The Black Hole Photo Everyone’s Freaking Out About Was Made Possible by This Female Grad Student

Elizabeth King
Apr 10, 2019

UPDATE (April 12, 4:45pm EST): We got some details on this story a bit wrong. In this post here, we set the record straight. Read on for the original story below:

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology post-doctoral student Katie Bouman isn’t an astronomer, but she played a pivotal role in taking the first-ever photograph of a black hole.

That historic first snap was revealed to the public on Wednesday after years of work on an international project called Event Horizon Telescope. Bouman, a computer scientist, took the lead on creating the algorithm that made it possible to take the photo 55 million light-years away from Earth.

According to the Event Horizon Telescope website, “This long-sought image provides the strongest evidence to date for the existence of supermassive black holes and opens a new window onto the study of black holes, their event horizons, and gravity.” In layman’s terms, this could change everything about how we think about the universe. NBD.

Though the photo has only been available to the public eye for a few hours, it was taken using a worldwide network of powerful telescopes back in 2017. The image of the black hole was taken in a galaxy known as M87, where, for 16 years, astronomers observed stars rotating in an orbit. Scientists observing the stars determined that they were rotating around a supermassive black hole, and it is that black hole the whole world is now getting a glimpse of, in large thanks to Bouman’s contributions.

To understand exactly where Bouman’s research fits into this, here’s a little background info. What we can see in the photo — a small, glowing ring — is really the “event horizon,” or the boundary around a black hole. The dark space in the middle of the image is a shadow cast by the hole. Technically, the image we’re seeing is not really a “photo,” but is rather an image pieced together using data fed to the algorithm.

“This shadow, caused by the gravitational bending and capture of light by the event horizon, reveals a lot about the nature of these fascinating objects and allowed us to measure the enormous mass of M87’s black hole,” Event Horizon Telescope Science Council chair Heino Falcke told CNN. M87’s black hole is one of the largest visible black holes from earth, and has a gravity 6.5 billion times greater than the Earth’s sun.

While the image of the black hole, small and blurry though it is, may seem insignificant on its surface, Bouman explained in a 2017 TED Talk that the Event Horizon Telescope project’s work also helps confirm Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Einstein made predictions for what the size and shape of black hole event horizons look like, Bouman explains in the talk, “so taking a picture of it wouldn’t only be really cool, it would also help to verify that these equations hold in the extreme conditions around the black hole.”

In essence, this image confirms what had previously only been proved in theory. It’s a huge breakthrough for astronomy and physics — and it was made possible by Bouman’s algorithm.

RELATED: A Woman’s Place: Women in Aerospace 

(Photo by Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

10 Women Scientists That History Shouldn't Forget

Although women are making steady inroads in STEM fields, the science and technology world remains dominated by men. According to the National Girls Collaborative Project, fewer than 30 percent of all science and engineering jobs are held by women. Though that figure is certainly better than it was in the past, we have a long way to go in lifting the barriers to science, tech, engineering, and math education that keep so many women out of those fields.

Throughout history, women have had to overcome obstacles to access education, yet many persisted in STEM nonetheless — despite the fact that their work may not always have gotten recognition (or was outright stolen) by their male colleagues. But it's never too late to give these brave, history-making women their due.

Here are 10 women in STEM who were forgotten by history — until now.

Mivela Maric:Albert Einstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest scientific minds in history, but there has been some recent discussion over the role that his first wife, Mivela Maric, played in his success.

People who debate Maric’s involvement in the development of theories attributed to Einstein tend to fall into two camps. On one side, there are those who argue that she was merely a sounding board for her husband’s ideas; on the other, that she was a direct collaborator in his research and even helped create some of what we now consider Einstein’s greatest theoretical works. What’s not up for debate is that Maric was a fierce intellectual whose input Einstein took seriously.

Based on correspondence between the couple, historians do agree that Maric can be credited with working alongside her husband. (Einstein talks of “our studies” and “our theory” in many of the letters.) Despite her intelligence, by virtue of being a woman in the earlier part of the 20th century, Maric’s work has never been fully evaluated, and her role (however ambiguous) in her husband’s work will never be fully understood. Maric died in 1948, and for years was overlooked as a physicist and merely noted for her relationship to Einstein. (Photo via Wikimedia Commons)

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Jocelyn Bell Burnell:The name of British astrophysicist Jocelyn Bell Burnell may not be familiar to you, but her 1967 discovery of pulsars changed astronomy forever.

While still a graduate student at the University of Cambridge, Bell Burnell's research into quasars (enormous celestial bodies that emit huge amounts of energy) led her to stumble onto large neutron stars that act almost as smaller-scale quasars — now known as pulsars.

With her male advisor, Antony Hewish, Bell Burnell co-authored a paper on the revelation that would go on to help scientists study many facets of the universe, including the possibility of alien communication. In 1974, Hewish and physicist Martin Ryle won the Nobel Prize in physics for work made possible by Bell Burnell's discovery. Her name wasn't even included in the award.

Since Bell Burnell's discovery, she has been a teacher and researcher and has headed the Royal Astronomical Society. She also served as the first female president of both the Institute of Physics and The Royal Society of Edinburgh. In 2018, she was awarded a $3 million dollar prize for her work on pulsars, over half a century after she discovered them.

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Chien-Shiung Wu: Born in China in 1912, Chien-Shiung Wu attended a school founded by her father in Jiangsu Province. As a child, she encountered a biography of chemist Marie Curie (the first woman to receive a Nobel prize, and the only woman to date to win it twice) that sparked her imagination and drive. Wu's grades in school were so impressive, she was invited to attend the National Central University in Nanjing without having to complete the school's usually mandatory entrance exams.

After graduating in 1934, Wu realized she needed to attend graduate school abroad if she wanted to advance in her field. She achieved her Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley in 1940 and went on to teach at Smith and Princeton.

Wu was also involved in the highly secretive Manhattan Project — the US government's scientific race to create atomic weapons ahead of its enemies during the Second World War. Although her work was instrumental in developing the atomic bombs the US used in the Pacific theater, Wu subsequently expressed regret at her role in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and shared her wish that atomic warheads never be used again.

After the war, Wu remained at Columbia University in New York, where her research on the decay of atoms brought her work to the attention of two colleagues; in 1954, those colleagues were awarded the Nobel Prize in physics for work that could only be verified through Wu's expertise. Wu's research went uncredited.

Her work did, however, earn other awards and accolades over the years. Wu is credited with helping scientists understand blood molecule changes and sickle cell anemia, and she was the first woman to serve as president of the American Physical Society.

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Lise Meitner: Austrian physicist Lise Meitner is sometimes credited as “the mother of the atomic bomb," but the scientist actually refused to work on the Manhattan Project. She reportedly declared, "I will have nothing to do with a bomb!" But her work in nuclear science helped pave the way for future discoveries; much like other women scientists, her name was left off the major awards that resulted.

After achieving her doctorate in the early 1900s, Meitner began a 30-year working relationship with chemist Otto Hahn, in which the two collaboratively studied radioactivity using insights from their respective fields. When Nazi Germany annexed Austria, the Jewish Meitner was forced to flee to Sweden to continue her work; once there, she received no support from the Swedish scientific elite, who were hostile to the idea of a female colleague.

Meitner continued her research in spite of rejection from her peers. Along with Hahn, scientist Fritz Strassmann, and her nephew Otto Frisch, Meitner began new tests on uranium in Copenhagen. Eventually, they were able to develop and prove a theory of nuclear fission. But it was Hahn who, in 1945, was awarded the Nobel Prize for this work.

Although the three other scientists who'd worked with Hahn on the discovery were awarded a different award in 1966, the Nobel “mistake" was never formally clarified.

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Rosalind Franklin:Biologist James Watson and physicist Francis Crick solved the riddle of DNA in the 1950s, but they couldn't have done their work without the findings of other scientists; notably Rosalind Franklin. The daughter of English socialites, Franklin was given every educational opportunity. At every turn, she was faced with resistance from colleagues, employers, and even her own father — a would-be scientist, himself, who worried about a woman's place in scientific research.

After graduating from Cambridge, Franklin bounced around between jobs in European laboratories, learning cutting edge X-ray techniques. She eventually took a three-year research scholarship at King's College in London.

Utilizing the radiology techniques she'd learned, Franklin and her lab partner, Maurice Wilkins, took some of the first clear images of DNA structures. The story goes that the pair were having a disagreement when Wilkins, without permission, took his research partner's unpublished work to his friends, Watson and Crick. Franklin's images directly informed the two scientists' first models of DNA structure, yet she was completely uncredited in their published work.

It was only after Franklin's death at the age of 37, from ovarian cancer, that Watson admitted her work had been “crucial" to his and Crick's discovery.

Caroline Herschel:Astronomer Caroline Herschel moved to England from Germany in 1772 to join her brother, William, after the death of their father. While the Herschel patriarch had approved of an education for his daughter, the Herschels' mother insisted Caroline leave school to take up housework after her husband's death.

The brother and sister performed together as a musical duo in England, and it was during this period that William became obsessed with telescopes and astronomy. Caroline soon followed suit.

William discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. When William was appointed Royal Astronomer by King George III in 1782, he took his sister along with him.

Caroline worked alongside her brother, for which King George offered her an annual salary as an astronomer's assistant. She was the first woman to discover an unnamed comet and presented findings to the Royal Society that proved the existence of 560 stars omitted from the British Catalogue, along with a list of errors she found in the publication. Her work was so prolific and thorough that two of her astronomical catalogs are still in use today. (Image via Wikimedia Commons)

Justine Siegemund:Midwifery is as old as human history, but until the mid-1600s, the tricks of the trade were passed down orally from midwife to midwife. Enter Justine Siegemund, a German woman who, after suffering excruciating pain from a midwife’s misdiagnosis, began to study the craft herself. Siegemund became so renowned for her expertise that she was eventually encouraged by Mary II of Orange to write a guide on the subject.

Siegemund’s self-published midwifery book, The Court Midwife, became the first German medical text to be written by a woman. With the aid of illustrations by leading medical engravers, Siegemund shared wisdom on life-saving childbirth methods. She’s considered a pioneer in developing techniques to manually turn a breech baby during labor, and using a needle to break the amniotic sac to avoid hemorrhage in cases of placenta previa. (Image via Wikimedia Commons)

Emily Warren Roebling:If it weren't for Emily Warren Roebling, one of America's most iconic structures might not exist. When her husband, engineer Washington A. Roebling took ill during the building of the Brooklyn Bridge (probably from the bends, a disorder common in bridge-builders and deep-sea divers), Emily stepped in to ensure the bridge would be completed.

Though she was not an engineer by trade, Emily took over her husband's role as foreperson, project manager, and go-to during the bridge's treacherous building. Historians today are generally in agreement that without her involvement, the Brooklyn Bridge as we know it would likely never have been built. And she knew it, too.

“I have more brains, common sense and know-how generally than have any two engineers, civil or uncivil, and but for me the Brooklyn Bridge would never have had the name Roebling in any way connected with it!" Emily Warren Roebling wrote to her son in 1898.

After the bridge was complete, Emily Warren Roebling went on to attain a certificate in business law at a time when women were not typically allowed to enter law school and devoted her life to philanthropy. (Image via Charles Émile Auguste Carolus Duran/Brooklyn Museum for Wikimedia Commons)

Which STEM lady do you want to learn more about? Tell us @BritandCo!

This post has been updated.

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5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Loud budgeting may be popular on TikTok, but conversations about money can still be awkward. I've been in romantic relationship for a little over a decade and we're just at a point where we've become aligned on finances. So imagine having random conversations with your family or friends that begin with, "I know I've never really asked before, but is it okay if I can borrow [insert x amount of $] until I can pay you back?" The nature of your platonic and familial relationships will totally determine whether you receive positive or negative responses.

As helpful as money can be, it can fracture even the closest relationships. Why? Well, psychologist Veronica West of My Thriving Mind, head of advice for Wells Fargo Emily Irwin; and Founder of Her First $100K money expert Tori Dunlap have a few ideas!

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:


1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

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It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

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"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

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No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

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It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

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When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

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Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

  1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
  2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
  3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

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Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

  1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
  2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
  3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
  4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
  5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
  6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Alexander Grey/Unsplash

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

  1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
  2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Emil Kalibradov/Unsplash

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."

If you set clear financial boundaries and still find that your platonic relationships are weird, we have tips to help you navigate a potential friendship breakup.

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Katie Bouman Is a STEM Hero — But Not for the Reason We Thought

A few hours after the world (by way of the internet) laid eyes on the very first photographic image of a black hole, the name “Katie Bouman” began trending. According to a tweet from the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab, the 29-year-old MIT postdoctoral student had “led the creation of a new algorithm” that made the black hole image possible. After the pic went public on Wednesday, it wasn’t long before another photo began making the rounds: one of the fresh-faced scientist posed in front of a computer screen that displayed the groundbreaking image she’d helped create, with her hands clasped over her mouth in proud disbelief.

In an instant, Bouman became a stand-in for generations of women scientists whose contributions to technological breakthroughs were buried under the names of their male colleagues. Celebrities tweeted in appreciation. Others listed the names of female scientists that time, and sexism, had allowed us to forget. The moment felt triumphant: a chance for women in STEM to get their long-deserved moment in the spotlight. But there was also some pushback against this simple, feel-good version of events — namely, from Katie Bouman herself.

“I’m so excited that we finally get to share what we have been working on for the past year!” she wrote on Facebook. “The image shown today is the combination of images produced by multiple methods. No one algorithm or person made this image, it required the amazing talent of a team of scientists from around the globe and years of hard work to develop the instrument, data processing, imaging methods, and analysis techniques that were necessary to pull off this seemingly impossible feat. It has been truly an honor, and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to work with you all.”

In fact, Bouman was one of more than 200 scientists from 60 different research institutions, in 18 countries across six continents, to contribute to the project. Approximately 40 women (including Bouman) were involved.

While many media outlets (including us) mistakenly reported that Bouman had led the creation of the algorithm used to visualize the previously unphotographable image, a Harvard astronomer named Shep Doeleman was actually in charge of the project.

Bouman’s contributions were important to this process, and while it’s true that she led a team in developing an algorithm intended to create an image of a black hole, the New York Times reported Thursday that Bouman’s algorithm was not the one ultimately used to make the photo we saw on Wednesday. (On Friday afternoon, the MIT CSAIL Twitter account issued a series of posts to clear up earlier confusion.)

“There are women involved in every single step of this amazing project,” said Sara Issaoun, a 24-year-old graduate student at Radboud University in the Netherlands, in an interview with the Times. Issaoun was one of the researchers involved.

So, it appears that many of us got the details of this story a bit wrong, and the reasons why are pretty straightforward. Obviously, it’s easy to jump to less-than-accurate conclusions from information that’s shared on social media, especially in celebration of a young woman for a breakthrough in STEM, a field in which women are so notoriously underrepresented.

The Bouman story was also the product of our tendency to credit individual thought-leaders or “pioneers” for making change happen. We like being able to point to a single person who made a difference in the world, because it inspires us to try to do the same. But the truth is that no one person alone is responsible for making big things happen.

Collaboration is a superpower. As Katie Bouman wants us to remember, it’s when we work together that the impossible comes within reach — or, in the case of black holes, that the unphotographable becomes photographed. The Bouman story is one of teamwork and triumph, and by upholding that spirit, more of us will be able to shine. It may not be the story we wanted, but it’s the one with the most to offer.

RELATED: The Black Hole Photo Everyone’s Freaking Out About Was Made Possible by This Female Grad Student

(Photo by Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

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25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

If you’re one of those people that prides themselves on delivering the perfect present and finds joy in seeing the giftee's face light up, Anthropologie is going to be your BFF for finding gifts this holiday season! From home decor to apparel and everything in between, Anthropologie delivers unique and eclectic finds that are fun and fashion-forward. It can be challenging sifting through the endless online racks of their treasures, though, so I’ve broken down the best gifts from Anthropologie so all you have to do is press *add to cart*!

Our 25 favorite Anthropologie gifts for 2024 gifting:

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

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For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

Is there ever a better gift than something that'll help them keep their life in order? 2025, we're coming for you.

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For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

These mini UGG boots are so on-trend right now, any cool fashion gal will adore them as a gift.

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Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

This bag fits everything your giftee could possibly need in the day-to-day – and then some.

Anthropologie

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

This slightly-bougie skincare device tones and lifts your face while targeting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. It'll be such a luxe upgrade to your giftee's current routine!

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For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

These fashion-forward sneakers work well across a variety of outfits and occasions, like hitting the gym, going on a hot girl walk, or running weekend errands. The cool girl in your life will love pairing them with her favorite matching workout set and a sleek trench coat when it's cold out.

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Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage right now, so help them hop on the trend with this adorably eye-catching keychain.

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To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are the perfect head gear for a casual-get up. Styles that make a statement like this one are perfect for the Western fashion lover!

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Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Anthropologie's candle selection is bomb – you're bound to find a scent your giftee will approve of. We recommend this seasonal woody scent encased in a festive, tree-dotted glass!

Anthropologie

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Pick up this electric lighter to coordinate with any candle gift. We promise they've never owned a lighter like this!

Anthropologie

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Whether she's working through her current TBR list or starting off the workweek, these chic readers will help her see clearly. You can snag 'em in a handful of colors and different strengths based on her vision.

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Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

All the cool girls are rocking pointed flats for winter. Bonus points for this pair being metallic!

Looking for more gift recommendations for 2024? Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

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

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

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Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

Surprise your loved ones with these cheeky gift ideas that are perfect for anyone and everyone! From quirky gadgets to fun, useful finds and playful accessories, these picks are designed to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you're shopping for a close friend or that hard-to-please relative, these unique finds add a dash of humor and charm to your holiday gifting. Explore these playful gifts and make this season memorable with presents that everyone will enjoy.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

Amazon

This Purrble calming toy has been awarded Amazon’s choice, and will be both fun and soothing for children. It is a high-tech tool and a soft, furry toy that is a cuddly interactive companion that can help children stay calm in moment of stress and anxiety!

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This Puffer Bomber Is So Chic

Amazon

Keep your EveryGirl warm and stylish all winter with this beautiful puffer bomber. It comes in a range of classic colors and bright, bold, eye-catching colors so you can find the perfect look.

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Blow Off Some Steam With A Dammit Doll

Amazon

When you just can't take it anymore and need to yell and scream, take it out on a Dammit Doll. "The Classic Dammit Doll is engineered to absorb all that negative energy so you can let go and get your happy back on." Verified Purchaser, A. Preston, said, "I have been gifting Dammit Dolls for several years, they never fail to get a smile out of the recipient!"

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A Form of Shart

Amazon

This gift is just so hilarious, it had to make the list. If you have a friend who enjoys a good giggle, this is the one!

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Fidget Putty Is Perfect For Concentration

Amazon

Forget the fidget spinner, it's all about the fidget putty. This clever product contains over 500 ferrite stones that mould together like putty. It can help to calm an anxious mind or keep you focused.

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Advent Calendar But Make It Makeup

Amazon

Bring back all of the childhood feels with this advent calendar stocked for the makeup guru who likes to sample new high-end products and fragrances.

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Mini Karaoke Machine

Amazon

Bring the party home with this Mini Karaoke Machine. This portable Bluetooth speaker for kids comes complete with two wireless microphones, perfect for family singalongs or as a unique gift for the little songbird in your life.

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These Slippers Are Perfect for Cold Weather

Amazon

These UGG Slippers are made from ultra-cozy dyed sheep fur and feature a cushiony insole and rubber outsoles. They will keep your giftee’s feet warm inside but are also a total delight to look at.

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Remove Sebum and Blackheads With This Tool

Amazon

This adorable tool was made to clean out your pores with just a few sweeps. The Tako pore scrubber pulls out impurities to leave your skin looking and feeling clean and bright.

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The Not-So Piggy Bank

Amazon

This piggy bank is lacking a piggy but serves adults and children alike. You can put in whatever amount you'd like and take out any amount you like (hence the ATM.) Genius!

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Put Your Phone on DND and Enjoy Some Quiet Time

Amazon

Bring back the art of conversation with this card game designed to spark meaningful discussions. Featuring over 300 questions, it's perfect for fall camping trips or cozy nights in with friends and family. Whether you want to reconnect or have fun, this game is a great way to spend those crisp autumn evenings.

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The Top Selling Pillows On Amazon

Amazon

Want a hotel feel every night? These Beckham Hotel Collection Pillows are the answer we're all looking for. They outsell every other pillow on Amazon by a landslide and are made with a cooling gel fiber to keep you from overheating. You'll sleep like royalty.

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Shoe Spray to Spray the Stink Away

Amazon

Enjoy a fresh pair of shoes every time you put them on and avoid the embarrassment of taking off your shoes that have a stench when at someone’s house. The shoe spray gets rid of the nasty odors that may happen over time so you can feel confident in your walk.

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This Organizer Bin With a Genius Design

Amazon

If you've little ones with a million toys that are always making a mess, then you know the struggle that comes with getting them to tidy up. This organizer bin is a game-changer, perfect for small toys since not only does it have large storage space, but it also doubles as a playing mat so that when your kids are done playing, everything can cleaned up at once, saving you the hassle and stress.

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A Portable Photo Printer To Make Prints Anywhere

Amazon

Just when we thought we had enough photos on our phones, the HP Sprocket Photo Printer stepped in to display our shots physically. The portable photo printer boasts Bluetooth connectivity and can print images at 2 x 3in, roughly the size of a credit card. The best part? It can also apply effects, filters, and more.

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This Desk Lamp For Lighting But in the Cutest Way

Amazon

Light up your space with the desk lamp in the shape of a bird, making it a cute gift for a child or adult. It adds the essence of nature inside.

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Cowboy Hat-Wearing Duck Lamp

Amazon

It doesn't get more unique for a gift than this cute little cowboy hat-wearing duck table lamp! This little guy includes a USB port for rechargeable ambiance and touch control for personalized dim light.

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This Comfortable Bath Pillow Takes Relaxation to Bliss

Amazon

Indulge in the ultimate bath relaxation with the LuxSetp pillow, a #1 best-seller, complete with a plush cushion and neck roll. It is designed for supreme head and shoulder support while soaking and is crafted from breathable, quick-dry mesh. Attaching it to their tub is a breeze, with six handy suction cups included.

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The Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler Is a Fan Favorite

Amazon

Don't miss out on gifting the popular Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler, which will be a hit this holiday season. This double-wall vacuum-insulated tumbler is available in almost two dozen colors and four sizes.

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Go Solo

Amazon

The Solo Stove has been all over the news lately, thanks to Snoop Dogg's hilarious commercial. The Stove was made to fit perfectly on backyard tables, offering the lucky recipient with the perfect place to roast marshmallows or a just fun spot to enjoy a bit of backyard rest and relaxation.

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Wrap Up In Warm in These Essentials

Amazon

This season, gift comfort with these teddy slippers. You won't believe how quickly they will mold to feet. Perfect for winter evenings of fireside lounging.

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Comfy Couch Blanket

Amazon

This is an easy and fail-proof gift to give someone you don't know well. A fuzzy blanket for comfy movie nights and an easy way to add style to their living space!

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Nostalgic Glow From This Tetris Lamp

Amazon

Light up a gamer's world in more ways than one. This Tetris lamp isn't just about illumination; it's a tactile experience, a puzzle in itself. Let them design their own luminous masterpiece. Beyond being a practical gift, it’s a journey down memory lane, evoking nostalgia and delight.

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They'll Feel Pampered With This Laneige Holiday Gift Set

Amazon

After trying the popular Laneige lip mask, we fully understand the hype. This gift set has all of the star favorites from your favorite moisturizing brand, from a cream moisturizer to their coveted, best-selling lip mask. There are a few different sets to choose from, making it easy to tailor to your gift recipient.

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Astronaut Galaxy Night Light

Amazon

This SunTime Star Projector Galaxy Night Light is a mesmerizing gift that transforms any room into a starry galaxy, perfect for kids and adults who love a touch of celestial wonder.

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Handprint Kit

Amazon

With this CHERRY CHEERS Family Handprint Kit, you can create a personalized keepsake wooden frame, an endless gift set that captures family moments in a unique and fun way.

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This Heated Neck Stretcher For the Whole Body

Amazon

Since it is connected, your body will feel better using the heated neck stretcher. Gift a loved one this gift for muscle relaxation and therapeutic heat done right at home.

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This Camera Bundle for Pro-Level Shots

Amazon

This bundle includes the Canon EOS Rebel T7 camera, which is compact but can capture high-quality photos and videos. It comes with additional accessories, including extra camera lenses, filters, a tripod, and more tools that’ll give them more freedom to experiment with different photography styles.

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Give Their Plants a Personality with these Magnets

Amazon

For the plant lovers among you, these magnets are the perfect gift. With three expressions and three adorable animals, they add a playful touch that’ll bring a smile to your recipient’s face. Take it from this reviewer: “These are such a unique and inexpensive gift for the plant enthusiast in your life. Turn a simple plant into an adorable conversation item. They will make you smile when watering your houseplants.”

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This Book Nook for DIY Enthusiasts

Amazon

Available in four beautiful designs, this book nook is not only a wooden puzzle that’s very fun and fulfilling to assemble, but it also culminates into a beautiful and functional display piece for your recipient’s bookshelf.

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Relieve Tension With an Infrared Heat Mat

Amazon

This infrared heat mat delivers far-infrared heat that relieves your sore muscles. It's a great way to stimulate muscle recovery and ease into relaxation.

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A Coloring Book with a Sense of Humor

Amazon

The "Things You Want to Say at Work But Can't" coloring book is the perfect gift for that person just trying to get through the work week. It not only offers an outlet for stress relief, but each page has hilarious sayings that are sure to get a much-needed laugh.

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Legacy Journal

Amazon

This Legacy Journal by Duncan & Stone is a thoughtful gift that lets grandparents share their stories and wisdom across 85 beautifully designed pages.

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Christmas Snow Globe for Magic Glittery Moments

Amazon

Shake the Christmas snow globe and watch as snow starts to fall on the tree and presents inside. It is a beautiful sight that makes for a beautiful gift.

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For the True Crime Lover

Amazon

The excellent gift for the Law and Order true crime junkies is this criminal minds brain game is a fun way to test their memory and gives them an excuse to play private investigator.

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This Kit to Crochet the Stress Away

Amazon

Whether they want to try their hand at crocheting their clothes or trinkets like book sleeves, mats, and more, this crochet kit includes everything needed, including 21 crochet hooks, 15 skeins of yarn, and 37 additional accessories that’ll come in handy. It’s a therapeutic hobby and the key to making practical yet cute items they’ll love.

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These Solar Wind Chimes For Musical Days and Nights

Amazon

Add sound to time spent at home with the solar wind chimes that make for a gift that keeps giving. The sounds of chimes have a calming effect on anyone.

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Every Kitchen Needs One

Amazon

High-quality pots and pans aren't easy to find, but this set fits the description. The gorgeous, non-stick, oven-safe, and dishwasher-safe set comes with a detachable handle that can change from pot to pan and back again to offer the ultimate convenience for the home chefs in your life.

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This B5 Balm Soothes Dry Skin

Amazon

The hands and body can get seriously cracked and dry during the unforgiving winter. This La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 is a must-gift for your friend who needs a soothing balm. Healing and therapeutic, this multi-purpose cream will soothe dry and cracked skin.

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Gift the Joy of Cozy, Warm Sips with a Temperature-Controlled Mug

Amazon

For that person who always has a hot drink at hand during the holiday season, this temperature-controlled mug is the most practical and thoughtful gift. It has three heat levels, ensuring that they can savor every sip in perfect peace without worrying about a lukewarm drink.

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The Screaming Goat: For the Office Jokester

Amazon

The Screaming Goat figurine, which is complete with a book, is a must-have for the office prankster. The unexpected goat scream will effortlessly lighten the mood and draw laughs on busy days filled with silence and concentration.

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This Smart Notebook Transmits Handwritten Notes

Amazon

Pop your notes online, and then here's the magic: zap your Rocketbook reusable notebook in the microwave, and voilà, all 80 pages are fresh again! It's a game-changer for doodlers, busy students, or note-takers in endless meetings. Say goodbye to carrying a pile of heavy notebooks - this journal is about making their life lighter.

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Healing Crystal Candle To Calm Their Bah Humbug Attitude

Amazon

Aromatherapy tea light candles filled with crystals to channel positive energy and encourage holiday cheer. Illuminate their home with Amazon's Healing Crystal Candle!

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These Nostalgic And Fashionable Mini Ugg Boots

Amazon

These Mini Ugg Boots will put a smile on any fashionista's face. With sheepskin lining and insoles, these boots will keep anyone warm all winter long whether they are inside or outside.

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This Unique Jewelry Wash Makes It Easy to Keep Your Jewelry Sparkling

Amazon

Featured as one of Oprah's favorite things, this jewelry wash cleans your jewelry while you wash your hands. It uses safe and effective ingredients to give your jewelry a deep clean while nourishing your skin, and it's formulated to be safe for all metals, gemstones, and jewelry types.

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Chill Out with These Meditation Disks

Amazon

These tone therapy meditation disks are meant to be placed on either side of the body to release a full meditative 3-minute healing sound bath that's helped thousands of people with their anxiety.

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Portable Blender

Amazon

This Ninja Blast Portable Blender is a cordless, rechargeable device perfect for health-conscious individuals who love their shakes and smoothies on the go.

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Keep your pet entertained for hours with a motion-activated toy

Amazon

Every pet owner knows how it feels to want to spend hours playing with their pet but remember that they have other obligations they must attend to. If you think this is you, you can provide your pet with entertainment without having to spend hours playing. Enter this motion-activated toy that dogs will love.

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This Bracelet Doubles As a Charging Cable

Amazon

You would never guess that this wristband also serves as a mobile phone charging cable. This fashionable accessory is ideal for anyone consistently on the go and is available in several hues to suit personal style.

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This Toiletry Organizer For Travel

Amazon

Anyone who frequently travels will appreciate this Toiletry Organizer. It features separate compartments for everything you need for a successful trip, including makeup, skincare, and hair products.

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Unlock a World of Unusual Knowledge With This Book

Amazon

‘The Book of Unusual’ is a best-seller on Amazon, and its name is the only gag aspect. Filled with intriguing trivia across entertainment, politics, art, and more, it's a wealth of unusual and fascinating information, perfect for the curious mind.

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This Drawing Tablet is For Beginners of Graphic Design

Amazon

Beginner-friendly, this drawing tablet has ample drawing space so that creating digital artwork is easy and comfortable. It has various levels of pressure sensitivity for accurate drawings, and there are eight customizable keys on the side that your recipient can set up with convenient shortcuts.

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A Set of Kawaii Erasable Gel Pens That Is Just Adorable!

Amazon

According to Wikipedia, "kawaii" (rhymes with Hawaii) is the "culture of cuteness in Japan." That explains how popular Hello Kitty and Pikachu are. The Pig, Bear, Cat, and Mouse that make up this Set Of 4 Erasable Gel Pens can certainly be described as Kawaii. See, listicles can be educational! Only .55 cents!

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This Adult Sensory Toy for Relief

Amazon

Get out your stresses of the day with the adult sensory toy. It makes for a terrific gift, even if just for play. Build funky structures with the magnets.

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An Oasis Of Relaxation With This Shower Bomb

Amazon

Transform your daily shower into a spa retreat with this Shower Bomb, the ideal gift for those who appreciate moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. This Shower Bomb infuses your shower with soothing scents and a refreshing ambiance, turning your routine into a wellness experience. Whether it's for a self-care enthusiast, a fitness fanatic, or someone who simply enjoys the gift of serene moments, this Shower Bomb is the ultimate gift that ensures your shower becomes an oasis of relaxation.

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Everyone Needs These Apple Air Tags

Amazon

Your family and friends will love these popular Apple Air Tags that can track personal belongings ranging from cell phones and wallets to keys and wireless headphones.

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The Ultimate Chill Onsie

Amazon

These are the perfect PJs or loungewear for a homebody. It doesn't get more comfortable than hanging at home in a onsie.

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Glass Teapot For Two

Amazon

Brewing the perfect cup of tea with this exquisite glass teapot for your folks. It makes a splendid gift for tea-loving parents who enjoy sharing this delightful beverage together.

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This Lip Sleeping Mask Nourishes Overnight

Amazon

This LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask is essential for nourishing lips overnight. This product blew up after Sydney Sweeney campaigned with the brand, hyping it on socials, and then it started flying off the shelves.

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This 3-in-1 Charging Station Is a Great Secret Santa Gift

Amazon

This compact 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is a great Secret Santa gift as it can charge various tech essentials and easily fits any tabletop.

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These Classic Athletic Socks

Amazon

There is no stocking stuffer better than Classic Socks. These athletic unisex socks come in white and black color options and can be worn during leisure or physical activities.

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These Satin Bed Sheets Enhance Comfort in the Bedroom

Amazon

Slide into luxury with DECOLURE's satin bed sheets. Their silky texture is a dream against your skin. This lightweight, wrinkle-resistant set, complete with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases, comes in various sizes and colors to suit any taste.

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Streak-Free Cleaning with These Microfiber Glasses Cleaner

Amazon

This Microfiber Glasses Cleaner is ideal for effectively cleansing lenses while avoiding scratches. They are an excellent substitute for wearing a shirt to wipe glasses and serve as a practical present for those wearing spectacles.

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An Adorable Note Dispenser for Your Office Buddy

Amazon

Add a touch of whimsy to any desk with this adorable cat-themed note dispenser. Beyond its endearing design, this little feline friend serves a practical purpose by effortlessly dispensing post-it notes. It's not just a desk accessory; it's a charming companion that brings both the cuteness factor and functionality to the workspace.

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Boost Productivity Anywhere with This Work From Anywhere Kit

Amazon

This Work from Anywhere Kit is ideal for remote workers or digital nomads. With 17 essential items, it transforms any location into an efficient workspace inspired by the latest TikTok trends.

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This Mini Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Amazon

This Mini Bluetooth Speaker is perfect for travel and outdoor use. It can even be used in the shower to deliver high-quality sound without distortion for the ultimate listening experience.

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For the Traveling Soldier

Amazon

You can't go wrong with gifting the best makeup bag on the entire planet! This traveling organizer unfolds to reveal four separate storage compartments and even has space for makeup brushes so they don't get crushed in transit. The 360-degree swivel hook makes it easy to hang up in a hotel room or the car for easy access anytime.

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Customizable Door Mat Is a Cute Addition to the Home

Amazon

Gifting this Customizable Door Mat will turn a house into a home and bring a smile to their face every time they see it. It definitely adds a personal touch when welcoming guests this holiday season.

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This Star Map Showcases the Sky on Their Special Day

Amazon

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind way to show someone how much you care, this customizable star map is perfect. This artwork will show the constellations in the sky on any date you choose; how cool! You can customize the phrase, names, date, location, and font, so it’s a thoughtful and chic decor item.

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A Tray to Enjoy a Romantic Breakfast in Bed

Amazon

Let your parents know you want them to enjoy their time with a bedtable tray. It holds lots of food and coffee so they can stay in bed for hours.

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Dad Will Love This Beard Trimmer

Amazon

Get your dad to chop off those extra hairs so he doesn’t look like Santa, and see how much he will love this Beard Trimmer.

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These Best-Selling Earbuds Are Quality Sound On a Budget

Amazon

The TOZO earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.0 and a water-resistant design. They're the savvy pick over pricier brands, boasting a stellar 4.3-star rating from 357K+ reviews. Users are raving about the impressive 30 hours of playtime.

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