There's something undeniably cozy about striking a match, hearing that tiny whoosh, watching the flame flicker, and enjoying the whole atmosphere it creates. But there are some downsides. It's so annoying to deal with jars covered in soot, to try to fix uneven burns or wicks that tunnel into sad little holes, and, of course, there's the low-level anxiety of leaving a flame unattended, even for a second.
She'll politely hint at running low or requesting backfill for her stash any time an opportunity arises. And her most recent favorite thing (Oprah much?) is this Nest candle, specifically in the bamboo scent. She loves it so much, she's asked for it for Christmas the past three years. Even better, it's 25% off right now on Amazon for Black Friday. Try it out: It might just become your new obsession, too.
As bottom lines and frayed nerves tighten around the end of the year, it truly is the thought that counts. Those you love will know you care, with or without the thing that goes with it. For those who'd like to sweeten the deal, though, Design Milk has scoured the web and filtered through the holiday noise to bring you 10 modern gifts all under $25. There's something for everyone, with gift ideas ranging from playful and fun to thoughtful and practical.
When a guest walks in the front door, they assess the general vibe with multiple senses simultaneously. Mood lighting and jolly jingles in the back go a long way, but you can put guests at ease and create a pleasant experience from the moment they take their first breath in your space. I spoke with multiple experts to get tips and tricks on how to hack your party atmosphere to create the ultimate festive holiday vibe.
Below you'll find our favorite Advent calendars that are worth getting for yourself or a loved one. "Each 2.5-ounce glass vessel is supposed to burn for up to 25 hours, so while they're petite, they'll definitely keep your space smelling spiced, citrusy, sweet, or whatever else you choose all day long." Good for: A friend who loves delicious spreads or miniature things (or both!).
From hot apple cider to baked goods in the oven, there's a candle for every fall scent. As much of a sucker as I am for fragrant candles, several years ago I decided to cut down on my candle spending. While my grandma's olla aromática recipes can compete with any high-end candle (and win), I don't always have the time to leave a pot simmering on the stove all day.
If you're into baking or know someone who is, you've almost definitely seen a KitchenAid stand mixer. They're beloved by bakers and foodies of all ages and types for being both a reliable workhorse and a cute statement piece for your kitchen counter. But at almost $500, they're quite the splurge. However, you can now get a Wallflower plug-in diffuser from Bath & Body Works that looks almost exactly like a mint-green KitchenAid stand mixer for just $19.95.
Something I unabashedly love about myself is that I am a great gift giver. I've given friends unique jewelry pieces that wind up in their daily rotation, surprised my parents with sweet birthday treats that fit within their diet, and once gifted my fiancé's brother-in-law (a guy I barely knew) with coffee beans so good he still orders them to this day. I guess you could say this talent is just my gift in life.
For just $12.99, Aldi's Hotel Collection Sweet Pumpkin Pie candle looks like a quiet luxury find - and, it's one of the easiest and most affordable ways to create a fall tablescape on your kitchen table or island. The candle, which looks like the outline of a light wooden pumpkin with white wax inside, is also perfect to display on your coffee table or a TV console.
It's high time for the humble tomato to shine. Tomatoes are in abundance at the end of summer, heirlooms, plums, Roma, and San Marzano sit in large paper bags, juicy and ripe, waiting to be eaten. Rocco and MALIN+GOETZ are celebrating the magic of this sunny season with a crisp new colorway for the Super Smart Fridge: Tomato Red. With all the features of the other fridges in the lineup,