We all know that Amazon is amazing for buying everyday essentials, but it’s also a wonderful place to find one-of-a-kind products for the best price. While it might not be the first place you think of to go for unique offerings, Amazon’s Interesting Finds feature is actually a treasure trove of quirky, beautiful, and downright fascinating products that add a little (or a lot) of panache to your home. And they don’t even cost an arm and a leg. Check out some of these incredible and often whimsical products we found for less than $25.
We’re always on the hunt for the best pieces of Gilmore Girls merch, but when I saw the adorable new target fall decor, I IMMEDIATELY started thinking about what Lorelei and Rory would want in 2024. Because I have no doubt that the Gilmore girls would be all over Target today (and would make frequent trips to Hartford just to look around the store). While Rory's aesthetic leans more cozy & classic academia, Lorelai is eclectic & kitschy modern, and Target has plenty of options for this alternate Gilmore Girls reality — and for any GG fan who prefers low-key merch.
Target
Storied Home Resin Pinecone Bookends
My favorite seasonal decor hack is to switch out my year-round pieces for autumnal versions. And Rory would love keeping her books in order with fall bookends! These bronze resin pinecone bookends offer texture, dimension, and richness to any bookshelf.
Target
Stoneware I Woof You Mug
In honor of Paul Anka, I had to include a mug honoring Woman's Best Friend. Lorelai is the ultimate dog mom, and wouldn't be able to say no to this microwave- and dishwasher-safe design. Especially since it's only $7!
Target
Harvest Fall Leaves Gnome Figurine
Speaking of things Lorelai definitely wouldn't be able to say no to, she would jump at the chance to buy this gnome. While it'd make sense to give it to Babette, I could also see Lorelai keeping it in her home, but moving it to a different location every time Luke or Emily visits.
Target
Wood Ghost Sign Halloween Decorative Sculpture
Stars Hollow's Halloween celebrations strike a balance between spooky and spoofy (and they're never outright horrifying). This cutesy ghost is perfect because it's lightweight AND you can display it with an easel or a cord loop. Talk about versatile!
Target
Ceramic Teal Jack-o-Lantern Face Pumpkin
When it comes to pumpkins and Jack-o-Lanterns, I'm convinced Lorelai would opt for something colorful and goofy like this 5-inch teal pumpkin. The frosted detail also reminds me of snow, which would make Lorelai SO happy.
Target
Medium Glass Pumpkin Figurine
Rory would choose a variety of glass pumpkins in different colors, heights, and shapes! I love how this champagne pumpkin adds the right amount of autumn vibes without overpowering the rest of the decor.
Target
Magnolia and Olive Artificial Wreath
Wreaths aren't just for the holidays! A fall wreath gives the same amount of cozy vibes that every Gilmore Girls episode gives us, and the green + brown leaf combo means it'll go with cool-toned and warm-toned decor palettes! Plus, I know for a fact Emily would love the bow.
Target
Stoneware Salt Cellar
There’s something chic and autumnal about farmhouse decor, which target has PLENTY of. Grabbing a salt cellar that says “salt” on it is exactly the kind of thing Lorelai would buy just because it confuses Luke. This item is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning!
Target
Raised Striped Chunky Knit Throw Blanket
For all those pizza nights with The Donna Reed Show, Lorelai and Rory would absolutely need a nice blanket or two to curl up with. I think Lorelai would totally opt for something comfortable that’s also bright and colorful.
Target
Velvet Oval Shaped Throw Pillow with Tufted Center
And a simple pillow with an interesting shape and interesting fabric? The Gilmore girls would want one for every room!
Target
Preserved Fall Floral Cloche Artificial Grass
As someone who loves scale models and terrariums I'm obsessed with this fall floral cloche! It's so colorful and textured, and it has a sort of controlled chaos that Rory would love. It'll look beautiful on a bedroom shelf or on top of a stack of classic books.
Target
Flower Print Framed Dorm Wall Art
Not a huge fan of the amber-rust-gold fall color palette? If you prefer to march to the beat of your own drum (just like Lorelai!), add a splash of color to your space with an unconventional artwork choice. Who says pink isn't a fall color?
Which pieces of Target fall decor do you think are the most Gilmore Girls coded? Check out These Under-$10 Target Fall Decor Finds Are Shockingly Cute for more!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via Target
Before my sister announced she was pregnant again, I kept thinking about the process of giving birth and recovery. It seemed like it was such an odd thing to fixate on given my strong stance on waiting to TTC (try to conceive) until my son turns 5, but I guess I could sense someone close to me was expecting. That's not even the part that freaked me out though.
When my sister shared she's having a C-Section, I couldn't help but research recovery tips for this major procedure — I wanted to know how to help her heal. And I wanted other moms to know what they can do to help themselves, too! I reached out to Dr. Jillian LoPiano, OBGYN and Chief Health Officer at Wisp, to understand everything you need to know about C-Sections and how to recover from one!
What factors determine if someone will need a C-Section?
While some moms have vaginal deliveries and others go on to receive C-sections, it's important to know that one isn't 'better' than the other — all births are valuable and valid. The only question that matters in this case is, "What determines if someone needs a C-Section or not?"
"There are a number of maternal fetal factors both in the perinatal period and during labor that can cause a provider to recommend a C-Section. Common indications are baby position (such as breech position) or placental abnormalities are common indications," says Dr. LoPiano.
These abnormalities can be:
- Placenta Previa
- Placenta Accreta
- Placenta Increta
- Placenta Percreta
What resources do patients need before their C-Section?
No question is too silly to ask your doctor, but Dr. LoPiano says you should receive all the information you need regardless of the delivery method.
"If a CS [C-Section] is planned, or there is a known indication for this mode of delivery, then this would be discussed during prenatal care and at hospital admission," she adds.
From their your provider will go over the "surgery, indications, risks, benefits and alternatives through the process of informed consent." This is usually when you'll also receive recovery tips and what else you should expect.
What can patients and their support partners expect the day of a C-Section?
Even if you've watched every episode Grey's Anatomy or House, you may not know all the ins-and-outs of having a C-Section. To be clear, Dr. LoPiano says that delivering via a Cesarean means you'll be having "abdominal surgery" that's "performed in an operating room."
'If it is a planned procedure, the patient will arrive and be prepped for surgery with an IV, neuraxial anesthesia placement, and preoperative medications and fluids. The support partner can expect a briefing on the surgery and under most circumstances is allowed in the OR after anesthesia is deemed in place and adequate with mom and baby stable," she says.
For anyone who's not aware, what occurs during a C-Section?
Unless you've watched demonstrations on YouTube, you could be clueless about how C-Sections are actually performed. Dr. LoPiano says, "An incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen and carried through to the uterus. An incision is then made in the uterus to deliver the baby and the placenta is delivered. The uterus is repaired and then each layer of the abdomen is closed in succession."
In other terms, there are literal layers to a C-Section, which is why it's considered a major surgery.
Are moms required to stay in the hospital longer after having this procedure?
I had the option of staying another 24 hours in the hospital after a vaginal birth, but I chose to leave after just one day left the hospital just one day — I was ready to sleep comfortably in my own bed. However, C-Sections have a little bit of a different timeline!
Dr. LoPiano explains, "In general uncomplicated vaginal deliveries are discharged home the next day or the day after. C-Sections are generally discharged on postoperative day 2 or 3 depending on mom and baby’s clinical scenarios."
How long does it take to recover from this procedure?
Postpartum recovery looks different for everyone, but the rules are a little different after you've had a C-Section. "Since it is abdominal surgery, no lifting beyond 5 pounds is recommended along with no exercise beyond walking for 6 weeks in order to allow all of the layers of the abdomen that were repaired to heal," says Dr. LoPiano.
This isn't the time to be superwoman and force yourself to get back to 'normal.' Even something like "returning to work or exercise after 6 weeks" should be taken at a pace you're comfortable with, according to Dr. LoPiano.
"However, this is strictly from a surgical standpoint. There are many factors that go into postpartum or 'fourth trimester' wellness that need to be addressed and most providers and advocates advocate for longer family leave for this reason," she says.
How can a mom's support village help her as she recovers?
I will probably scream this from the mountaintops forever, but moms need as much support as they can get during postpartum. Not only is their body physically healing, but there's the drop in hormones that they have to deal with while learning to care for a newborn. Some things are instinctual, but that doesn't mean a mom should have to figure things out by herself. This mirrors what Dr. LoPiano says about the recovery period.
"It is important that a mom’s 'support village' helps her along the way with physical and mental recovery from the surgery. Physical support can include incision care, helping take over physical tasks like carrying heavy items, massages, etc. In terms of mental support, encouraging bed rest and relaxation, treating mom to things she likes, and more [is essential]."
What's considered normal vs. concerning while a mom is recovering from a C-Section?
Even if a mom doesn't have a vaginal birth, she will still experience some bleeding. "The mother can expect bleeding from the vagina for up to 6 weeks, with it slowly becoming less over that course of time," Dr. LoPiano assures. But if you're experiencing excessive pain and bleeding, you should consult your OBGYN as soon as possible.
The other things she says are concerning are "fever, headache, blurry vision, chest pain, shortness of breath and other clinical parameters." She notes that these are usually explained to the mom as she's leaving the hospital because they serve as "red flags for complications reasons to return."
I encourage you to reach out to your OBGYN or primary care physician if you still have questions about C-sections and what you can expect. Creating a birth plan to understand and prepare yourself for what's to come is a great way to help get you ready for this next, very exciting chapter!
We also have tons of advice about foods to avoid eating when you're pregnant, hiring a doula and breastfeeding!
Header image Sarah Chai
You can't deny it: One of the most fun parts of having kids is dressing them up in adorable Halloween costumes, like a baby Dory or a roly-poly BB-8. Even if you don't have a big brood, don't fret! There are plenty of creative ways for you and your fam to play dress up, even if you're pregnant and need an easy maternity costume. Keep scrolling forover 60 fabulous family costumes for you and your entire family to rock, no matter what Halloween looks like this year.
Max and a Wild Thing Costumes
Image via Brit + Co
Let the wild rumpus start with this ferociously adorable costume. Your little Max will be regal in the cutest way possible.
Mufasa and Simba Costumes
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“Remember who you are. You are my son and the one true king.”
Queen Bee[oncé] and Blue Ivy Costumes
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Go for a punny pop culture costume with this playful look at the Queen and her kin.
Edward Scissorhands
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This year, we’re really digging this mommy and me version of Edward Scissorhands and the dinosaur bush. ‘Cause cuteness overload.
Beetlejuice Costumes
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Easily our favorite costume and the most effortless one to put together thanks to our Halloween BFF, Amazon Prime.
Grease Costumes
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The matching red Converse are a must, and you can wear them all year long!
Family of Trolls Costumes
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Bring *all* the good luck with your very own team of trolls!
The Labyrinth Family Halloween Costume
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ICYMI, David Bowie was in a fantastical movie in the ‘80s and you need to see it ASAP. It’s creepy, strange, and beautiful all at the same time. Kind of like these costumes.
Lightning and Thunder Costumes
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This mommy and me costume is elemental, to say the least. We love the cotton ball cloud effect too!
Big Bird and Elmo Costumes
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Real talk: Who has time to make more than one costume? It’s okay because your mini will lose their minds when they see the life-like Elmo ‘fit in person! Totally worth it.
Ewok Family Halloween Costume Idea
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Are there cuter creatures than the Ewoks from Star Wars?! We think not.
Finding Dory Costumes
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Dress the whole fam in your fave marine creature cast! Dory, Hank, and Nemo FTW!
Paint Brush and Paint Palette Costumes
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Live your most creative life when you and your babe match in these adorbs DIY costumes. Now it’s time to paint the town red!
Frida Kahlo Costumes
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Of course Frida’s signature unibrow is an essential part of pulling off this look — for both mommy *and* bb.
The Princess Bride Costumes
Image Brit + Co
Dress your littlest one as Inigo Montoya, Fezzik, Vizzini, or our personal fave pictured above — a R.O.U.S. (rodent of unusual size).
Aladdin Costumes
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Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, and Abu the monkey. Can you think of a cuter family trio?
Futuristic Family Costumes
Image via Tell Love and Party
Here’s one family’s take on what the future holds for us. They’re way more stylish than The Jetsons.
Princess Peach and Toad Costumes
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Pay homage to your favorite childhood video game and dress up as the original royal princess, complete with a tiny toad companion. It’s also the perfect excuse to try on the most outrageous princess dress you can find.
Cat in the Hat and Goldfish Costumes
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This goldfish is completely DIY while the Cat in the Hat costume can be purchased online. The perfect balance of buy and DIY.
A Family of Circus Snacks Costumes
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Who doesn’t love the sugar-filled snacks at the circus?!
Cop and Donut Costumes
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These two pieces are easy to find at most costume stores or on Amazon if you don’t have time for a shopping trip. Finish the whole look off with a very stern donut-loving look and you’re good to go.
Katy Perry and Her Sharks Costumes
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Katy Perry and her dancing blue sharks have to be one of our favorite pop culture memories of all time.
Toy Story Family Halloween Costumes
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This is the perfect family costume for a family of any size since there are endless characters to choose from.
Usher and Bucket of Popcorn Costume with Baby
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The usher look is simple and a great last-minute costume — black skirt, white button-down, and bowtie. For the popcorn, grab your baby carrier and a handful of safety pins. That’s right — this is a totally temporary piece!
The Three Stooges Costumes
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Larry, Curly, and Moe won many hearts throughout the mid-20th century. This goofy trio makes for the perfect (read: easy) kooky family costume. Get your giggles ready and pull out every suit piece you own to create these outfits.
The Incredibles Costumes
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Not only is this one easy, but it’s also perfect for all those Pixar fans (hello, everyone). There’s nothing quite like a superhero family united in the service of justice.
Russian Nesting Dolls Costumes
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A group of Russian nesting dolls is the perfect group Halloween costume for families of all sizes. The key is to dress every member of the family the same and include a piece with an intricate pattern.
Ariel + Sebastian Costumes
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If you’re looking for a night full of undersea adventures, treasures, and dinglehoppers, this costume will definitely do the trick. Your little crab’s costume is as easy as a red onesie, a red headband, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes.
Princess Leia and an Ewok Costumes
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This mommy and kiddo Star Wars costume is so good we’d rock it year-round.
Top Gun Costumes
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Maverick? Check. Iceman? Yep. Goose? Obvs this little goose makes the perfect Anthony Edwards. Grab your aviators and get ready to teach your mini-me to fly.
Curious George and the Woman in the Yellow Hat Costumes
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That monkey suit? COME ON. It’s too good.
Saved By The Bell Costumes
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’90s lovers, it’s time to introduce your little ones to everything magical about this nostalgic TV show. Mom jeans, leftover ’80s hair, and really large cordless phones. (via Brit + Co)Sriracha and Taco Costumes
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This one is a show-stopper! The trendy hot sauce can finally give you an excuse to turn your mini into a teeny tiny taco!
Rainbow and Sunshine Costumes
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Any mama can attest to this — what better way to honor your little sunshine than by pairing up as your mini’s rainbow?!
A Family of Frappes Costumes
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These days we can all agree that Starbucks is pretty much a part of most family traditions. Recreate everyone’s favorite Starbucks drinks as a group Halloween costume!
Back To The Future Costumes
Image via Costume-Works
There’s no cuter Halloween trio than this loving tribute to Back to the Future.
Alice In Wonderland Costumes
Image via Say Yes
Fall down the rabbit hole this Halloween and hit the town with a pint-sized Red Queen. Scour your local thrift store for a blue skirt and white blouse and put your own spin on the lovely Alice.
Jurassic Park Costumes
Image viaCupcakes and Cashmere
You and your S.O. can undoubtedly pull the necessary rugged clothes right from your closets, and all that’s left is finding your little one some sort of dino gear. We do love the half-hatched look, but if you’re out of time or are dealing with a cranky kiddo, just throw on their fave dino PJs.
Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Costume for Family of 4
Image via A Beautiful Mess
Harness that rebellious spirit as a whole family this Halloween. All you’ll need are some PJs, cardboard swords, and a Pan getup.
Royal Family Costumes
Image via Say Yes
Channel your inner royal with this adorable, yet sophisticated, family costume. Even if you don’t have this exact getup, a few key pieces will make you easily recognizable — like the fascinator and blue knee socks. Prince William not required (but always welcome)!
Where’s Waldo? Costumes
Image via Lovely Indeed
Pull out all of those striped shirts in your closet and pile on your wackiest accessories. Anything goes with these Waldo costumes.
Monster Family Costumes
Image viaTell Love and Party
Take a little inspiration from the famous Munsters this All Hallows’ Eve. We’re sure your little mummy and bat will approve.
Disney Tourist Costumes
Image via Say Yes
Okay, this one might be a little confusing to the kiddos, but just tell them you are practicing for that trip later this year.
Star Wars Halloween Costume for Family of 3
Image via Say Yes
The force is strong with this family costume. Bonus points if you turn your dog into Yoda.
Circus Family Costumes
Image via Tell Love and Party
Everything about this costume just screams cuteness. We can’t decide which we like better: the cute lion or the strong little man.
The Emperor’s New Groove Costumes
Image via Say Yes
If you haven’t seen this gem of a movie, it’s time. Once you’ve watched it we guarantee you’ll want to outfit the whole fam for Halloween.
Lawn Flamingo and Cactus Costumes
Image via Studio DIY
Even if you’re not Palm Springs-bound, we think this desert-inspired duo is just the mama and baby costume to win that contest.
Dominos Halloween Costume for Family of 5
Image via The Merrythought
Rather than just playing bones, why not be the bones?!
Care Bears Costumes
Image via See Vanessa Craft
Perfect for busy moms and dads, this tutorial is even no-sew, so you won't be up all night before trick-or-treating. Plus, a family in matching sweatsuits is a sight to behold.
Share your family Halloween costumes with us @BritandCo and join our newsletter for more creative ideas and inspiration.
This article has been updated.
Header image via Brit + Co
Knowing when a relationship should end is incredibly challenging, especially if you saw a long-lasting, beautiful future with that person. However, stepping out of a situation that's not right for you can be incredibly empowering, as you're taking the first step to embracing the life you want for yourself. In today's Ask An Astrologist column, one Scorpio wants to know if — and how — she should break free from a long-term relationship that's not giving her what she needs. Read more to learn how our favorite astrologist, Lumi Pelinku, suggests she finally cut the cord!
Dear Lumi: Here is my challenge: I have been with a man for ten years — someone I have deeply loved and to whom I tied all my hopes and dreams. Yet, he has shown me that my hopes and dreams will never come true with him. He proposed and then changed his mind. I wanted to start a family, but he had a nervous breakdown instead. While he wants to stay together, we are only great companions, which has been a real challenge for the past three years. The fear of never having what I want if I leave overwhelms me. So, the question is: should I stay or should I go?
-Nicole, Brooklyn, NY
Dear Nicole: A woman who knows what she wants from the start, but doesn't see those promises fulfilled often falls into a repeating pattern. Love evolves, but the mind and body can play tricks if you're not aligned with your soul's desires. Observe how much energy you have left after waiting for him to change. How much effort are you putting into making him happy? As a holistic synergy coach, I see that you have given him your mind, body, and soul, yet he hasn’t delivered on his promises of family or commitment. If you’re ready to break ties, you must believe another person can grant your wishes. The Universe reflects what we embody and experience. Patterns of disappointment and false security will persist if your partner remains stuck in his reality. This situation might work for him, but is it working for you?
Your Scorpio Sun signifies a path of regeneration and self-empowerment. Your role is to rise above outdated patterns and align with your true vision. Scorpios are on a quest to confront and transform the sources of their struggles. We all create our destinies, but when we cling to wishing for someone or something to change, it won’t unless we take action. Having strong Scorpio energy in your chart, I’ve been where you are. I faced similar fears in my marriage. I realized over time that my partner wouldn’t change, and staying made me feel depleted and cut off from abundance. I feared the grief of ending the relationship, which felt like facing death. Yet, from the other side of that grief, I can tell you that you’ll emerge restored and vibrant, like a phoenix rising from the ashes. As a Pisces Sun, I can attest that leaving was incredibly hard, but I’m grateful for it.
With your Pisces rising, you have the tools to adapt to life's changes. You’re spiritually gifted and connected, and you will become stronger as you align with your intuition. Your Leo Moon gives you the fire to attract incredible opportunities or, conversely, fall into recurring patterns. Embrace your worth, and know you deserve a love story that nurtures your well-being.
Your chart’s blend of water and fire shows powerful manifestation abilities. Believe you can attract an amazing partner, but focus on clearing your energy and moving forward. Looking back should only help you avoid repeating past mistakes. If you decide to leave, commit to moving forward without second-guessing. Breaking free will allow you to attract the life and love you truly desire. For you, as a Scorpio Sun, this is an essential rite of passage. Once you move through it, you’ll be amazed at the magic that awaits you.
With Love and Stars,
Lumi
How To Cord-Cut In Relationships
1. Prepare: Close your eyes and enter a meditative state. Ground yourself by feeling connected to the Earth and center your energy by focusing on your breath.
2. Identify Cords: With your energy senses active, scan your aura to find toxic cords of attachment. Gently trace each cord to see what it's connected to — people, places, objects, beliefs, or past experiences.
3. Cut the Cords: Visualize your dominant hand as an energetic knife. Spread your fingers and move your hand through each cord to sever it. As you do this, say silently or aloud, "I completely release you from my life." Breathe deeply between cuts to stay centered.
4. Send Thanks: After cutting all the cords, sit quietly for a few minutes. Send gratitude and love to what you've released, acknowledging their role in your growth.
5. Finalize: Conclude the meditation and take a shower to cleanse and ground your energy.
Join Lumi live on September 15th for an insightful astrology event held remotely! She will dive into the Lunar Eclipse's impact on each zodiac sign and experience a live sound bowl healing session to help you realign and recharge. Don't miss this chance to connect with the cosmos and yourself. Click this link to learn more!
Looking for more astrological advice? Be sure to submit a question to Lumi here!
Header image via Cora Pursley
The holidays are about spending time with your loved ones and eating a ton of good food. And apparently it's also time for breakups. In Max's new movie, Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga play two best friends trying to navigate friendship, relationships, and adulthood during their first year at college. When they make a pact to break up with their significant others, they wind up having one of the most chaotic nights of their lives, presumably on Drunksgiving (when people party the Wednesday before Thanksgiving).
It's unclear whether this movie will wind up on our list of favorite friends-to-loversstories, or if the relationship between Shipka and Hiraga's characters will stay platonic. Either way, we don't get many Thanksgiving-themed movies, and I'll take every one we can get! Here's everything you need to know about Sweethearts, on Max this fall.
What is Sweethearts about?
Max
Sweethearts Plot
Kiernan Shipka and Nico Hiraga play two best friends who are trying to nagviate friendship, relationships, and adulthood during their first year at college. When they return home for Thanksgiving break, and agree to break up with their high school sweethearts before classes start back up, a chaotic night out ends up putting their friendship to the ultimate test.
When is Sweethearts coming out?
Max
Sweethearts Release Date
Sweethearts is premiering on Max Thursday, November 28, which also happens to be Thanksgiving! We'll start perfecting our mashed potatoes, gravy, and cranberry sauce now.
Who's in the cast of Sweethearts?
Max
Sweethearts Cast
The cast of Sweethearts includes Kiernan Shipka, Nico Hiraga, Caleb Hearon, Tramell Tillman, Ava Demary, Charlie Hall, Joel Kim Booster, and Christine Taylor.
Do you hope Sweethearts turns into a friends-to-lovers story? Or that Max keeps it strictly platonic? Let us know on Instagram! And while we're on the topic of Thanksgiving, check out 21 Easy Thanksgiving Finger Food Recipes you can make this fall. ;)
Lead image via Max