This Is What It’s Like to Be a Wedding Planner

Jennifer Chen
May 10, 2018

Wedding planning is no joke. There are so many parts to planning your big day, and for some brides, it’s easier to have an event planning pro come in and take care of everything. But if you’re a gal who adores every single detail of organizing a wedding and can keep cool under pressure, you might want to consider a future as a wedding planner. In this week’s How to Quit Your Day Job series, we chat with Shauna Gartz, who started her own event planning company Shauna Loves Planning. Below, Gartz shares her journey from corporate event planner to boss lady.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography)

MEET THE WEDDING PLANNER PRO: SHAUNA GARTZ

After spending seven years planning events and weddings for corporations, wedding and event planner Shauna Gartz decided to take the leap and start her own company. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, the mom of three sons turned her top-notch organizational skills, attention to detail, and love for weddings into a full-time career. On her website, happily married couples rave about Gartz’s ease and calm and how she took care of every wedding moment from start to finish. The planner extraordinaire lets us in on her day-to-day, what she loves most about her job, and how she turned her dream of working for herself into reality.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography)

Brit + Co: What’s your morning routine?

Shauna Gartz: After I’ve gotten my boys dressed and fed, made lunches, and dropped everyone off at school or grandma and papa’s house, I treat myself to a cup of coffee. I can’t start my work day without it! As a wedding planner, I believe one of the most helpful things I can do for my couples is to make the planning process as easy and fun as possible. Responding to their emails or phone calls in a timely manner achieves both. (I can’t tell you how many of my clients have expressed their appreciation for this.) The first thing I do every morning is check my email and return any phone calls. If it’s an event day, then I pack my vehicle and head out the door to begin set up and installation. If it’s not an event day, then I’m usually working on whatever event needs my immediate attention. My boys are in preschool three days a week in the mornings, and then spend a couple afternoons each week with grandma and grandpa, so that’s when I get the majority of my work done. That and a few late nights here and there!

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Kim Fisher Designs)

B+C: What inspired you to start your company?

SG: I was working as an event planner for a golf and country club on an exclusive island, accessible by ferry boat only, with two young boys at home. I loved what I did, but I also wanted to be present in my boys’ lives while they were still young. I had been contemplating starting my own event and wedding planning business for about eight years, and finally one day it hit me just how much time I was wasting commuting to work. It was a 45-minute drive, followed by a 30-minute boat ride, followed by a 10-minute golf cart ride before I sat down at my desk. And I had to do it all over again to get home, which was three hours a day that I could have been either working or playing with my kids. The company I worked for was understanding and allowed me to work from home two days a week. I did that for about a year and a half, but I needed to work for myself from home.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography; Floral designs by Fiore Fine Flowers)

B+C: How do you challenge yourself as an entrepreneur?

SG: I push myself to go outside of my comfort zone and take on various projects or tasks that are new to me, but things I still enjoy. My strengths are planning a wedding, but the business side of accounting, advertising, and social media upkeep are my weaknesses. My goal this past year has been to outsource any part of my business that doesn’t bring me joy so I can focus on what does.

(Photo via Anne Liles Photography; Floral designs by Fiore Fine Flowers)

B+C: Tell us about how your family and friends help support your business.

SG: My husband Matt is my number one supporter. There’s a wedding pastor I work with frequently who preaches at weddings that, “in marriage, your successes are doubled because you have someone to share them with. Also in marriage, your sorrows are lessened because you have someone to share them with.” Matt fully embodies this for me. He is excited for every step the company takes, for every great review received, for every compliment paid. He’ll be the first to have my back and be there to steady me.

My family has also helped in numerous ways, from proofreading my website before launch, to congratulatory texts and phone calls and spreading the news on social media. My in-laws and parents provide ongoing help with babysitting our three boys whenever I have an event or a project that needs my attention. I launched Shauna Loves Planning in October 2015 — six months after having my second son — and then in April 2017, right at the start of my wedding season, I gave birth to my third son. Fortunately, I have an amazing assistant, Ashley Pate, who has worked with me since the beginning, and was able to run that first wedding of the 2017 season solo so I could recover a bit from the delivery. The following weekend, at our second wedding of the year, my husband accompanied our week-old son to his very first wedding so that I didn’t have to be away from him all day, while my mom, who was staying with us for a month, stayed home with our two older boys. It really does take a village!

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Special Arrangements by Lyn Moser)

B+C: What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

SG: When I first got into wedding planning, I worked for a country club as their in-house event planner and catering sales manager. Lindsey Cheek, the woman whom I was replacing, came back to train me for a couple days and she said something that has stayed with me since: “You have to be the voice and advocate for your couples.” What she meant is that it was my responsibility to make sure that no corners were cut and no details were missed. At every wedding, there are a hundred moving parts and dozens of vendors working together to produce the most perfect day for two very special people. As a wedding planner, it’s my responsibility to make sure that everyone did what they were supposed to do because there are no do-overs at a wedding.

B+C: What do you love about your job?

SG: That I get to be there for the happiest day in two people’s lives. [And] I love the whole process of finding out who my clients are, what they like to do, and what their styles are, and developing a vision around it. I love working with some of the very best vendors in the industry. One of my absolute favorite bakeries, One Belle Bakery, I discovered through working in the wedding industry and they have since created every cake, cupcake, and cookie for every birthday or special event my family has celebrated. I met photographer Theo Milo while working, and he has since photographed each of my children shortly after birth and every year following. A favorite florist of mine, Kim Fisher Designs, not only did the flowers for my own wedding and a large percentage of my clients’ weddings, but they have also become like family to me. My clients all tell me that I make them feel calm because I’m calm. There’s a reason why I’m calm before a wedding — when you surround yourself with some of the very best vendors in the business, it’s easy.

(Photo via Theo Milo Photography; Floral designs by Kim Fisher Designs)

B+C: Name two female heroes who you think should get a shout-out.

SG: My mother Joani Harris was a working mom, but I don’t ever remember her not being there. She gave and never needed anything in return (except hugs). She was always so patient — something that did not get passed down to me unfortunately — but because of that, she is someone I aspire to be more like.

I think every woman in my life has been an inspiration for me. I take little pieces of each of them with me, in everything I do and everywhere I go. My sister, best friends, aunts and grandmothers, previous coworkers and employers, teachers and coaches, and even now, my brides. I’ve had such an astounding group of women play so many important roles in my life. I really don’t think I’d be the woman, mom, or business owner I am today without their influence.

B+C: If you could tell aspiring creative women anything, what would it be?

SG: Just do it! I can’t tell you how many times I thought about creating my own wedding and event planning company before I finally did it. I was pretty sure I could do it, but for years, doubt always found a way to creep in. The safety net of an employer was too alluring. Until one day I decided that I don’t want to look back on my life with regrets. I would much rather have tried and failed than never even tried. Not only am I doing what I love and working for myself, but I also get to control how much I work and when I work. Being a mom of three young boys has its challenges, but I get to be there for each of those challenges, each adventure, and each new milestone. Yes, I trade in my mommy hat for my planner hat some weekends and I still struggle with balancing both worlds, but I manage because both are important to me. Being a mom makes me a better planner and being a planner makes me a better mom. I know where to find a face painter at the last minute, as well as the best birthday cakes and a thousand other things I never would have thought of if it hadn’t been for my chosen career path.

If you’re thinking about doing something and wondering if you can or should, start doing it. Take the steps toward making it happen and the rest will follow. For me, it was creating my website. One night I got on my computer and started designing pages and writing content. The next day I worked on it a bit more and when I got it to a point where I was happy with it, I set the next steps in motion. So start taking the steps to get you where you want to be!

What’s your dream career? Tweet us @BritandCo to let us know, and we could feature it in the next column!

The 5 Worst Days To Have Your Wedding, According To Event Planners

Did Tom Holland and Zendaya spike the air with love following their engagement news? I mean, it seems like everyone's popping the question these days! If you've recently said "yes" to the love of your life's big question, all that's left to do now is start planning so you can walk down the aisle into the next chapter of your relationship's story.

Before you start randomly choosing wedding dates, you may want to take advice from Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events, Tara Fay of Tara Fay Events, and Wendee Vezzetti of Custom Weddings of Colorado because they have keen tips to help you avoid a few faux pas. Think of it as their way of helping you avoid further stress.

"While every couple's wedding day is special, there are a few dates that might cause more stress than celebration — both on the day and in the years to come," says Vezzetti.

Scroll to see the worst days to have your wedding!

Khaki Bedford

1. New Years Eve

December 31 may have come and gone, but there's always more NYE events to come. It's just one of the worst days to have your wedding. No, I mean it. Abbott suggests this isn't the time to pack two celebratory events into one. As the owner and creative director of Amy Abbott Events, she's helped plan luxurious weddings for some of Hollywood's top celebrities and athletes — including Simone Biles!

So, why no fabulous wedding on NYE? She says, "You’ll end up paying almost 50 percent more as vendors typically charge much higher rates." But, that's just the tip of the iceberg. She also adds, "For destination weddings during this time of year, hotels often enforce 5- to 7-night minimum stays, with hotel rates being nearly double. This can make it almost impossible for your guests to commit to attending your wedding." Even if you think money isn't an issue, she advises "it's just a very costly option."

That's not the only issue you could face. "To add to the challenge, some of the best vendors often take the entire holiday season off, making availability a significant issue." This just made our jaws drop because we didn't know this! But we can imagine this feels like one of the times they get to catch their breath before prepping for such a huge moment in people's lives so it's not unbelievable!

Jim Trice

2. Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is such a romantic day that deserves to be reserved for celebrating how much you're in love. But, please don't think your wedding has to be on February 14. Vezzetti says this day along with NYE "may sound romantic," but they're not in "reality."

She says, "These dates are super popular for weddings and other celebrations, which means venues and vendors charge a premium." And guess what? She says you're not even considering "future anniversaries."

Her advice if you decide to forge ahead is: "Good luck booking a cozy dinner reservation when everyone else is celebrating too."

Khaki Bedford for Amy Abbott Events

3. Super Bowl Sunday

Another thing Fay says couples "often forget about" are "major sporting events." Her rule of thumb is to "try to understand the guest list and audience" so her team can be "conscious of their experiences."

It's the reason she's against have a wedding on Super Bowl Sunday. She says, "It may leave guests less present at your event, even if you're not a football fan. So we [the Tara Fay Events team] try to be conscious of big cultural and sporting events like this."

Always be aware of times close to major holidays. If guests have to travel distances and be away from their families, that may impact your rsvp’s. Plus, it’s typically more expensive to travel those times of year. Don’t forget about international holidays as well, Diwali for example.

Amy Abbott Events

4. Labor Day

Vezzetti also discourages scheduling a wedding on Labor Day. The rule used to be that you couldn't wear white after this holiday passed, but now you need to rethink your plans if you plan to trade 'I Do's" on this date.

"Long holiday weekends may seem ideal for travel, but they also come with headaches. First, heavy traffic," says Vezzetti. She and her team "have seen travel times TRIPLE on Colorado roadways during these holidays." This fact alone made our hearts skip a beat because we caught of a flash of you potentially being late your own wedding!

Also, Vezzetti says you won't be the only person in town for a holiday like this. "Because everyone else is traveling, lodging and restaurants are hard to come by, especially popular mountain retreats in places like Colorado."

Amy Abbott Events

5. Memorial Day

Sigh... We don't know why anyone would want to have a wedding on Memorial Day, but personal preference always plays a factor in decisions like this. The issue, Vezzetti warns, is that you're risking a lot by doing so. "Before you set the date, do a little research as to local annual events," she advises.

For example, Boulder, Colorado is a "great destination with amazing scenery, warm weather, and world-class dining" according to her. "But Memorial Day in Boulder, Colorado brings more than 50,000 runners into town. So definitely check the local calendar for your wedding destination and make sure you aren't going to share your special day with thousands of others."

Can you imagine having an outdoor wedding where your guests are torn between watching you emotionally exchange vows as marathon runners sprint nearby?

Taryn Baxter for Amy Abbott Events

I'm kind of scared I'll choose the wrong date. What are good days or months to have my wedding?

This sounds like a "how-to" guide of everything you shouldn't do when choosing your wedding date, but there's still a large window of opportunity! "The best months to get married for tropical destination weddings are October 15th through July 15th," Abbott says.

But, there's a catch. "Once you go beyond that, you risk running into hurricane season. Even if you're fortunate enough to avoid a storm, the intense heat and relentless bugs can take away from the enjoyment of your day," she adds. All in all, "it's simply not an ideal time of year" because "the weather can significantly impact your overall experience," according to her.

Amy Abbott Events

Fay agrees with this by adding "major weather events are important to consider" at all times. She also added you should "take note of monsoon months" along with "hurricane season." She knows no one can really "predict bad weather," but she wants you to "aim for months that more often provide the experience you're looking to have."

Vezzetti says "popular dates in Colorado are the summer months (June-September) because of the scenic outdoor backdrops and warm weather." But she knows there are "trade-offs" like "venues and vendors" booking early, plus the chance "you might pay higher prices" even though the "gorgeous sand makes it worth it!"

The truth is that your special day should feel as seamless as possible. Something is sure not to go according to plan, but it shouldn't involve something interrupting the entire date you've chosen to have your weeding. Fay's final piece of advice, "If you want to get married in Europe, be aware of when Europeans go on holiday and try to avoid August which is the busiest time for major European countries.

But, the trade-offs are that venues and vendors book early and you might pay higher prices (but it's gorgeous sand worth it!). But, if you want to save, In Colorado late spring (April–May) and late fall (November) are excellent for the value. Plus, venues and vendors often have more availability. This concept can be applied to other destinations, but they may have seasonal variations. So, be sure to check the seasonal highs and lows in whatever area you are planning to tie the knot.

Amy Abbott Events

A tip you may not have considered is doing "a little research on when courthouses in the destination issue marriage licenses." Vezzetti suggests doing this so you're well-prepared and can "plan with enough travel time so you are not scrambling to get your legal documents."

Not sure when to go? Vezzetti says, "In most States, courthouses are only open during banking hours (Mon-Fri, generally), and while the process may quick (in Colorado, expect 15 minutes, tops), couples without a plan might find themselves in panic mode." Didn't we say we don't want you passing out before your big day even arrives? Take Vezzetti's advice and "do a little research" so you can "plan to arrive a day early!"

Before you panic, Abbott has one last thing to share. "The good news? There are nearly nine and a half months of perfect timing for wedding planning, giving couples plenty of options to make their big day truly unforgettable!"

Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding inspo!

wedding planningwedding adviceweddings

The 17 Best ‘90s TV Shows (& Where To Stream Them In 2025)

There was a 99 percent chance that anyone who watched TV in the 1990s watched a rotation of sitcoms. I, for one, lived and breathed sitcoms; that is, before streaming came along (I’m only human). Now, instead of waiting until 9pm on a Thursday, you can watch your favorite ’90s shows whenever and wherever you want.

Here are 17 hilarious ’90s TV shows that are da bomb (I’m so sorry) you can stream in 2025!

1. ​Freaks and Geeks

NBC

Freaks and Geeks is the pinnacle definition of ‘cult classic,’ if there ever was one. Cancelled after only one season, the show regained popularity through the years, due in large part to streaming. And it’s no wonder why, as it shows the first-hand awkwardness that is navigating high school. Freaks and Geeks offers other things as well… such as a very young Linda Cardellini, James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jason Segal, Busy Phillips, and Samm Levine. If any filmmakers are reading this — how about a modern day Freaks and Geeks reboot?? Freaks and Geeks is streaming on Hulu.

2. ​Will & Grace

NBC/IMDb

The ’90s weren’t all bad. Sure, there were some pretty heinous outfit choices made, and all of society collectively decided they needed a grunge phase (at the same time), but it did give us Will & Grace. Will & Grace gave us one of the first mainstream sitcoms to feature openly gay main characters. Its witty humor along with relatable characters, and all around great dialogue, makes it stand the test of time. Will & Grace is streaming on Hulu.

3. Friends

NBC

Friends may be the most unrealistic show, in terms of a bunch of 20-somethings living in grand, spacious apartments in one of the most expensive cities in the world, but it’s realistic in how it portrays friendships and the rollercoaster of dealing with jobs, love, and life in New York City. After all, it is a classic, and if you haven’t seen this show, you haven’t experienced the peak of ’90s sitcoms. Friends is streaming on Hulu, Max, and Prime Video.

4. That ’70s Show

Fox

That ’70s Show may or may not have been the first ’90s show I was exposed to, but that’s beside the point, and might I add, ironic. The show’s nostalgic 70s setting is a character in and of itself and shows that teenagers will be teenagers, no matter the decade. That ’70s Show is streaming on Peacock.

5. ​Family Matters

ABC

Family Matters blessed us with the iconic character of Steve Urkel, and decades of a go-to Halloween costume for many. While the show may have started in 1989, it’s an essential and memorable sitcom that had its main run in the ’90s. Family Matters is truly all that and a bag of chips – that was my sad attempt at trying this decade’s lingo. Family Matters is streaming on Disney+, Hulu, and Max.

6. Seinfeld

NBC/IMDb

Most know it as the show about nothing, but Seinfeld gave us everything. It took trivial events and churned them into a decade of iconic and famous lines, hysterical characters and arguably the best guest appearances on a sitcom, from Jennifer Coolidge as Jerry's masseuse girlfriend to Bryan Cranston as Jerry’s less-than-ethical dentist. Seinfeld is streaming on Netflix.

7. ​The Simpsons

Fox

Though The Simpsons is still running today, the ’90s were the decade that it truly shined, so much so that the particular decade is considered The Simpsons’ “golden age” with Bart Simpson becoming a quintessential ’90s character. As funny and entertaining as the comedy series is, it’s also become quite the pop culture predictor, making it all the more amusing to watch it back now. The Simpsons is streaming on Disney+.

8. ​The Fresh Prince of Bel Air

NBC

Will Smith was one of the decade's charming and notable heartthrobs, and what better way to see him in all his glory than by watching The Fresh Prince of Bel Air? It was the sitcom that catapulted Smith into superstardom and was a decade hit due to its exploration of real-world topics. The Fresh Prince of Bel Air is streaming on Hulu and Max.

9. ​The Nanny

CBS

Fran Drescher is that girl. She made us “over-the-top personality” girls feel seen. Not only that, but comedy itself is timeless and should be enjoyed for generations to come. Incidentally, Drescher’s character has an amazing fashion sense, so this show is a 2-for-1 viewing experience – you get a fashion show within a sitcom, and what’s better than that? The Nanny is streaming on Peacock.

10. ​Boy Meets World

ABC

Before the modern day coming-of-age genre (think Sex Education) came Boy Meets World – a sitcom that follows a boy and his friend and love interest through middle school into college. Better yet, this series was so good that it aired on Friday nights. The beloved characters alone makes the show worth the watch. Boy Meets World is streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.

11. ​Ally McBeal

Fox

If you likeLegally Blonde, you’ll love Ally McBeal. Ally is a young, blonde, hot mess lawyer working at a Boston law firm called Cage & Fish – ring any bells? Ally McBeal is streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.

12. Sabrina the Teenage Witch

ABC/The WB

Imagine dealing with your teenage struggles but on top of that, you have to control magical powers – yeah, you might not live that IRL, but Sabrina the Teenage Witch shows you what it's like! In all honesty, Sabrina the Teenage Witch is as iconic as they come. Its legacy has been felt in every generation that’s followed – who doesn’t know Salem, the talking, black cat? Sabrina the Teenage Witch is streaming on Hulu, Disney+, and Paramount+.

13. Full House

ABC

If I had a dollar for every series that technically started in the late ’80s, but didn’t gain their popularity until the ’90s, I’d have, like, $10. Full House first premiered in 1987, but by the time the ’90s rolled around it had become an American household staple. Most of the show’s run was in the ’90s, and it later gave us movies such as Passport to Paris simply due to casting the Olsen twins. Thank you, Full House. Full House is streaming on Disney+, Prime Video, and Max.

14. ​Sister, Sister

ABC/The WB

I’m going to throw it back real quick – this show was originally part of the TGIF programming on ABC – that’s right, I’m talking about Sister, Sister. This show is a nostalgic favorite with Tia and Tamera Mowry, who, in my mind, are the sisters of the late ’90s and early 2000s. Sister, Sister is streaming onDisney+, Hulu, and Paramount+.

15. ​The King of Queens

CBS

Who doesn’t love Kevin James? On second thought, don’t answer that. The King of Queens is certainly an acquired taste, bordering on the line of “I don’t want to admit this is funny, but it is.” But it has our girl Leah Remini and that’s reason enough to give it a watch. The King of Queens is streaming on Paramount+ and Peacock.

16. Wings

NBC

Wings flew under the radar in the ’90s, no pun intended, as it didn’t amass the same following as other shows like Friends, but it had a loyal following due to its sharp dialogue and loveable characters. The backdrop alone is all the more reason to watch this ’90s series today – Wings follows two brothers, Joe and Brian Hackett, who run a small airline in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Need I say more? Wings is streaming on Paramount+ and Prime Video.

17. ​Sex and The City

HBO

Yes, I’m labeling Sex and The City as a comedy, and deservedly so. I love this show, call me basic! It blends romance, drama, and comedy beautifully together, all with the glitz and glam of New York City essentially as its own character. Sex and The City transports you to a different environment and, dare I say, is an elevated version of Friends.Sex and The City is streaming on Hulu, Max, Netflix, and Prime Video.

Which 90s TV show is your go-to right now? Let us know on Facebook!

pop culture90stventertainment

8 Easy Ways You Can Make Work Less Stressful, According To Experts

One of the deep questions I asked myself on January 1 was, "How do you want to feel as a stay-at-home mom who's also a part of the WFH crew?" The first word that popped into my mind wasn't a full sentence; it was 'ease.'

I've spent the greater part of my life as a people pleaser who also has a Type A personality when inspired during work hours. There's nothing wrong with being ambitious, but I don't always know when to turn it off which leads to burnout. Does this sound like you?

If so, we're not doing this anymore bestie. This year we're changing the way we approach work so we're not on a first-name basis with stress 10 months out of the year. I've got tips from the following bada** ladies who know how imperative it is to not let work drain us:

  • Kayla Baum, CEO & Founder of Twello (a workplace wellness company!)
  • Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin, Founders at The Business Reboot

Keep scrolling for 8 expert-approved tips for how to make work less stressful — & trust me, you need these.

Karin Kaufer

1. Actually Use Your Planner In 2025

We're not buying pretty planners just so they can collect dust on our desks or coffee tables anymore. Corry Frazier and Melissa Pepin want you to get serious because they feel "it starts with planning." They don't mean the kind you eventually flake on either.

"Effective planning is key to maintaining balance and reducing burnout. Whether you're mapping out tasks, meetings, or events, dedicated time for preparation ensures focus and reduces stress," they say. In other words, "the more intentional you are in planning, the more productive you'll be," according to them.

Ever since I've been blocking out my tasks by hour in planner, I've been able to get more done without feeling overwhelmed by splitting my time between writing and being in mommy mode. Frazier and Pepin suggest that you "set weekly planning sessions" that consist of "30-60 minutes each weekend to map out your upcoming week."

This eventually "reduces decision fatigue, fosters a sense of control, and helps you start Monday with clarity and purpose," they add. Yes, this is a sign that you'll be breaking up with the dreaded 'Sunday scaries' if you follow their advice. "You'll feel proactive and grounded rather than reacting to the week as it unfolds," they agree.

Zen Chung

2. Embrace A "Fake Commute" When Working From Home

One of Kayla Baum's tips is to switch up your routine if you're a remote worker. Rolling out of the bed at the last minute before logging on for work sounds appealing until you realize you're uninspired by your days. But, what is a "fake commute?"

"It mimics the structure of a traditional commute to establish a boundary between work and personal life. This could mean taking a walk around the block, doing a 10-minute guided meditation, or even just changing clothes at the end of the day," Baum mentions.

Based on her experience, she's found that "it works because it provides a psychological buffer, helping to separate work and home life." She feels it's "crucial for positive mental health and boosting productivity at work (and at home)."

You can also create a separate work space that's not in your bedroom to get work done! That's helped me tremendously so I'm not sleeping and working in the same area.

Anna Nekrashevich

3. Focus On High-Impact Tasks

Similar to planning your work days as best as you can, Frazier and Pepin want you to "prioritize the tasks that align with your goals." To minimize distractions, they want you to ask yourself:

  • What is the most effective use of my time right now?
"For instance, if you're preparing for a big presentation at work, concentrate on immediate needs rather than getting sidetracked by unrelated projects. This approach helps you conserve energy for what truly matters," they suggest.

Greta Hoffman

4. Stop Making Daily Decisions Hard

Tasks like your morning routine or figuring out what you'll eat don't have to take up a chunk of your time anymore. "Use productivity hacks, such as pre-planning meals or laying out weekly outfits," suggest Frazier and Pepin. They feel that "small routines like this eliminate unnecessary choices" to "make mornings smoother."

According to them, it's "especially helpful for families juggling multiple schedules." I couldn't agree more because I've spent so many frazzled mornings trying to make decisions about what myself and my toddler would wear or eat instead of planning them. With the help of my fiancé, we've cut so much time in half by being prepared ahead of time instead of 'winging it' before work.

Yan Krukau

5. Understand What Your Boundaries Are And Set Them

Worried that you'll be considered 'mean' if you tell your manager or coworkers what your boundaries are at work? Depending on your environment, it's 100% understandable. However, you're human and there's no reason you should be over-performing to your detriment. Frazier and Pepin say, "Set boundaries and communicate clearly. Adopt Brené Brown's mantra: 'To be clear is to be kind.'"

They encourage you to not only "be upfront about your schedule to manage others' expectations," but it's also so you can "avoid over-commitment." Say it with me: I will not make false promises just to appease others. Why?

Frazier and Pepin say, "Don't be afraid to say no to side projects or anything that doesn't align with your goals."

Kaboompics.com

6. Ignore Emails Sent After Your Work Hours

I've been guilty of sending an email after work to acknowledge that I saw something, but I never expect other people to feel obligated to respond until the next business day. On the flip side, I've felt pressured to answer something that feels timely and I've gone to sleep thinking about the sender's potential follow-up email.

"Just because a coworker chooses to work late at night doesn't mean you must answer. One helpful trick is to include your working days and hours in your signature, explaining that responses may be delayed outside of those times," Frazier and Pepin say. They even have a prompt you can use if you're not sure what to type:

  • "My working hours are [Your Working Hours, e.g., 9 AM - 4 PM ET]. Please note that these may differ from your local time zone. I appreciate your understanding and will respond to emails during my working hours."

I can't wait to start utilizing this...for research purposes only 👀.

Tima Miroshnichenko

7. Please, log off from work when it's time.

Unless you're scheduled to work late, take the time to log off from work and not think about it until the next day. Baum says, "Commit to fully logging off once the workday ends—no 'quick email replies' or sneaking in work over the weekend." I'm eyeing you Ms. "I just need to send a quick email" while you're on vacation or spending time with your significant other.

Baum says creating this separation works because "fully disconnecting allows your mind to reset and recharge" which ends up "making you more efficient, creative, and focused during actual work hours." According to her, you'll eventually "improve personal well-being" and "enhance long-term work performance."

As soon as my work day is over, I make a beeline for the shower so I can decompress. After that, I take my time with my skincare routine and keep my phone out of reach so I'm not tempted to look at anything work-related. I'm not always successful, but I've noticed a difference in my mood since making this shift.

Yan Krukau

8. Speak Up When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

And if you're 100% drained because you've been trying to tackle work tasks during and after hours, Frazier and Pepin want you to speak up. "If you're feeling overwhelmed with your workload, approach your manager with honesty and a focus on solutions," they suggest. Here's another prompt of theirs you can use:

  • "I've been noticing that my workload has extended beyond regular hours, and maintaining balance is becoming challenging. Could we discuss prioritizing tasks or adjusting expectations to ensure I can deliver quality work without compromising my well-being?"
What this does is "frame the conversation as collaborative and proactive, encouraging your manager to work with you on a resolution," Frazier and Pepin observe.

Visit more of our work-life articles when you need career advice or how to learn to part ways with burnout for good.

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26 Savory Super Bowl Snacks That'll Make Your Tailgate A Total Touchdown

The biggest football game of 2025 is coming up, and even if you're not a die-hard sports fan, there's a chance you'll still take part in a Super Bowl party (even if it's just to see the halftime show). For this year's Super Bowl game (and its awesome commercials), you've gotta have some solid eatsfor feeding your family and friends at the tailgate. While you prep your sweet dessert recipes and shake up the best cocktails around, check out these savory snacks that are perfect for rounding out your Super Bowl Sunday spread.

Scroll on for 26 savory Super Bowl snacks that'll complete your game day spread!

Taco Dip

Brit + Co

This classic Super Bowl snack deserves a spot on your tailgate table. It's perfectly balanced and very addicting. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Jalapeño Spinach Queso

Brit + Co

The crunchy toppings *make* this Super Bowl dip. If you wanna make somethin' spicy, look no further! (via Brit + Co)

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese Dip

Brit + Co

The beer cheese dip that goes along with these pastry bites is heavenly. It'll be all gone by the time halftime rolls around. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Vegan Nachos

Brit + Co

Nachos are the perfect Super Bowl snack because of their cheesy pull! These vegan ones are sure to be a hit. (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

Brit + Co

Get a lot of flavor in one little bite with this recipe. These bites feature salmon, onions, avocado, and rice, all served on top of your fave cracker. This will definitely be a fan-favorite, no matter what team your guests are rooting for! (via Brit + Co)

Mini 7 Layer Dip Tostadas

Brit + Co

Forget the hunt for that perfectly long tortilla chip that magically picks up all seven layers of your seven layer dip – put it all in one bite! (via Brit + Co)

Hummus

Brit + Co

Making hummus at home is a lot easier than you probably think it is. Round out your snack spread with some carrot and celery sticks! (via Brit + Co)

Spinach Artichoke Mini Muffins

Brit + Co

Need a little more veggie in your Super Bowl snacks? These mini muffins come to the rescue. (via Brit + Co)

Italian Savory Hand Pies

Brit + Co

Use some store-bought pastry dough to expedite this recipe. You can choose to follow the recipe to make them vegan, or go your own route. No matter what, they'll be a touchdown! (via Brit + Co)

Pigs + Peppers in Bed

Brit + Co

This take on the classic pigs-in-a-blanket will keep the convo going during Super Bowl commercial breaks. (via Brit + Co)

Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

You can stuff mushrooms with anything, but the Greek-inspired fillings in this recipe are impressively refreshing + yummy.(via Brit + Co)

Butter Board

Brit + Co

Add a little bit of sweet to your savory options with this mix of vegan butter, berries, and nuts that tastes just as good with salty crackers as it does with waffles. (via Brit + Co)

Super Sliders

Brit + Co

Inside-out cheeseburger sliders, pulled pork with chipotle slaw, and portobello pesto. Done and done. (via Brit + Co)

Peyton Manning's Quarterback Sliders

King's Hawaiian

Sliders are a must-have when it comes to savory Super Bowl snacks. This recipe, curated by none other than Peyton Manning, include all the classic toppings in between some seriously yummy Hawaiian rolls! (via King's Hawaiian)

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Cheddar Cheese

Cabot Creamery

Cook these gorgeously crispy tendies up in just 10 minutes for a super savory (and high-protein) Super Bowl snack. (via Cabot Creamery)

Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Iowa Girl Eats

A new take on the corn dog – in mini form! These tiny bites are the perfect bite-sized Super Bowl snack, and they taste just as amazing as the OG when served with ketchup + mustard. (via Iowa Girl Eats)

Marinated Dippin' Wings

Cedar's Foods

These bright + zesty wings make for a pretty impressive spread. Complete them with the ultimate dipping sauce, tzatziki. (via Cedar's Foods)

Pizza Pretzel Poppers

Will Cook For Friends

Wowwww. Adding these pizza poppers to our bake list, stat! We're pretty sure this is wins all Super Bowl snacks, but could also make for a tasty movie night snack. (via Will Cook For Friends)

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Two Spoons

These easy homemade fries will become a staple in your Super Bowl snacks rotation! Make sure you season 'em well with flaky sea salt. (via Two Spoons)

Football-Shaped Zucchini Fritters

Hungry Happenings

How adorable are these football-shaped bites? We’d love to make a whole series of veggie fritters with this sporty theme in mind. (via Hungry Happenings)

Fried Buffalo Goat Cheese Balls

Half Baked Harvest

Not jamming on buffalo chicken? Make some buffalo goat cheese bites instead. They're ooey, they're gooey, and they're oh-so goooood. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cheddar-Stuffed Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese

Cabot Creamery

Pour in a light beer, such as a Pilsner or Amber, into this delicious beer sauce for a winning snack. (via Cabot Creamery)

Buffalo Chicken Pull-Apart Bread

Host the Toast

What do you get when you add buffalo chicken to monkey bread? This delicious-looking concoction. (via Host the Toast)

Cheese Twists

Cooking With My Kids

We love the ease of this recipe – it definitely lends itself to some culinary improv. All your other Super Bowl snacks will be jealous! (via Cooking With My Kids)

Buffalo Chicken Wontons

The Improv Kitchen

This recipe is a super fun and different take on buffalo chicken that we will definitely be making over and over again. (via The Improv Kitchen)

Vegan Potato Salad

Two Spoons

Potato salad is a star dish of any get-together, but your Super Bowl guests will be absolutely obsessed with this creamy vegan version. (via Two Spoons)

What's your go-to Super Bowl snack? Share with us @BritandCo and check out our Pinterest for more recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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Everything We Know About Those 'Fourth Wing' TV Show Cast Rumors

One of the most important parts of bringing a book to life onscreen is finding the PERFECT cast. Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls, and 1923 wouldn’t be the same without their phenomenal cast members — and their chemistry with one another. So when it was announced that Amazon was developing a Fourth Wing TV show inspired by Rebecca Yarros' viral book series, fans immediately started talking about who should play Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the characters. Especially since we’ve all been imagining them for so long!

Well there are two actors at the top of the rumor mill for this TV show — and I am crossing all my fingers and toes we see them in the series.

Here’s everything we know about the Fourth Wing TV show cast rumors.

Did the 'Fourth Wing' TV show already find its Xaden?

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

The biggest Fourth Wing casting rumor at the moment is that we could see Josh Heuston as dragon rider Xaden Riorson. The Australian actor is known for roles in Heartbreak High and Dune: Prophecy. Elle points out that not only does Josh follow Rebecca Yarros and Michael B. Jordan (who's producing the series) on Instagram, he also has a dragon in his bio!

"We’re just going to say [Xaden] is POC," Rebecca said in an interview with Variety. "I want to make sure that role is open to as much diversity as possible. So I was never going to give the readers my vision because I know that once you give the readers your vision, that’s what they’re gonna stick to. And I wanted to make sure we left it open to as much diversity as possible."

There's also one 'Twilight' actress fans would love to see as Violet.

Summit Entertainment

Plus I can't pass up the opportunity to mention that Elle also points out Twilight's Mackenzie Foy (who played Renesmee in the franchise) also follows Rebecca Yarros — and she posted Onyx Storm to her Instagram story! She also matches Violet's description perfectly.

"Best fancast I've seen so far..." one TikTok user commented on our TikTok, while another added, "You know what, I’m not mad at it! I’m actually loving this combo!!" I couldn't agree more.

Rebecca Yarros

While we haven't gotten an official cast confirmation quite yet, we do know that Anne With An E's Moira Walley-Beckett is serving as showrunner — and that Rebecca Yarros is just as excited as we are to see who fills the cast list.

"I’ve never done this before, so I don’t have an opinion on if [the cast] should be established or if they shouldn’t, or what attention that brings," she tells Variety. "I’m going to trust that they bring in the right people when they start casting. And then I’m gonna hope that they fit who’s described in the book, and I think we’ll know when we know. But I honestly don’t have a preference, just whoever can fit the character."

Who do you want to see in the Fourth Wing cast? Drop your favorite fancasts on Facebook!

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