We love our nights out, but nights in can be so much more romantic. Cook up a bunch of you and your sweetie’s favorite dishes and desserts, create a love-filled tablescape, and you’re one step closer to that perfect Valentine’s night. Here are 12 such settings to inspire your own homespun style.
My best friend and I recently had a 3-hour conversation about navigating love in our 30s, coming to the conclusion that our prior breakups helped us become clearer about what we want in love. After we said our good-byes, I started thinking about questions worth asking yourself when you're single.
Unlike some people who tell you not to worry about love when you're not coupled up, I think it actually does help to have an idea about the kind of person and relationship that'll fit in your life when the time comes. I wish it wish it were this easy, but the perfect situation isn't going to fall into your lap — because it doesn't exist. Even now, I'm still learning about myself and my fiancé as we experience life together.
So are you single and trying to understand what you actually want out of your love life? Here are some questions you should ask yourself!
Other questions you can ask yourself can have something to do with your morals or boundaries. It's a way for you to understand areas of your life that you may not always think about everyday.
Once you have a better understanding of who you are, think about the kind of romantic love you'd like to have in your life. There's a chance you're not even interested in a serious monogamous relationship right now and that's okay. The point is to get clear about what you do want.
Start asking:
Though tempting, this isn't a confirmation that you should call the ex you've been thinking about. Rather, take the time to revisit what you think did or didn't work.
I'm not asking you to 'listen and judge' yourself for who you're typically attracted to. We all have our reasons why certain people make our hearts race even if said people aren't the greatest for us in the long run. This is the time to be curious about who you're drawn to and why.
Ready for something serious? There's still some questions you should ask yourself before jumping into something new.
These questions may seem like a lot, but it's a way to help you understand how you want your love like to look. Also, there's a possibility you could encounter scenarios that may not fit under these questions because life can be full of surprises. All that matters is you're able to have a better understanding of who you are and what you want in 2025.
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There’s truly nothing a lil’ shoe shopping can’t fix, and if you’re already building up your footwear repertoire for 2025, you need to be on the hunt for flat shoes. Where heels and chunky platforms once reigned, subtle, more low-profile shoes are inching into more and more the fashion limelight. Flat shoes come in all sorts of styles – these are the super chic flats, Mary Janes, slingbacks, low-lying loafers, sneakers, and boat shoes you’re about to see everywhere in 2025.
Nordstrom
Metallics will always be marvelous. These shoes combine the popular Mary Jane silhouette with the classic ballet flat.
Nordstrom
What this shoe is lacking in height, it makes up for it with length. The dramatic pointed toe is so chic for work outfits and beyond.
Nordstrom
If a pointed toe isn't quite your style, try rockin' flats with a square toe.
Nordstrom
These cozy chocolate brown ballet flats will be on your regular shoe rotation come springtime!
Nordstrom
These comfy Mary Jane flats also bring in the ever-popular slingback shape for added flair.
Rothy's
These Mary Janes that come in a stylish burgundy color are the perfect everyday shoe!
Nordstrom
Let those toes breathe a bit with some mesh flats. This style features that classic Mary Jane strap to keep your steps secure.
Nordstrom
Any kind of loafer is bound to be huge this year. They're always going to be sophisticated, but you can easily dress them up or down depending on the day. The dark red color on these T-strap shoes is a nice breakaway from your typical browns and blacks!
Target
Loafer mules are another easy-to-wear shoe style you need to try in 2025.
Adidas
You know 'em, and you love 'em: the Adidas Gazelles! These low-profile sneaks come in endless color combos. They're totally worth snagging if you like to build 'fits that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. The three-stripe design will instantly earn you some street cred.
Anthropologie
These similar sneaks have a fun foldover design that defies expectations in the best way possible.
Puma
When it comes to streamlined sneakers, the Puma Speedcats are the way to go. They've been popping up on fashion it-girls more frequently as of late, so you know you'll be on-trend when you wear 'em.
SeaVees
The contrasting gum soles on these babies will definitely leave your look with plenty of visual interest, whether you style them more formally or go casual with it.
Free People
Believe it or not, boat shoes are also on the rise. These flat shoes have a preppy vibe that's perf for weekends or days off.
Reformation
These boat shoes from Reformation are a bit more elevated with an almond toe and a luxe-looking suede material.
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It’s almost time for our favorite holiday that celebrates accordingly with chocolate, hearts and the color pink: Galentine's Day! The love between gal pals is undeniable and totally worth celebrating. During this stage of life that we so lovingly call “adulthood,” we rely on our girls to support us through our jobs, the modern and scary world of online dating and any and all quarter-life crises. Let’s face it: We love and need our girlfriends. That’s why a day like Galentine’s Day is quite possibly the best day of the year!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Today we’re teaming up with Studio Ink to show you how to host the most epic Galentine's Day brunch (even if it's breakfast in bed). We’ve got everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine card writing stations. Studio Ink has an awesome collection of cards that are the perfect mix of sweet, sentimental, funny and cute. It’s not truly Galentine’s Day unless you send your besties Valentines… I mean, Galentines! Alright, let’s dive in.
Galentines are like Valentines, but for the girls! Though you may have a lover in your life, this holiday is all about celebrating your platonic friendships with your girl friends and just having fun with it! The holiday is slated for Feburary 13, the day before Valentine's Day, so you can have all the time to cherish your gal pals. Funnily enough, the day was coined by none other than the iconic Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation.
Your Galentine's Day grub is really up to you and the girls, but the most popular bites include dips and chips, stuffed peppers, veggie skewers, waffles, cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, deviled eggs, bruschettas and charcuterie snacks. Finger foods are always a good way to go for any gathering.
Brit + Co
For a Galentine's brunch, you can bring food items like cute snacks, desserts (topped with heart sprinkles, of course), healthy meals, drink mixers or mocktails. You can also bring handmade cards or gifts for each of your friends, and of course you have to bring your love!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
First, let’s talk about the food. It’s not brunch without a fabulous array of treats. For our Galentine’s Day brunch, the perfect setup includes: berry parfaits, donut skewers, mini muffins, bellinis and a red velvet waffle bar, displayed under a simple backdrop of letter balloons, paper hearts and tassels.
Decorate your table with a few gold bottles and single flower stems. You don’t want your table to be too cluttered, because you’ll want to also have space for all the card writing you’ll do!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
All your Galentine’s Day cards now have a home.
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Add some stickers to your mailbox for extra cute flair. You can download these Studio Ink Galentine’s Day stickers here. Just print on sticker paper and cut them out!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
You’ve got mail!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
I see more mail in the future. <3
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Check out how cute these cards are!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
I don’t know about you… but all this card writing is getting me hungry. Which brings me to….
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
These red velvet waffles were a hit when we tested the recipe at the Brit + Co kitchen, and they certainly will be a hit on your Galentine’s Day brunch table.
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Make these waffles with your favorite mix or from your go-to cookbook. Place the waffles on a platter along with the glaze and other toppings. We’re using heart-shaped sprinkles, obviously.
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Drizzle the glaze on your waffles with a spoon or with a pitcher. No matter how you do that drizz, your waffles will be delicious!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Mmm, delightful!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Okay, I already know I want seconds. What better way to wash down your second (and maybe third) helping of waffles than with a bellini? Check out this downloadable signature recipe here!
Studio Ink for Brit + Co
Brunch babes!
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This post has been updated.
There are few things in our daily lives as horrifying as a first date with a stranger. Usually, the best case scenario is you show up to an agreed meeting place, hit it off, want to go out again, and maybe even fall in love. That is, assuming you're not getting catfished and they're not a crazy person. Well, in Meghann Fahy's new thriller, she finds herself on the perfect first date that takes a turn for the terrifying when an anonymous stranger starts tormenting her...and then instructs her to kill her date. Now the question remains: will she follow through, or will this would-be couple make it to dessert?
The first thing I have to call out about The Drop trailer is that Brandon Sklenar just keeps getting cuter. How is this possible?! He and Meghann Fahy have chemistry the moment he steps onscreen which makes this whole movie concept — you know, that Meghann's character is told she has to kill him — even more intriguing. And Sabrina Carpenter playing in the background? An inspired choice.
I want to believe that both Violet and Henry make it out of the story alive...but things aren't looking too hopeful for either of them.
HBO
In Drop, widowed mother Violet (Meghann Fahy) is literally so relieved when her date with Henry goes well. He's handsome and charismatic, and she's enjoying their time together — until an unknown number starts dropping anonymous instructions to her phone. Now, Violet has to play it cool while following her new contact's instructions or her kids will pay the price. There's just one problem: the final instruction is to kill Henry.
Drop hits theaters April 11, 2025. The Blumhouse film is from Christopher Landon (Happy Death Day, Freaky), is written by Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach, and is produced by Jason Blum, Michael Bay, Brad Fuller, and Cameron Fuller. The movie's also executive produced by Sam Lerner.
HBO
The cast of Drop includes Meghann Fahy, Brandon Sklenar, Violett Beane, Jacob Robinson, Reed Diamond, Gabrielle Ryan, Jeffery Self, Ed Weeks, and Travis Nelson.
Blumhouse/Universal Pictures
The poster for Drop definitely gets my adrenaline pumping — and I love Meghann Fahy's glam eyeshadow & manicure paired with the terror in her eyes. Because, duh, of course this Emmy-nominted actress can act with her eyes like nobody's business. And the bold red of the graphic design? Chef's kiss.
Check out 10 New Terrifying Fall Thrillers to watch this season!
This post has been updated.
How many times have you heard someone is a toxic person and — aside from therapy speak — what does it mean? According to Michelle English, LCSW, Co-Founder and Executive Clinical Manager at Healthy Life Recovery, "In a therapeutic setting, toxic behavior usually refers to patterns of behavior that regularly cause emotional, mental, or even physical harm to others."
Wondering why people resort to being toxic behavior? English says, "They are frequently the result of unresolved personal issues such as trauma, insecurity, or a lack of self-awareness." Jamie Bennett, LMFT of Mountainside Treatment Center, adds, "Many toxic people do things with the intent of getting a certain reaction – like a bully. If they want to rile you up and you don’t get riled up this changes the dynamic."
Wanna know what signs to look out for when it comes to toxic people? We've got you covered — and we have the tea on when you should finally cut them out!
P.S. Bennett says assertiveness isn't toxic, even if someone's behavior sometimes comes off as pushy or controlling. This just means they're sure of themselves!
Have you ever been really excited or upset about something only to be met with a dismissive tone from someone you confided in? This person is displaying toxicity which "gradually undermines trust in relationships," according to English. Would you want to keep sharing things with a person if they're always downplaying your emotions? Probably not.
English says another way to determine someone is toxic is pay attention to their controlling behavior. It can be something as simple as telling you what to wear or something greater such as forcibly limiting your contact with anyone they think isn't good for you.
Have you ever let a close friend know certain behavior bothers you only for them to make an excuse for why they keep doing them? Bennett says this counts as "avoiding responsibility for actions." Furthermore, "constantly" doing so or looking to "push the blame onto someone else veers into toxic territory," she adds.
Another way to look at this is if someone is always falling into a pattern of "victimizing themselves," according to Bennett.
Manipulation is tricky because it's not always obvious until it's too late. It's kind of like not realizing you were bit by a mosquito until your skin becomes itchy and red. Bennett says this is toxic because there's a knowing that someone can "appeal to a certain person's characteristics or personality traits." This looks like saying or doing something "with the intention of getting a certain reaction," according to her.
Bennett says, "An example may be one partner in sobriety who consistently uses their poor mental health as a reason to not be proactive about finding a job. They do this because they know that the other partner is worried about their loved one relapsing so they use that fear against her."
Calling this a "well-known example," English says gaslighting often occurs when someone denies the reality of another person." What would cause someone to do this? Well, a toxic behavior often doesn't want to take accountability for their actions so they'd rather "cause people to doubt their own perceptions," according to English.
The catty behavior on The Real Housewives of New York may be entertaining for TV, but that kind of behavior gets old quickly in everyday life. No one wants to hear why "so and so thinks they're all that" even if it's disguised as humor. English says, "Regardless of their motivation," behaviors like this "can lead to stressful and emotionally distressing situations."
We live in a society that started prioritizing ending relationships with people as soon as we spot red flags, but English and Bennett don't think this should be our immediate reaction. English says, "The decision to disengage with a toxic person in the relationship will depend on how harsh and serious the relationship is" because "it is often personal."
According to her, if you notice a consistent pattern where the behavior is "damaging your emotional health," it's okay to walk away from that person. Still, she believes "completely cutting [someone] off is often a last option when other approaches to changing the behavior have not worked." Bennett says something similar and notes how to approach different scenarios.
"If it someone you need to communicate with because of a job or family, there are things you can do to protect yourself," she says. She suggests reminding "yourself who you are dealing with" if the person is adept at gaslighting others because "it may be easy to become convinced that you are wrong or something did not happen the way you recall." A phrase she encourages you to tell yourself is, "I know that my experiences are my experiences no matter what."
If you're dealing with an aggressively toxic person, you'll have to "set and reinforce boundaries," Bennett says while English adds that "engaging in therapy to faciliate healthier relationships" may be a next step.
Here's how Bennett suggests navigating communication with someone like this:
If you're dealing with a friend or spouse, Bennett wants you to remember "you cannot change them" but you're in control of how you respond. English says, "It is important to analyze the whole situation and know when the cost of the relationship is greater than the benefits."
Bennett's last piece of advice is to know when to walk away" by having a "deep awareness for how you are feeling." You can do this by "checking in with your body and thoughts" so you can understand how you "respond to stress," according to her. She says this will give you more "clues on what when it's time to step away!"
Read more of our relationships articles to learn how to navigate tough situations in 2025!
