Unlike Ariel, true techies can never have enough gadgets and gizmos, whozits and whatzits galore. It's like an itch we just have to scratch. Technology continues to surprise us with new and innovative devices that help us live our best life — or just have fun. Looking to turn your home into a smart home? Trying to find the perfect gadget the entire family can benefit from? Need something cool to surprise your kids with that will keep them busy for hours? Well, stop looking! There's sure to be something right here for everyone on your list (including yourself). Check out these techie-loved products to charge up your gift-giving this holiday season.
Lenovo Smart Clock with Google Assistant ($80): Go beyond the traditional alarm clock with this Google assisted smart clock. Control the lights in your home, see the weather, check your calendar and get traffic updates before you leave your bed.
LifeFuels ($179): Get the nutrients you need when you need them with this smart water bottle. Inside the bottle are three pods that dispense vitamins and nutrients throughout the day with the touch of a button or swipe in the app.
Nintendo Switch ($300): Gaming is for all ages and the Nintendo Switch is a great system for hours of family fun.
VTech KidiBuzz G2 ($90): Your little doesn't have to play on your phone anymore, they can play 40+ learning games, listen to music and take photos on this interactive kid-friendly device.
Stash Portable Battery Bank ($30): Don't let the activities of the day drain you. Stay charged with this stylish portable battery bank.
Cinemood ($400): Experience movie magic wherever you go with Cinemood, a portable smart mini-projector. Tiny but mighty, this projector is kid-friendly and an investment in nights of family fun. It's also on Mariah Carey's must-have list so obviously, we must-have, too.
Echo Dot Kids Edition ($70): Designed with kids in mind, children can ask Alexa to call Grandma, tell them a story, play music and other kid-friendly actions.
Lockly Secure Pro ($299-$329): Upgrade your home security with this smart lock. Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa, this lock can be operated by voice, mobile app, access code, fingerprint, or traditional key.
PlayShifu Orboot ($50): Make screen time educational with one of Shifu's interactive toys that mix education and entertainment together like this one that teaches children about different countries and cultures around the world.
Acu Palm ($85): After typing, texting and holding things all day, your hands could use a little TLC. Acu Palm offers a heated compression massage that ranges from your fingers to your wrist to help your hands recover after working them to the bone.
House of Marley Exodus Anc ($250): These eco-friendly noise cancelling headphones carry a 28-hour battery life with active noise cancellation and 80 hours without. You'll be able to enjoy hours of music and entertainment without having to charge.
Luigi's Mansion 3 ($60): Kids will have fun zapping ghosts and beef up their problem-solving skills in the process.
Singing Machine Official Carpool Karaoke ($60): Turn road trips into concert tours with carpool karaoke.
Polaroid Mint Pocket Printer W/ Zink Zero Ink Technology & Built-In Bluetooth ($140): One of the biggest problems with some instant cameras is that the picture never comes out exactly the way you planned. With Polaroid's pocket printer, you can get instant prints of your fave photos from your cell phone; problem solved.
Scuf Vantage 2 ($170): Create your own unique gaming experience by using this fully customizable controller. The Vantage 2 can not only be customized visually by choosing one of the 60 designs available, but you can customize the weight, thumbstick sensitivity, and more.
Moodo Smart Home Fragrance Diffuser Bundle ($100): Load up four scents at a time to mix and match the aroma you need, when you need it, for your bedroom, living room, or office.
Tanoshi 2-in-1 Kids Computer ($190): This child's laptop/tablet combo comes with preloaded educational games and apps and parental controls so kids can have fun and parents don't have to worry about their cyber safety.
LED Fitness Data Smart Rope ($80): Track your jump count, calories burned and workout times with this smart rope. Stay motivated with training sessions and compete with your friends to stay motivated.
Pictionary Air ($20): Game night just got elevated. Pictionary Air is classic game with a tech upgrade. Draw in the air and see it on the TV, your phone, or both.
Indy($85): Zone out in these water-resistant earbuds by Skull Candy that are great for music and calls.
Schatzii Smart Cloth 10pk ($50): May your picture always be pristine with these smart cloths. You can use them on your glasses too.
C by GE Full Color Bulbs ($30): Make daily chores and homework fun by scheduling each with a different color using these smart light bulbs.
Disney Frozen 2 Coding Kit ($80): Use your child's love for Disney to get them started with coding.
Universal Grip Band Metallic Rose Gold ($15): Tired of your phone falling on your face? Use this multi-functional phone grip & stand. It's easy to apply and doesn't leave a sticky residue.
UBTECH JIMU Robot Mythical Series: Firebot Kit ($130): Your little builder will love spending hours building their own robot.
Adjustable Neck Smartphone Mount ($12): Go hands free while catching up on all your latest shows with this phone mount.
Wally Dual USB Wall Charger + Standard AC Outlet ($40): We all know the struggle of too many devices and not enough outlets. Charge all your devices at once with this dual wall charger that comes with two USB ports so you don't have to play the switching game anymore.
Legacybox ($60 and up): Transfer retro to digital with Legacybox. Send in your VHS tapes, film reels and photo prints, and have them digitized for a sentimental gift you can share with the whole family.
Upright GO 2 Posture Trainer ($100): This wearable reminder will train you to have better posture in no time.
GE Lighting 93100352 LED + Speaker ($43): Make your home sing with GE's bluetooth enabled smart bulbs with built in speakers.
Jammy Guitar + Detachable Frame ($450): Rock out wherever you happen to be with this digital guitar.
Lovebox Messenger ($100): Send a digital love note to your S.O. through an app and they display in this beech wood box. Watch your loved one light up when they receive a new message alert.
Hot Wheels id Smart Track Kit ($180): This ain't the same Hot Wheels you once knew. With the smart track, you can build, race, and beat in-app challenges. You can also build and beat more than 20 layout designs with 16 assorted track pieces.
InstaShiatsu Foot Massager with Air Compression & Heat ($200): Your piggies will get a kick out of this foot massager.
Tovala Gen 2 Smart Steam WiFi Countertop Oven ($300): The scan-to-cook technology on this countertop oven not only saves time but takes a lot of guess work out of cooking.
Tap Strap 2 Wearable Keyboard ($200): Control your smart devices with this single-handed all in one wearable keyboard.
Pocketalk ($300): Communicate with anyone with this two-way translator, great for everyday use and travel.
WS1 Immersive Wearable Speaker ($300): This wireless speaker rests on top of your shoulders and packs the same vibrations and full sounds of other bluetooth speakers to make you feel like you're actually inside the movie or front row at the concert.
Wynd Plus Smart Portable Personal Air Purifier ($200): This compact purifier is great for night stands, desks or your suitcase to carry with you wherever you travel.
Arlo Video Doorbell ($149): Keep track of who comes and goes at your front door with this video doorbell that notifies you when motion is detected in front and receive a call when your doorbell is pressed. You can also keep watch over all of those Amazon packages that are left on your porch during the day.
Sony Digital Paper ($448): Go paperless by taking notes on this low glare screen with a texture that feels just like real paper.
Courant Catch 2 ($80): Charge all your devices at once with this multi-device wireless charging pad.
Adonit Note+ ($70): An alternative to the Apple pen, the Adonit Note+ allows for up to 10 hours of continuous note-taking or artistry along with programmable short cuts.
Sunpak Ultimate Vlogging Kit ($150): For the friend who has always wanted to start a vlog, gift them with a quality filming setup.
Side Trak ($300): Busy bees will appreciate this attachable portable dual screen that works with your laptop.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
As we enter December, we enter a month filled with new possibilities and discoveries, thanks to Sagittarius Season. This cosmic period encourages us to be open-minded, adventurous, and focused on expanding our horizons — what better energy to carry through the holidays? However, don’t expect everything to go smoothly. Mercury is in retrograde throughout the month, allowing us to reflect on past decisions, revisit old conversations, and untangle any lingering doubts.
But don’t worry — there are silver linings ahead! The Universe supports us in finding our way forward, helping us piece together a path that aligns with our true intentions. Ready to see what the stars have in store? Keep reading for detailed insights into your Sun, moon, and rising signs, and prepare to make the most of December’s cosmic twists and turns.
The month begins with a magical New Moon in Sagittarius on December 1, perfectly aligning with the heart of the Scorpion star Antares. This cosmic event is primed for manifestation, offering us the energy to overcome obstacles. While Mercury retrograde continues its backspin until mid-month, this New Moon will complement the retrograde's reflective nature. You can use this time to create vision boards, journal your wishes, or meditate on areas where you've been looking for answers. This lunation will help illuminate blind spots and provide the clarity you need moving forward.
Be patient—your ideas may not take form immediately but will unfold later this month. Trust the process, and hold firm to your vision.
As we move into December 6, Mars will retrograde in Leo, inviting us to hit the brakes and reassess how we use our energy, particularly in love, creativity, and career. This retrograde will last until February 23, 2025, so take this opportunity to reflect on your passion projects, relationships, and personal goals. Rather than pushing ahead, take a step back, strategize, and refine your approach.
On December 7, Venus enters the electric sign of Aquarius, bringing a fresh, unconventional vibe to our relationship. Love feels more exciting and spontaneous during this time, perfect for embracing new forms of connection or exploring unique romantic experiences. Whether through group activities, online communities, or quirky encounters, Venus in Aquarius encourages us to keep things fun and unpredictable.
The Full Moon in Gemini on December 15 will bring a flood of emotions, especially around communication. This lunation makes a dreamy aspect to Neptune, making it a perfect time for creative expression—whether through writing, art, or other forms of imaginative work. However, be mindful of confusing or exaggerated exchanges. If you feel unsure, trust your intuition, but avoid making major emotional decisions. On the same day, Mercury goes direct, bringing much-needed clarity to areas that have felt stalled. Communications, travel plans, and crucial discussions will flow more smoothly, allowing you to make headway on projects or clear up lingering misunderstandings.
The Sun moves into Capricorn on December 21, shifting towards focus and ambition. This transit will bring a surge of energy to tackle work, career, and personal goals. However, the holidays may bring extra stress, especially around family dynamics. Remember to give yourself grace and be patient with your progress. You're moving toward your goals one step at a time.
Finally, December closes with Chiron Direct on December 29, signaling a time to accelerate your healing journey. This cosmic shift asks you to reflect on your growth over the past year and make strides toward emotional healing. As you spend time with family and loved ones, use this moment to restore and rejuvenate. Self-care practices, journaling, and honest conversations will help you move forward with a deeper sense of self-acceptance.
December is shaping up to be an auspicious month for Sagittarius, Aquarius, Leo, and Libra. For Sagittarius, the central theme is personal growth and new beginnings, as the New Moon in your sign sets the stage for new opportunities, empowering you to take bold steps toward your dreams. Aquarius will also shine with Venus in your sign, boosting your confidence, creativity, and charm — perfect for attracting positive attention and aligning with your long-term goals. Leo, with its focus on self-love and creative pursuits, will find joy in romantic connections and social endeavors, bringing new energy and excitement into your life. Finally, Libra’s month is filled with fun and collaboration, as Venus enhances your love life and social sphere, while the New Moon brings opportunities to communicate and expand your horizons. With a blend of personal and social growth, these four signs are set for a month of luck, transformation, and fresh opportunities. Read below for your sun, moon, and rising December 2024 horoscope.
Theme: Prioritize Your Dream
Spread your wings and fly, Aries. The New Moon in Sagittarius encourages you to analyze your personal beliefs. Set a course by learning something new, traveling, or launching your dream project. This is a powerful time to set long-term goals related to growth and discovery. Mars retrograde may slow your creative or romantic pursuits, urging you to reassess your passions and how you express them. For these next couple of months, take this opportunity to review your desires and focus on what truly lights you up — we believe in you! It's time to step out of your comfort zone and claim your place within the groups, as Venus in Aquarius brings exciting connections, making this a great time to nurture friendships and collaborative projects. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Gemini illuminates communication, revealing areas where you need clarity or resolution. Clear the air and allow your heart to lead your discussion. By month's end, your confidence will be tested as the Sun moves into Capricorn, and career and public goals take center stage, inspiring you to take strategic action in your professional life. As you learn to believe in your ability to lead your life, professionally or personally, you'll gain confidence and clarity regarding your next steps.
Theme: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
It's time to be "comfortably uncomfortable," Taurus. This month attracts transformation and inner review. The New Moon in Sagittarius nudges you to look deeper into matters such as shared resources, intimacy, and vulnerability. This lunation will allow you to truly feel alive again after living on auto-pilot. Or doom-scrolling on social media, wondering about your life's possibilities. What do you want? You can plant a seed of intention regarding your desires and face your fears to make room for the Universe to give your wishes. It's a potent time for letting go of old patterns and welcoming change. These next several weeks may be challenging involving home or with family as the Mars retrograde impacts your emotional security and living situation. Avoid sweeping issues under the rug. Talk it out and find a solution. On the flip side, the love planet Venus lights up your career sector and public life. You're radiant and will attract new opportunities and recognition as you believe in your vision--you got this! By mid-month, the Full Moon in Gemini powers up your finances, helping you reassess your values and long-term financial goals. Be mindful of excessive spending. For the last half of the month, the Sun moves into Capricorn. Your focus shifts to your purpose and long-term goals. Share your vision with those near and dear and receive valuable feedback.
Theme: Live in the Moment
As the social butterfly of the zodiac, this month will open your eyes regarding your connections and identity, Gemini. The New Moon in Sagittarius sparks new beginnings in your personal or professional partnerships, offering fresh opportunities for growth and connection. Make a move if you desire to see changes in your relationship. However, these next several weeks will test your ability to convey messages as Mars retrograde may bring delays or misunderstandings in your communication. To work with this, reflect before speaking. The wonderful part about this retrograde is that you can slow down and methodically express your ideas and energy to others. You'll feel more energized as you discern. The planet Venus phasing into Aquarius enhances your sense of adventure, encouraging you to seek new experiences and expand your knowledge through travel, learning, or philosophical pursuits. If you have been contemplating solo traveling or taking a class—do it. By mid-month, the Full Moon in your sign illuminates your identity, urging you to do some soul-searching. Reflect on who you are and what you truly want moving forward. As the Sun enters Capricorn, things will continue to quiet down as your focus shifts to shared resources and deeper emotional connections. Assess your intimate connections and learn to enjoy living in the moment.
Theme: Clear Your Space
Are you ready to get organized, Cancer? The New Moon in Sagittarius invites you to set intentions around your daily routines and work life, encouraging you to create a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Learn how to utilize your time and invest in your well-being. If you need help getting started, begin by decluttering your workspace. You'll feel a dramatic shift in your body. The Mars retrograde may stir up financial uncertainties in the next few months. Don't worry. You can power up your self-worth and stance with money by reassessing your values and spending habits. Analyze how you manage your resources and make adjustments that align with your long-term security. Here's the fun part: Venus in Aquarius will boost your intimacy sector. So, if you have been feeling distant lately with your SO, now is your chance to cozy up or go for date night. This deepened bond can be the healing balm to help you communicate better and power up your joint financial matters. The Full Moon in Gemini mid-month will help you close the chapter on unwanted habits linked to your subconscious patterns. Start a meditation practice, journal, or a cord-cutting ritual for healing and closure. By month's end, the Sun moves into Capricorn, and partnerships take center stage, shifting the focus on your relationships and how you negotiate. If communication isn't your strong suit, now is your chance to have a heart-to-heart discussion to get answers or reach a solution.
Theme: Self-love and Acceptance
Self-love will be your central theme this month, Leo. The New Moon in Sagittarius starts your month with a creative promise and invites you to take on new endeavors, passions, and romantic exchanges. It's a perfect time to set intentions involving what brings you joy in the moment. The Mars retrograde will help you pinpoint your sense of self and assess your appearance and the kind of energy you emit to others. Although it will be "triggering" untapped emotions these next several weeks, be reflective and observe your feelings before expressing them impulsively. Later this month, your primary focus will pivot to partnerships as Venus enters your relationship sector. Be open-minded and listen--it will bring fresh energy into your love life and relationships. Then, the Full Moon in Gemini illuminates your social circles and aspirations, allowing you to evaluate your connections and assess how they align with your vision. It may be a time to let go of these connections or reach out to those you're wondering about. Rekindle or let go. As the month closes, the Sun in Capricorn shifts to your care and well-being. Book a solo spa day, energy healing, or acupuncture treatment. You'll feel more in your body and present.
Theme: Reset Your Happiness
It's time to reset and live the life of your dreams, Virgo. It all begins with you recalibrating your mindset. December brings a mix of personal reflection and career focus. The New Moon in Sagittarius lights up your home and family sector, helping you visualize your ideal living situation and emotional needs. This is your chance to figure out where you feel most at peace. Mars retrograde will help you slow down and confront your unwanted subconscious patterns, hidden fears, and past wounds that impact your sense of self. Clear out and consolidate your best interests. Then, Venus in Aquarius later this month brings serendipitous energy to your work and daily routines as you allow the Universe to guide you. Look for signs or synchronicities, and you'll receive clues on finding harmony and balance in your life. By mid-month, the Full Moon in Gemini clarifies your career path and assesses your professional goals and public image. To live your dreams, take a chance and count on what motivates you. Let go. Finally, as the Sun moves into Capricorn, it extends support to your creative ventures, and you'll feel like you have a second chance to live out your passion.
Theme: It's All Fun and Games
Expect a month filled with endless banter, fun, and happiness, Libra. If you have hit a brick wall trying to convey a message lately, this New Moon in Sagittarius initiates a new approach to articulating your message or idea. Expect energizing exchanges with others and set intentions around learning, networking, and expressing your ideas. You'll reach a breakthrough. There will be a slight snag in the next several weeks as Mars retrogrades in your network sector, encouraging you to reflect on your social circles or revamp your social media profile. Permit yourself to take the backseat and note how you feel about the groups or information you have been aligning with. Analyze your energy. Later this month, you're one lucky star, as Venus in Aquarius will level up your romantic endeavors while it energizes your charisma. It's also a potent time to bring fresh energy and excitement to your personal life. Go out and have a date with yourself, schedule date night with your S.O., or take on an activity that brings you infinite joy. Then, later this month, the Full Moon in Gemini illuminates your belief systems, travel, and higher education, pushing you to reflect on your worldview and what you’ve learned this year. Write a gratitude list and see how much you have accomplished. Give thanks. As the Sun enters Capricorn, expect to dial down as the focus turns to home and family, inspiring you to nurture your emotional foundations and create a sense of stability.
Theme: Choose Your Path
Are you ready to get serious, Scorpio? December spotlights on your finances, career, and emotional foundations. The New Moon in Sagittarius manifests new opportunities leading to financial growth. This is your time to set goals or make that pitch at work. Consolidate your time and resources and make it happen. Over the next several weeks, the Mars retrograde in your career sector will help you slow down and observe your professional path and public image. The dreams you placed on the back burner will reappear, and you'll face a choice to take it or leave it. Trust. Your inner self and family life will take center stage as Venus in Aquarius brings a refreshing outlook to your dealings with domestic life. Take a well-deserved vacation or spend time with family to nurture deeper connections within the home. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Gemini will help you dig deeper and explore your feelings and past insecurities involving intimacy or shared resources. Prioritize rest to revitalize your energy. You'll feel a shift by month's end when the Sun enters Capricorn. Ideas and information flow seamlessly, and getting involved in a local community or learning something new will circulate inspiration. Prioritize moments of stillness to build steadily toward your long-term endeavors.
Theme: Be Magical
Did you know that you're made from star stuff, Sagittarius? This month will be magical, and your dreams will finally take form. The New Moon in your sign shines a spotlight on you, manifesting new beginnings around your identity, self-image, and personal goals. It's a powerful time to set intentions, as your energy magnifies with cosmic support. Become your best version and allow the Universe to take over and grant your wishes. The Mars retrograde these next several weeks will put your magic to the test as it prompts you to rethink your personal beliefs and long-term vision. It’s a time to reflect on what truly resonates with your values and worldview. Remember that life is a continuous journey filled with valuable lessons. You'll feel like you're on cloud nine with Venus in Aquarius, granting you confidence and creative expression. Be curious, try something new, share your ideas with others, and be open-minded to feedback to attract success. Later this month, the Full Moon in Gemini illuminates your one-on-one relationships and their direction. Communicate openheartedly and hold space for your partner to express their true feelings. It will be a revelatory night. Financial goals will then be your priority by the end of the month as the Sun enters Capricorn. Reassess your self-worth and power up your confidence by monitoring your spending habits and approach to money. Remember that you're magical, and with a refined approach, you'll reach your desired outcome.
Theme: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Rome wasn't built in a day, Capricorn. This month invites you to dive deep into self-reflection and reinvention. The New Moon in Sagittarius lights up your subconscious realms, and it would be of your highest good to set intentions for inner healing, spiritual growth, and releasing any residual baggage or fears. Begin a sacred practice, meditate, or begin dream journaling for clarity. The driven planet Mars retrograde in your hidden sector these next several weeks will shed light on your shared resources, intimate connections, and emotional boundaries. It will be a testy time with financial issues or lingering power dynamics. Confront these matters by expressing your concerns with your S.O. or being truthful. Vulnerability and humility will be your best friends during this retrograde. Then Venus in Aquarius shifts your focus to your finances, bringing opportunities to reassess your values, increase your income, or realize your worth. Begin an affirmation practice and witness the changes. It's time to flex those mental or physical muscles. The Full Moon in Gemini spotlights your work environment and health routines. Reflect on your daily habits and assess your desired changes for better balance and well-being. The fog begins to lift as the Sun enters your sign, and now you step up, ready to set new personal goals and start a fresh chapter. Success is just around the corner as long as you honor your pace.
Theme: Find Your Aesthetic
Have you been wishing and hoping for a breakthrough, Aquarius? Well, this month will breathe new life into your social connections, relationships, and long-term goals. A new chapter begins with the New Moon in Sagittarius, which occurs in your friendship and network sector. Set your sights and intentions around expanding your social network, align with those who match your vibe, and share your vision. With Mars retrograde in your relationship sector, partnerships and their progression will slow down. Avoid signing contracts or agreements and review them later. Reflect on your current one-on-one relationships (personal or professional) and analyze how you navigate conflicts. As Venus enters your sign, expect to feel lighter, confident, and inspired to beautify your inner and outer self. Later this month, the Full Moon in Gemini highlights the direction of your story involving your creative endeavors and love life. Evaluate your priorities in these realms and make necessary adjustments that align with your heart and overall happiness. This month concludes with the Sun in Capricorn, helping you turn inward and prioritizing rest, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Pause and analyze your internal landscape and practice cord-cutting or release work for unwanted habits to make room for the Universe to send you opportunities.
Theme: Take A Chance On You
Are you ready to step into your power, Pisces? It may feel like you have been in a forever chrysalis stage. December brings career reflection, personal healing, and social renewal. The New Moon in Sagittarius activates your career sector, highlighting your professional goals, public image, and ambitions. However, this is your moment to realize what you truly want and to believe in yourself. Create a vision board, and set small goals to reach your dreams. It’s a powerful time to manifest your professional path and long-term success. Mars retrograde will inspire you to reassess your daily routines, health habits, and work-life balance for the next several weeks. Although it isn't a time to make a significant decision in the career realm, it will be a preparatory time to strengthen your resolve by improving your well-being rather than just "pushing" through burnout. The great news is that Venus is on your side to beautify your inner self as it takes residence in your subconscious realms over the next few weeks. Explore your path to inner healing, self-love, and rest. Clear out the energetic gunk of the past and see the beauty you hold inside your heart. Later this month, the Full Moon in Gemini clarifies your emotional foundations and what you need to feel secure. Invest time in ancestral healing, inner child work, or speak with elders to find peace and clarity. The Sun entering Capricorn will turn up your social life and future aspirations. You'll feel more in your skin as you engage with new groups and networks. Remember that you're worthy of sharing your gifts with the world.
With 2025 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to explore how to power up your year ahead. Lumi Pelinku invites you to dive deeper into your journey through an extended reading that can provide tailored insights and inspiration. Click here to book your reading today!
For more astrology advice, be sure to Ask Lumifor advice, and follow the conversation on Facebook!
Keeping your home nice and tidy is always high up there on the list of New Year’s resolutions. But just because you’re motivated and ready to make this year your tidiest yet, it can still be a struggle to get to the hard-to-reach places and conjure up the energy to clean after a long day of work. You won’t have to worry ever again with these near-magical cleaning gadgets you’ll wish you had gotten ages ago.
Believe it or not, this adorably colorful furball is actually a robotic vacuum. All you have to do is clean the cover, sit back, and watch the fluffy ball do all the work. Its internal timer starts up every 15 minutes, ensuring your wood and vinyl floors are as spotless as they can be.
There are so many items cluttering up our homes and lives, and if we're honest, sometimes asking for physical gifts feels like an unnecessary weight to add to the holiday season. All we really need this year is time with the people that our closest to us, and maybe the opportunity to experience something new.
If you're looking for out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas for your friends and family, look no further than these experience gifts. From one-of-a-kind adventures to super easy ideas that will fit into any budget, these experience gifts are sure to make anyone smile.
Brit + Co
Ice skating simply makes winter more magical. It also gives us a chance to live out our Ice Princess dreams – but that's beside the point. Even if you don't live somewhere that has an iconic rink like New York City's Rockefeller Center, you can still make it a whole evening with hot chocolate and cozy sweaters.
Take your best friend or S.O. to their favorite artist's concert for an unforgettable evening. Not only do you get to hear some awesome music, but concerts are always an excuse to get dressed up in a crazy outfit and dance like no one is watching.
Something about walking around and looking at animals under the sea makes us feel extra calm, and is great for anyone who wanted to be a mermaid as a kid. Our favorites? Otters, beluga whales, and turtles, but we love regular old fish tanks, too. This is a great way to get a taste of summer while it's dang cold outside!
If your giftee loves to learn, then they'll get a kick out of a subscription to our online classes. There's something for every stage of life, with classes like painting and freelancing to learning how to combat imposter syndrome.
This is one experience gift that is super easy and super affordable to pull off. You can hike in every state in the country (granted, your hikes might look different in the mountains than in a coastal town), plus you can pack a picnic of their favorite foods or grab takeout from their favorite local restaurant.
Speaking of picnics, they're on our list of favorite date ideas *and* an ideal way to spend any day. You can hire a picnic service (like this one for NY) to set up your table before you get there, but you can also go all-out yourself by packing a basket with their favorite foods, drinks, books, and flowers. If it's too cold (or it's pouring out!), set up your picnic indoors among some candles and a nostalgic movie.
Travel is an experience gift that will rarely disappoint, especially if you're going to a dream destination. There are so many locations all over the world — big cities like London, historical homes like Biltmore, and even filming locations from your favorite TV shows and movies — this is always a good idea. You can also book AirBnB experiences of all kinds for wherever you choose to stay.
With programs like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone, gaining access to other languages is easier than ever right now. It's never too late to pick up something new, whether or not you're living your Emily in Paris dreams. Bon voyage!
See the world from a totally new perspective by going up in a hot air balloon. You can take them at different times of day depending on the view that your giftee loves the most (we're always up for a sunrise adventure), and you can even book one that comes with wine.
This experience gift idea is totally up to interpretation. Whether your best friend or S.O. wants to be a model for a day with fun props and outfits, or your mom has been asking for a family photoshoot for the last few years, this is the perfect opportunity to gift a photoshoot! You can also turn this experience gift idea on its head and gift your family and friends a photography classthey can do from their home.
If your sibling, best friend, or S.O. loves books, take them to their favorite bookstore, buy them a coffee, and let them peruse the shelves for one (or more!) books that they want to get their hands on. This is a super simple idea that will certainly make them smile.
If you've never taken a cooking or baking class before, then it's definitely time to add that to your list. Not only is it a fun activity that also rewards you with food, but it makes for a great experience gift, especially for recipients who love spending time in the kitchen.
Rent your own sailing cruise for the evening to get a dining experience that's unlike any other. Eat dinner at sunset or wait until mid-morning for an extra-fun brunch. In addition to a gift idea, this also makes a great date idea. That's a win-win in our book.
Take your giftee to their favorite museum, and spend an entire day looking at their favorite paintings and sculptures, or reading up on scientific discoveries. This is one gift idea that's great for all ages, and since there are so many different museums across the country, you can have a different experience every time.
We're big fans of escape rooms, and we're convinced they're fun for anyone who wants to be a spy for an afternoon. It's great for a couple of people or for a whole group of friends, so you can get all your favorite people in on it. Plus not only is it fun, but having a time limit to solve a problem teach you about your communication styles very quickly.
Take the wine lovers in your life to a nearby vineyard to experience the wine up close and personal with a wine tour. This is a great way to try multiple wines so you can figure out which one is your favorite.
Great for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, this experience gift idea takes you right up into the air. Learn to fly a plane or a helicopter over landscapes that you don't usually get to see from the air.
Let us know which experience gifts you'll be giving this year on Twitter and check out our email newsletter for more ideas.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
With the holidays now approaching almost eerily quickly, you might already be feeling slightly uneasy about the family stresses that are bound to be on your plate (along with delicious Christmas cookies, of course). Spending a lot of time face-to-face with family can dig up old arguments or squabbles that everyone may have forgotten during the rest of the year.
You’re not the only one dealing with the drama, though, and while your own family issues might feel somewhat out of your control, there might be more you can do to take the edge off the stress that your friends are feeling in anticipation of holiday gatherings. Keep scrolling for eight expert tips for how to best offer support to your most stress-ridden BFFs.
Being a good listener is one of the most basic — and yet most important — things you can do as a friend 365 days of the year, but when tensions run high near the holidays, those listening skills become all the more crucial. You might even consider resisting the urge to speak, like, at all. “Be a good listener and don’t give advice,” licensed marriage and family therapist Katie Ziskind says. “Supporting someone doesn’t mean that you have to fix their problem. Instead, truly being supportive means giving a hug when someone is crying and being a caring friend.”
Rather than reassuring your friend that things at family celebrations may not be as bad as they fear, trust what they know about the situation and help them wrap their head around what’s to come. This should minimize the stress for them in the long run. “If you expect it and it happens, situation normal,” certified life coach Susan Golicic tells us. “If you expect it and it doesn’t, well, then, a bonus!”
Going into any situation with a plan almost always feels better than going in unprepared. Per writer, speaker, and healing expert Alisa Zipursky, a helpful plan might include specific check-in times, a code word that indicates your friend needs extra support, and ideas for creating healthy boundaries with family members who make them feel especially triggered. “The idea is to make asking for help as easy as possible,” Zipursky says. “Making sure a proactive plan is in place well before someone enters the stressful situation can help relieve some of the anticipatory anxiety.”
Licensed counselor Maria Inoa recommends that you prioritize regular touch-base texts over the course of whatever event is causing your friend the most stress. It’s not about solving the conflicts or taking away their pain. Instead, you can focus on offering gentle reminders that you are thinking of them and are available if they need you.
If your friend’s family holiday celebrations don’t exactly inspire positive feelings about the occasion, why not help them establish some better associations? Licensed clinical professional counselor Anna Poss suggests planning a “low-stress, fun way to celebrate with each other before or after the actual holiday.” Get a seasonal movie night or cookie swap on the calendar before everyone leaves town to hang with family. Those cozy vibes may help dull the negative, anxious feelings.
Grab some pretty stationery and put your love and support on paper for your BFF. “In the note, remind her how strong, courageous, and capable she is,” licensed psychotherapist and life coach Diane Petrella says. “Let her know how much you love and admire her and how grateful you are for her friendship. Write whatever you think your friend needs to hear to feel supported, grounded, and loved.” Remind her to hide the note in her pocket or bag so she can read it whenever she needs a little extra TLC over the course of the holidays. You can even go one step further and send them home with a care package, per therapistShannon Thomas.
If things have gotten so bad with your bestie’s family that she wants to steer clear of their celebrations entirely, you may want to invite her to join you and your crew instead. Even if she opts to decline your invitation, it will mean a lot to her to know that she has choices. If your friend does take you up on the offer, Mountainside Treatment Center‘s family wellness manager Tina Muller recommends that you try to incorporate some of her favorite traditions into your holiday schedule.
“Before an event with possible family issues even happens, schedule a time not long after to see the friend,” marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein suggests. “Now you’ve become the light at the end of the tunnel for them.” Be prepared to be a listening ear over dinner or a workout session so your pal can vent about everything that’s gone on and (hopefully) be ready to move on from there.
How do you and your pals support each other through the not-so-fun parts of the holidays? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(Photo via Getty)
