12 Wild Wedges for Hot Summer Weddings

When summer wedding season rolls around, we happily welcome a touch of informality on the nuptials circuit. Enter the wedge, a form of heel that continues to be a mainstay of fashionable footwear. Don wedges under a flowing maxi dress, rock the flatform as a statement shoe with an almost-so-short-it’s-scandalous cocktail dress or bring out the standby espadrilles for a stylish sundress. However you wear ’em, you’re probably in need of a refresh. Here are a dozen of the newest, hottest, most colorful wedges for all those summer weddings.

1. Carvela Kulprit Wedge Sandals ($210): We’ll kick things off with a classic… with a twist. This sleek black wedge is made a bit more interesting with the addition of a gold belt or purse-style buckle. We dig it.

2. Holly Low Wedge Sandal ($90): For a more subtle look, these nude wedges have just the right amount of pop with that white toe strap.

3. ASOS Hansel Wedges ($76): Whoa nelly! These are totally crazy, but would make for a great reveal at the foot of an unsuspecting maxi.

4. Allegra Sandal ($195): This color blocked pair might be our favorite of the bunch. It’s those punches of color that add a bit of dazzle to what could otherwise be seen as a clunky shoe.

5. Amelia Avery Platform Wedge Sandal ($120): How awesome is the pattern on the bottom of these? Love the idea of pairing this with a solid colored dress.

6. Melissa Patchouli Wedge Pumps ($145): We heart Melissa so hard! This pair of pumps take a cue from heel-maker extraordinaire Christian Louboutin with their crimson sole.

7. ALDO Helonse Strap Wedge Heeled Sandals ($100): Bold, blue and a crazy cool combination of platform and wedge.

8. Springs Wedge Sandal ($60): This classic t-strap Mary Jane remix is one of those shoes that you can wear for almost any occasion in any season.

9. Savannah Wedge Sandal ($168): Tory Burch certainly knows how to do the not-quite-flat. We love the petite cork heel against the deep teal suede material.

10. Red Driving Force Wedges ($76): Rawr! These killer heels definitely make a statement.

11. ASOS JUMBLE Flatforms ($53): Behold the flatform!

12. Splendid Berlin Ankle Strap Wedges ($128): The stacked wooden heel on this shoe is what sets them apart, and that bright coral patent leather strap seals the style deal.

Bonus! Privileged Disco Nights Platform ($115): And finally, a super ridiculous bonus pair for your enjoyment. Bookmark these and wait eagerly for an excuse to buy them ;)

One of the many difficult things about having a COVID wedding was that I didn't get to fully enjoy being engaged. Not that I didn't enjoy it by any means, but I didn't get to do the typical "bridal" events that most people got to do since everyone and everything was on lockdown. No extreme Bachelorette trip, no huge showers, and definitely not a big reception with a bunch of friends.

As a fashion lover, this means I didn't get to wear a million all-white outfits and make being engaged my whole personality — like I would at this point in my life. With that being said, I can't help but see how many amazing bridal pieces are out there on the market...and it's making me wanna get married (to my husband) all over again. Since I can't, here are all the bridal outfits pieces that I can't get enough of right now. From bridal shoes to bachelorette looks, these are the pieces I've got my eye on!

Bridal Dresses

Reformation

Reformation Pike Satin Dress

This dress is sleek, chic, and so perfect for fall and winter wedding vibes. Whether you're going out on a classy dinner with your girlfriends on a bachelorette trip, or you're getting ready for the toast at your rehearsal dinner, I love this satin bridal look! It's honestly the definition of "simplicity is elegance"!

Anthropologie

BHLDN Pearl Drop-Waist Mini Dress

Maybe I'm biased because BHLDN is where I got my wedding dress, but they truly have some of the most classy and fun options out there that also aren't exorbitant in price. This dress is under $500, and would make for the perfect Bachelorette party dress! It's chic, on-trend, and so fun with the short, tulle skirt and pearl detailing.

Nordstrom

Lilysilk The Vivi Knit Dress

Coworkers throwing you a bridal shower? This demure little number is perfect for those more modest bridal moments. You still get a fun, flirty, off-the-shoulder moment, but the tea length skirt adds a buttoned-up vibe that's perfectly appropriate. While this looks great with a pair of strappy heels, I could also see this knit number looking amazing with some tall brown boots in the fall!

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Off-The-Shoulder Long-Sleeve Mini Dress

Having an intimate courthouse elopement? Looking for a lowkey afterparty dress? Whatever the occasion, this Abercrombie option fits the bill! I love the elegant off-the-shoulder sleeves — it gives you a great way to show off your jewelry. Plus, the mini dress will let you dance all night long to celebrate your officiated love!

Dôen

Dôen Jessica Dress

This dress is that is giving vintage bridal in a unique, not-so-typical way. The contrasting black lace juxtaposes the white really well, and makes it less overtly bridal, so you can definitely wear it again! Add a vintage satin drawstring bag to really go with the throwback look!

Dôen

Dôen Donetta Dress

The bridal dress of my dreams! It reaches all of the categories you could want: midi, silk, and has a beautiful bridal bow! Can't you just imagine this with a fur coat overtop for the fall and winter?! It would be truly heavenly. Wear this one for an intimate bridal event, or even a rehearsal dinner.

Nordstrom

Reformation X Kacey Musgraves Dress

Kacey Musgraves just gets it. Her collab with Reformation was absolutely amazing, and when I saw this dress I immediately knew it would be perfect for anything bridal related. From the puff sleeves, to the lace, to the bows on the sides — it's perfection! I could 100% see this one looking incredible as a courthouse wedding option!

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Sequin Squareneck Mini Dress

Having a GNO to celebrate your upcoming nuptials? This sequin mini dress is the perfect way to say, "Buy me a shot — I'm getting married." Whether you're having a summer soiree or a winter night on the town, it's versatile enough to match all of your bachelorette party needs!

Nordstrom

House of CB Mesh Dress

If you're wanting a sexier option for a Bachelorette dress then this one is definitely for you! It has a more form-fitting cut with the mesh fabric and corseted bodice. Honestly, this is a 10/10 for me — I just know it's gonna look so good as we head into the fall and winter seasons!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Dress

She's chic, she's beauty, and she's grace. I love the elevated and luxurious look of this bridal outfit — AND, it's on sale! To say I'm obsessed would be an understatement. This dress with a dainty clutch and slingback heel would be perfection for a reception dress!

Reformation

Reformation Tetty Dress

Can I get a little commotion for the dress? This Reformation mini will have you ending your reception with a bang! The long, mesh sleeves paired with the feathered bottom makes for SUCH a fun afterparty bridal outfit! Plus, you won't have to worry about sweating too much on the dance floor with the mini skirt and the lighter sleeves. Win-win!

Dynamite

Dynamite Clothing Tweed Dress

I'm convinced every bride needs a tweed, mini dress for bridal season — they go well for so many different occasions. I even own one right now just because I find them so cute and wearable. For this dress, I would style with ballet flats, and a sweater over the shoulders for very French look! I can totally picture this at your bridal shower brunch where all your mom's BFFs can't stop complimenting you!

Reformation

Reformation Fitz Two Piece

This is casual piece that makes you want to be a bride for just a bit longer... If I were to get married again, then this would be high up on my list since it's a two piece. You can wear it separately or together to really embrace the whole "white" and "bridal" theme no matter the setting!

Reformation

Reformation Jeany Silk Dress

Another great contender for a rehearsal dinner or reception dress from Reformation! This pairing with the fur coat and mesh, black heels is divine! It' giving the most wonderful White Christmas vibes that would be so ideal with anyone having a winter wedding. Grab this chic, classy bridal outfit ASAP!

Bridal Accessories

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Lucy Satin Pearl Bag

I love, love, love this bag. I haven't seen a purse scream "bridal" more than this! It would make for the most amazing day-of bag, or simply your bag to carry for any bridal occasion. Plus, for $110 that's a fairly good deal for how much wear you'll get out of it.

Cuyana

Cuyana Mini Bow Bag

Looking for something a little less showy as the pearl option? I love this understated option from Cuyana! The bow top and gold chain combo are so gorgeous together! Plus, pebbled Italian leather is gonna last you way longer than you big day!

Reformation

Reformation Natasha Heels

For any bridal events, I would opt for these heels, because they are simple, clean-cute, super bridal, and very easy to wear with almost any outfit option! They are so reminiscent of 90s vintage heels that I'm constantly searching for on Ebay. I might purchase these just for a good date-night heel.

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Reyes Mary Jane

Looking for some flats to pair with your bridal outfits? These Dolce Vitas are perfection! The square toe and Mary Jane style are so on-trend! Plus, the profile is simple enough to go with just about every look you could throw together!

Anthropologie

ViBi VENEZiA Bow Mary Janes

These bow mary janes seem very bridal to me, and they get bonus points for also being great for daily wear too! They're super comfortable, and give the bridal touch with the bows. And guess what?! They can count as you're "something blue"!

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

Last night I realized I was pregnant during the height of the pandemic and the 2020 election cycle, but I didn't have any self-care practices in sight. I was chronically stressed and spent way too much time on social media when I should've been finding ways to ground myself. After a tough four years of navigating everything from motherhood to starting my career, I've finally started utilizing gratitude journaling as a tool to get through tough days.

I don't know how you may be feeling today, but I've created journal prompts you can refer to when you're scared, anxious, unsure of the future, and more. They're not meant to replace meditation or seeking therapy, but they are here for moments you need to check in with yourself.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Worried About The Future

Arina Krasnikova

Write Down 5 Things You're Grateful You Can See, Touch, Hear, And Smell

This is actually a practice I picked up in therapy to help redirect my anxious thoughts. It's something I often refer to when I'm fixated on the future and things that might happen. Any time you feel yourself not being present because you're worried about what's next, focus on things that are immediately in front of you or around you.

For example, here's what's reminding me to be present:

  • I can hear one of my favorite gospel songs playing and the subtle humming I'm doing.
  • I can see two lime green books on my desk.
  • I can smell the clean laundry my fiancé took out of the dryer.
  • I'm touching the keys on my keyboard as I type this.
Although they seem small, I'm grateful they're helping to keep me rooted in the present moment. So, what are you grateful you can see, touch, hear, and smell today?

Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You're Experiencing Sadness

Darina Belonogova

Write Down 3 Things You're Grateful For Today

Practicing gratitude when you're sad isn't so you can pretend the sadness doesn't exist. It's a very real emotion that calls for us to be curious about why we're feeling that way. However, if you feel like you're 'stuck' in your sadness, you can try writing down 3 things you're grateful for right now. Again, they don't have to be grandiose. They just have to make sense to you.

You could be grateful for:

  • Eating a delicious meal
  • Having a good night's sleep
  • Hearing your favorite song at the right moment
  • Morning snuggles with your pet or toddler
  • Having access to binge watch your favorite TV show when you need to escape reality for a bit

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down The People You're Grateful You Can Rely On

My hope is that everyone has at least one person they can rely on during difficult moments in life. I know everyone doesn't have huge villages for different reasons, but I'd rather focus on who is there.

This gratitude journaling idea doesn't require you to go in depth about why you're grateful for the people in your corner unless you want to. You can simply write their names down if that's all you have the bandwidth for.

Pavel Danilyuk

Recount A Memory That Always Makes You Smile

When in doubt, think about a moment that was hilarious or filled you with joy. It can be from your childhood, first year in college, or even your wedding day! The one memory that always makes me smile is from an interesting moment I told one of my uncles he looked like Santa Claus. I was around 5 or 6 years old, so it was a super innocent comment, but still it was hilarious nonetheless. No one in my family has let my uncle or me forget that moment. It's small, but it's one of the memories I'm grateful I can remember when I'm feeling sad.

A Gratitude Journaling Idea For When You Feel You're Not Doing Enough

Antoni Shkraba

Write Down 1 Thing You've Grateful You've Accomplished

I know some journal prompts ask you to list multiple things you've recently accomplished, but I've found that makes me a little more anxious that necessary. If this sounds like you, I see you and think it's just as impactful to be grateful for one thing you've done that you're proud of. It could be as simple as:

  • "I had the strength to get out of bed today after wanting to do nothing more than hide under the covers."
  • "I did laundry and put everything away."
  • "I made myself a meal instead of ordering lunch like I usually do."
  • "I stuck to my budget this week."
  • "My presentation at work or school went really well."
  • "I made that scary phone call I've been putting off."
  • "I went for a walk around my neighborhood or local park."

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The search for the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress is such an exciting journey. You want your final dress to be elegant, stylish, and sentimental, too! As the proud mother, you deserve to shine just as brightly as the bride herself, and finding a dress that reflects your personality (but also complements the wedding's theme) is key.

Whether you’re aiming for a mother-of-the-bride dress that's more traditional, modern, or a blend of both, we've got you covered with these 10 stunning styles that'll make you feel confident and beautiful on your daughter's special day.

Azazie A-Line Pleated Mikado Floor-Length Dress

This gorgeous $169 gown is totally wedding appropriate and oh-so elegant. It boasts a skirt that lands at floor length, a unique asymmetrical neckline, and a long leg slit all in a soft, non-stretchy material that feels just as great as it looks. The rich grape purple color will make you feel stunning! This dress zips up conveniently in the back.

Baltic Born Arianna Maxi Dress

You get the best of both worlds with this affordable (just $68!) MOTB dress. While the long sleeves have a good amount of coverage, the flattering v-neck and high leg slit allow you to show more skin. This flowy red number is made from a super soft and stretchy fabric, and has smocked detailing around the waistline to give your body definition.

Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Sequin Trumpet Gown

This dress just screams elegance! It's as sequined and stunning as can be. The long skirt flaunts a slight, sweeping train while the neckline is fairly no-frills. This neutral pick ($598) is fully lined for maximum all-day comfort.

Dessy Collection One-Shoulder Satin Gown

The knotted design on this $261 gown draws visual interest and flatters your figure beyond compare. The trendy one-shoulder look will also make you stand out without overshadowing the bride's get-up. This design includes a long maxi hem that grazes the floor. It's fitted around the bodice and slightly flares out past the waist, but isn't quite a traditional a-line silhouette.

David's Bridal Studio Cap Sleeve Allover Sequin Sheath Dress

Want to be drenched in shiny sequins? This is the dress for you. It has cap sleeves, an open back, and a sultry leg slit that lets you step and move with ease. Additionally, the fabric has some stretch to it and secures in the back with a discreet zipper. This pick is available on sale for 60 (was $200).

La Femme Off The Shoulder Trumpet Gown

This $328 dress is all about showing some skin – not a bad thing for a wedding, as long as it's done tastefully! This elegant off-the-shoulder design is crafted from a satin-y fabric, so it has some shine to it. It's most fitted around the bust and tummy before falling to a full-length trumpet skirt.

Mac Duggal Beaded Stripe Mesh A-Line Gown

These playful see-through mesh sleeves are everything. The stripes (along with some pretty glamorous sequins) also play a role in shaping your final MOTB look! This long dress ($598) is gathered around an empire waist to elongate your figure further.

Alfred Sung One-Shoulder A-Line Gown

This a-line skirt on this $239 dress gives your look much-needed breathing and moving room. It has a more polished look, thanks to the smooth fabric and waist sash. You'd never guess it by looking at it, but this pick also has pockets! The gorgeous green fabric is non-stretchy but looks so flattering when worn.

Dress The Population Janette Sequin Long Sleeve Mermaid Gown

There is truly no shortage of shininess with this one. It's the ultimate piece to match with other accessories and shoes, depending on the wedding theme. This $438 dress has a boat neck that falls to a v-shaped back as well as modest long sleeves that land right above the wrists. The high leg slit breaks up the look perfectly, too!

Alex Evenings Embellished Sleeve Knot Front Jersey Gown

This $199 dress has dark navy, drapey sleeves with sequin details, as well as a striking knot detail at the waistline. Since it's naturally flowy, the slightly stretchy material it's made from only amps up the comfort levels.

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

Lead image via Nordstrom.

In all honestly, all I look forward to during the holidays (other than my fam) is the pie. There's pumpkin pie. Apple pie. Chocolate pie. Sweet potato pie. But more than any other dessert, pecan piejust gets me. I'm salivating as I'm thinking about it!

Anywho... making an entire pecan pie can become a whole ordeal very quickly. That's where these delicious pecan pie bars from Chahinez with Lifestyle of a Foodiestep in. They're simple to make, plus provide the ideal eating experience – pecan pie bars easily qualify under finger foods, and they are downright addictive.

Let's get into the recipe!

Ingredients For Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Lifestyle of a Foodie

For the shortbread crust:

  • ½ cup butter
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch

For the pecan pie filling:

  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 & ½ cup pecans chopped

How To Make Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Lifestyle of a Foodie

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 F, then line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, add in the flour, salt, cornstarch, and mix. Add in the cold butter and work it into the dough with your hand or a pastry cutter until cookie dough forms. Press it onto the prepared baking pan and bake for 20 minutes.
  3. In a separate large bowl, mix the eggs, brown sugar, light corn syrup, heavy cream, salt, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until combined. Stir in the pecan pieces.
  4. Once the crust is done baking, pour the pecan pie filling on top of the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges will brown a little, and the center will be barely jiggly.
  5. Remove from the oven, and let cool completely before transferring to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Slice the bars and serve.

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Recipe + photography by Lifestyle of a Foodie.

This post has been updated.

The rush of the holidays and planning the perfect holiday feast is no joke — finding the best Thanksgiving cocktails, roasting a delicious turkey and, of course, getting creative with leftovers — it all makes it hard to kick back and relax. We think you should find a moment for yourself (or with a few pals) and celebrate the wonderful flavors we love so much this time of year.

Instead of going for the tired pumpkin spice latte, think more along the lines of a boozyfall cocktail. Picture bourbon cocktails with cinnamon, caramel, apple… you know, all the autumn classics. We don't recommend sampling these Thanksgiving cocktails all in one night, but let's just say it'll be difficult to only choose one. We can't wait to try these Thanksgiving cocktails!

Brit + Co

Nespresso White Russian

Combining booze with coffee makes it somewhat more acceptable to knock one back during that late-morning, gathering-before-dinner time period, no? We love any excuse to get cozy with Nespresso, and this White Russian concoction will have you feeling all the warm, Thanksgiving-y vibes.

Brit + Co

S'moretini

Whether it's too cold to sit outside and snack on some s'mores, or you don't have a fire pit to roast marshmallows (although Gilmore Girlsdid show us how to use our stovetops...), this Thanksgiving cocktail is a great alternative to the sticky dessert. The chocolate andgraham cracker coating on the rim is just the cherry on top!

Brit + Co

Rum Toddy

This cocktail recipe is great because there's a good chance you already have the majority of the ingredients in your kitchen! Just put everything you need in a thermos, stir it up, and you're good to go. Not only will toddies keep you warm on cold days, but they're good for sore throats and fighting the chills if you're feeling a lil' under the weather.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Pear Ginger Fizz

Swap your cranberry sauce for a cranberry cocktail complete with ginger beer, pears, and limes. Make sure you keep some whole cranberries and rosemary sprigs for the finishing touch. Even if you've never made cocktails before, this drink is so easy that anyone can make it!

Brit + Co

Clementine Whiskey Smash

Sweet clementine juice and rich whiskey are the perfect match in this fun Thanksgiving drink, plus you can adjust the amount of whiskey that goes in depending on how strong you'd like the drink. Go easy for a fresh taste or add a bit more if you want something warmer.

Brit + Co

Wild Turkey Cocktails

Now, we know what you're thinking: "there is no way I'm drinking a cocktail that has turkey in it." But you don't have to worry because the 'wild turkey' in this recipe actually comes from Wild Turkey American Honey! Make one for an afternoon apéritif or an evening drink once the kids have gone to bed. Now the only question is, who let the (wild) turkeys out?!

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

We're suckers for all things pumpkin spice, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in a little PSL-inspired boozy bevvy. This Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate is super easy to make — and even easier to devour.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Is The New Black Cocktail

From cranberry sauce to cranberry garlands, this red berry is definitely a holiday season staple – and now you can add it to yourbar cart! Think of this drink as an upgraded vodka cranberry, with a more sophisticated look. If you're not able to get black vodka, just sub black food coloring to achieve the same finished product.

Brit + Co

Chai Hot Toddy

If you're not a huge pumpkin person, then you have to try this spiced, creamy Thanksgiving cocktail while you wait for eggnog season. Your classic chai gets a makeover with some spiced rum and cinnamon-infused milk (YUM!) that give it a whole new holiday edge. You can also experiment with different spices and adding in a shot of espresso to change things up.

Brit + Co

Apple Cide-car Cocktail

As far as we're concerned, apple cider season should last all winter long. This easy cocktail only has four ingredients (apple cider, brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice) which means there's no excuse to not have this on your Thanksgiving menu! Need a simple alternative for the under-21 crew? Nix the alcohol, but keep the glasses for an upscale apple cider mocktail.

Brit + Co

Convergent Opera Cake Cocktail

This cold brew concoction is perfect for getting you buzzed in more than one way. It's the perfect after-dinner dose of caffeine you need to avoid a food coma, but it'll also give you all the Thanksgiving feels.

Brit + Co

Cranberry Zinger Jam Jar Cocktail

We love jam and we love cocktails, so why not put them together? This cranberry zinger (which is basically the queen of mixed Thanksgiving cocktails) will certainly make you feel all kinds of bubbly. All you gotta do is pour your favorite gin and cranberry juice over ice, and then top with a spoonful of your go-to jam. Top it off with ginger ale, and you're done!

Brit + Co

Pomegranate Ginger Beer Cocktail

Ginger has just the right amount of warmth to keep you toasty during holiday gatherings. This delicious ginger beer concoction will be a total crowd pleaser at all your Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving gatherings.

Wholefully

Two Ingredient Apple Cider Mimosas

If mimosas (especially apple cider mimosas) don't scream fall brunch, we don't know what does. Since it's only two ingredients, you don't have to worry about trying to put together a complex Thanksgiving cocktail recipe while also preparing dinner. Sounds like a win-win.

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Hot Cider

Add 1 gallon apple cider, 1 tbsp whole allspice, 1 tbsp whole cloves, 1 sliced orange, 1-inch sliced fresh ginger, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 4 star anise to a pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes before adding 1.5 cups of Dos Hombres Mezcal to spike the sip!

Home & Plate

Salted Caramel Apple Martini

Martinis make us feel sophisticated and mysterious, but there's one thing that's no mystery: cocktail hour will never be the same after you serve this sweet, tart drink to your family and friends. All you *really* need is a little caramel vodka and apple cider, and you're good to go. Don't forget to chill your martini glasses beforehand to keep things cool.

JoLynn Shane

Apple Cider Mojito Recipe

Mojitos might usually be a summer drink for you, but the addition of apple cider makes this one of the best Thanksgiving cocktails you could sip on. The cinnamon simple syrup in this recipe is totally worth the extra prep time. This drink is also loaded with fresh mint and cinnamon sticks for a fall flavor combo you can't miss.

Joyful Healthy Eats

Apple Cider Moscow Mule

Everyone knows that what makes a Moscow mule a true mule is the ginger beer. Well, with this easy Thanksgiving cocktail, what makes it is the hard apple cider instead of the regular kind.

Inspired by Charm

Apple Pie Sangria

Apple desserts are a must-have during the holiday season, and this apple pie-inspired sangria might just become our top pick. This is the *perfect* Thanksgiving cocktail to put out in a big pitcher and sip on during dinner, while watching the football game, or even when you're stuck cleaning up dishes.

Baked by Rachel

Apple Cider Whiskey Smash

This is an ahh-mazing seasonal twist on a traditional whiskey drink. With just three quick ingredients (whiskey, lemon juice, and apple cider) you can even make a big batch of this Thanksgiving-y drink *before* the holiday whirlwind begins.

Cookie + Kate

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

We consider November 1 to be the official start of maple season. Even if whiskey isn't your thing, it might be after sampling this cup of Thanksgiving goodness. A little maple syrup goes a long way when you're working with this recipe!

Dos Hombres Mezcal

Dos Hombres Naughty Toddy

Mix together 1 oz Dos Hombres Mezcal, .5 oz fresh lemon juice, .25 oz honey, 1 oz whiskey, and 2 oz natural apple juice together before heating it up on the stove to make this Thanksgiving cocktail. Garnsih with a lemon wheel, and prepare to be warm AF.

Gimme Some Oven

Cranberry Margaritas

Cranberries might be reminiscent of Christmas, but cranberry sauce is basically a Thanksgiving delicacy… which is why we had to give this seasonal margarita our stamp of approval. The squeeze of lime and the salted rim puts this cocktail over the (very delicious) edge, and if you want to get extra fancy with it, there's also a recipe to make your own homemade cranberry juice.

Holly & Flora

Bourbon + Spiced Pear Cocktail

With herbs like sage and thyme topped off with allspice and cinnamon, we're totally in love with this unique Thanksgiving cocktail. Not only does the ginger liqueur give this drink a little kick, but including agave means that it's totally sugar-free.

Baker by Nature

Cranberry + Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

If you're really craving some sweetness, this is the exact drink you should go for. It calls for two cups of cranberries on top of two cups of sugar to yield four cocktails. It's safe to say you'll be perked up after just a few sips.

The Sweetest Occasion

Salted Caramel White Russian

This cocktail is creamy, sweet, and totally dessert-like, which makes it a great addition to post-dinner conversation. You could literally forget the pies and cobblers (but what's Thanksgiving without some pie?) and just drink this instead. Don't worry if you're dairy-free – just swap the caramel sauce for a coconut-based caramel instead.

Slow Cooker Spiced Wine

Okayyy – this warm drink gives us all the fall feels. Red wine and brandy warmed in a crockpot with spices and orange sounds like total heaven to us. Not to mention that you can leave this to simmer throughout the day, so your guests can help themselves and you don't have to worry about it! (viaWell Plated)

Domesticate Me

Spiced Cider Margaritas

For many, the lime margarita is a staple on Taco Tuesday, but maybe it's time to mix it up? We think YES. Cozy up by the fire with a glass of this spiced cider that's spiked with tequila and garnished with cinnamon sticks and apples. That — and the cinnamon sugar rim — sounds right up our alley.

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