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Tag: Hyphenate Name after Marriage

  • Wedding Trends In 2021

    Wedding Trends In 2021

    The 2020 pandemic changed weddings as we know them, and honestly, I don’t think that’s a bad thing! It’s about time weddings had a major update. Hopefully, these 2021 wedding trends are here to stay. It’s time for lowkey and intimate weddings to become the norm. 

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    Lowkey Weddings

    Due to the pandemic’s new regulations, couples are opting for smaller and more intimate weddings. COVID put things into perspective for a lot of people. The couple is only inviting the people that are closest to them. If it’s a choice between a big flashy wedding or having your loved ones there, the loved ones win every time.

    Some of these lowkey weddings are even being called “micro weddings.” The smaller guest list actually allows you to do more at your wedding. It gives you an opportunity to get more of what you want. If you’re paying for fewer people, you might be able to afford a photo booth or another luxury you cut out of your budget. 

    With a smaller number of people, you can also do more for each individual guest to make them feel special and welcomed. Wedding boxes or gift bags are a great example of this. They’re filled with comfort items like socks and candles as well as necessary items like Advil and a water bottle. They’re adorable and a fantastic way to thank your guests for coming, especially if they had to travel a long distance. 

    If you’re super particular about your wedding’s aesthetic, I don’t blame you if you are, a smaller guest list will also allow you to set a specific dress code. Ask your guests to dress in your wedding colors or in all black. Doing this can give you, your partner, and your bridal party a chance to stand out from the crowd. This can be really helpful, especially in group photos. 

     

     

    Elopement 

    While a lowkey or micro wedding allows you to focus more on your guests, eloping will help you focus more on yourselves as a couple. We’ve been seeing a lot of people saying bye-bye to mainstream weddings in 2021 and getting eloped instead. There are several reasons for this influx of elopements. 

    The first is obvious. Because of COVID, couples want to keep their ceremonies private and socially distanced. Getting married now allows them to have all the benefits of being married while saving the opportunity to party at a later date; that’s post-COVID.

    Some of these elopements have been live-streamed or recorded for anyone who wasn’t invited or couldn’t make it. This is a beautiful idea because then you can have your wedding on the top of a mountain or another unique location, and everyone would still be able to be a part of the experience. 

    Sequel weddings have also followed elopements. We saw a lot of sequel weddings in 2020, and they are continuing into 2021. The first wedding is generally small, like an elopement or a backyard wedding. Then the second, or sequel, the wedding is the big main event held at a later date. I love when couples elope and then have their sequel wedding on their first anniversary. It’s such a special way to celebrate your first year as a married couple. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Eco Friendly

    Eco-friendly weddings are super in this year, and I don’t see this trend going away any time soon. Being eco-friendly can come in several different forms, especially when it comes to a wedding, but here are some easy ways to be kind to the environment on your wedding day. 

    Digital invitations are a great start, and they can be really beneficial for the couple. Digital invitations mean digital RSVPs. You won’t have to worry about someone forgetting their name on the RSVP card or losing the invitation altogether. It will be on their computer or cell phone until the wedding is over.

    Any favors you have out can also be eco friendly, or you can choose to support a small business. I’m sure you can find a way to do both! If you decide to do paper invitations or place cards, you can use recycled paper. It’s good for the planet, and the aesthetic is incredible. Finally, don’t throw rice or non-compostable things. Throw biodegradable confetti or birdseed! It’ll still look good in photos, but it won’t hurt the local ecosystem. 

     

    The Décor

    This year’s décor trends are quite different from one another, but they are still both so beautiful. I’m glad they’re so different because that means you will be able to stay on-trend no matter what your style is. 

    First, greenery is here, and it’s here to stay. Brides who are going down this path are staying away from bright colors or any color at all. The lush greens are being paired with whites, creams, and neutral colors. We’re seeing twinkle lights and other intentional lighting designs being used to emphasize the greenery. 

    The other trend is the exact opposite. Couples are using bold and bright colors to bring their wedding to life. Big blocks of color allow for the bride to stand out in her white dress. Living room items, like lux couches and chairs, are being used as photo props to create a more elevated look. At the end of the day, it’s all about the vibe you’re going for. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    The Dress

    Finally, dresses in 2021 are following the informal trend. Comfortable boho dresses have been flying off the racks. These dresses might look informal at a glance, but the lace details and embroidery take these dresses to a new level.

    Sleeves are also a heavy hitter this year. It doesn’t matter if the sleeves are fabric or lace. They are going to be beaded and detailed. The designs on these sleeves are no joke. They complete the entire dress. 

    No matter what path you decide to take when planning your wedding, just remember that you can’t go wrong. It’s your style, your aesthetic, and your wedding. If you want bold colors, do it! If you want every single one of your guests to dress in white so you can wear the black wedding dress of your dreams, do that too. Wedding trends in 2021 are all about what the couple wants, so make sure you follow the trend and have the wedding of your dreams.

  • How To Make Valentine’s Day Special In 2021

    How To Make Valentine’s Day Special In 2021

    This year’s Valentine’s Day will look different, just like every other holiday or special occasion in the past 365 days. That means you need to put in extra thought, time, and effort to make it special. Going out to a fancy restaurant isn’t going to feel as romantic or glamorous when your mask smears your lipstick. You might need to make adjustments to your usual plans. 

    Now, this is when you either read this article by yourself and take some inspiration from it or send it to your significant other. There’s no shame in giving your partner a few hints. Either way, these tips will help you have the best Valentine’s Day possible.

    Gifts

    The fact is that we center this holiday around gifts and romantic gestures. The latter will be covered in the next section, so let’s focus on the gifts for now. You can always go big and hit it out of the park with an expensive piece of jewelry, but that’s not always possible. It’s also a high standard to set for the next few years.

    Instead, the gift you give your partner should hit them right in the feelings. Don’t focus on the red hearts and drug store flowers. Instead, focus on them as a person and then add Valentine’s flair. This will not only make you look thoughtful, but it is also going to impress your partner.

    For example, if they stare at computer screens all day, you can get them a nice pair of blue light blocking glasses. Choosing a pair that they love will show them that you pay attention to their style and daily needs. It’s also an out of the box item that people might not think to buy for themselves. Those items make the best gifts. 

     

    Gifts don’t always have to be physical or something you paid for. Take a deep dive into your hobbies and see what you can make. The most romantic thing you can ever get your partner is something that you’ve created.

    Writing a song or painting a picture for them are good examples, but almost any hobby or interest can produce a romantic gift. If you can’t think of how to turn your hobby into a present, write your significant other a poem or letter instead. It will be cheesy and romantic, but I guarantee you that they will cherish it forever. 

    Then, once you have the main gift, you can always supplement it with the stereotypical candy, flowers, and teddy bears. Especially the candy. Everyone wants chocolate on Valentine’s Day. 

    Romantic Gestures 

    Okay, this is when you have the opportunity to show off and make a memory. Your options of what you can do outside of your home will vary depending on where you live, but what you can do inside will stay the same, so let’s start there. 

     

    Indoors

    Let’s begin with the stereotypical but still romantic gestures. The one that comes to mind is that movie or TV scene when rose petals are thrown on the floor leading to a beautiful dinner. Typically candles, flowers, and home cooking are involved. 

    It’s almost a guarantee that your partner has dreamed of this actually happening to them. So why not make their dreams come true? It could be challenging to pull off because the holiday is on a Sunday this year, but it’s not impossible.  

    Send them out in the afternoon to go shopping for a few hours. You can also make an appointment to get their nails or hair done when you want to set up. This can throw them off their game, especially if you say that the appointment is the gift. They won’t be expecting the big surprise when they get home!

    If you prefer something more low-key, just make a romantic homecooked meal. Make your partners favorite appetizer, dinner, and dessert, or make it with them! Cooking together can be very romantic, and it can also a fantastic bonding experience. 

    Valentine’s Day, especially when you’re staying at home, the most important thing is to spend quality time together. The meal, movie, atmosphere, or anything else won’t matter if you aren’t giving your partner individual and meaningful attention. 

     

    Outside The Home

    If you are entirely compelled to go out for Valentine’s this year, safety and isolation should be your number one concern. Whatever you do, don’t hope that restaurants will have tables available when you show up that night. Make a reservation well in advance! Also, ask about their policies and what precautions the restaurant is taking to keep everyone safe. 

    Tables fill up quickly every year, and now, because of COVID, there will be even fewer tables to go around. Most regulations have cut seating in half so that the restaurant can spread out the tables as far as possible. Don’t get caught without a reservation, trust me. 

    If you live in the north half of the country, celebrating at home or a restaurant is probably your only option. It’s too cold to eat outdoors, and everything might be covered in snow by then! Still, if you live in an area of the country where the weather is warm all year round, you still have plenty of options available to you. 

    Daytime picnics are the peak of romantic gestures. Wear comfortable but cute outfits, break out a bedsheet and eat in a park. The meal doesn’t even have to be some fancy and over the top event. Buy a sandwich from a local shop on your way to the park or grab a coffee at Starbucks. 

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    I could say it a million times, and it’ll still be relevant; Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful! You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to have a special day, even in a pandemic. Being thoughtful and compassionate will always be more important than the price tag. I hope you have a memorable and safe Valentine’s Day filled with love for you and your partner. 

  • How To Honeymoon In 2021

    How To Honeymoon In 2021

    You’ve gotten married during the pandemic. Now, it’s time for you to honeymoon during it too. Right off the bat, it seems overwhelming and nearly impossible to have the honeymoon of your dreams, but there’s still hope. 

    With the right idea, a lot of planning, and some research, you can still have a fantastic honeymoon. It might even be better than what you would have originally planned. The reality of the situation is that it’s still COVID season, but that doesn’t have to stop you from having fun.

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    Honeymoon Ideas

    You have a few great options for a honeymoon in 2021, but no matter what you choose, you should try and limit your interactions with other people as much as possible. The best way to do this is by selecting an all-inclusive package.

    This will prevent your credit cards, cash, and other items from being handled by other people when you go out to eat or drink. Limiting cross-contamination from you to employees and other guests is very important when traveling this year.  

    If your trip doesn’t have an all-inclusive package, buy food and supplies before you get to your destination. Keep snacks, microwaveable meals, and drinks in your room. Bring everything you’ll need so you don’t have to go to the store unnecessarily.

    Keep It Private

    Honeymoons are the best time to splurge and stay at that expensive hotel. Go one step further and achieve the ultimate level of privacy in a private villa at a resort. Villas are usually all-inclusive, and you are alone for 90% of your trip.

     

    This is amazing, not only because of COVID but also because you’ll want to spend that one-on-one time with your partner anyway. A do not disturb sign won’t be necessary because no one would disturb you in the first place. 

    If villas aren’t your style, there are more casual ways to keep your honeymoon private. For example, there are sites and parks where you can go glamping. It might not sound like a great option at first, but I beg you to look into it!

    The only way it’s similar to camping is that you can have a fire, and you’re probably going to be in the woods. That’s it. Glamping has amenities, bathrooms, and even cable and internet in some areas. I honestly don’t even know why they call it glamping; it can be more luxurious than some hotels. 

    Another private honeymoon option is to go on a self-guided road trip. Road tripping is also one of the safest travel options right now because you don’t have to fly anywhere or be in a closed-off space with strangers.

    Plus, road trips will give you a considerable level of freedom regarding what you do. Stop at all the big attractions or take your time to wander all the small towns you pass. Google will be your best friend when you’re deciding where to head next. 

    Hit up all the romantic spots and watch the sunset from every state you visit. Any couple seeking a ton of quality time on your honeymoon should consider a road trip, even if it only lasts a week. I think it’s also important to say that this is also a very affordable option for newlyweds on a budget. 

     

    Save It For 2022

    It stinks to say, but another option is just to put off your honeymoon until there are no restrictions. If the big showstopper of a honeymoon is important to you, chances are you’re not going to get it in 2021. Even if places are open, a lot of the extras aren’t available. 

    Here’s my proposal, have a minimoon in 2021 and your big honeymoon in 2022. I think this is a great idea, with or without the pandemic. Weddings are expensive, and so are honeymoons. Give your wallet a break by taking a small minimoon after your wedding.

    Visit that destination that’s only a few hours away from your home. Wander into the next state, eat at some of the restaurants, and visit the local shops. I’m willing to bet there is a city near you that’s on your bucket list. Minimoons are more of a day or overnight trip, not a full-blown weeklong vacation.

    Since honeymoons in 2021 are going to look different than any other year, it’s worth mentioning that it’s not uncommon to take your honeymoon on your first or even fifth anniversary. My point is, even if you don’t have the big trip this year, you have the rest of your lives. You won’t miss out on anything. It’ll all be there once the world is open again. 

     

    Stay At Home

    I’m going to keep this short because I know it’s not what you want to hear, but I have to mention it. Staycations can be very romantic and give you unforgettable memories. It’s the safest honeymoon on this list because the risk is almost non-existent. 

    If you want to get out of your house, rent a hotel room or home in your area. I can’t blame you for craving a change of scenery, but that craving doesn’t mean you have to fly across the county. Seek out unique homes for rent or luxurious hotel rooms. It should scratch that itch.

    Things To Consider

    Of course, there are some things you should think about before you leave. For instance, what regulations your state and the place your visiting have in place. This is super important because you need to know if you’ll be forced to quarantine at your destination or when you come home. 

    Try not to make your trip too long, especially if you’re planning on traveling internationally. Regulations and quarantines can change in an instant. Have a backup plan, so you don’t get trapped in a foreign nation. 

    On the other hand, many countries, destinations, airlines, and hotels are giving travelers major discounts. Even Disney is offering some cheap rooms to attract visitors. In this way, you lucked out. Look into several airlines and hotels to get the best bang for your buck.

    Safety needs to be a priority if you honeymoon in 2021. Stay within your and your partner’s comfort zone. Don’t travel anywhere that feels unsafe and get a COVID test before leaving and coming back. As always, don’t forget to wear a mask and always wash your hands. Stay safe and have a good trip!

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  • Keeping Up With Your New Year’s Resolutions 

    Keeping Up With Your New Year’s Resolutions 

    It’s that time of the new year where everyone is trying to better themselves and improve their life. Some are successful, but most aren’t. That’s because 90% of new year’s resolutions are based in idealism instead of reality. 

    Please, keep your promise to yourself so you can finish 2021 with all of your goals achieved. Here are some helpful tips to get you on the right path to a successful resolution and new year. 

     

    Set A Reasonable Goal

    First of all, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Pick one or maybe two goals to aim for and stop there. Anyone with a laundry list of new year’s resolutions will never be successful because they’re trying to do too much. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when starting new goals. 

    Choose an achievable goal that is completely reasonable for you to attain by the end of 2021. Have you done anything similar before that you can compare to this new resolution? The best goals are the ones where you’re building or improving on a skill you already have. 

    If you’re already a runner, try to increase your speed. Maybe you have a hobby you love, like crochet, but you have difficulty getting the stitches right. Improving on a skill that you already have is the best way to ensure your resolution is successful. 

    Don’t set an unattainable goal, and remember that unattainable looks different for everyone. For example, just because your friend was able to run a 5K in less than a year doesn’t mean you’ll be able to. Keep your goals in the realm of possibility, and if you reach them faster than you thought you would, that’s great!

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    Create A Plan

    Research your goal so you know exactly how to achieve the result you wanted. Read the stories of other people who have completed this goal or are experts in the field and take some of their advice. It’s okay not to know everything, but when the internet is at your disposal, you might as well use it to your advantage. 

    After you’ve learned as much about the topic as possible and the best ways to improve, set smaller and even more attainable goals. Make them weekly or monthly to help you stay on your timeline. These mini-goals should help you get closer and closer to your big goal. These mini-goals could look like reading a chapter a week, knocking a few points off your golf game, or anything small as long as it builds over time. 

    Write these mini-goals down for the entire year and create a tracking sheet. If you like bullet journaling or being creative, make it look pretty and exciting, so you’ll want to continue on your journey, and you’ll be less likely to lose or throw out your tracking sheet. Check off each of the mini-goals you’ve accomplished so you can see how far you’ve come. 

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    How To Stay On Track

    Don’t compare yourself to anyone you see on social media. Most people don’t post the hardships they face or their failures. They only post their successes. Social media is just a highlight reel of what’s really going on in their life, and it’s incredibly unfair for you to compare your real life to someone’s brightest moments. 

    It’s really easy to doom scroll through Instagram and be hard on yourself when you’re not where you want to be in life. It’s important to remember that your journey is amazing and completely unique to you. Plus, someone out there would love to be where you are; you are someone else’s ideal. 

    That being said, social media can also help you keep on track! Post your goal on social media and make it public. Make a highlights reel on Instagram or a TikTok series and share your journey. Everyone will love to see your progress, and making it so public will help keep you accountable. You might even find a few friends on a similar path to help you along the way. 

    If social media isn’t your thing, get your friends and family involved. Send out a mass text and tell everyone what your resolution is and how you plan on accomplishing it. Let them know any way they can help you along the way or help keep you on track.

    Finally, a rewards system is an excellent incentive for more challenging goals. For every five mini-goals or every month, reward yourself. Get dinner from your favorite restaurant, get something off your Wishlist, or put money aside for a larger purchase when you reach your final goal. 

     

    Give Yourself A Break

    This is the most important aspect of reaching a goal or fulfilling a new year’s resolution; you have to be kind to yourself. Being hard on yourself or being extra strict won’t get you very far and might even make you give up on your goal sooner rather than later. 

    If you miss a day or even a week of tasks to reach your goal, you have to remember that it’s okay. Life gets in the way, and missing a little bit of time doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Even if you’re a little bit worse when you get back to it, the most important thing is that you started again. 

    If you miss a goal or you’re not getting better at the speed you want, don’t panic and don’t give up. Successful people will tell you that the only thing that matters is that you keep trying. Never give up, and you will never fail. In case you find yourself not hitting your mini-goals as quickly as you would like, keep going. Just reevaluate and continue at a slower pace. 

    Finally, it was said once, but it’s worth repeating, never compare yourself to others. It doesn’t matter who they are, where they started, or where they are now. You’re on your own journey, and their journey should not affect yours. Reach your new year’s resolution for you and no one else. 

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  • What Should You Do With Unwanted Gifts?

    What Should You Do With Unwanted Gifts?

    You told your friends and family you’re decluttering your house and that you would appreciate it if they only got you what you needed instead of unwanted gifts. They didn’t listen, and now you’re stuck with a duplicate hairdryer, a bunch of home décor you have no room for, and a flashlight that you have no idea what to do with. 

    Of course, you’re grateful for the gift and that they got you anything at all, but it’s still not something you will use. It can even feel like a burden when you get a gift you don’t want because you know you won’t keep it, but the guilt will linger if you throw it away. 

    There are ways to rid yourself of these gifts without throwing them in the junk pile or leaving it in the back of your closet. It will take some time and effort, but it’s worth it. 

     

    Return Them

    First, the obvious, try to return it to the store. It’s better to have cash than an item that will collect dust. If you’re lucky, the person who gave it to you also snuck the gift receipt in there. If not, you can ask for it. For most people, asking for the receipt is an awkward conversation to have. 

    Thankfully, there are ways to return an item without one. Some stores will accept an item without a receipt as long as it is unopened and not damaged. Never open a gift you plan on returning. It will ruin your chances of a store accepting it. 

    Search the item in question and see where it is sold. Once you’ve identified the stores, check each store’s return policy. You can find them online very easily. The policy is where you will find out if they accept any items without a receipt. Typically, you won’t get cash for this type of return, but you will get store credit! Then you can buy whatever your heart truly desires. 

    Resell

    If all of the stores are unwilling or unable to accept your item, you still have other options. There are plenty of reselling apps for you to choose from. If you have time, it’s best to do a bit of research on the apps. Then, you’ll find out which one is the best for your item.

    Some apps are created to sell clothes, others focus on items, and some are designed only to show the item to people in your area. Social media is a good option if you don’t mind that the original gift-giver might see your post.

    You need to decide if you are willing to mail this item or if it would be better to meet in person. This will have a big impact on which site to choose. It’s also worth mentioning that if you’re meeting up with someone in person, you should be careful and take all the necessary precautions. 

     

    Gift Cards

    If you’re looking to get rid of a gift card, you have some options. Stores won’t refund a gift card, and I’ve never heard of anyone making an exception, so you either have to use it or sell it. Lucky for you, other people do want your gift card.

    There are websites where they will buy your gift card and give you a certain percentage of the amount in cash. They’ll buy the card at a discounted rate and then sell it at a discounted rate. The store the card is for will determine how much of the money you will get. The percentage is typically based on demand for that store.

    If you’re going to cash in your gift cards, look up the website reviews first. There are some major scammers out there, and I want you to be as safe as possible. Just because you don’t want the gift card doesn’t mean it won’t stink to have it stolen from you. 

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    Donate

    Sometimes, you don’t want anything for the item. Keeping your house decluttered is a reward all by itself. If that is the case, donating the item is a great option. You can get rid of it almost instantly, and it will never cross your mind again.

    Please consider donating, especially if you’re trying to get rid of clothes, toys, or other highly needed items. Helping a local family is a fantastic way to end the holiday season. 

    Last Resort

    When the item you’re getting rid of is not returnable or wouldn’t help anyone if you donated it, you still have a few options left. Take some time and think about if you know anyone who might actually enjoy the item. One woman’s unwanted gift is another person’s treasure. Don’t regift it just to regift it. You’ll only be putting someone in the same position you’re in.

    Maybe you’re lucky, and it’s something that could be a collector’s item one day. If you have the storage space, stash it in your attic and hope for the best. That random collector’s item could be a gold mine. 

    If nothing else works, you can always throw the item away. 

     

    How To Handle The Aftermath 

    Once you’ve disposed of the item, never talk about it again, and don’t bring it up to the person who gave it to you or anyone else for that matter. Don’t tell anyone that you hated the gift and got rid of it. It’s not a good look for you or the person who gave it to you.  

    Also, don’t lie. It’s not worth the emotional burden. If someone asks where the item is, tell the truth. You don’t have to say anything rude or pessimistic about the gift. Just say you had no real use or space for the item. That should be good enough. 

    Finally, remember that these unwanted gifts are just objects. Though they were thoughtful, they don’t mean anything in the grand scheme of things. It’s the act and thoughtfulness of gift-giving that holds value during the holiday season, not the item itself. 

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  • How To Celebrate The Holidays In 2020

    How To Celebrate The Holidays In 2020

    Everything looks different this year, and the holidays are no exception. All festive activities have changed, from shopping for gifts to having a big dinner. Adjustments need to be made to keep everyone safe and jolly. Here are some realistic tips on how to navigate the holidays in 2020. 

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    Within Your Household Or Bubble

    This year, the best thing you can do for your family is to keep your holiday celebrations within your household. By staying with the people you’ve already been around, you’re limiting everyone’s risk and exposure. 

    Of course, household groups can look different from what you would typically expect. It can be your actual household, meaning the people that live with you, but it can also be more than that. Your bubble may have expanded outside of your home, and if they’re staying safe, you can include your bubble in your household activities.

    For example, I have a friend that lives alone in Brooklyn. She never goes home to see her family, and since she’s been in quarantine, her bubble has included a few of her neighbors. They are all isolating and staying in the same building, so they formed a bubble of their own. 

    We’ve all had to form our own small and safe groups to survive this pandemic. They have been your family and home base for the last nine months, and it’s only right that you celebrate the holidays with them too.

     

    Virtual Hangout

    I know staying inside with your household or bubble seems challenging, but it’s 2020! Technology is better than ever, and it’s never been easier to communicate over long distances. Zoom, Skype, Facetime, Facebook, and other video chat services can be literal lifesavers. 

    Mail carrier services are working hard this holiday season to ensure cards, presents, and well wishes get to loved ones on time. Utilize all their hard work by shipping your loved ones gifts instead of delivering them in person. 

     

    Pick a date once the gifts are delivered and open them together on a video call. It won’t be the same, but it’ll be close. You’ll still be able to see the kids in your family open presents while spending time with everyone. 

    A great side-effect of the pandemic has been the switch to online socialization. This can work in your favor! Card games, board games, and family games all have online versions now. Get the tech-savvy teenager in your family to set up the game so everyone can play and enjoy time together.

    It’s a bit of an adjustment, but any traditions can be done online if you’re willing to adapt. Candle lightings, prayers, singing, and family game night can be accomplished easily with a bit of patience and pre-planning. 

    Follow Guidelines 

    This is an important part of 2020’s holiday festivities. No one wants to be the reason someone gets sick or laws get violated. You should pay attention to your state and county guidelines. They’ll give you a great baseline to work from when you’re planning your event. 

    Follow mask mandates, how many people can be in one household, and any mandatory or recommended quarantines. If you’re seeing anyone you usually wouldn’t, wear a mask and stay six feet apart. There’s no such thing as being too careful. 

    If you’re traveling between states, check the state requirements well in advance. Some, like Vermont, have a mandatory two-week quarantine when you enter the state. Some other states have a list of places that are deemed not safe for travel.

    Just make sure to follow the regulations of all the states you’re visiting and the state you live in. Yes, this is an extremely difficult situation to navigate, but following the rules this year will give us the opportunity to return to normal in 2021. 

     

    Go Easy On Yourself

    Buy your gifts online and have Amazon deliver them directly to the recipient for you. Some businesses will gift wrap and even write a card on your behalf. You can also send flowers or a pre-made gift basket. No one is expecting the absolute best this year, so don’t pressure yourself. 

    Skip the cooking altogether and pre-order a holiday meal from your local restaurant. Supporting local businesses is really important right now. Ordering dinner from a restaurant will save you time, dishes, and stress while giving back to your community. 

    The holidays in 2020 have had to evolve to suit the new lifestyle we’ve all been living in. People have been laid off, businesses are taking a hit, and everyone is stressed out. Give yourself a break. You don’t have to make yourself crazy for the holidays to be merry and bright.

    Or, Go Above And Beyond

    On the other hand, if going easy on yourself doesn’t seem like a possibility this year, consider going in the opposite direction. Go above and beyond to help keep everyone in the festive spirit and to help everyone feel connected. 

    When you’re mailing presents, you have an opportunity to make opening the package an event. Decorate the inside of the box with photos and sayings of holiday cheer. You can also add tissue paper and candy around the wrapped gifts for an extra bit of pizzaz. 

    To keep your friends and family in the loop, send out a family newsletter instead of or in addition to a holiday card. Give everyone a section to write about what they’ve been up to in the past year. 

    Let your family highlight what they’ve accomplished or what they’re proud of. If it’s been a tough year, let them write about what they’re thankful for and what they look forward to in 2021. A newsletter will keep everyone in the loop and close the emotional gap 2020 has caused. 

    You don’t have to miss out on everything just because you’re following the social distancing guidelines. Keeping everyone safe, healthy, and happy will ensure that you’re together for holidays in the future. The holidays in 2020 are tough, but with the right amount of effort and compassion, they can be filled with love too.  

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  • The Best And Worst Holiday Gifts To Give This Year

    The Best And Worst Holiday Gifts To Give This Year

    This year the holiday season is going to feel very different. A lot has changed in the past year, so it stands to reason that holiday gifts have changed too. Here’s a rundown on the best and worst gifts to give somebody in 2020.

     

    The Best

    Some holiday gifts are always loved and appreciated. If you gift an item from this part of the list, you won’t go wrong. They are guaranteed to make the recipient smile. 

    Money And Gift Cards

    Listen, 2020 has hit everyone hard, especially when it comes to personal finances. I know that cash and gift cards seem impersonal, and some people really hate giving them as gifts, but I’ll let you in on a little secret. I have never met anyone who hates receiving them. 

    If there were any year to put aside the hate for money gifts, this year would be the one. Especially if someone specifically tells you that’s what they want for the holidays. They might need it. 

    Your Favorite Book

    Everyone has been staying indoors because of social distancing and now because of the cold weather. A book is a great way to pass all the time everyone now has. It’s also an affordable gift, so you can add on a snack that they can enjoy with the story or add the next book if it’s part of a series.

    Try to gift a book that’s fantasy or at least fictional. The magical part about books is that it can take the person who reads them away from this world for a little while. I think that’s what we all could use. 

    Something For Their New Hobby

    I bet you can’t name a single person who hasn’t picked up a new hobby in 2020. This is a fantastic opportunity to buy a gift that they will actually use and appreciate. Whether it’s yarn, thread, or flour, if they got into baking, hobbies are a great jumping-off point for gifts. 

    Check their social media and see what they’ve been doing. Not only will they be thrilled with the gift, but you will look like an amazing friend for making their gift so personal. It’s a win-win. 

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     A Subscription Or Mystery Box

    This is right on par with buying them something for their new hobby. To buy them a mystery or subscription box, you need to know exactly what their special interests are. This is also a good option for anyone, like me, who is just awful at picking out gifts. The box’s creator will do that for you, but you will get all the credit.

    These boxes come in every style and theme imaginable, so you will definitely be able to find the perfect one for your recipient. Etsy has a lot of mystery boxes, and a Google search will help you find subscription boxes. Sometimes subscription boxes don’t show 100% of what’s in them, but sometimes they do! Please read the reviews before buying them.

    Something Homemade

    If you’re one of those people who has a different and fun hobby because of the pandemic or from before 2020, something handmade by you is a great gift. I know it takes a lot of time and energy to create something, but you don’t have to create something for everyone. Pick a few people that you know would appreciate it.

    My cousin does cross-stitch, and she makes everyone designs that are unique to their hobbies and special interests. It doesn’t cost her as much money as buying them a gift; it only takes her time and love, making it even more special. I have a few that she gave me, and they’re all hanging up in my house. I’ll always cherish them.

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    The Worst

    Some holiday gifts are hands-down the worst thing to get someone this year, or maybe ever. If you’re considering gifting one of the items below, please rethink it. 

    Vacations Or Trips Of Any Kind

    I’m talking about literally any gift that encourages someone to leave their town or even their house. Big vacations should be completely off the table, and so should weekend trips. Day trips are also a no-go. Any tickets to a concert, show, escape room, or even a paint party should be avoided. 

    The only exception to this rule is if the date of the event is for many months from now. Even then, please make sure they’re refundable just in case.

    Self-Help Books

    Everyone is doing their best right now, and they don’t need a book telling them that they could be doing better. 2020 isn’t the year of self-improvement. For a lot of people, it’s the year of self-maintenance. 

    Please, save the self-help book recommendations for when someone asks or is actively looking into self-help.

     

    Anything Political

    It doesn’t matter who you voted for, if you voted, or any other situation you may be in. The election is over, and most people want to forget it ever happened. I’m sure their political party isn’t the only part of their personality and interests. Give them a gift that they can use and appreciate for years to come. 

    On top of everything else, if you have political family members, they will share their opinion on whatever the politically themed gift is. It could make the holidays tense or ruin it in some cases. It’s best to avoid the topic altogether.

    A Pet

    This gift is terrible every year. You have to know with 100% certainty that the recipient wants a pet and has the financial, physical, and emotional means to take care of one. If you can’t guarantee this, don’t gift an animal.

    Pets are a commitment and responsibility for years to come. They can’t just be thrown or given away when the recipient gets tired of it. Many animals end up in shelters every year because they were holiday gifts that the recipient wasn’t prepared for.

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    Finally, The Best Gift You Can Give This Year

    The best gift you can give your loved ones is your time. Quarantining and the pandemic have been challenging and incredibly isolating. Although you can’t see them in person, you can spend a day calling or video chatting with everyone. Tell them how grateful you are that they’re in your life and wish them a happy holiday. It’ll be better than any physical gift you can find. 

  • Winter Home Décor 

    Winter Home Décor 

    Winter doesn’t end after the holidays. The months before spring arrives should get just as much decorating attention as the rest of the year. It’s time for snowball fights and evergreen trees to have their moment. Convert your home into a winter wonderland with these winter home décor tips.

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    Outdoor Decor

    Take advantage of the area near your front door; it sets the tone for the rest of your home. Replace the holiday wreath with one that is more neutral for the winter. Pinecone wreaths, accented with fake snow or white glitter, are a great way to welcome people into your home. If you want to go all out, hang smaller matching wreaths on all your front-facing windows for a uniform look.

    If you have a porch, fill it with small evergreen trees. They can be real, but fake ones will look great, and you’ll be able to use them for years to come. As you’re taking down your holiday decorations, leave up the white lights you put on your porch or house. When the days get shorter, you need all the light you can get. 

     

    Indoor Decor

    Depending on where you live, you might not be able to do much decorating outside due to the harsh winter weather. That’s okay because winter home décor is meant to make your home and life cozy, so the interior of your home is the best place for it!

    First, let’s talk color scheme. You’re going to want to focus on natural elements and wood, like birch or pine while adding in hints of white, green, and brown. Winter calls for a neutral color palette that’s easy on the eyes. 

    You have to include some candles. Just like greenery, they can be real or fake. Truthfully, fake is best. Battery operated candles can be stunning, they’re easy to maintain, and some even come with remote control. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about wax ruining your carpet. 

    If you have any customizable aspects of your home like a corkboard, chalkboard, or whiteboard, take your time and write a winter quote that makes you excited for the colder weather. Try your hand at writing in a pretty new font and accent the quote with hand-drawn snowflakes. Doing this will add some much-needed personalization to the space.

    Texture is a huge factor when decorating, and winter home décor is centered around cozy and functional blankets and pillows. Fleece is an excellent material, and so is faux fur. If you really want to warm up your living room, get a trendy big knit blanket. You can either buy it or DIY. 

    The last few items you can incorporate into your décor are the perfect finishing touches. Add in some mirrors! This will make any room feel more open, and it will reflect any natural light and the light from the candles we talked about earlier. Don’t forget to incorporate all the gifts you got over the holidays. Finally, turn on your fireplace, and you’ll have the coziest winter décor in town.

     

    Do It Yourself

    You don’t have to spend a ton of cash to get the winter vibes in your home. DIY projects are a great way to save money while spending time with your family. All of these DIYs have several variations, but they’re easily accessible on the internet! 

    Tinsel garland is fun for the holidays, but it gets old once new years comes around. Replace it with a pom-pom garland. You can use any colors you want, and you can choose the size of the pom-pom. Alternate colors and alternate sizes to really make it unique. Then, once you know how to make the pom-poms, you can make all different types of snowball décor. 

    Change out your holiday centerpiece for a nature-inspired one. Use tree branches, pinecones, twinkle lights, and ribbon to design a one of a kind centerpiece. Look up inspiration online and let your creativity run wild. It can be a complicated arrangement filled with birch tree branches covered in glitter and lights, or it can be a beautiful and straightforward glass vase filled with pinecones from your backyard. 

    If you want a DIY project you can do with kids, creating snowflake décor is a great place to start. You can do the traditional paper-cut snowflakes, or you can create snowflakes out of popsicle sticks. Hot glue them together to create your perfect snowflake design and spray paint them in your chosen winter colors.

     

    Quick Tips

    First, ditch any and all red items or accents. Put it all away until next year. This will make your décor feel significantly less jolly. Leave your winter home décor neutral, or add in a different color. I think adding a different color can help make your winter home décor feel more personal.

    Holiday decorations tend to have a theme of “the more, the merrier.” Cut the clutter in your decorations and décor by cutting it down by up to 80%. Décor doesn’t have to be in your face to be effective. Leave out the best decorations you have, and it will be more than enough. 

    As I’ve mentioned, greenery and natural elements make the perfect winter décor, as does anything that is snow related. It’s time for snowflakes, snowmen, and sleigh decorations to shine. 

    Include different textures on your decorations and your everyday items. Glitter and natural wood accents are a great way to add depth to your décor. Faux fur, knitted blankets, and fleece are the coziest fabrics in existence. You have to incorporate them into your space to be ready for winter. 

    Scent matters too! We aren’t all lucky enough to have a fireplace available to us. Candles or scent diffusers with winter and natural fragrances are perfect alternatives. Feel free to change out the scents of your hand soaps and room sprays too. 

    Finally, don’t leave out any room in your home. Spread the coziness and joy of winter into every corner and brace for the snow!winter home

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  • Non-Traditional Wedding Components 

    Non-Traditional Wedding Components 

    Take what you like and leave what you don’t. Non-traditional means that you’re probably not going to be fond of everything on this list, but if you find one thing to incorporate into your big day, it’s been a success.

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    CEREMONY

    The first, and arguably most important, part of a wedding is the ceremony. It’s one of the most important moments in your entire life, and it should be unique to you.

    VENUE

    Tradition tells you that you need to be married in the religious venue of your choice. If you’re religious, this might be a tradition you want to keep. As the years have gone by, I’ve noticed that more and more couples opt for a non-traditional wedding venue.

    These new venues come in many different forms! You can get married in a barn, mansion, library, or recital hall. You can also hold your ceremony in a restaurant, backyard, or on a boat. If you can rent it, it can be a venue.

    Your location can reflect your hobbies or special interests. The venue can also have a special meaning to you and your significant other. Maybe it’s where you first met, had your first date, or even your first kiss.

    The best part is that you can use your theme or wedding aesthetic to help guide you to the perfect location. A non-traditional venue gives you a vast range of pricing. You’ll be able to find a beautiful venue within any budget.

    In addition to finding the perfect pick for your budget, you’ll also be able to find the best venue for the size of your ceremony. You don’t want your guests to be cramped, but you also don’t want to have 50 guests in a room intended for 200.

    OUTFITS

    We all know the traditional outfits for a wedding. The bride wears a white gown, the groom wears a tux, and the bridesmaids and groomsmen all match. Well, that can get boring very quickly.

    Brides have more options than they think they do. The bright white dress isn’t mandatory. You can wear a variation of white, like ivory or eggshell. If you’re a more daring bride, go for a completely different color like pink, blue, or even black! If you really want a non-traditional wedding outfit, skip the dress altogether and wear a pantsuit or jumpsuit.

    Don’t force your bridesmaids into the stereotypical frilly dress. Instead, pick a color from a wedding website and let the bridesmaids choose their own style. The color will match and make everything look uniform, but the bridal party will be able to choose a dress that fits their body type and makes them feel comfortable.

    The groom and groomsmen don’t have to be in the stiff black tuxes, especially if it doesn’t fit your venue or theme. The men can get funky with the color and texture of their suits. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to play with some accessories like suspenders, socks, hats, or bowties.

    WEDDING PARTY

    When it comes down to the actual ceremony, the wedding party’s entrances are important, but the order isn’t set in stone. Some brides are forgoing the bridal party altogether. This allows the happy couple to stand out by standing at the alter all by themselves.

    The bride and groom’s parents don’t have to walk them down the aisle. It’s the 21st century, and parents aren’t literally giving away their children anymore. It’s simply a nod to tradition. It’s time to let your guests focus on the people who are actually getting married.

    VOWS

    A huge traditional aspect of wedding ceremonies is the pre-written marital vows. While these get the point across, modern vows can feel more personal and meaningful. Whether they are based on religion or not, choose or write your own vows.

    Writing your vows gives you and your partner a beautiful opportunity to tell each other how much you value them as a life partner. You can make specific promises that aren’t typically in pre-written vows and that are unique to your relationship.

    RECEPTION

    There are fewer traditional expectations for the reception, but there are still aspects that people anticipate. It’s time to put a spin on it and throw a non-traditional wedding reception.

    SPEECHES

    The most dreaded and anticipated part of dinner is the speeches. Speeches are typically made by the maid of honor, best man, and the parents. Sometimes this is a great idea, assuming your loved ones are articulate and don’t have too much to drink. Other times, it’s best if no speeches are given at all.

    There are several alternatives to speeches that can be just as good if not better than the traditional dinner time sermons. You can have an open microphone during the speech portion of dinner. If you’re not afraid of your distant uncle saying a few words, this can be a fun way to allow everyone to share a story or some advice.

    Alternatively, you can skip the speeches altogether. Set up a confessional, like you see on reality TV, and let people record any speeches, stories, or advice they have for the couple. Then you can look back on the recording for the rest of your life.

    FOOD

    Food is a big part of the reception, and there aren’t many options. Typically, the choice is between a sit-down dinner or a buffet. If you have a venue that will allow it, typically a non-traditional wedding venue, skip the dinner entirely.

    Instead, hire food trucks to stay outside throughout the entire event. This allows your guests to eat at their leisure while being able to sample a variety of food.

    Finally, ditch the huge cake that no one eats and opt for cupcakes or pies instead. If you want something casual, create a dessert bar with all of your favorite types of cookies, cupcakes, and even candy.

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    Whatever you think a wedding should have or what a wedding should look like, toss it out the window. This is your non-traditional wedding, your big day. It can look however you want, and you should be able to eat whatever you want. The only obligatory part of a wedding is the act of getting married. Traditional doesn’t mean mandatory.

  • Side Dishes That Will Impress Your Family During the Holidays 

    Side Dishes That Will Impress Your Family During the Holidays 

    Every year it’s the same food at the same table on the same day. Everyone is a little bored, but no one is willing to admit it. Impress your family and friends by bringing a brand new holiday side dish to the table this year. If you don’t know what to bring, here are some tasty options that everyone will love. 

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    Chipotle Cheddar Biscuits with Fresh Basil

    Canned biscuits are delicious, but you should honor the holidays with a homemade biscuit that will add a bit of spice to your holiday feast! This recipe is so easy you can even get the kids involved. These biscuits are a great introduction to the holiday meal-making process. 

    The biscuits are hand mixed. All you have do is make sure not to overwork the dough before forming the biscuits. It takes 40 minutes to make and bake these beauties. Each batch makes 12 servings, so you might want to double the recipe depending on how many people you’re serving. Everyone will want at least one! 

    Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole 

    This side dish has the fall spirit. The best part of this casserole is that it is an easy chop and dump dish. The only tricky part, which isn’t even all that tricky, is to make sure you don’t overcook the potatoes before they go in the casserole. 

    If you want the best turnout for this recipe, use granny smith apples. If granny smiths aren’t your favorite, you can use whatever apples you want, but don’t pass on the pecans. They add an extra layer of crunch. Take the hour and ten minutes to make this casserole. If you don’t have time on the day you’ll be serving it, you can bake and store it up to 48 hours in advance. 

    Roasted Mushrooms in a Browned Butter, Garlic, and Thyme Sauce

    When you think of holidays, mushrooms aren’t typically a food that comes to mind. That’s why this simple and delicious dish will “wow” your family. It’s unexpected, but it will fit perfectly with the rest of the food on the table. 

    It’s so easy. The prep time is literally five minutes, and you don’t even have to cut the mushrooms. 

    Even though it’s tossed in butter, it’s still 90% vegetables, which makes it one of the most nutritious food items on your plate. Who knows, maybe it’ll become a holiday staple on your table. 

    Slow Cooker Cranberry Apple Stuffing

    Stuffing is a fan favorite at holiday celebrations, and everyone wants a taste. Of course, you want it to be delicious, but tasting good doesn’t mean it has to be complicated! I love slow cookers for that exact reason. The flavors enhance while it cooks, and you can forget about it until it’s time to eat. 

    It might be a three hour cook time, but this dish only takes 20 minutes to prep. Slow cooker recipes are great for the host that always has a lot to do. You already have so many preparations and so much cooking on your plate, let the slow cooker handle the stuffing. 

    Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

    This is probably my favorite food on this list. In fact, I’ll be making it for my holiday meal this year. It is perfect because the goat cheese and pecans complement each other while holding two different and distinct flavors. 

    It will take you 15 minutes to prep and an hour cook time to get the carrots soft and delectable. Mix up the dish by using multicolored carrots, and eventually, you will have an overall beautiful side dish worthy of your Instagram feed. 

     

    Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese

    Risotto is a hearty side dish. It’s good for members of the family who don’t like stuffing and the ones that do. Oddly enough, pumpkin flavors aren’t widely used on the holidays except for the pie. This dish is a fun way to incorporate a savory pumpkin flavor into the main meal.

    Risotto sounds and looks fancy, but this holiday side dish only takes five minutes to prep. The 30 minute cook time won’t take much thought at all. 

    Cream Cheese and Bacon Green Bean Casserole 

    This variation of the classic green bean casserole will make your mouth water. Let’s be honest; adding bacon to anything makes it better. Creamy and delicious, as the recipe suggests, this is not a food to eat if you’re trying to lose some weight over the holiday season. 

    Within 35 minutes, this casserole will be ready to serve and eat. It’s completely worth the calories, and if you’re going to indulge, it might as well be for the holidays.

    Maple Walnut Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes 

    We all know that mashed sweet potatoes with roasted marshmallows on top are a significant part of a holiday meal, but why do the sweet potatoes have to be mashed? Why do they need marshmallows? They’re sweet all on their own, so why not forget the sugary white puffs and make these potato skins instead!

    They can be made with either Greek yogurt or sour cream. The woman who created this recipe, Nora, also notes that this holiday side dish can be made in a nut-free fashion by replacing any nuts with rolled oats. On top of that, Nora says that the butter should not be substituted for any reason because the topping won’t come out correctly. So, make sure to use butter because the topping will be the best part!

    These sweet potatoes are the best because they are ready in only one hour, which is no time at all for potatoes. Of course, the actual time varies depending on the size of the potatoes you’ve chosen. It’s straightforward to change this dish’s serving size because it’s based solely on how many potato skins you cook.

    Crockpot Corn Casserole 

    Don’t be turned off because this dish is made in a crockpot. There is an option to bake it in the oven! If you want to use your crockpot, it will take 3 hours on high and 6 hours on low to cook. It’ll take less than an hour to cook in the oven.

    If you choose to use a crockpot, this is another great side dish that you can set and forget while you’re making other food until it’s finally time to eat. With a prep time of only 10 minutes, this is a fantastic option for the busy woman who got stuck making 80% of the holiday meal. 

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    Some Words of Advice

    For all of these recipes, pay attention to the serving size. How much will your family eat, and do you want leftovers? Figure out how much you need to add or take away from the recipe to suit your guest list. 

    If you don’t have one or two things on the list of ingredients, there’s always a way to substitute. Get creative, or ask Google, so you don’t have to go to the store last minute. Missing one spice won’t ruin the entire holiday side dish. Most importantly, remember to have a great holiday season!