6 Wedding Themes That Will Rule 2017

Despite what your mom and grandma tell you, your wedding theme isn’t just about the color palette, invitation and flowers. It’s a unique style and vibe all your own. And since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor, you want to make sure it’s flawless, right? We’ve already shown you the best wedding trends for 2017, but now we’re here to show you six wedding themes that will make your nuptials shine. So get ready to go beyond the traditional rustic or boho look and take your wedding next-level in 2017. Start scrolling, take notes and have your Pin It button ready!

MINIMALIST + Gilded

Less is more. Let your details speak for themselves with sleek designs that include just a few frills. The simplicity of gold details with natural colors allows your guests to focus on the best part of the day: your love!

(Photos via Belles & Bubbles, Jen Huang, MyWedding, Mikkel Paige, The Wedding Playbook, Jose Villa)

nude accents

Cream, blush, champagne and gray are all wedding colors that are here to stay. Use nude-colored accents to contrast your bold hues, moody darks or pops of bright color. These shades will give your wedding a chic and clean feeling that will leave your friends and family feeling refreshed and ready to celebrate!

(Photos via Michael Radford hotography / Green Wedding Shoes, Brides of Adelaide, A Fabulous Fete, Kristen Weaver / Southern Weddings, Kristen Beinke / Style Me Pretty)

Forest chic

Whether you’re having an outdoor or indoor wedding, you can bring a little bit of mother nature into your wedding day. The big, leafy greens and over-the-top centerpieces make for the perfect woodland wonderland. For a more decadent approach, add plenty of gold embellishments, like a candelabra, candle holders and matching vases. Complete the look by scattering fruits and florals around your gilded tablescape.

(Photos via Jenny Owens Photography / Want That Wedding, Danfredo Photos + Films / Ruffled Blog, Samantha Jay Photography / Ruffled Blog, Connection Photography / Wedding Chicks)

mixed metals

Gold, silver, metallic and copper: You really can have it all! 2017 is all about mixing and matching to create an eclectic feel that looks expertly thrown together. Incorporate different types of metal in your candlestick holders, silverware or framed table numbers. And don’t forget the unexpected places, like your wedding cake!

(Photos via Morgan Miller Photography / Fab You Bliss, Katie Harmsworth / Ruffled Blog , Alicia Lucia Photography / Burnett’s Boards, Melissa Biador / Ruffled Blog)

watercolor wonder

Lately you’ve seen a lot of watercolor-themed weddings, and we’re happy to say that this trend isn’t going anywhere soon. The dip-dyed, hand-painted and DIY feel of a watercolor wedding is perfect for brides who want that sophisticated homespun style.

(Photos via Style Unveiled, Christine Donee / Grey Likes Weddings, Maria Lamb / Pure Wow, Alexis June Weddings / Ruffled Blog)

a hint of greenery

No matter what your color palette or wedding theme is, adding a touch of greenery will make your big day feel way more cozy. The calming Pantone color of the year can be displayed through fresh green herbs and florals overflowing on your tablescape or making a statement on your ceremony arch.

(Photos via Michael Radford photography / Green Wedding Shoes, Brides of Adelaide, A Fabulous Fete, Kristen Weaver / Southern Weddings, Kristen Beinke / Style Me Pretty)

Follow us on Pinterestfor more gorgeous ideas for your wedding.

Wedding season is back, and busier than ever. If you're feeling like you spend every other summer weekend in attendance, only to spend the few weekends in between recovering — and shopping — for your next event, you're certainly not alone.

While it's wonderful to watch our loved ones wed, we all know how quickly the celebrations can add up, and we're here to remind you there's absolutely no shame in repeating a wedding guest dress a few times, or all season long! In fact, you'll find floral dresses can go a long way, as their multi-colored prints allow them to be styled with different accessories for a new look each time.

If you're juggling several different wedding themes in one season, say, beach unions and backyard weddings, try to invest in one good floral print that can adapt across locales, or scoop up a few extra-affordable picks and assign one to each setting!

Ahead, our favorite floral wedding guest dresses to help you get through the wedding season and all your formal festivities this summer.

Free People Alma Midi Dress

This subtle light pink midi is adorned with feminine florals and delicate ruffles that feel like spring and summer's BFF. The asymmetrical hem lends this dress a whimsical vibe, which will earn you compliments all season long. Pair with some cute heels and your go-to bag to complete the look! 

Available in sizes XS-XL for $168.​

Hutch Braylan One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

This maxi may have just one shoulder strap, but we promise it's secure as ever. Hugging your form in the most flattering way, the bust on this piece is elastic and very flexible, so it moves when you do. The lush green floral details pay homage to the seasons best blooms.

Available in sizes XXS-L for $319.

AFRM Shea Floral A-Line Maxi Dress

This illustrative maxi is the moment! Adorned with everything from flowers to butterflies, this wedding guest dress is for the young at heart. The shape is simple and flowy, starting out with a straight neckline and falling to an a-line skirt. It's also lined for added comfort!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $88.

Bardot Felicia Mesh Floral Midi Dress

For a more form-fitting floral option, this pink + red number will do the trick. It's quite stretchy, so you can sit, stand, and dance in total comfort. The ruching running along the sides gives your shape even more flattering definition for all the pics you'll be taking during the wedding.

Available in sizes 2-12 for $119.

Shona Joy Karla Paneled Maxi Dress

This paneled dress falls all the way to the floor in an elegant manner. It's covered in royal blue, white, and rustic brown florals for a very graphic feel. While the skirt is more flowy, the bust on this dress fits snugly, like a corset. It comes complete with a matching belt to make the 'fit more formal!

Available in sizes 2-12 for $420.

Abercrombie & Fitch Ruffle Strap High-Low Maxi Dress

We are in love with this ruffle-y wedding guest dress! Part of Abercrombie & Fitch's new wedding collection, this high-low silhouette is dotted with classic pink florals. The ruching follows the bodice as well as the straps to create a chic shape. The breezy printed chiffon material is lined on the inside with a solid polyester for total coverage.

Available in petite, regular, and tall sizes XXS-XXL for $130.

Steve Madden Adalina Floral Ruffle Maxi Dress

On the delicate side, we can't stop gawking over this femme chiffon frock. It's an off-white, more cream-colored fabric for staying cool in the spring + summer sun. The bold ruffles that cross in the front make sure your look doesn't go unnoticed. While most floral wedding guest dresses are covered in the blooms, this one is more subdued.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

Conditions Apply Chloe Strapless Maxi Dress

We actually adoreblack wedding guest dresses, and this one is still floral! You can make it strapless or opt for the included straps to feel more secure. The big graphic blooms will photograph beautifully, too. Only plan on wearing it to a wedding once? This dress doubles amazingly for any beachy vacations you've got on the cal!

Available in sizes XXS-XL and plus sizes 1X-3X for $148.

Petal & Pup Senorita Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress

With a high neck and a high-cut leg slit, this maxi dress is def ready for the wedding after party! The side cutouts transition to an adorable open back design that feels sexy ​and ​breathable. This pick secures in the back with a no-fuss string tie and just looks sooo fun!

Available in sizes 4-10 for $84.​

The A&F Camille Midi Dress

Made of smooth satin-y fabric, this midi follows your figure with some flattering seams that run down the whole dress. The upper part is definitely more fitted, but allows for some movement with an elastic backing. The thin spaghetti straps are totally adjustable, too, so you can find the fit that suits you!

Available in sizes XXS-XXL.

ASTR The Label Floral Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

This floral wedding guest dress is for the color lovers. It's smattered in flowers and leaves of all kinds that work wardrobe magic whenever you wear it! The puffed sleeves definitely speak to the romantic vibe of any wedding you're attending, and the neckline comes together beautifully with a fun front tie. This pick is finished off with a high-cut leg slit for added breeziness!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

A New Day Women's Crepe Midi Slip Dress

This easy-to-wear slip dress is totally comfy! Crafted out of a lightweight crepe fabric, you can feel confident at any temperature. The v-neck and leg slit create a flattering balance in the silhouette, plus the pink floral pattern is the season's ultimate match! Adjust the straps with traditional closures to find your perfect fit.

Available in sizes XS-4X for $25.

Montce Petal Floral Maxi Dress

The bustier-like top on this floral maxi is everything to us! The ruched bra cups will draw attention to your ensemble and make you feel super fly. This dress secures in the back with a hook closure, and flaunts an open back for some light flirty vibes.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $218.

Motel Vilnia Floral Midi Dress

This versatile pick goes the less-traditional route in the way of florals. Its flower motifs are dotted separately all across the fabric, and match the neckline's velvet lining perfectly! We like that this dress is limited in its color palette to make matching with shoes and outerwear easy as can be. The bow in front of the chest seals the deal!

Available in sizes XS-XXL for $85.

Which floral wedding guest dress are you excited to rock this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more outfit inspiration!

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

Images via brands.

This post has been updated from a previous version with reporting by Meredith Holser.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Warmer weather calls for lighter, shorter, and comfier outfits. It's a feat to find a dress that hits all three of these marks, especially if you're attending a spring or summer wedding ceremony. As the temperatures rise, make sure you're well-prepared with an appropriate wedding guest dress style! We've got you covered with the short wedding guest dresses below, which go above and beyond to make you feel both comfortable and confident!

Free People Perfect Day Printed Dress

This short wedding guest dress leans casual with effortless puff sleeves and a swingy skirt, but it meets elegance worthy of wearing to a wedding ceremony from the open back detail. The bodice of this v-neck silhouette is thoughtfully ruched for a change in texture. All things considered, this is a super comfy style!

This $128 dress is top-rated Free People and comes in 4 other floral colorways including blue, cream, black, and multicolor. This brown + pink number is currently shoppable in sizes XS-XL.

City Chic Blakely Tie Neck Long Sleeve Minidress

The flounce-y, fluttery trim on this mini is sooo adorable, and perfect for a springtime wedding! The long sleeves are wispy and breathable, while the rest of the dress is lightly lined for added coverage. The elastic waistband is snug but not uncomfortable, plus this little number ties neatly up top with a chic neck tie that you can style a number of different ways.

This $99 plus-sized pick is available in this stunning blue-purple shade and sizes 14-24.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This pleated number from Abercrombie & Fitch's brand-new wedding collection is serving a main character moment. The green color makes it one of the freshest short wedding guest dresses for springtime. The v-neck sihlouette is super flattering, yet secure for all of the day's moments.

You can also snag this dress in a cool blue hue and standard, petite, and tall sizes XXS-XL for $77 (on sale, was $110).

Farm Rio Black Colored Stripes Short Sleeve Mini Dress

Black wedding guest dresses are everything to us, TBH. This 100% linen one gets a colorful treatment around the trim lining the hem, the sleeves, and neckline to make your look stand out – it'll also photograph beautifully! This versatile piece will serve you past those spring ceremonies, too. The piece secures in the back with a discreet, durable zipper.

This $250 dress from Farm Rio is sustainably crafted, made with 50% of recycled materials. It's currently available in sizes XXS-L.

Zesica Satin Halter Neck Tie Waist Mini Dress

The elegant wrapped neckline on this satin dress not only provides you with some coverage up top, but it makes a style statement worth documenting. The wrap skirt is extra classy, boasting a bow tie that secures in front. This dress zips up and buttons in the back.

This $50 Amazon dress comes in 15 other colors, so you can shop for the shade that matches your next occasion the most. The fabric is 95% polyester and 5% spandex.

Old Navy Waist-Defined Shine Mini Dress

Pretty as a flower! This long-sleeved mini dress from Old Navy features some beautiful blooms that'll surely feel celebratory of the spring and summer seasons. It's a step-in fit, with elastic banding spanning across the waist and arm cuffs for more comfort. The body and skirt of this short wedding guest dress is lined well, and the outer layer has some shiny seams woven in for eye-catching factor!

Shop this dress on sale for just $16! This colorway is available in regular sizes XS-XXL and 4X, tall sizes XS and L, and petite sizes XS, S, XL, and XXL.

Saylor Joelene Dress

For a more fitted look, this ruched dress from Saylor is super flattering! The puffed sleeves and flutter detail on the bottom of the skirt will transform your shape and look undoubtedly elegant for attending a wedding. The colorful floral pattern that covers the entire piece is springtime's perfect pairing, so you can really wear it all season long.

This pick is made from 100% cotton and doesn't have any stretch to it. You can snag it for $264 in sizes XS-L now!

Abercrombie & Fitch Organza Tiered Strapless Mini Dress

Floral prints are sooo darling for spring and summer ceremonies, and this strapless frock keeps things flowy, no matter the season. The three-tiered design is lined underneath for added coverage.

You can shop this $90 dress in solid white, hot pink, or a light pink floral pattern in sizes XXS-XXL now.

BHLDN Leila Stretch Satin Deep-V Mini Dress

This simple mini exhibits a stunning plunging v-neck that points down to a beautifully ruched bustier, flattering the upper half of your bod easily. The bodice is fitted with a small elastic band that moves with you! If this hot pink color breaks the dress code, you can buy it in black or dark green.

This semi-stretchy number is $168 at Anthropologie and is sold in sizes XS-XL.

Free People For The Moment Mini

Everything about this low-key dress is wonderful for a wedding – the abundant (but still chic) coverage, the whimsical a-line skirt, and stylish puff sleeves. All of the details are made from 100% cotton, too, so you won't overheat in the spring + summer heat. The neckline follows a v-shape that'll match well with any hairstyle you go with, up or down.

This breezy $88 number also comes in 8 other colors to suit your next spring/summer wedding. This deep yellow hue is now available in sizes XS-L.

Maeve The Brynne 3-D Spaghetti-Strap Dress

She's an icon. She's a legend. And she is the moment! This short wedding guest dress makes a statement with bold floral graphics that wrap around the front and back. The embroidered sequins that make up the "petals" provide added texture and color that's easy to pull together with a pair of heels or cardigan. This sky blue-lavender dress secures in the back with a sizable zipper.

This $230 dress is perfect for wearing to weddings, spring parties, and picnics. Grab it in sizes 0-16 now!

All in Favor Square Neck Long Sleeve Textured Satin Minidress

This romantic mini dress has tiered elastic bands that accentuate your upper half beautifully. The stretchy sleeves can sit atop your shoulders, or hang down for a cold shoulder look! The stylish square neckline comes complete with an adorable tie in the front.

Available in this peachy champagne color, you'll fall in love with this number for every spring and summer happening. It's currently 40% off, costing just $35 instead of $59. It's sold in sizes S, M, and L.

Zesica Backless Tie Waist Silky Mini Dress

This easy-fitting mini dress is one of our fave short wedding guest dresses because it's comfy and totally cool girl-approved. The smooth, silky fabric (that claims is "not easy to wrinkle") makes every wear zero-fuss and the tie-back detail is undeniably on-trend. More than anything, this flirty frock is versatile, easily dressing up with heels and a sweater or flaunting a more casual look with sneakers and a denim jacket. It's up to you!

This $48 Amazon dress comes in 10 other colors so customizing your 'fit is fairly straightforward. It comes in sizes S-XL.

The A&F Giselle Pleated Mini Dress

This might just be one of the most perfect short wedding guest dresses we've even laid eyes on. Those pleats though! The upper is more form-fitting, flattering your figure with ease. The v-neck feels sultry, but it isn't overly revealing. This dress' straps are adjustable, and the piece zips up in the lower back for security. This lined mini is made from a 100% polyester blend that feels silky to the touch.

You can also get this $77 dress (was $110) in a gorgeous green color. It's sold in sizes XXS-XL and lengths varying from petite to tall now!

Gap Linen-Cotton Puff Sleeve Mini Shirtdress

This short wedding guest dress is classy AF! We adore the longline puff sleeves and button-up design. The tie-around waist definitely gives your figure some definition, too! The skirt hits just above the knee if you're shopping for something more modest. The linen-cotton material ensures easy, breezy comfort in each wear. This dress is unlined, so you might need a slip to wear underneath.

This peachy pick sells for $70 with Gap and also comes in 5 other colors! This springy color is now available in regular sizes XXS-XXL, tall sizes S-XXL, and petite sizes XS-L.

Ann Taylor Polka Dot Flounce Shift Dress

The robin's egg blue color of this polka-dotted shift dress was ​made​ for spring! The crew neck is perfectly appropriate for family-filled occasions (like weddings), plus the skirt falls above the knee for more coverage. The body of this number is lined, whereas the sleeves aren't – this difference really adds to the playful look! The sleeves fall to a wide, retro-inspired fit, and the midsection is fitted with a skinny, stylish tie belt. 

​This Ann Taylor dress is on sale right now for $104 (was $149) and is available in regular sizes 00-18 and petite sizes 00-16.

Free People Marina Mini

This dress is a great fit for any sort of event, but it'll be super cute for spring + summer weddings! This mini is business in the front and a total party in the back – the back half features a unique strappy back that ties into a bow! And though pleated, this look feels as effortless and breezy as can be.

The Marina Mini from Free People also comes in 15 other colorways to suit your personal style. It sells for $88 in sizes XS-XL1

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Mini Dress

Balanced between a snug fit and a flowy flare, this short wedding guest dress from Old Navy prioritizes comfort over anything. The scooped neckline is fairly basic, so it'll suit any body type. The straps adjust to the length of your liking without being too intrusive. Easily pair this pick with heels and a light cardigan, and you're good to go!

On sale for $20 (was $35), this piece is a must-have for seasonal weddings and beyond. Its size range is impeccable, available in sizes XS-4X.

Maeve The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Mini Dress

This mint green mini lives rent-free in our heads. The sweetheart neckline is definitely more sophisticated for fancier weddings, and the cap sleeves are wonderfully femme in lieu of springtime. Additionally, this linen-cotton blend piece flaunts thoughtfully details from the front buttons to the vertical seam work!

This $158 mini from Maeve is shoppable in sizes XXS-XL now.

Madewell Square Neck Linen Minidress

For going somewhere more casual, this Madewell mini dress fits like your fave t-shirt. With a stretchy elastic band that secures the bust, you'll feel super comfy. Plus, the square neckline provides some delightful coverage if you're looking for it! The softness of the linen is truly unmatched and the light blue hue is great for warmer weather.

This $110 dress will last you year after year for any occasion since it's easy to style formally or casually. It's shoppable in sizes 14-24!

Looking for more wedding style content? Scroll our Weddings section and sign up for our newsletter for the latest trends!

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

Lead image via Anthropologie.

This post has been updated.

Christmas cookie decorating is holiday tradition for us here at B+C, so we were so stoked to find this recipe for paleo cookies that adds a healthy twist to this classic holiday dessert. These sweet treats will shine among the rest of your Christmastime tablescape, and they are super easy to make. Plus, they'll pair well with just about any Christmas dessert. Just combine your paleo-friendly ingredients to prep the dough, let it sit overnight, then bake for ten minutes! The best part about this recipe is of course, all of the fun holiday-time shapes you can cut. Consider this recipe your go-to for healthy cookies, though, since you can make them year-round in any shape you like. Let's get to decorating!

Ingredients for Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

For the cookies:

  • 1/2 cup grass-fed salted butter, softened
  • 6 tablespoons raw honey
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the frosting:

  • 6 tablespoons coconut butter or coconut manna
  • 1/4 cup cacao butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey
  • Plant-based food coloring
  • Vegetable-dyed sprinkles, for topping*
* Look for vegetable and fruit-dyed food coloring and sprinkles in natural grocery stores or online, and avoid artificial colors to keep these cookies Paleo friendly!

How to Make Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

  1. Add the softened butter and honey to a large mixing bowl. Cream the mixture together using a handheld mixer until it is smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract and whisk until they are well combined. Pour in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, and continue mixing until the batter has come together smoothly.
  2. Separate the dough into two, and place each one on top of a piece of plastic wrap. Roll each dough into a ball, then flatten to a thick disk, cover completely with the plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one of the dough discs from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic and place the dough on top of a piece of parchment paper, then top it with another piece of parchment paper. Use a roller to flatten out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch thick. Work quickly with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters, and use a thin spatula to lift the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the cookies in the oven for 10 minutes. Let them cool for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack for further cooling. Gather the leftover scraps back into a ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it back in the refrigerator, while working with the other piece of dough. Do this in batches to keep the dough from getting too warm and so you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
  5. While the batches of cookies are baking, use a small saucepan to lightly melt the coconut butter and cacao butter together over low heat on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat when the ingredients have just melted together. Stir in the desired amount of honey, then set aside to cool and thicken up slightly. If you are using food coloring, add in the desired amount into the frosting mixture (1-2 teaspoons of green or red should do the trick). If you plan on only using white frosting, only use a small amount of honey, as it can make the frosting an off-white or light brown color.
  6. After the cookies have completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting and sprinkles as desired. If you don’t have any professional piping tools, an easy fix is to place the frosting in a plastic sandwich bag and remove all the air when sealing the top. Cut a tiny tip off one corner of the plastic bag, then gently squeeze and pipe over the cookies. Use one plastic bag or piping bag for each color of frosting. Top with corresponding sprinkles and enjoy!

Is your mouth watering yet? Check out our newsletter for more delicious holiday recipe ideas!

Recipe development and photography by Sarah Anderson.

Mushrooms act as a wholesome, earthy base for easy, one-bite Christmas appetizers. Once the stems are twisted off, the ‘shrooms can be filed with a host of flavorful toppings like bacon, cheese, and aromatic veggies, then roasted or slow-cooked until bubbly and tender. Start prepping your turkey, because we have irresistible stuffed mushroom recipes below.

Slow-Cooked, Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

Feast your eyes on a stuffed mushroom that’s filled with spinach-artichoke dip. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Brit + Co

If you don't have a ton of time to bake your mushrooms, this is literally the perfect appetizer. It can be served cold, but between the onions, olives, cheese, and tomatoes, there are so many amazing flavors your guests won't even care. (via Brit + Co)

5-Ingredient-Stuffed Mushrooms

A Spicy Perspective

The star ingredient in these Asian-inspired bites is plum sauce, which offsets the savoriness of pork sausage, sesame oil, and mushrooms. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Jalapeño-Cream-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

Peas and Crayons

Looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried jalapeño poppers? These baked bites, which still taste indulgent, fit the bill. (via Peas and Crayons)

Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Real Food Dietitians

These vibrant, slightly spicy ‘shrooms make a flavorful appetizer for a Mexican-inspired meal. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms With Hollandaise

Foodie Crush

These three-cheese hollandaise-drizzled mushrooms are the new brunch attraction in town. (via Foodie Crush)

Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms With Garlic and Gouda

Peas and Crayons

Make a platter of these, and your seafood-lovin’ friends won’t know what hit them. (via Peas and Crayons)

French-Onion-Soup-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Veg Life

These mushrooms pack all of the flavors of French onion soup, including the signature cheesy crust, into one convenient bite. (via The Veg Life)

Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms Wrapped in Bacon

Port and Fin

These cheesy mushrooms are wrapped in a crispy bacon hug. (via Port and Fin)

Spanakopita-Stuffed Mushrooms

Wholesome Yum

Flaky, feta-rich spanakopita is a staple at cocktail parties. Enjoy a low-carb version by replacing the pastry with mushrooms. (via Wholesome Yum)

Easy Pizza Portobello Stuffed Mushrooms

The Girl on Bloor

These stuffed mushrooms are basically just mini pizzas, and what could be better than that? Nothing. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Vegetarian, Italian-Stuffed Mushrooms

Bowl of Delicious

You don’t need meat to give stuffed mushrooms a robust flavor. These get plenty of pizzazz from shallots, garlic, parmesan, and herbs. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Bacon-and-Blue-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms With Creamy Hot Sauce

The Food Charlatan

These saucy bites will be a welcome addition to any spread, be it a game-day party or movie night. (via The Food Charlatan)

Vegan, Pesto-Stuffed Mushrooms

Hummusapien

This guilt-free appetizer gives you a healthy dose of greens from spinach and basil. (via Hummusapien)

Shrimp-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Little Spice Jar

You’ll be transported to a little restaurant by the sea when you take a bite of these mushrooms. The breadcrumbs on top add a crunch that complements the tender shrimp. (via Little Spice Jar)

Italian, Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Chunky Chef

These breakfast-friendly ‘shrooms would make a deliciously unexpected side to sweeter pancakes or French toast. (via The Chunky Chef)

Buffalo-Chicken-Stuffed Mushrooms

My Life Cookbook

Whether or not you’re keto, you’ll find many things to enjoy about these low-carb, high-fat mushrooms like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chicken, and a touch of hot sauce. (via My Life Cookbook)

Goat-Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

Food Fanatic

In this case, stuffed mushrooms are really just an excuse to eat ample bites of gooey goat cheese, and we’re all for it. (via Food Fanatic)

Pizza-Stuffed Mushrooms

Plain Chicken

If you ask us, you can have pizza without crust but never without cheese. Enjoy all the flavors of a meat lover’s pie in these easy, stuffed mushrooms. (via Plain Chicken)

Curry-Potato-Stuffed Mushrooms

The Pretty Bee

Indian flavors, including garam masala and coconut milk, fill these white button mushrooms. (via The Pretty Bee)

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This post has been updated.