After a lot of soul searching, I’ve come up with 6 simple, stress-free ways to decorate for the holidays this year so we can enjoy this wonderful season. If you’re struggling right now, whether it be with grief, finances, divorce, fertility, strained relationships, addiction, or any one of life’s hardships – I hope this message finds you when you need it most. Let’s start with…

ADD A WREATH

Instead of setting out little decorations on every available surface, try adding a wreath to a wall where you normally have artwork or a mirror hanging. It instantly makes the room feel festive without taking up any table space, and you could even layer the wreath over the artwork or mirror by hanging it from a pretty ribbon. Don’t forget to add a wreath to your front door as well!

This wreath hanger is adjustable and a beautiful antique brass. But I’ve never seen a wreath hanger like this – it also has a holder for a candle in the center!

– scroll & click any photo to shop –

SIMPLIFY YOUR TREE

Over the years we tend to collect tons of ornaments, garlands, and all kinds of tree trimmings, which can feel overwhelming at times. If you’re having a hard time pulling out all those boxes, try a more minimalist tree this year with just your favorite ornaments. I like to focus on larger ball ornaments that take up more space and don’t require as many to make the tree feel complete. Then layer on a simple garland or use your favorite color ribbon to tie dainty bows on a few branches. Allowing more of the tree’s natural beauty shine through creates such a calm, serene feeling. 

If you need a safe place to store your ornaments at the end of the season, this container has adjustable dividers to accommodate different size ornaments. 

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USE GIFTS AS DECOR

If piles of boxes are going to be sitting on your floor for weeks, you might as well make them part of your decor, right? I actually love putting a little extra attention and detail into the packaging when I give someone a gift because it makes the entire experience feel more special. Even if it’s just a card with money or a gift card – I’ll put it inside a box, wrap it in paper, and tie ribbon around it with a bow. If I’m feeling really crafty, I’ll add a special name tag and maybe even a sprig of greenery (rosemary works great for this) or a couple bells hanging from the bow. It doesn’t even need to be that fancy though – my go-to wrapping paper for any holiday or birthday is basic brown kraft paper (you can get a huge roll for really cheap) and whatever spare ribbon, twine, or yarn I have in my craft supplies. The best part is you can give you tree and holiday decor a completely new vibe each year with the wrapping paper you decide to use for your gifts. 

Don’t forget your wrapping paper cutter!

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SWAP OUT SEASONAL STEMS

Take any flowers or everyday greenery you have sitting around in vases, and swap them out for some evergreens or poinsettia stems. It’s a two second switch that instantly makes the house feel more like a winter wonderland. I linked a bunch of artificial options that are available in stores right now, but don’t forget you can also go outside and trim some yourself for free! 

Tip: groups of odd numbers look best for styling – so plan to get at least 3 or maybe 5, depending on the size of the stem and your vase!

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ADD WARM, COZY LAYERS

Once the temperature outside drops, you want the inside of your home to feel extra warm and inviting. Set out a few blankets in the living room with thick, cozy textures like fur, cable knit, sherpa, fleece, etc. Those fabrics make great throw pillows for the winter too! You can drape blankets over the arm or back of your sofa or even hang them on a blanket ladder. 

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TWINKLE LIGHTS + CANDLE LIGHT

Nothing is more magical than a Christmas tree all lit up at night. It’s hard to explain the nostalgia, the flood of memories, the silent peace and beauty that you feel when the house is dark and quiet and with only the light of the tree. Whether you completely cover the outside of your house National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation style or just add a little strand of fairy lights to a wreath or garland, never underestimate their simplicity or beauty. Bonus tip: get a yummy Christmas candle too that smells like cookies fresh out the oven.

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As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

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The post 6 Steps to Simple, Stress-Free Holiday Decor appeared first on Love Grows Wild.

Below you’ll find a full list of all the best Black Friday sales going on now + a roundup of some of my top picks. I’ll keep updating this post as the weekend goes on – click the store name or any photo below for more details! Happy shopping and have a great weekend, friends

BLACK FRIDAY SALES:

Abercrombie – 25% off everything + free shipping on orders over $99

Aerie – 40% off everything including clearance + free shipping on orders over $75

Amazon Beauty

Amazon Fashion

Amazon Home

Amazon Tech

American Eagle – 30-40% off everything  + free shipping on orders over $75

Anthropologie – 30% off select clothing, accessories, home, and furniture + extra 50% off sale items + free shipping on orders over $50

Antique Candle Co. – 30% everything + free shipping + free 16 oz candle on orders over $75

Ballard Designs – 25-75% off sitewide + free shipping with no minimum purchase

Bed Bath & Beyond – Up to 70% off thousands of items

Best Buy

Birch Lane – up to 70% off + an extra 25% off with code: EXTRA25

Boutique Rugs – Extra 20% off sitewide with code: BF20 + free shipping

Collection Prints – Up to 60% off sitewide

DSW – 30% off + an extra 10% off with code: BLACKFRIDAY

Etsy – Up to 60% off from small shops

Forever 21 – 50% off sitewide + free shipping with code: FREESHIP or free express shipping on orders over $75 w/ code: EXP75

Free People – 50% off select styles

Grow + Gather – 10% off everything – no code necessary + flat rate shipping

H&M – 30% off sitewide

Joss & Main – Up to 70% off with an additional 25% off with code: SAVE25

Kohl’s – Additional 15% off with code: GOSHOP15 + free shipping on orders over $25 + earn Kohl’s cash

Madewell – 50% off your entire purchase with code: LETSGO

McGee & Co. – Up to 50% off sitewide

Nordstrom

Nordstrom Rack – Deals throughout + extra 40% off clearance

Old Navy – 50% off everything

Pottery Barn – Up to 50% off thousands of items + free shipping

Rugs USA – Additional 25% off everything with code: 25OFF

Serena & Lily – up to 70% off sitewide + free shipping on everything

Sephora – Up to 50% off select beauty

Stanley – Up to 60% off select items

Target – Deals sitewide + a Holiday Price Match Guarantee

Terrain – 30% select decor/gifts + an additional 50% off sale items

TJ Maxx – Markdowns up to 70% off + free shipping on orders over $89 with code: SHIP89

Ulta – $10 off $40 purchase + free shipping on orders over $35

Urban Outfitters – 40% off entire purchase

Walmart – Deals sitewide

Wayfair – Up to 80% off + limited time flash deals

West Elm – Up to 70% off + free shipping on thousands of items

William Sonoma – Up to 40% off

As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

STAY CONNECTED:

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I’ve divided my favorite finds into two categories this year:

• Under $50 – affordable, stylish options starting at just $8
• Most Wanted – best selling items over $50 and are 100% worth every penny!

– Click Any Image Below To Shop –

1. Wet/dry Cordless Vacuum – I bought this cordless mop/vacuum combo earlier this year and now wonder how I ever cleaned my floors without it. It works so well, even with all our dog hair, and saves a ton of time! 
2. Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones – I’ve used my Sony noise cancelling headphones almost daily in the gym for the last 3 or 4 years and can’t say enough good things about them. This is the newest model, and I love the slimmer design!
3. Bearpaw Shorty Bootie – If you love UGG booties, but don’t love the UGG price tag, this is such a cute alternative for a fraction of the price.
4. Sunrise Alarm Clock/Sound Machine – An aesthetically pleasing sound machine to help you fall and stay asleep + a gentle alarm clock that supports your natural circadian rhythm. You can even add meditations, sleep stories, and more with an optional Hatch membership (a free trial is included). 
5. Match Holder – A chic match holder that comes with solid black matches for the candle lover in your life.
6. Waffle Robe – I asked for this dreamy waffle knit robe a few years ago, and it feels just like you’re at a luxurious spa. Comes in white, tan, moss, and gray.
7. Instant Camera– I love these instant cameras for capturing memories in a fun, unique way. The design and square photo format of this new model is 10 out of 10. 
8. Oura Ring – I’m dying to get my hands on this health/fitness tracker because you wear it as a discrete ring instead of a clunky watch on your wrist. It monitors your sleep, steps, blood oxygen, heart rate, cycle, temperature, and more. 
9. Vintage Board Game Collection – We love family game night, and this vintage-inspired set is made to be both played and displayed. 
10. Brass Salt and Pepper Mills – These chic brass salt and pepper mills are the perfect gift for foodies and design lovers too!
11. Nike Blazer Shoes – You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of Nike’s, and this white/cream combo is so, so good. 
12. Pour Over Kettle – This kettle has a precision spout for less spillage and a built-in thermometer for optimal brewing temperature. Pair it with some yummy flavored teas for the perfect cozy gift. 

– Click Any Image Below To Shop –

1. Crew Boot Socks – This is the cutest set of cozy socks to wear with boots or a pair of white sneakers. Only $11 for a set of 6!
2. Wavy Phone Case – The wavy design on this phone case is so fun, and it comes in 25 colors for any iPhone model. 
3. Corner Zip Wristlet – Every girl needs a good wristlet for running errands, and the Coach corner zip is 60% off right now!
4. Lamp Candle Warmer – These candle warmers that look like a cozy, little lamp have gone viral lately, and I love this version that has a curved adjustable height arm so it works with any height candle. It’s also dimmable and has a timer!
5. Curling Iron – I prefer a longer barrel curling iron, and this size is perfect for getting those beach mermaid waves.
6. Buttercream Turtle Neck Sweatshirt – This is my favorite place to buy cozy sweaters, and they’re all 40% off right now! But this oversized turtleneck just looks so, so soft and comfortable.
7. Travertine Match Holder – I love gifting a delicious smelling candle with some accessories like this gorgeous, unique travertine match holder. 
8. Cozy Knit Throw – Throw this Barefoot Dreams inspired throw blanket in your cart immediately – it’s under $20, and colors are selling out quickly!
9. Spice Cake Candle – These are the only candles I burn in my home, and this new Spice Cake scent is to die for. Use my exclusive code LIZLOVE20 for 20% off your order! (not able to be combined with certain sitewide sales)
10. Sherpa Slippers – Everyone loves a new pair of slippers for Christmas! 
11. Simply Modern Tumbler – Rumor has it this insulated tumbler performs better than the infamous Stanley. It’s less expensive too!
12. Travel Cosmetic Bag – A girl can never have enough cute bags to store all her beauty products and toiletries. This one comes in 7 pretty colors and is 20% off!

As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

STAY CONNECTED:

Our Store: Grow + Gather
Shop my Posts | Shop my Amazon Store
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The post Gift Guide | Most Wanted & Under $50 appeared first on Love Grows Wild.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I wanted to share my recipe for the creamiest mashed potatoes you could imagine – a dish so irresistibly velvety and delicious, it will have you coming back for seconds and thirds. I tested several different variations of this recipe, and these mashed potatoes were unanimously the winner. They have the perfect amount of seasoning, moisture, and richness – even if you need to make the potatoes ahead and heat them back up later. 

Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday feast or simply craving some comforting goodness on a normal weeknight, this recipe is sure to become your go-to. 

P.S. Once you see the buttery smiley face in this photo, you can’t unsee it…

Perfect Creamy Mashed Potatoes

 

PRINT

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our creamy mashed potato recipe – rich, buttery, and velvety-smooth, it's the perfect addition to your holiday meal or any weeknight dinner.

Author: Liz Fourez

Recipe type: Side Dish

INGREDIENTS

• 5 pounds potatoes - preferably half Yukon Gold and half Russet - peeled (if preferred) and cut into 1" chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons salt
• 12 tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ - 2 cups heavy cream - half-and-half or whole milk will also work
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add the potatoes to a large pot and fill with enough cold water to cover by at least 1". Season with 1 tablespoon salt and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a boil. Cook the potatoes for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender, then drain and return to the hot pot to help evaporate some additional moisture.
2. Meanwhile, add the butter, heavy cream, 2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to a small saucepan and heat just until the butter is melted.
3. Mash the potatoes until smooth using a potato masher, then pour in half the butter/cream mixture. Fold in the liquid, then add the remaining butter/cream and the room temperature cream cheese. Continue mixing until just combined, and add any additional seasoning as needed to taste. Serve warm and garnish with chopped chives and additional butter, if desired.

NOTES

- This recipe can easily be halved, doubled, or tripled.
- You can use a mixer to whip the potatoes, but use the lowest setting and only until the potatoes are just the consistency you want to avoid them getting sticky.
- To keep warm until ready to serve, transfer the potatoes to a baking dish and wrap tightly with foil. Place in a warm oven on the lowest temperature until ready to serve.

3.5.3251

MORE THANKSGIVING RECIPES:

• Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin
• Slow Cooker Butter and Herb Turkey Breast
• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
• Pecan Streusel Pumpkin Pie
• Apple Pie Bars
• Crispy Smashed Potatoes
• Salted Caramel Apple Crisp
• Roasted Fall Vegetables

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE, TAG @LIZLOVEGROWSWILD ON INSTAGRAM!

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Can we talk about this darling chocolate brown velvet bow hair barrette? It’s $8 and feels like the sweetest accessory for fall – also comes in black velvet!

It’s not technically included in the November Edit, but special shoutout to my favorite cropped puffer vest in the same delicious chocolate brown color. I’ve been wearing it so much the last few weeks since it came in! I think I need the beige color next. 

If you scroll to the bottom of the post, you’ll see a close-up of the new pair of boots I added to my wardrobe this fall. I was wanting a real chunky pair of black combat/chelsea boots that could easily be dressed up or down, and this pair from Target was less than a quarter of the price of the Sam Edelman ones I had been looking at. They’re so comfy and give a little height, but are still effortless to walk around in all day. 

sweatshirt | vest | boots | bow | leggings

SHOP THE EDIT:

1. Fellow Stagg Gooseneck Pour-Over Kettle– I have been drinking a lot more tea lately, especially as the weather cools off. The electric tea kettles are nice, but I don’t want another thing I have to have sitting out on my counter and another cord to deal with. This brand is one of the top rated I’ve seen, and I love that it has a thermometer on top so you know exactly how hot your water is. The gooseneck precision spout ensures no spillage while pouring!

2. Insulated Casserole Carrier – It’s almost time for holiday meals, spending hours in the kitchen, and creating all those delicious dishes. When you have to transport food, having one of these casserole carriers is so helpful to keep everything warm and make it easy/safe to carry. The pretty neutral colors on this one is a total bonus. 

3. 6 Piece Autumn Eucalyptus Stems – These stems would be stunning displayed on your Thanksgiving table and come in several other fall-inspired colors as well. Currently 27% off making each stem just $2.67! You can’t beat that price. 

4. Black Chelsea Boots – I try to replace one of my old, worn-out pair of boots each fall, and this year I’ve had my eye on a super chunky black combat/chelsea boot. I looked at dozens of options well over $100 – some over $200, but this Target pair is exactly what I want for less than half the price. 

5. Oval Hand Engraved Locket Necklace  –  There is nothing more timeless and beautiful than a simple locket necklace, and I love pairing them with cozy sweaters in the wintertime. This one is able to hold a photo inside and would make the BEST gift for a friend, sister, or any female in your life!

6. Velvet Ribbon Bow Hair Barrette– This just feels like the holidays to me – velvet + a pretty hair bow in a chic chocolate brown color? I can’t wait to play around and style this different ways.

7. Stoneware Pie Dish with Ruffled Edges– Let’s be honest – pie is the best part of Thanksgiving. Whether you need a new or extra pie plate yourself or want a great gift idea for a foodie or homebody, this one is just so pretty. 

8. “Sunday Scaries” Crew Sweatshirt– You know that feeling on the weekend when you realize it’s almost Monday and you have to go back to work? That’s the “Sunday Scaries”, and this cozy sweatshirt might have to be my new weekend uniform. 

9. Quarter Zip Sweatshirt  – This sherpa fleece quarter zip feels like the definition of cozy, but it’s also stylish enough that it could easily be dressed up or down. It comes in multiple colors, but I love this creamy white! P.S. get the matching sweatpants too.

10. Amber Glass Tea Light Candle Holders – Loving all the ribbed amber glass I’ve seen lately, and I think these tea light candle holders scattered across a Thanksgiving table would be such a warm and cozy touch. Currently on sale 20% off!

11. Cotton Table Runner– I’m not a big tablecloth person – it feels a little too formal and fussy for our family. Too much fabric to potentially get dirty. But a simple runner in the center of the table is the perfect touch to add a bit of texture and softness. 

12. Double Wall Glass Coffee Mug – I’m all about a warm cup of coffee or tea to get me through the work day, and I’ve had my eye on these double wall glass mugs for awhile now. The double wall is supposed to keep drinks hotter and also produce less condensation on cold drinks. They’re also just pretty to look at!

As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

STAY CONNECTED:

Our Store: Grow + Gather
Shop my Posts | Shop my Amazon Store
Join our Community | Follow on Instagram 
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The post The November Edit | 2023 appeared first on Love Grows Wild.