5 Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Gifting With Your Spouse

There’s nothing better than enjoying the holiday season with the people you love most — and if you’ve got a wedding ring on your finger, that probably means you’re looking forward to celebrating this special time of year with your spouse. We’re willing to bet that you have romantic seasonal visions dancing in your head — cozying up by the fire, hanging decorations, sipping a little spiked cider, and sharing a meaningful gift or two. But what happens when the gifting process goes from sweet to stressful? As fun as it can be to shop for your special someone, when you share a budget and a home with your partner, there are plenty of potential landmines that can also make it extra challenging. We’ve compiled a few tips from relationship and lifestyle experts to help ensure a smooth gifting season with the love of your life. Keep scrolling for all the festive (yet practical) details.

1. Get clear about expectations. Certified professional coach Amy M. Gardner offers a prime example of a couple that wasn’t clear about expectations — and while they might be fictional, the awkwardness of their interaction feels painfully real. When Emma Thompson’s character in Love Actually receives a CD instead of the beautiful necklace she expected, it’s a cringe-worthy moment for all. To avoid a similar situation with your own spouse, communicate early on about the expectations you each have for the season’s round of gifting. Gardner suggests setting guidelines about budget, handmade versus store-bought, and whether the items gifted should be things you want or things you need.

2. Gift a date night. Surprising your spouse with a planned date night addresses several of the gifting challenges that are specific to married couples. “Date nights typically do not require anything to be pre-paid and instead involve making reservations and researching,” says Kali Rogers, CEO and founder of Blush Online Life Coaching. “You don’t have to pull from joint finances ahead of time or try to find the best hiding place in your house!”

3. Avoid leaving a digital trail. We’ve all reaped the benefits of the extent to which online shopping has made the holidays significantly easier on all of us, but researching and buying all of your gifts from a family computer (or a phone that you often casually hand to your partner) can backfire! Natasha-Rachel Smith, consumer affairs expert at TopCashback, suggests using incognito mode in your browser when searching for any gifts. “Make sure to clear your history and cookies, and double-check that you aren’t logged in to any accounts that might give your gift away,” Smith says.

4. Consider love languages. It feels great to physically unwrap a present, but there’s more than one way to express your love to your spouse this holiday season — and if your partner isn’t especially driven by gifts, you might want to go a different route. “Gifts [are] a love language, so that someone whose love language is gifts will demonstrate their love by giving gifts or will feel love by receiving gifts,” explains licensed clinical professional counselor Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin. “Even if their partner demonstrates love in other ways, if gifts aren’t part of the picture, there could be a feeling of lack in an otherwise good relationship.” That being said, you or your S.O. might lean toward physical touch or quality time as a love language! Check in with your spouse prior to the holiday season about what kinds of gifts — literal or not — will really make them tick.

5. Turn every conversation into a sleuthing operation. If you and your S.O. have been together for many years, it may be getting harder and harder to come up with fresh gift ideas every year — especially if you’re looking for something that will be low-risk (who wants to be asked for a gift receipt?) but still unexpected. Look at every conversation as an opportunity to get the info you need to find the perfect present! “Leading up to the holidays, listen carefully for clues about something your partner would love to have but hasn’t pulled the trigger on,” says Linday Sakraida, director of content marketing for shopping comparison website DealNews. “If you sleuth around for gift ideas, it’s a great way to surprise your partner without having to predict what they’d like.”

Tweet us how you and your spouse keep gifting-related stress to a minimum during the holiday season @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

Opening my stocking is absolutely my favorite part of Christmas morning. There’s nothing a tiny lil’ gift can’t fix! If you’re looking to bulk up your fam’s stockings this year, Target’s got you covered with tons of fun finds under $5. I scoured 300+ Target stocking stuffers and found some truly stunning (and cute) options just in time for Christmas!

Scroll on for the best Target stocking stuffers you can shop for $5 or less!

Target

Wondershop Winter Road Trip Cozy Crew Socks

You can't ever go wrong with a cozy pair of socks! These recall the holiday season in the cutest way.

Target

Favorite Day Reindeer Christmas Cocoa Mix

This readymade hot chocolate mix comes complete with marshmallows for the tastiest cup around. Plus, how adorable (erm, a-deer-able) is that packaging?

Target

Room Essentials Disco Notepad + Pen Set

This shiny notepad will come in handy for collecting New Year's goals, work notes, and, of course, miscellaneous doodles.

Target

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge + Travel Case Ornament

Whether you hang it on the Christmas tree or stuff it in their stocking, any beauty lover will appreciate a brand-new blending sponge (and the handy travel case)!

Target

Teak + Tobacco Reading Light Candle

Got a bookworm in your life? They're sure to love this cozy candle that smells like a robust blend of teak and tobacco for their reading sessions.

Target

Anihana Aromatherapy Shower Steamer

Gift 'em a dose of self-care with this calming, sinus-relieving shower steamer! The aroma is truly heaven.

Target

Burt's Bees Lip Balm Set

This lip + hand care duo comes in the cutest Christmas-y packaging to evoke so much cheer.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Tree Mug

A $5 mug will always get me. This one comes in the shape of a festive Christmas tree for hosting all sorts of hot chocolates, teas, and hot toddies.

Target

Wild Fable Essential Gloves

Gloves make the perfect practical gift for those who live somewhere cold. These even have touch screen compatibility on the fingertips so they don't have to sacrifice comfort to make a call or send a text.

Target

Chapstick 4-Piece Lip Balm Set

If your giftee is anything like me, they'll always adore a new set of lip balms (even though their collection may be overflowing).

Target

Favorite Day Hot Chocolate Drink Bomb

I fear it truly doesn't get any more festive than a chocolate and peppermint combo. This $4 find is sweet.

Target

A New Day Cozy Knit Ribbed Embroidered Cherry Crew Socks

Oh, these socks are so cute! They have little embroidered cherries on the top and even come with an attached gift tag so you don't necessarily have to wrap them.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Cat Mug

Any cat lover will want to reach for this festive feline all year long!

Target

Da Bomb Bath Fizzer Snowflake Gingerbread Bath Bomb

This delicious-smelling bath bomb will infuse their next soak with notes of freshly-baked gingerbread. Plus, once it fizzes away, a little surprise (both adult- and kid-friendly) awaits inside!

Target

SpaLife Radiance Eye Masks 3-Pack

These under eye masks wake up tired eyes with vitamin C and coffee – the perfect post-holiday refresh.

Target

Vitamasques Candy Cane Lip Butter Balm

This sweet lip butter smells like a candy cane, all while nourishing dry winter lips. I'll take 5, thanks.

Target

eos Holiday Candy Cane Lip Sugar Scrub

This $5 lip scrub is a total treat to dehydrated, flaky lips. They'll be reaching for it every day!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing gift ideas!

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

The White Lotus season 3 is finally on its way, and it is, without a doubt, one of my most-anticipated 2025 TV shows. And we finally have an official release date! The new 8-episode season is coming even sooner than I could have hoped for, and there are plenty of sexy surprises in store.

In addition to the highly-anticipated return of Natasha Rothwell's Belinda, we're also going to meet characters played by Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Sarah Catherine Hook, Jason Isaacs, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Aimee Lou Wood. Talk about a stacked cast! I can't wait to watch the new episodesnext year but the first teaser will definitely hold us over.

Here's the first teaser trailer for the next season of the show — and The White Lotus season 3 release date!

'The White Lotus' season 3 trailer teases both pain and pleasure.

The White Lotus season 3 is coming February 16, 2025. This season we're headed to Thailand (after season 1 took us to Hawaii and season 2 took us to Italy), but amidst the stress-management meditation and incredible food, our cast is dealing with plenty of secrets, testing their limits throughout their week-long vacation.

"Everyone runs from pain towards pleasure," says the teaser trailer voiceover. "But they get there only to find more pain." The montage of late-night parties and unsettling shots like Parker Posey staring down the camera (and someone grilling a live crab until it catches on fire??) have me convinced The White Lotus season 3 is going to serve us an insane helping of both pain and pleasure.

We also get shots of Patrick Schwarzenegger lounging by the pool, Jason Isaacs taking a paranoid stroll through the jungle, and a coupled-up Aimee Lou Wood and Walton Goggins celebrating the fact their vacation didn't kill them.

And creator Mike White says 'The White Lotus' season 3 is going to be bigger than ever.

We know that The White Lotus season 3 is going to be the biggest season yet, thanks to interviews with the creator and crew. “It’s going to be a supersized White Lotus,” creator Mike White said in an interview with EW. “It’s going to be longer, bigger, crazier. I don’t know what people will think, but I am super excited, so at least for my own barometer, that’s a good thing…I’m super excited about the content of the season.”

And he's not the only one. Natasha Rothwell told PEOPLE that "White Lotus is going to give you a run for your money.”

"It's an excellent season and people are going to be very pleased," she continues. There's always something special about a third season thanks to the combination of familiarity and brand-new adventures, and the seductive intrigue The White Lotus season 3 is already proving my point.

Season 3 is always my favorite season of a show — especially considering Gilmore Girls Season 3 Is Simply The Best, And No TV Show Has Matched It Since. Check out our weekend email send for more TV news.

Having toxic friends, family members, or romantic partners in your life can feel like standing in the rain for hours on end. You usually feel drained of energy on top of being drenched in bad energy. Though it's clear you probably need to set boundaries, it's not always easy to decipher what you should say during a conversation where a narcissist is doing what they do best.

Clinical social worker, and Clinical Director of Villa Oasis San Diego, Michelle Beaupre, MSW, Ph.D., LCSW has helped clients navigate this very topic at different points in their lives and has 6 phrases you can say to either shut down a narcissist or let them know you're uninterested in their behavior.

6 things to say when a narcissist thinks they're getting the last word

1. What to say if your romantic partner makes you question whether you saw inappropriate texts on their phone

Alex Green

If I had things my way, gaslighting would be outlawed. Unfortunately, some people just can't seem to take responsibility for their actions, and they really love to make it everyone else's problem. Even more infuriatingly, it can appear in romantic relationships when one person is caught doing something that breaches the trust between them and their partner.

If your boyfriend or girlfriend spins a tale that makes you question what you’re sure you saw, try not to panic. Instead, take a page from Beaupre’s book. She suggests saying, “I’ll stand by what I know is true. If we need to agree to disagree, that’s fine, but I’m not going to let this change what I know or how I feel.”

She says doing this “shows them you’re not going to be swayed or pulled into their ‘game.’” It also helps “keep you grounded and firm, making it clear that their gaslighting isn’t going to work.” The more you stand your ground, the more someone is “less likely to continue trying to manipulate/control you,” according to her.

2. What to say when a friend keeps lying about their accomplishments

Pavel Danilyuk

This is a tricky one because you probably know one of your friends likes to embellish the truth a bit. It’s one of the things that used to be funny because they could always come up with a story on the spot. But, it can be confusing if you notice your friend tends to lie about something they’ve accomplished. Just don’t think you have to go out of your way to expose them though.

Beaupre says, “If it’s not harming anyone, sometimes it’s okay to leave it alone because, eventually, the truth will catch up to them anyway, and they will learn their lesson on their own.” But she says if you notice “their lies are causing major problems or hurting others,” speak up “gently.”

“You can ask them why they feel the need to lie, and if there’s something they’re struggling with that they might want to talk about,” she continues. Her suggestion is to say, “I’ve noticed that sometimes, you say things that don’t really add up, and I’m just wondering if there’s a reason. Is everything okay?”

3. What to say when someone complains about you setting boundaries

Pavel Danilyuk

If there’s one thing a narcissist can’t stand, it’s boundaries. If you know someone who has a tendency to overreact when you set them, Beaupre knows what you can say to them. “I’m not okay with how you’re reacting. If you can’t respect my limit, then I’m going to have to take a step back and distance myself,” she suggests.

She feels “this makes it clear that you’re serious about your boundaries.” Also, it signals that you “won’t let their reaction change what you need to feel respected, safe and secure.”

4. What to say if someone utters "I love you" after a few weeks of dating

Katerina Holmes

If only some of us would’ve asked this question during some of our prior relationships, we may have avoided unnecessary heartbreak. Should you find yourself faced with someone’s eager declarations of love early on, Beaupre wants you to “to be honest about how you feel and not feel pressured to say it back if you’re not ready.”

What you can say is, “Thank you. That means a lot, but I’m not there yet. Maybe one day, but not now.” By doing this, you’re not discrediting their emotions. Instead, you’re letting them “know you appreciate them and their feelings” while setting “the pace that works for you,” according to Beaupre. Please don't force yourself to feel something if you don't.

5. What to say when someone makes light of something or someone you're grieving

RDNE Stock project

This reminds us of one of the relationship red flags we recently dug into. We know why people say passive-aggressive things, but it's still painful no matter what the situation is. In the case of grieving, it's a hard no for us. Beaupre says, “In times like this, when you’re going through a lot of heavy emotions, it’s important to set a boundary for your peace.”

If you feel yourself questioning whether your feelings are valid, Beaupre says not to do that. "Don't let others downplay/dismiss what you’re feeling or going through, especially if it's something that's really taking a toll on you." What she urges you to say is, "I know you may not fully understand, but this is really important to me, and I need you to respect that.” In her opinion, it's a way of letting that person "know you're serious about protecting your emotional space without being confrontational."

And if they're still being a grade-A jerk about it? It may be time to limit the time you spend with them.

6. What to say if someone uses 'jokes' to constantly critique your appearance

SHVETS production

We think laughter is good for the soul, but not at the expense of hurting other people's feelings. This means no one should have the luxury of repeatedly commenting about the way you present yourself. Beaupre says, "If the way you look, what you’re wearing or how you speak isn’t hurting anyone, they really shouldn’t be commenting on it." Should you notice this unfortunate pattern in someone close to you, it's time to address it.

Beaupre wants you to try saying, "I’m fine with how I look and speak. You can let me know if there's a problem, but please don’t make me feel bad about it." That way, you can "set a clear limit about what you won't tolerate," according to her. She believes it's also a "chance to share any concerns without crossing into criticism or bullying."

Still, someone who refuses to stop disguising their obvious issues with you as harmless 'jokes' isn't someone who deserves a long-term spot in your life.

Scroll through more relationships stories to see how you should navigate everything from tense friendships to conversations about money.

Blake Lively is as multifaceted as they come. She's an actress who has starred in titles like Gossip Girl, A Simple Favor, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (plus It Ends With Us). She's the founder of Betty Buzz, which has a variety of non-alcoholic mixers that taste just as good on their own as they do with liquor. And, she's also a mom. Lively has been outspoken about protecting her children from the paparazzi, making rare public appearances with them for events like her husband Ryan Reynolds' Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremonyandcozy date nights.

When Lively and Reynolds seemingly announced the birth of their fourth child last year, we melted. Here's everything you need to know about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids.

Is Taylor Swift friends with Blake Lively's kids?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Yes, Taylor Swift loves Blake Lively's kids! The family has shown up to the Eras Tour multiple times, and most recently supported the popstar at her concert in New Orleans, Louisiana. Blake and Ryan were joined by oldest daughter James (who looked amazing in a Reputation-inspired 'fit), and I can't believe how much James and Blake look alike! She's truly her mini-me! At the Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, which Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attended, Taylor said hello from the stage.

One funny detail about Ryan Reynolds' kids that I love is when he mentioned the girls finally realized Taylor Swift was a popstar. "I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he tellsThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

For Super Bowl Sunday in 2024, Blake Lively joined Taylor Swift to support beau (and KC Chiefs tight end) Travis Kelce. "Last week I left my kids for the first time ever," she says on Instagram. "I took pictures upside down and had no clue. I treated a friendship bracelet like a Flat Stanley for my husband like I didn’t realize it wasn’t ‘07. I borrowed more jewelry than the skeleton in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. And I went clubbing. Now I know what my episode of TheTwilight Zone would look like."

How do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively prioritize their kids?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Michael Kors

At the end of September, Ryan Reynolds revealed how different parenting seems to be now than when he was a kid. "Parents today are so different. We're so soft," he said at HubSpot’s INBOUND tech conference (via People). "I don't yell. I grew up with like — it was nuts, it was an improvised militia.”

“Now it's like, I can go look at all my resources for parenting and remind myself how to be perfectly compassionate,” he continued. "Something I love about [conflict resolution], and I know this is not very fancy, but what I love about it is that you can meet somebody where they are, and you don't have to be right or wrong...You can disagree and still connect."

Blake Lively recently joined an episode of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' costar Amber Tamblyn's Further Adoand revealed the one unbreakable rule she made with Ryan Reynolds.

“When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time,” she says. “So that we could always prioritize our personal life...That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that; it takes balance.”

I love that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are serious about their family life, and that they have identified what works for them and are sticking with it.

What is the name of Blake Lively's 4th baby?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' fourth baby is named Olin, which he revealed during the July 22 premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine!

Before Ryan chose to reveal the name, he appeared on the Today show and made a cheeky joke about it after the hosts urged him to spill the beans. He said, "We always wait for Taylor to tell us what the child's name will be. We'll say this: we're still waiting."

What are Blake Lively kids ages?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively's kids are all under 10. James is 9 (turning 10 on December 16), Inez is 7 (turning 8 on September 30), Betty is 4 (turning 5 on October 4), and Olin turned 1 in February.

What gender is Ryan and Blake's fourth child?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

On July 26, Ryan Reynolds confirmed that he and Blake Lively's fourth baby, born in February 2023, is a boy in an Instagram video supporting mental health charity Walking 4 Hope. Speaking with founder John Bell, who struggled with suicidal ideation after the 2020 loss of his son Jake, Reynolds says, “I want to share with you that I, too, have a son...Boy, John, if I love him one-tenth as much as you love Jake, I’ll feel like I’ve done a pretty d—mn good job.”

Considering how adorable James, Inez, and Betty are, I can only imagine how cute Blake Lively's son is!

How many children do Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have four kids. They welcomed their third daughter in 2019, making this new addition to the family their fourth child.

Did Blake Lively have a 4th baby?

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

Blake Lively posted a pic on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023 showing what appears to be a post-baby body with the caption "Been busy."

Lively confirmed her fourth pregnancy in September 2022 when she arrived at her Forbes event in NYC cradling a baby bump and by posting her own personal photos on Instagramhoping that "the 11 guys waiting outside [her] home for a 🦄 sighting will leave [her] alone."

How old was Blake Lively when she had her first child?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively was 27 when she gave birth to her first daughter, James, in December of 2014.

Why did Blake Lively name her daughter James?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

The couple decided to name their daughter James after Reynolds' late father. While the name connects both James and Reynolds to his father, it also gives Lively the chance to bond with her daughter over having historically male names. "I liked having a boy's name," Lively said on Good Morning Americain 2015. "I thought I'd pass it on."

Their third daughter Betty's name is a tribute to Lively's late father. We didn't know the name of the couple's third baby until Taylor Swift used all three names in her 2020 album folklore. Swift also used James' voice at the beginning of her 2017 track "Gorgeous"! Does that mean we'll hear one of Ryan Reynolds' children in Reputation (Taylor's Version)? I hope so!

What has Ryan Reynolds said about raising their kids?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

In a conversation with Hugh Jackman ahead of Deadpool & Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds opened up about how his family has helped his anxiety. "I think it makes it better because your focus is less on yourself and more on your kids," he says (via People). "I love that I've had anxiety because when I see my kids experiencing some of that, which is probably genetic, I know how to address it in a way that is compassionate, that actually allows them to feel seen. I know that I can't just fix it. And I can communicate all that stuff to them and with them. I'm always grateful for it."

Per People, Ryan Reynolds has also made it clear he and Blake are wholly invested in the kids' daily lives. The doting husband and father enjoys the moments of "walking them to school and walking them back" as it deepens their bond. More than anything, Ryan and Blake's main goal is to make sure they teach their kids how to be introspective with Ryan saying "the thing we sort of hang our hat on the most is self-awareness with our kids."

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

However, that doesn't mean Blake and Ryan don't absolutely love being parents. "We're very excited [and] we wouldn't do this four times if we didn't love it," he says in an interview with CNBC's Power Lunch. "Everybody's doing great. Everybody's actually doing fantastic. I think if we hadn't figured it out by now, I think we'd be in deep, deep trouble."

"It's a zoo over here," he jokes. "This is my office here, this is where I'll probably — to be honest, I'll probably spend the rest of my life in here."

We love how much energy Ryan and Blake are pouring into their kids. It's always beautiful when parents are able to be present with their kids and teach them how to be present with themselves. Ryan Reynolds has also mentioned how having daughters "has been such a ride." Since he comes from a family of all boys, having daughters is something that was beyond his wildest dreams! “I love being a girl dad,” Ryan tells Access in 2020. “I have three daughters, which I never in a million years would imagine.”

He mentioned his newest child in June of 2023, when he announced his new series Bedtime Stories. "The idea for a show made to help everyone fall asleep was born the same day as my fourth child," he says on Instagram.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

The Deadpool actor also offered some parenting advice on Amanda Hirsch’s hit podcastNot Skinny But Not Fat. "Embrace the chaos,” he tells Hirsch. "[Blake] always says, ‘They're all under our roof right now. The whole family's under our roof right now. We have them all.’ And that is a fleeting thing. Not an infinite resource, you know?”

While Reynolds understands firsthand how overwhelming parenting can feel, he also doesn't wish away this time with four young kids: “Just say, ‘Think about what you would give in 40 years or 30 years to come back and enjoy this one moment.’"

Besides this, Ryan knows their kids' childhoods don't mirror his or Blake's. However, he's not trying to place a huge emphasis on that because he wants them to have "as normal a life as possible" (via Page Six).

"I try not to impose upon them the difference in their childhood to my childhood or my wife’s childhood," he said (via The Hollywood Reporter). "We both grew up very working class, and I remember when they were very young, I used to say or think, like, ‘Oh God, I would never have had a gift like this when I was a kid,’ or, ‘I never would’ve had this luxury of getting takeout,’ or whatever."

In his eyes, he doesn't feel like it's the kids' responsibility or "bag of rocks to carry" because they're full of "gratitude" and "have a strong sense of empathy." That's how he knows he and Blake are "doing an OK job" as parents.

How has motherhood affected Blake Lively?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images;Art by Claire Shadomy/B+C

Blake Lively opened up about how Ryan Reynolds and she monitor screen safety for their kids, which is definitely something top-of-mind in 2024. “This is not an ad. I get nothing out of this. I just love @tappityapp,” she said of the STEM-focused educational app. “It’s engaging, informative, fun and they care about safety."

She also jokes that she's learning new things right along with her kids! But, no matter how educational or fun an app is, Blake Lively also emphasizes the importance of engaging with her kids' devices: "I’m always triple checking any kids app constantly for safety because that’s my responsibility not an app’s, but I do LOVE this one.”

Despite its fun and funny moments, the actress has admitted being a mom is hard, but she did it with her signature dry sense of humor. “BettyBooze at your service," she wrote in an Instagram Story announcing the new brand. "These are recipes I’ve been making for loved ones for years. But I have 4 kids now. And I’m tired. So here they are. In a can."

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

However, Blake Lively absolutely loves motherhood, and says in a 2022 interview with Forbes that having children has made her feel more comfortable in her own skin. "Once I had children, that just became even more profound because my time was even more precious, but also I think having children for me made me feel so much more in my skin," she says. "I never felt more myself or at ease in my own body or more confident — not to say that there aren't a bevy of insecurities coming at me a million times a day, but I just feel incredibly settled."

Speaking with People in 2021, Lively also explains how important it is that her children see her accomplish things outside the home. "I want to be as present of a mother as humanly possible and I want them to feel my presence, but I also think the best way to be the best mother is to show them that you can have a life and have a passion and have an identity outside of just being a mother," Lively says.

While she acknowledges that motherhood is all-encompassing, and it looks different for everyone, she knows that having your own identity is very important. "Teaching them that they can maintain themselves and that everything is possible [is crucial]," she adds.

When did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have their daughters?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation

Blake Lively's children were all born in the last 10 years. Blake Lively's daughters are James, Inez, Betty, and her fourth child is named Olin! Their fourth baby's name was announced during the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine. Blake gave birth to James in 2014, while Inez was born in 2016. Lively gave birth to Betty in 2019 and Olin in February of 2023.

Do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids have nannies?

Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' children don't have a nanny. "I feel like I could sometimes have a bit of a short fuse, but there's just been this weirdly endless supply of patience," Ryan told GQ in 2015. "I have no problem waking up five times in the middle of the night and changing diapers, and as exhausted as you get, I have this stupid grin on my face all the time."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids!

This story has been updated.

Yellowstone season 5B is here! Twisters might have been THE summer movie of 2024, but the western vibes aren't going away, even after the Glen Powell movie has left theaters. The second half of Yellowstone season 5 returned to Paramount November 10 and it did not disappoint. 16.4 million viewers tuned into the premiere over a variety of networks — making it the most-watched season premiere in the show's history.

And it's a major season for one very specific reason: Kevin Costner isn't returning as John Dutton. The star decided to exit the series after season 5's eighth episode premiered in January 2023, but as big of a change is this is, Costner is still an executive producer on the series, giving it a familiarity fans will appreciate.

Yellowstone has always been dramatic, but in the Yellowstone season 5 first look, you can just feel the tension from fan favorites like Beth Dutton, Monica Long, and Kayce Dutton. And no wonder: the Duttons' family drama is coming to a head, and it looks like someone might not make it out alive. Read up on everything you need to know about the new season of Yellowstone, and check out why Paramount+'s New Drama Landman Is Perfect For Yellowstone Fans.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the final season of Yellowstone.

What happened on the finale of Yellowstone?

Paramount

Yellowstone season 5 had two major themes: save the ranch and avenge John Dutton's death. And the Yellowstone finale saw both of those things happen in their own way. Kayce sells the property to High Chief Thomas Rainwater at $1.25 an acre (the price when his ancestors took it) on two conditions: his family stays in their home, and the land will never be developed or sold to anyone else.

And after John's funeral (where Beth literally tells his casket she'll avenge him), Beth runs off to Jamie's house, gets into a brutal fight, and stabs him in the heart before moving to start a peaceful (?) new life in Dillon, Montana with Rip. I guess all's well that ends well?

Is this the last season of Yellowstone?

Paramount

It's always hard to say goodbye to a beloved show, but despite reports that Yellowstone would end with season 5, it looks like we could be getting a Yellowstone season 6 after all. Deadline confirmed that negotiations are happening for a potential continuation, which would focus on Kelly Reilly's Beth and Cole Hauser's Rip.

Reilly told Entertainment Weekly ahead of the season 5 premiere that "Beth is more like a wild animal this season than ever. When I read the scripts, it made me think [that] she is, for the first time, maybe afraid she will lose it for [her dad]."

"It's dark, brutal and desperate stuff — gaining power, losing it, defending and fighting," she continues. "It's bloody and at times beautiful in how it breaks them into their core selves." The setup for a potential season 6 will totally depend on how season 5 ends — and how it affects Beth, Rip, and the rest of the family.

Is Kevin Costner in Yellowstone season 5 part 2?

Paramount

No Kevin Costner is not in the second half of Yellowstone season 5, and we find out the fate of his character John Dutton immediately. When Beth and Kayce find John dead in the bathroom, Beth immediately suspects foul play and blames it on Jamie. Well, Kevin is finally speaking on his character's end, and told The Michael Smerconish Programon November 11 that he actually didn't know the show had premiered the night before.

“I’m going to be perfectly honest. I didn’t know it was actually airing last night,” he says. “That’s a swear-to-God moment. I’ve been seeing ads with my face all over the place and I’m thinking, ‘Gee, I’m not in that one.’ But I didn’t realize yesterday was the thing...I heard it’s a suicide, so that doesn’t make me want to rush to go see it.”

But even if Kevin isn't over the moon about watching his character die, he doesn't have any bad blood with the writers. “They’re pretty smart people,” he continues. “Maybe it’s a red herring. Who knows? They’re very good. And they’ll figure that out.”

Well, the actor told Entertainment Tonight that he STILL hasn't seen the season 5 premiere as of November 17. “I didn’t watch it, so I don’t really have any thoughts about it,” he said. Due to delays from the writer's strike, and a tug-of-war between Paramount saying Kevin couldn't film new episodes and Kevin saying creator Taylor Sheridan took too long to write the scripts, the actor chose to leave the series, reportedly in part to promote his Horizon movie franchise.

“I gave this thing five seasons,” the actor told The Hollywood Reporterthis summer. “I was really happy to do it. And I don’t need drama. So, let’s just take that drama away, let’s take the guessing [away]. The fans have been way too good to me. And my obligation is to go on and continue to make things that mean something to them.”

How many episodes are in Yellowstone season 5?

Yellowstone season 5 part 2 features 6 episodes, meaning that Yellowstone season 5 will have a total of 14 episodes. Here's each episode title and release date:

  • Episode 1: "One Hundred Years Is Nothing" on November 13, 2022
  • Episode 2: "The Sting of Wisdom" on November 13, 2022
  • Episode 3: "Tall Drink of Water" on November 20, 2022
  • Episode 4: "Horses in Heaven" on November 27, 2022
  • Episode 5: "Watch 'Em Ride Away" on December 4, 2022
  • Episode 6: "Cigarettes, Whiskey, a Meadow and You" on December 11, 2022
  • Episode 7: "The Dream Is Not Me" on December 18, 2022
  • Episode 8: "A Knife and No Coin" on January 1, 2023
  • Episode 9: "Desire Is All You Need" on November 10, 2024
  • Episode 10: "The Apocalypse of Change" on November 17, 2024
  • Episode 11: "Three Fifty-Three" on November 24, 2024
  • Episode 12: "Counting Coup" On December 1, 2024
  • Episode 13: "Give the World Away" On December 8, 2024
  • Episode 14: "Life Is A Promise" On December 15, 2024

See our interviews with the 'Yellowstone' cast!

@britandco Who run the world ?! #kellyreilly#yellowstone#bethdutton#tv#tvshow#premiere#nyc#newyork♬ original sound - Brit + Co

Wendy Moniz spilled on working with everyone's favorite lady Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton).

@britandco John Emmet Tracy told us all about filming the final season of #Yellowstone 🐴 #johnemmettracy#ellissteele#nyc#redcarpet#premiere#newyork#newyorkcity#fyp♬ original sound - Brit + Co

While John Emmet Tracy gave us the best advice for dealing with crazy families during the holidays!

@britandco You’re welcome 😌 #yellowstone#cowboy#cowboyboots#fashion#premiere#fyp#ianbohen♬ original sound - Brit + Co

And we couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Ian Bohen the best way to take off cowboy boots ;).

What is Yellowstone season 5 about?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Plot

The series introduced us to the Duttons, a powerful family in charge of America's biggest contiguous cattle ranch. Every season has been gritty and powerful, and in the fifth season, we've seen John become Montana's governor and make Beth his chief of staff. But with Jamie trying to take the power away from his dad, the Duttons are fighting each other like we've never seen — especially when Jamie and Beth start considering how to get away with murder.

Luke Grimes recently told Entertainment Weekly how pleased he is with the finale, and Kelly Reilly revealed creator Taylor Sheridan actually told her the ending to the series while they filmed season 1.

“I read the last episode the day before we started filming,” Luke says. “I couldn't be happier. I think it's a perfect ending for the show for every character. It's just a testament to what a good writer Taylor is, and it's a very, very profound, beautiful ending. I can't wait to sit down and watch it one day.”

Is Yellowstone season 5 part 2 out yet?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 Release Date

Yes, Yellowstone season 5 part 2 premiered on Paramount November 10, 2024. You can watch new episodes every Sunday.

The series filmed in Montana during the summer of 2024.

Who's in the cast of Yellowstone season 5?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Cast

The cast of Yellowstone season 5 includes Kelly Reilly, Wes Bentley, Luke Grimes, Kelsey Asbille, Brecken Merrill, Finn Little, Cole Hauser, Gil Birmingham, Wendy Moniz, Mo Brings Plenty, and Bella Hadid.

Where can I watch season 5 part 1 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

The first half of Yellowstone season 5 is now streaming on Peacock.

Are you excited for Yellowstone season 5 part 2? Read up on The First Cast Member For Yellowstone's 2024 Spinoff, The Madison for more about our new favorite universe.

This post has been updated.