a 'neutral' shoe. I love that this slip on design will look great with bootcut jeans or a midi skirt, making them cute and versatile.

Target

Journee Womens Ezzey Loafer Mid Stacked Heel Square Toe Pumps

Loafers are THE shoe of fall, so add a heel to them and I'm immediately sold! These '70s-esque heels come in five different colors, so if you're tired of all the different shades of brown this fall, you can grab a hue that suits you better!

Target

Multi-Strap Mary Jane Heels

Mary Janeshave made their way back in our fashion orbit and it seems like everyone can't get enough of them. This pair of heels has the classic look we love with a modern color way and multiple straps to keep them on your feet.

Target

Allegra K Women's Pointed Toe Block Heel Slingback Heels

If you thought to yourself, "Another pair of leopard shoes?" Well, yes. I just can't get enough! They're a fun and stylish way to update your neutral tones. Grab these if you want the same effect of the leopard mules with a the safety net of a slingback strap to keep your feet in.

Target

Ballet Pumps

I didn't know you could elevate ballet flats until I saw these pumps online. They have a 1.5 inch heel that'll look cute with your new sweater dress — trust me!

Target

All-Day Heeled Mule

I should've said that I love all mules — leopard print or not — but we're here now! All that matters is the cushioned insoles have extra padding that won't make them uncomfortable after a few hours. Also, the upper leather is waterproof. Cha-ching!

Target

Bow Pumps with Memory Foam

Heading to a fall work event and need a pair of heels that look party-ready? You need these bow pumps to make an extra statement! They're red, which is the new unofficial color of fall, and they have memory foam insoles! Heels aren't always comfortable so the fact this pair is being so thoughtful makes it an instant win in my book.

Target

Open Square Toe Block Heel Sandals

I used to have a pair of block heel sandals similar to this pair, and I'd wear them with my summer-to-fall transitional outfits until they fell apart. That's a major hint you'll love these sandals as much as I did.

Target

Cross Strap Mule

You'll avoid thin straps digging into your skin with these cross strap mules! These mules are breathable and cushioned enough for you to wear them to the pumpkin patch friend date you have coming up at the end of September.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more stylish fall ideas!

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

Header image via Target

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Bye, PSL! The Starbucks Holiday Menu For 2024 Returns Next Week

So long, pumpkin spice season: Starbucks’ holiday menu is on the way, and per menu leaks, it reportedly brings back a ton of seasonal favorites starting next week.

From a classic Peppermint Mocha to the beloved Caramel Brûlée Latte, the recent menu rumors say a new Refresher flavor, 6 unique cold foams, and 4 new bakery items are on the way as the holidays draw near – including many items we predicted! The speculated lineup is honestly wild. Starbucks teased that the holiday menu will hit stores on November 7.

If you just can’t wait to order off the Starbucks holiday menu, here’s every offering reportedly coming to your closest cafe!

When will the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2024 come out?

Starbucks

According to an Instagram post from Starbucks, new holiday drinks and snacks will come out on November 7, 2024.

Will there be holiday cups?

Starbucks

We do anticipate that the Starbucks holiday menu will include some new holiday cup designs! Though we don't know what they'll look like just yet, previous holiday menus over the years have featured vibrant reds, greens, and pinks, plus stars, sparkles, Christmas trees, swirls, and stripes. Typically, Starbucks' holiday cups span across hot and iced drinks. Additionally, a new lineup of reusable cups and mugs should become available!

What's missing from this year's rumored Starbucks holiday menu?

Starbucks

Per rumors around the Starbucks holiday menu, the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread Loaf won't be returning to cafes for 2024. We're especially sad to see the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha not included, though the official menu lineup has yet to be released!

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Though there's no official word out about Red Cup Day for 2024, our best guess – based on the Red Cup Days of years past – is it'll return mid-November. In 2023, Red Cup Day fell on November 16. In 2022, the coffee chain held the event on November 17. Both dates landed on the third Thursday of November, so we predict it to hit on November 21 for 2024. Red Cup Day is when Starbucks customers can get a free reusable red cup when they order a seasonal drink off the holiday menu.

Drinks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

The Starbucks holiday menu leak reported that this brand-new Refresher is packed with sweet orange, tart cranberry and warm spice. It also has cranberry inclusions and is order-able mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk.

Starbucks

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

Chai is a totally underrated holiday flavor in our opinion. This iced drink is crafted with warm chai spices and creamy oat milk, then gets topped with even more frothed oat milk infused with gingerbread-flavored syrup and a sprinkling of spice.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha

You know it, and you love it! The Peppermint Mocha has hit Starbucks menus year after year, making it a total statement sip for the holiday season. This drink (available hot or iced) combines peppermint syrup, mocha sauce, and your milk of choice with espresso for a festive feel. It's traditionally topped with whipped cream and tasty chocolate curls.

Starbucks

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha

Similar to the classic Peppermint Mocha, this bev swaps chocolate for white chocolate sauce.

Starbucks

Caramel Brûlée Latte

This rumored Starbucks holiday menu drink is very rich. The sweet caramel brûlée sauce totally completes the sip, along with plenty of whipped cream and crunchy lil' brûlée bits for textural variety.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Literally like a sugar cookie in liquid form, this super-sweet latte is handcrafted with blonde espresso (it's sweeter and lighter than Starbucks' traditional espresso shots), sugar cookie syrup, and almond milk for a little bit of a lighter effect. It's finished off with red and green sprinkles to up the seasonal vibes even more!

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte

This nutty latte – rumored to return for 2024 – brings on notes of chestnut and praline, which is a nice, flavorful departure from the very expected peppermint you'll see everywhere come holiday time.

Starbucks

Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew

Initially introduced for fall 2024, it appears as though the Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew will stay on the Starbucks menu well into winter. The salted, pecan-flavored cold foam offers that classic sweet n' salty twist you'd enjoy on fall snacks like trail mix or dipped pretzels. The best part is you can now also order the cold foam in non-dairy form!

Starbucks

Holiday Cold Foams

Per the menu leak, Starbs will be bringing back four beloved holiday-flavored cold foamsand two new options for 2024. They're the perfect drink customization to add to your iced coffees and cold brews if you don't want to order an all-out holiday drink. See all the predicted flavors below:

  • NEW! Gingerbread
  • NEW! Salted Pecan
  • Peppermint Chocolate
  • Sugar Cookie
  • Chestnut Praline
  • Caramel Brûlée

Snacks On The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2024

@markie_devo

NEW! Dark Toffee Bundt

Per the menu leak, this sweet toffee-flavored bundt will be topped with holly- and berry-shaped sprinkles. How perfect for the holiday season!

@markie_devo

NEW! Turkey Sage Danish

This savory snack reportedly includes "turkey sausage with creamy béchamel sauce in a pastry." It sounds like Thanksgiving in a single treat, and we can't wait to try it!

@markie_devo

NEW! Penguin Cookie

This cutie sugar cookie is decorated like a lil' penguin bundled up for the cold.

Starbucks

Snowman Cake Pop

Starbucks' classic vanilla cake pop gets a wintry twist with an adorable snowman face – this sweet really makes us crave the holiday season!

Starbucks

Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

This cream cheese-filled danish is topped with a slightly-spiced sugar plum jam. It's been one of our go-to's over the past few holiday seasons at Starbucks!

Starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bar

The Cranberry Bliss Bar has become an absolute staple on the Starbucks holiday menu, and for good reason! This blondie treat is smothered in a delicious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with orange zest and dried cranberries for added seasonal enjoyment.

What People Are Saying About The Leaked Starbucks Holiday Menu

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A post shared by Markie_devo (@markie_devo)

Though most commenters on @markie_devo's Starbucks holiday menu leak post seemed to be excited for the upcoming rumored menu items, some Starbs fans noticed a few things missing from the leaked lineup.

"Still missing eggnog 😢," someone noted.

"Where is the toasted white chocolate mocha 😢😢😢😢," another questioned.

"ALLLLLL these cold foams, and not the one people want: Irish Cream," one more commenter said.

"Ugh still no gingerbread loaf 😭," a disappointed user wrote. "Everything else looks bomb though!"

Despite the Eggnog Latte, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Irish Cream Cold Brew, and Gingerbread loaf not being part of this year's menu predictions, the holiday season is our favorite time of year at Starbucks. Many more users shared the same sentiment:

"So excited for all chestnut praline shaken espressos & cranberry bliss bars 🎄🎄🎄🎄," someone wrote.

"Oh hell yess all the chestnut praline offerings," another rejoiced.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay posted on the latest Starbucks news, including when the official holiday menu lineup drops!

This post has been updated.

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18 Thanksgiving Crock Pot Recipes You Can Make This Year

It seems Thanksgiving is barely a week away by the time we start thinking about the menu. But while ovens all over the country will be working overtime this year, don't forget your secret weapon — the crock pot! Kitchen strategy is key when you're trying to factor various cook and prep times for both oven and stovetop dishes. There just never seems to be enough time (or counter space).

Whether you're already finalizing your menu for the day or are just in charge of a few side dishes, we've scoured the web and found 18 Thanksgiving crock pot recipes that are perfect for any gathering.

Creamed Corn

Damn Delicious

Cornis a standard side dish for most Thanksgiving meals, but this recipe is a total game-changer. Five simple ingredients go in your crock pot, and three hours later you’re greeted by corn that is so creamy and delicious, you’ll never be able to eat the canned stuff again.

Wheat Bread Stuffing

Recipe Runner

Free up some room in your oven and cook the stuffing right on the counter this year. Crusty whole wheat bread, celery, onions and chicken broth will have you going back for seconds. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat to low and it will be ready whenever you are.

Brussels Sprouts

Damn Delicious

These aren’t Grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Covered in a brown sugar balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, these sprouts will have you converted after just one bite.

Sweet Potatoes

The Magical Slow Cooker

This one takes minimal effort, but packs maximum flavor. Wash and dry your sweet potatoes before wrapping them in tinfoil and piling into the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours, and resist the urge to open the lid so the steam doesn’t escape. Serve with butter, brown sugar and mini marshmallows.

Apple Cider

Damn Delicious

Your guests are going to need something to sip on. Made 100% from scratch, this apple cider recipe will definitely steal the show: Combine apples, cinnamon sticks and spices and cover with water, and drink in the delicious smell while it simmers in the slow cooker.

Candied Sweet Potato Casserole

Creme de la Crumb

Okay, so this does require a little oven time, but it’ll be the last thing you heat up before you can dig in (and it’s totally worth it). Peel and chop 5lbs of sweet potatoes and let your slow cooker do all the work for the next four hours. Transfer to a casserole dish, spread a layer of pecans over the sweet potato mixture then bake for 20 minutes to achieve maximum crunch before adding the mini marshmallows. Bake for five more minutes (or until marshmallows are golden brown) and dig in.

Caramel Fondue

Creme de la Crumb

From apple slices to pretzels, there’s no wrong way to dunk with this dip, made from only three ingredients — caramels, heavy cream and marshmallows. Say hello to your new post-Thanksgiving party trick.

Garlic Ranch Potatoes

The Cookie Rookie

Tender red potatoes are a great alternative to the typical mashed variety. Top the wedges with ranch seasoning, chives and garlic for a fresh side dish that no one will believe you made entirely in the crock pot.

Cranberry Sauce Crock Pot Recipe

Gimme Some Oven

This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Toss in the ingredients and come back in three hours for cranberry sauce that is the perfect combination of tart and sweet. Add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

Cinnamon Apples

A Spicy Perspective

The best side dishes double as dessert. Cover thinly sliced apples in brown sugar, cinnamon and bourbon, then simmer for four hours. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is — they’re delicious either way.

Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Trade out the usual jar of grape jelly in your famous meatball recipe for cranberry sauce to give it a holiday update. The sweet and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more. In fact, you better double the recipe.

Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

This tasty party snack is perfect for clearing out your cabinets: cereal, peanuts, pretzels, dried fruit and graham crackers all come together in a salty sweet crunch. Drench the mix in butter, maple syrup and pumpkin pie spices before testing your willpower for the next two hours.

Apple Pie Oatmeal

The Healthy Maven

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day (especially on Thanksgiving), but this oatmeal couldn’t be easier: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker before you go to bed and you’ll wake up to the aroma of nutmeg and maple syrup.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creme de la Crumb

A pile of fresh herbs, butter and garlic make these mashed potatoes stand out on the buffet table. Use red potatoes and leave the skins on for a rustic flair that not only adds a ton of flavor, it also saves you some work.

Spinach + Artichoke Dip

Damn Delicious

Keep your guests from getting hangry while they wait for dinner: Serve this creamy spinach and artichoke dip with bread, pretzels or pita for a Thanksgiving staple made super easy, thanks to your crock pot.

Butternut Squash Soup

Life Made Sweeter

Combine coconut milk with chunks of butternut squash and sweet potato, then cook in the crockpot for four hours. Once everything is fork tender, break out your immersion blender to make the texture velvety smooth. Top with extra coconut milk and toasted pumpkin seeds before devouring.

Pumpkin Cobbler

The Gunny Sack

Trade in your standard pumpkin pie for a cobbler that is made in the crock pot from start to finish. Pro tip: place a paper towel underneath the lid to keep the condensation off the food and ensure a crispy crust. Top the plated perfection with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel syrup.

Dinner Rolls

Lil Luna

The slow cooker might be the last place you'd think to bake dinner rolls, but trust us on this one. This trick comes in handy year-round, especially on hot summer days when you don't feel like blasting that oven. Genius.

Don't miss out on knocking out a dish or two this year with these Thanksgiving crock pot recipes and if you need more inspiration, join our newsletter or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes.

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