18 Beauty Buys We're Loving This Holiday Season

1. A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle
2. A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set
3. For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat
4. For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set
   
5. For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver
6. For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks
7. For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot
8. For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book
9. For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl
10. For the one who just loves a lil soak: Flewd Stresscare Trio
11. An aesthetically-pleasing (and practical!) toothpaste: hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening Toothpaste
12. For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce
13. For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle
14. For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs
15. For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio
16. For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case
17. For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings
18. For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball
19. For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Dive Into Our Cute & Cozy Stocking Stuffers Here!

A candle to help your fave homebody wind down after a long day out & about: Homecourt Balsam Fireplace Candle

I am in love with Homecourt’s seasonal fragrance, Balsam Fireplace. It mimics the scent of a crackling fire (think fresh evergreen, warm spice, and salty amber) and I can't get enough of it, from the candle to thehand wash. Each candle burns for 60 hours, giving you plenty of winter nights by the fire.

A cute little self-care set for the best girls' night in: Pinch Provisions Super Spa Set

Enjoy self care nights on the regular with these eight spa essentials, from a silky sleep mask and gua sha tool to an exfoliating mitt, hair clip, shower steamer, and scalp massager. Scrunchie included!

For the homebody who always has their nose in a book: Where is the Bookstore Embroidered Hat

We found the perfect gift for the book lover/homebody/Francophile crossover (pretty much our entire staff). And it's stocking stuffer friendly!

For your bestie who'd just rather do her nails herself: Le Mini Macaron Nail Lacquer Trio Set

Manis and nail art at home are prettier with a pop of color. Here are three shimmering shades to drop into your favorite homebody's stocking.

For the one who values comfort above literally everything else: Seavees Apres Puff Slipper in Space Silver

Cozy, cozy! These Après Puff Slip-Ons are not only so cute, but also so incredibly comfortable. Perfect for the WFHer or even someone who enjoys the comfort of the great outdoors (they're that durable), these fleece lined slippers are the best gift for just about every woman on your list.

For the cat-lover who just loves cuddles: Cat Lady Socks

So fun and playful, these mesh socks are a great way to flex your cat lady pride.

For the queen of kitschy decor: Ginger Ceramic Stoneware Sugar Pot

Sugar cubes in a ceramic gingerbread house make the holidays and your morning coffee routine a little brighter.

For the at-home bartender: How to Make a Name-tini Book

Cocktails at home, but make it personalized! OMG, how cute is this book with a signature drink for them! You get to personalize it based on their drink preferences and customize the cover. It includes a total of 29 recipes to ring in the new year.

For the one with big ideas & even bigger to-do lists: Papier Scribble & Scrawl

For the homebody who is always in their heads, this book is great for jotting down to-dos, thoughts, ideas, inspirations and more. You can personalize the cover with their name, a fun title, an alter ego or a special quote too.

For the one who just loves a lil soak: Flewd Stresscare Trio

These transdermal bath soaks give your homebody buddy up to 5 days of the stress-reducing magnesium, boron, and Omega 3s to reduce anxiety, aches, and stress.

hello Activated Charcoal Epic Whitening Toothpaste

This fluoride-free toothpaste made with activated charcoal whitens teeth with consistent use, but the part we love the most is the sleek, aesthetically-pleasing packaging. Plus, it leaves a minty finish for fresh breath every time.

For the gal who absolutely adores a sweet treat: Coop's Original Hot Fudge & Salted Caramel Sauce

These award-winning toppers, from a women-owned company, make your desserts a little extra. (A little naked scoop once in a while is just as good too!)

For the friend who totally loves a cute hobby: Piecework Mini Zodiac Puzzle

Homebodies who love to puzzle will enjoy this mini stocking-size one inspired their zodiac sign!

For the at-home gym buff: CocoaVia Cardio Health Cocoa Powder Stick Packs

Hot chocolate, but make it healthy! These packets contain cocoa flavanols, which support heart health, and are perfect for adding to your yogurt, favorite drink, or even oatmeal. A heart-healthy stocking stuffer to show you love them....aww.

For the gal who loves a little lippie: Hydrashine Lipstick Balm Trio

This kit from Colleen Rothschild Beauty offers a range of buildable hues from barely there for staying in to bold for going out. Get a dewy, glossy finish inspired by your favorite travel destination, like Sipping Sangria red.

For the one who always has the best playlists: Burga AirPods Pro Case

Choose from more than 300+ unique designs and a matching set of cases for all your tech. Whether they're free spirits or v demure, there's a pattern for everyone.

For your bestie who adds a little extra oomph to her outfit: We Dream in Colour Gold Bird Earrings

Give your homebody a reason to dress up with these beautifully detailed brass birds, perfect for Zoom calls!

For the friend that's just a little easily overwhelmed: Ban.do Oversized Feel Better De-Stress Ball

Figure out your next life move with this squishy dice for stressful days.

For that person who always puts a smile on your face: FP Movement Smiling Buti Ankle Socks

Whether they're working out or Netflix marathoning, these performance-ready socks are fun and happy-inducing. One percent of FP Movement net proceeds benefit its non-profit partner Girls Inc.

1. Edible DIY Christmas Gift Ideas

If you know your way around a kitchen, don't sleep on the opportunity to give your loved ones an edible gift. You know it'll get used (AKA eaten), and it's essentially a zero-waste gift-giving strategy.

We love making pretty desserts that work well as gifts, like this matcha yogurt bark, this peppermint bark, these super easy Christmas cookie recipes, and these edible gift ideas. Package them up with these creative gift wrapping techniques, or forego paper altogether and wrap them with a cute kitchen towel for a zero-waste approach.

2. DIY Craft Kits To Gift

If you're a complete beginner to DIY and handmade Christmas gifts, it might be smart to start out with a kit. A DIY kit allows you to fashion a thoughtful gift that shows your recipient just how much time and effort you put into giving them something special.

This DIY permanent jewelry kit is perfect for someone who wants to give their bestie a one-of-a-kind present this year. You can also DIY Christmas-scented candles, grow your loved one's birth month flower, or construct a super-cute tiny house to be displayed as kitschy decor.

3. Handmade Christmas Gifts

We love a good DIY. Our favorite presents are handmade Christmas gifts, and we've shared a ton of homemade gift ideas in our time.

A cute winter terrarium is perfect for the quirky decor lover in your life, while nothing brings the hygge vibes more than a hand-knit blanket. Give your favorite houseplant lover some gorgeous flora in one of these DIY cement planters, or embroider a pillow that'll add a cute touch of color to your bestie's home!

4. DIY Home Decor

Speaking of your bestie's home, we've got plenty of ideas for DIY Christmas gifts you can give in the home decor category.

Spruce up a simple IKEA desk to give your work wife a WFH chair that's cute and from the heart. Make magazine wall art in your giftee's favorite colors to add a homemade, kitschy touch to their space. This Anthro-inspired DIY chandelier is another great option for artsy decor lovers.

A friend who loves hostessing will appreciate this pineapple cutting board, and someone who's into the beauty of organization will swoon over this DIY wall organizer.

DIY Jewelry

Many of us adore jewelry, so why not give someone in your life a cute and colorful accessory this holiday season? These acrylic earrings are super colorful and adorable, while this DIY choker is '90s inspired and totally on-trend. We also love this geode statement necklace and this cute necklace made out of old tee shirts. Talk about sustainable style!

​What is Mercury Retrograde?

To grasp the significance of Mercury in retrograde, it’s essential to first understand what retrogrades are. As planets orbit the Sun, they follow specific paths, with some moving faster than others. Generally, the closer a planet is to the Sun, the quicker it travels. Occasionally, these planets appear to veer off their usual course; during this time, the Sun's gravitational pull brings them back into alignment, marking the onset of a retrograde period. While this phenomenon is astronomical, it resonates on a collective level, prompting reflection and introspection here on Earth.

Mercury, often referred to as the planet of communication, plays a crucial role in our thought processes, decision-making, and interactions. During its retrograde phase, which occurs multiple times each year, it's important to navigate this period with care. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do’s:

• Reflect on past decisions and learn from previous experiences.
• Revisit unfinished projects or ideas that require reassessment.
• Take time for introspection and self-examination.

Don’ts:

• Avoid making significant decisions, such as buying a home or starting major renovations. These choices may face unexpected delays and complications.
• Steer clear of launching new projects, as they may not proceed as planned.

By being mindful during Mercury in retrograde, you can work its energy for thoughtful reflection rather than potential miscommunication and disruption. Remember, as above, so below.

​What is happening during this Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius in 2024?

This Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius begins on November 25 and wraps up on December 15, 2024 — just in time for the holidays! During this quirky period, you might find communication and travel resembling a game of charades — confusing and full of surprises! Sagittarius, with its adventurous spirit and knack for big ideas, nudges you to reflect on your beliefs and long-term goals while dodging any miscommunication like a pro at a holiday buffet. Stay open-minded about new concepts, and by reflecting on past experiences, you can turn any holiday hiccups into cherished memories, making your connections with loved ones more meaningful — just double-check your travel plans.

Here are some common themes to expect during this period:

1. Miscommunication in Beliefs: Discussions around ethics and worldviews may lead to misunderstandings, so clarifying intentions is crucial.
2. Revisiting Travel Plans: If you have holiday trips or adventures in mind, be prepared for potential delays or changes. This is a good time to reassess your travel goals or revisit cherished destinations.
3. Reflecting on Learning: You might feel drawn to revisit past studies or explore new philosophies, making this a valuable time for self-reflection.
4. Adventurous Spirit: This retrograde may ignite a desire to break free from routine. However, be cautious about making impulsive decisions during the holiday rush.
5. Open to New Perspectives: While confusion may arise, this is also an opportunity to reevaluate your beliefs and explore fresh ideas with an open mind.

Overall, this period encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be mindful of how you communicate and receive information, enhancing your holiday experiences.

Read Your Sun & Rising Sign Mercury Retrograde Horoscopes For November 25-December 15, 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Prepare for some soul-searching between sips of eggnog and lively family chatter this holiday season. You might start to wonder if that “special holiday sweater” is really as special as you thought. Conversations could get a bit awkward, so take a deep breath and remember: that patience is key—especially when stories start to loop. Welcome any travel mishaps as unexpected adventures; they’ll turn into hilarious tales to share later!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

This season, it’s all about sharing—whether it’s your holiday spirit or your budget! You may need to tiptoe around sensitive topics, like who gets the last piece of the pie, so choose your words wisely. If plans get delayed, think of it as a chance to cozy up with loved ones instead of stressing out. Reflect on what matters, and don’t be afraid to indulge a little—after all, holiday treats are basically a form of self-care.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your relationships might resemble a game of charades, with everyone trying to decipher what everyone else really wants. Whether you’re flying solo or in a couple, keep an eye on those festive planning talks—they could definitely use some clarity. Use this time for personal growth, turning any communication slip-ups into lessons that brighten your celebrations and keep the fun rolling. Just remember: clarity is key, so make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Prioritize your well-being and avoid the pressure of overworking yourself amidst the holiday hustle. As you juggle party prep, try not to get swept away in the festive chaos. Communication might feel like decoding a toddler’s drawing, so be clear with family and friends about what you need. Focus on self-care and balance, and you’ll navigate the whirlwind like a pro—maybe with a cozy blanket and a good movie on standby.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Get ready for a holiday season where your creative flair might take a few unexpected turns, like a well-rehearsed dance that suddenly goes off-script. As plans shift, practice your patience and remember what truly sparks joy for you. Reflect on those passions that make you shine, and don’t shy away from the mistakes--they often lead to the best holiday tales. Plus, a little extra glitter never hurt anyone—just try not to get it everywhere!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Prepare for some family dynamics that might feel like a reality show reunion! Miscommunication could lead to some comedic misunderstandings about plans or traditions, so keep your cool. Take this time to reflect on your emotional needs and find a little order in the chaos. Strengthen those family bonds, because nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like sharing a laugh over that one family photo everyone wants to forget!

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Expect your conversations to get a little tangled, like last year’s string lights. Short trips or outings could pop up, so embrace the unexpected adventures! Before sharing your brilliant ideas, take a moment to clarify your thoughts; nobody wants to accidentally volunteer to host the next family gathering (unless you really want to). Use these moments to deepen connections, and remember: the best holiday memories are often born from a bit of chaos.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

This season, keep an eye on your spending—it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday cheer! As you tackle gift lists, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters—like the joy of giving without the post-holiday financial headache. Budgeting conversations may get tricky, so approach them with care. Mindful spending will help you enjoy a holiday filled with laughter and love, not a mountain of bills come January!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Expect a bit of soul-searching this holiday, as you clarify your goals amidst the festive bustle. Conversations may go sideways, so take a moment to sort out your intentions before diving in. Cherish this chance for introspection and focus on what truly matters. Meaningful connections will blossom even in the chaos, turning challenges into opportunities for growth—and maybe a few good laughs along the way!

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

This holiday season, get ready for some introspection that might feel like unearthing old holiday memories. Past issues could bubble up, so keep your communication open to avoid any misunderstandings. Use this time to recharge and reflect on your needs. By seeing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can craft a more peaceful holiday experience—one that sets a cheerful tone for the New Year!

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Friendships may take center stage, with old connections popping back up like holiday cheer. Just be ready for some communication blunders that might leave you scratching your head! Reflect on your social circles and decide who truly aligns with your vibe. Navigating these dynamics thoughtfully can lead to more meaningful connections and memorable festivities—after all, nothing beats laughter with friends over a cup of hot cocoa.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

This season, your career and public image might demand a bit of attention—like that one holiday decoration that always needs fixing. Communication with colleagues may hit a few snags, so be prepared for some delays. Reflect on your goals and ensure they match your true self. Staying clear and confident during festive gatherings will help you set the right tone for the year ahead—preferably one filled with good vibes and fewer awkward silences!