As a bride, planning your wedding florals, your dress, and your cake (to name a few) can be magical and hectic in equal measure. We bet your budget is stretched thin! But never fear: Your DIY floral skills are going to pay off for you big time. We’ve rounded up beautiful, doable (really!) arrangements using both real and faux flowers that you or your crafty friends and family can do before the big day. The payoff: beautiful, cost-effective flowers that come out exactly the way you want.
Statement centerpieces for every table can be a sinkhole for your budget. Cut out the middleman and assemble this graceful arrangement in minutes using faux blooms that you don’t have to worry about drooping before the dancing starts. (via Afloral)
This Pinterest-perfect cake is easy to assemble yourself, and a budget-friendly alternative to the fondant masterpieces at the bakery. Make this smaller display cake for photos and the ceremonial cutting, and serve sheet cake to your guests — no one will be any the wiser. (via Brit + Co)
Is your dream venue a bit of a blank slate, decor-wise? Suspend this colorful element to create a magical canopy of color and texture. (via Sugar & Cloth)
No obvious altar in your amazing loft space? Create one in situ with these hanging metallic mobiles adorned with pretty flowers. They’ll frame your ceremony space, then add color to your gift table or bar. (via Brit + Co)
The best part about this vivid DIY is the instructions apply to making an eye-catching bouquet in any color of the rainbow. (via Ruffled Blog)
Give your groomsmen a punchy pop of color with these cheery boutonnieres. The sunny yellow color couldn’t be more perfect for a spring event! (via Paper & Stitch)
Ditching the veil for a flower crown? This lovely version puts a trendy twist on the form with succulents, but the basic technique is one you can use with your favorite blooms. (via Brit + Co)
This tropical stunner will make your photobooth pics the best on the ‘Gram. And by using a pegboard, you’ll have no trouble getting it to and from the venue. (via Lovely Indeed)
Set the head table apart with this magnificent chandelier and give your wedding the wild romantic garden feel you’ve been dreaming about. (And yes, this is DIY-able, we promise!). (via We Are Scout)
Want that boho look but not ready to commit to a full-on flower crown? These smaller, more delicate hairpieces are easy to incorporate into your updo. (via Brit + Co)
Follow us on Pinterest for more DIY wedding inspo, and tons o’ tutorials!
This post has been updated.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
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:
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Hey there, bride-to-be! Now that you’re engaged (congrats!) it’s time to start planning a celebration that's romantic, dreamy, and totally you. When none of the cookie cutter details will do, find inspiration in our The New I Do, an all-inclusive guide to making a wedding that's as authentic and original as you. Scroll on to learn creative tips and tricks so non-traditional brides, bridesmaids, and wedding guests can execute and attend the most unforgettable 2019 nuptials.
Leave the classic solitaire for your soon-to-be sister-in-law and let your friends keep their tried-and-true updos because you’re ready to think outside the box. Below, find that unexpected engagement ring, bombshell day-of style, reimagined wedding beauty, 'grammable decor inspo, and plenty of insider advice on how to seamlessly plan the extraordinary wedding of your dreams.
It's time to put a ring on it — and not just any ring. Think minimalist silhouettes, vintage-inspired settings, and non-traditional stones that won’t break the bank.
You deserve to feel like a princess on your big day but looking like one is just not your thing. Shop our curated collection of head-turning bridal outfits that fit your body and budget and go beyond the classic, white dress.
DB Studio Crepe Sheath Gown with Embroidered Illusion Slit ($220) and Jimmy Choo Romy 100 Suede Pumps ($595)
Will you go for a classic chignon? Effortless beach waves and a fingertip veil? Color outside the conventional lines with these glamorous ideas for hair, manicures, and more.
Salita Matthews Gold Belle Earrings ($140)and Genevieve Rose Atelier Isabella Silk Flower Hair Pins ($150)
Whether you're searching for unusual decor trends or imaginative, budget-friendly hacks, we've got expert advice to help you create a festive space that's skillfully designed, picture perfect, and totally memorable.
Need some personalized planning ideas on thoughtful gift buying and intimate honeymoon spots that are just off the beaten path? We've got you.
Galina High-Low Tea-Length Lace Plus Size Wedding Dress ($349) and Salita Matthews Silver Belle Earrings ($140)
Dresses (L-R): Azazie Amani Bridesmaid Dress ($109), DB Studio Scuba Crepe Sheath Dress with V-Back ($100), and Autograph Satin Slip Midi Dress ($96)
Shop playful dresses and trendy accessories that are anything but your typical bridesmaid. Discover trending bachelorette party destinations, and then get unique ideas from seasoned bridesmaids on how to travel smart and give a killer toast. Check, check, and check!
Sidestep the shapeless maxi and find day-of looks that are affordable, comfortable, and so fabulous that they’ll want to wear it over and over again.
It's the last fling before the wedding ring, so share this chapter with your wedding party. For those tasked with planning a long weekend to cut loose, relax, and celebrate — read on to really make it count by choosing an exotic destination and surprising activities.
Yumi Kim Bridal Floral Robes ($68+)
While being a bridesmaid is an honor, it's no simple task. Below, find easy-to-follow advice on planning the ultimate dress-shopping day, writing speeches that will have them cracking up and crying, and everything else to nail your honorary job.
Looking for even more wedding inspiration? Check out Brit + Co Classes to learn how to personalize your special day by channeling your creativity, checking some things off your to-do list, and staying within your budget.
You've sent your RSVPs and are ready to rock, so what's next? It's time to get prepared! We've got stand-out fashion ideas, etiquette dos and don'ts, useful money-saving tips, ideas for personalized, off-the-registry gifts.
Stop recycling the *same* wedding guest look year after year, and opt for unconventional silhouettes like jumpsuits, co-ords, and long-sleeved dresses.
Self-Portrait Asymmetric Floral Printed Dress ($445) and Yumi Kim Spin Me Around Silk Dress ($278)
How do you avoid blowing your budget with so many ceremonies to attend? Is it rude to ask for a plus one? Should you bring your little one along? We answer these questions and more so that you can master the guest game once and for all.
Skip the registry in favor of personalized gifts that your favorite couple will adore. Stand out from the rest of the wedding crowd with trendy items, hip gadgets, and even some creative DIYs.
Written and Styled By: Lindsey Graham-Jones and Zoey Washington
Set Design and Art Direction: Maddie Bachelder
Photographer: Brittany Griffin
Video: Alonna Morrison, Michael Sullivan, Ryan Shelley
Design Assets: Casey Callahan
Hair and Makeup: Misty Spinney
Models: Ashley Perlman, Anna Sun, Dana Soliman, Katie Markelz, Natasha Thomas, Ruth Aideyan
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
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!
Lifestyle of a Foodie
For the shortbread crust:
For the pecan pie filling:
Lifestyle of a Foodie
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
Want more mouthwatering holiday recipes and Thanksgiving cocktails? Follow us on Pinterest or join our newsletter for more inspiration!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
