High: 100% surprising our Mom for Mother’s Day. Mom is literally one of those people that never treats herself or travels or can be surprised so I love to make it happen whenever I can. I’m sure y’all have heard me talk about this before but my Mom has always worked so hard - she had three jobs at one point when I was in high school and then she put herself thru college in her 40s so she could pursue a career in radiology tech. She was the selfless mom that would stay up with me all night to finish a project or paper and never complain about it the next day even though she had to work, feed us, and a million other things. There is no one better than our Mom and I will spend the rest of my life paying her back for being the absolute best. If you want to ever recreate our Momathon in NYC, this is the schedule:

Friday:

• Surprise flight to NYC

• A weekend stay at the Warren St. Hotel

• Pizza from Seppe Pizza Bar

Saturday (we wanted to do more here but it was very rainy):

• Room service breakfast

• Lunch at the bar in the Warren St. Hotel

• Visit the Frick Museum

• Walk down towards midtown and bar hop the hotels - we had tea and drinks at The Whitby

• Dinner at Golden Hof

• Broadway show - Beaches (sadly it already closed)

Sunday:

• brunch at Frenchette

• Head to Battery Park City to enjoy the parks

• Fly Out

Low: I got off of Threads this month because I realized that every time I opened the app it made me angry and I’ve typed and deleted so many things that I definitely should have never shared. I truly think my mental health got better when I left Twitter (never calling it X) and I think the same is true for Threads. After watching people criticize Dr. Beachgem for taking a picture with a senator, I truly couldn’t take it anymore.

Funniest moment: By far, the funniest moment was watching how uncomfortable Steve was while we watched the new horror movie, Obsession. He practically lept out of his seat when it was over.

Biggest cry: I cried a lot this month thinking of Jackson. I cried very hard when I was making the video of the evolution of his hall runs. I have to thank y’all so much for sending me your favorite memories of him. How lucky am I that y’all loved and remember him too?

Proudest moment: Penny just decided that she wanted to wear underwear and she was done with diapers. My little independent lady! I knew she would do it on her own time and damn if she didn’t make us all proud!

Best purchases: The clothes for our Mom and the necklaces I got us all from mejuri. A close second is purchasing Mario Run for the iPad because Penny loves to watch me play it and I’ve had so much fun with her!

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The Devil Wears Prada 2 (in theaters now)

Ashley: A lot of people had very high expectations for this movie - I did not. I loved it! I don’t think it’s going to win any Oscars but that’s ok! Sometimes my brain just wants joy from all the awful everything! Sure there were a couple of questionable parts and they all involved Andi’s Australian boyfriend but that’s ok! I laughed, I cried (mostly at the last shot), I temporarily could imagine a world in which art and fashion won over the billionaires. It’s not that deep and that’s ok.

Alexa:

Obsession (in theaters now)

Ashley: Full disclosure that I was offered free tickets to this for an early showing and I brought Steve despite knowing that he hates horror and really hates gory scenes. We were also in a movie theater full of horror fans and movie buffs so that really added to the atmosphere! I personally thought this was fun. Again, not going to win any Oscars but it’s reviewed very highly and I thought it was a fun twist on the whole 1 wish concept. I was genuinely so scared at one point that I scratched my eye while trying to hide my face and I thought it was super funny too. This would be a fun date night movie - just make sure you watch with someone else, I don’t think it would be as fun watching by yourself.

How to Make a Killing (On Demand)

Alexa: I feel like Glen Powell’s movies have been flops as of lately, but I actually kind of liked this one. Entertaining and a unique storyline. Kind of cheesy at parts but still a fun watch!

Incendies (On Demand)

Alexa: Ok this has been on my to watch list for years and I randomly decided to watch it last night. It’s be reveled as one of Denis Villeneuve’s best films with one of the most brutal twists in film making history and let’s just say … it delivered. You’d never guess the twist from a mile away and it’s definitely one of the most disturbing in any movie I’ve ever seen. Yet somehow, it’s handled with such tenderness. Definitely a must watch for anyone that loves Villeneuve’s movies.

Hacks (HBO Max)

Ashley: Every episode of this last season is pure perfection! I don’t want it to be over! The lesbian weekend in Monticito? Steve and I were laughing so hard we woke Penny up!

Off Campus (Prime Video)

Ashley: I’ve only watched two episodes of this so far but I am LOCKED IN! The music, the chemistry, the cheesiness - I love it all.

Beef S2 (Netflix)

Ashley: I am genuinely surprised more people aren’t talking about this show because it’s so good! Oscar Issac and Carey Mulligan are so fantastic in the show - I would say I typically love them in everything and they are so evil in this! Charles Melton is also a rising star! There are so many issues this show touches on whether it’s class divides, marriage, identity - but I particularly loved that while the first season centered on very aggressive behavior - this season was more passive aggressive conflict that we tend to see in the workplace. This season felt way more insidious to me.

Alexa: I’m only on episode 3 but I’ve been really loving it so far!! Oscar Isaac is so zaddy.

Your Friends and Neighbors (Apple TV+)

Ashley: Steve and I absolutely love this show and how is it possible that Jon Hamm keeps getting better as he ages?!? Did y’all see his interview with Amy Poehler? I had no idea that his parents died so young - I feel like it explains a lot in terms of how well he played Don Draper and Andy Cooper. Mostly I am relating so hard to Mel this season because we are both sweating our balls off while sleeping and wanting to murder everyone! Perimenopause is so fun! But seriously, is James Marsden ever bad in anything? Have y’all been loving this season too?

Top Chef: Carolinas (Bravo/Peacock)

Ashley: The only thing I’m going to say about this season is that Sieger never should have been allowed back and his attitude is horrendous and I’m so mad he is still on the show.

Alexa: I’ve loved this season cause it’s based in the Carolinas but man these chefs are inconsistent. I only want Anthony, Sherry, or Laurence to win!

Euphoria (HBO Max)

Ashley: I fear that I just haven’t given a shit about this show since the wedding. Anyone else feel like this season is so bad?

Alexa: I’m trying to hold onto this season, but the obsession Sam Levinson has with Sydney Sweeney has been so obvious the last couple of episodes that it’s turning me off.

The Other Bennett Sister (Britbox)

Ashley: Alexa and I got to watch the first two episodes of this recently and they were so good! Everyone was telling me that I have to read the books as well. If you love Pride and Prejudice but you’ve watched the Keira Knightly version too many times - this will be right up your alley.

Alexa: This show is so needed because it focuses on the people/characters that aren’t traditionally “the most beautiful” or wouldn’t be picked first as a leading character. It’s heart warming and gives the underdogs a stage for once!

Margo’s Got Money Troubles (Apple TV+)

Ashley: Okay I need to talk about Margo’s Got Money Troubles on Apple TV+ because I genuinely did not expect to love it this much. The premise sounds unhinged on paper. A college dropout gets pregnant by her married professor and starts an OnlyFans to pay her bills. But it works so beautifully because the writing respects Margo’s choices without romanticizing them or judging her for them. Elle Fanning is incredible in the lead role, fully committed in a way that makes you root for Margo even when she’s making questionable decisions, but honestly Michelle Pfeiffer as her Hooters-waitress-turned-Bloomingdale’s-manager mom almost steals the whole show. And Nick Offerman as the estranged ex-wrestler dad who swoops back in with surprisingly wise life advice? Perfect casting. The whole thing is warm and funny and occasionally gutting in the way that only good storytelling about women trying to figure it out can be.

The Testaments (Hulu)

Alexa: I’ve been obsessed with this new spinoff of Handmaids Tale. Chase Infiniti is phenomenal as Agnes and I feel like I can’t stop watching because the US is only one step away from being the same thing as Gilead.

Read more

• Melissa

• The States Project

Websites:

• The States Project

Our Giving Circle:

• We’re trying to reach $25,000 for North Carolina

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Happy May 🌸

This is your one stop shop Mother’s Day Edit gift guide for 2026! Everything is Seester-approved and loved!

If Mother’s Day isn’t an easy day for you, please feel free to skip this one! We’re sending you love xx

Alexa and I are putting the Aura Frame as our #1 rec because I have gifted this frame over ten times and I will never stop. It is genuinely one of those gifts that makes people cry from happiness and nostalgia, and I mean that in the best way possible.

Here’s why it works for literally every mom on your list: it’s beautiful enough to sit on any shelf without looking like a tech device, and it’s actually easy to use even for the people in your life who are not exactly phone savvy. You can pre-load photos before you give it, so they open it and it’s already full of memories. Zero setup stress for them.

But the best part? You can invite the whole family to the frame and everyone can upload photos throughout the year. She’s just sitting there watching TV one night and a photo pops up from a birthday she forgot was even photographed. Or a candid from a random Tuesday. It turns into this ongoing gift that keeps surprising her long after Mother’s Day is over.

It’s chic, thoughtful, and genuinely useful. It’s the rare tech gift that doesn’t feel like a tech gift at all. You or your mom will love! Use code ASHLEY for $35 off the Aspen frame.

» grab it here in time for Mother’s Day

I’m not a mom, but some of my favorite people and I feel like I can vicariously understand their wants and needs: rest, quiet time, self care, and making things easy.

1. I rented a Marine Layer dress in Paris for our 2024 birthday trip and I think about that dress all the time. Marine Layer excels at comfortable, chic, and effortless summer dresses. I think this one will be perfect for summer this year and any mom would love this dress!

2. My sister and I started using Caraway pans a few years ago, and last Christmas Sissy bought our mom a full set. They are truly the best nonstick pans out there — I reach for them every single time over my stainless steel pans. This set is over $200 off right now!

3. You all know Lake & Skye is our favorite fragrance brand and the Lake & Skye discovery fragrance set has six scents that anyone is bound to love. It also includes 11 11 Vanilla, which is one of me and Sissy’s signature go-to’s! Use code ALEXAVIP for 31% off!

4. If you’ve followed me for a while, you know that Loop earplugs (or earplugs in general) are something I think everyone should own. Hearing loss is so serious and, with time, results in cognitive decline. Whether I’m going to a sporting event, concert, IMAX movie, Broadway show, etc., I always try to protect my hearing. What I love about the Loop Switch earplugs is that they can toggle for different sound settings (sleep, concerts, focus, travel, etc.). They always filter out the harmful decibels without interfering with sound clarity — unlike traditional foam earplugs, which simply block the ear canal and muffle sound.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ I could talk about Loop earplugs for days.

5. Ballet flats are very in right now, but none are built like the ones Margaux makes. These Margaux Roma pointy-toed flats are adorable and so comfortable. They will go with any outfit and get it that effortlessly chic finishing touch. They also comes in tons of colors and are great for elongating the legs of those that are vertically challenged.

6. I’m consistently including the Aire 360 by T3 in our guides because it’s the best hair dryer/styler I’ve found in a while. Technically …. it’s my sister’s and I steal it every time I come into town. The large, oval-shaped brush attachment dries my hair in record time — trust me, as someone who has very thick hair — and gives me unbeatable volume. I need to get one for myself ASAP, but I’m trying to wear out my Dyson Airwrap first. You can get $50 off for Mother’s Day (automatically added).

7. I have 10 pairs of pajamas that I love for lots of reasons, but I always find myself going back to this pajama set from Eberjey. It is that quintessential two piece pajama set. The modal fabric is buttery soft and super breathable — flattering and comfortable for any body size. Right now Eberjey is offering complimentary monogramming on their pajamas for Mother’s Day.

8. Last year I was sent a Thanksgiving meat and cheese board from Boarderie and my friends and I thought it was the yummiest charcuterie board we’d ever eaten. Boarderie’s Mother Day boards look just as cute and delicious — they have charcuterie boards, dessert boards with a chocolate box you break open, and Brie boards! They’re family-owned, ship really quickly, and everything is freshly handmade at their facilities in Florida. It’s like a new-age edible arrangement that people will actually want to eat.

9. Everyone seemed to enjoy my gallery wall post and a large part of that is because the art was very personal. Our mom loves flowers and plants, so I think she would love this personalized birth month flower bouquet painting. Each flower in the artwork represents a family member’s birth month — so it’s completely unique to your family. I love supporting small businesses and Etsy artists, so this artwork checks both boxes. It also has the option to come pre-matted and pre-framed. Plus, the Etsy shop is running a sale right now!

10. I never had a sleep mask until two years ago and wow … what was I doing??? It’s great for planes and bright apartments (like mine). On my Oura ring, I can tell the difference between when I sleep in too bright of a setting vs full darkness. This Drowsy silk sleep mask is my favorite because it completely covers your eyes, has silk padding which is great for skincare lovers, and has an adjustable strap to fit different head sizes.

I really tried to pull from inspiration here that I would either give my Mom (a lot of these I have) or things I own or would want myself!

1. I probably get at least 3-5 DMs a month asking me for the lemon tree I got my Mom! It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

2. This necklace is one I actually did buy for my Mom this year (and me and my sis)! Mejuri is one of my favorite brands and they have a ton of good sales right now!

3. M.Gemi is one of my go-to brands for anything leather whether it’s shoes or a bag and this convertible bag is one of the most convenient ones you can own (it doubles as a purse and a backpack)! I even think it would make a great diaper bag for a stylish mom that doesn’t want a diaper bag. Use code ASHLEY15 for 15% off.

4. These Weezie slippers are adorable and I think they would be extra cute if you monogram a name like Pootie on them!

5. I need to have my phone accessible for pictures a lot and I don’t love keeping in my bag or in my back pocket so I think this crossbody is a cute and convenient way to keep it close!

6. I’ve been testing this lifting massage band out and anytime I have too much salt or too many drinks, it’s a lifesaver! Reminds me of something Kathleen Jennings would love! Use code ASHLEYSPIVEY for 25% off.

7. I found this brand after my friend Hitha sent me bracelets with CJ and Penny’s names on them. The new “To the Moon and Back” collection celebrates the eternal bonds of love between a mother and child and I think they are so beautiful! This is a female founded and mother-led company too!

8. Everyone talks about the Caraway pans (lol Ali ^^) but I am here to tell you that the sheet pans and the bakeware are actually their best items. If you have a mom that loves to bake, she will love this set! Use code ASHLEYSPIVEY10 for 10% off.

9. I think every mom should have a comfy pair of pjs, a sexy pair of pjs, and an absolutely unhinged set of pjs. I have the set that features a pigeon smoking a cigarette and it’s probably my most favorite thing I purchased this year.

10. Bird houses are out and pollinator palaces are in! But seriously, my Mom would love this butterfly house!

11. I stopped getting my nails done after I had Penny and my nails are so much more strong. AND I think nice, natural nails are so chic! Plus, I save so much time and money by using this Dr. Dana kit.

Thank you for shopping our Mother’s Day gift guide edit! We hope you found something perfect for a mom in your life (or yourself)!

Let us know below the BEST Mother’s Day gift you’ve ever given or received.

xoxo,

🎙️ Intro

00:00:02 – 00:01:00

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• Instagram

• TikTok

Where to donate to Dr. Hardy’s campaign:

• Her campaign website

• Her Oath Vote campaign

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Lindsay’s book “You Know You Love Me: How Gossip Girl Changed Pop Culture as We Know It” was released on February 5, 2026. You can purchase it now on:

• Amazon

• Bookshop

• Barnes & Noble

• Bloomsbury

You can find Lindsay on:

• Instagram

• Substack

• Threads

Read more

Read more

Before we jump into February’s Monthly Round-Up, we have an ad for a product that y’all already know that we love: the ZIIP Halo. ZIIP has just launched a brand new 2.0 version of it and we couldn’t wait to share with you. Thank you to ZIIP for sponsoring this issue of MRU so that you can read it for FREE.

ZIIP HALO 2.0 Just Launched: Everything You Need to Know

👉 Shop here and use code: ASHALO for 10% off

If you missed our original deep dive into ZIIP, you can read that below:

👋 If You’re New Here

Ashley: If you’re new here, ZIIP is an at-home facial device that uses advanced electrical currents to lift, sculpt, firm, and brighten the skin.

Alexa: And the app is key. The ZIIP app guides you through targeted treatment programs for things like lifting, contouring, tone, texture, brightness, even breakouts. ZIIP’s founder shows you the exact movements and technique to follow to get the best results!

Ashley: The device is powerful on its own but you can only change the intensity of the device by using the app. The app is what unlocks all the treatments and makes it feel customized instead of overwhelming.

And now the HALO 2.0 just launched.

🔍 What’s Actually Different

Ashley: The biggest upgrade is internal. They partnered with a new supplier who re-engineered the circuit board. The waveforms are now 63% more accurate.

Alexa: Which sounds technical, but what it means is the electrical currents are delivered exactly as designed. More precision. More consistent results. The outcome is what matters: lifting, firming, smoothing, brightening.

We had to test it for a while before putting our stamp of approval on it, and the consistency is noticeable.

🔧 The External Upgrades

Ashley: They clearly listened to customer feedback.

• A charging port cover has been added to protect the device

• The top shell was redesigned to make it more durable

• It feels heavier and more substantial in your hand

Alexa: It feels more luxurious. Not just performance-driven but built to last. That’s important if we are telling you to make a big purchase in this economy.

💧 The Gels Are a Big Deal

Three Premium Gels are now included, which normally retail for $99.

Ashley: This is a huge upgrade in my opinion. Each gel is packed with skincare ingredients, so you’re not just conducting electrical currents. You’re treating the skin at the same time.

Alexa: And it gives you space to figure out your favorite instead of committing to one blindly.

Ashley: I personally love the Golden Gel when I want that extra glow and hydration boost before an event. It gives that hydrated, slightly glassy look that pairs so well with lifting treatments.

Alexa: I love the Silver Gel because it feels like a reset button for my skin. It’s calming, balancing, and when I use it with the lifting treatments, my face looks more sculpted but also clearer and less reactive. It’s the one I reach for when my skin feels off but I still want that definition.

⚡️ If You Already Own the Original HALO

Let’s be very clear:

Ashley: The original HALO is still a great device. It is not suddenly obsolete.

Alexa: ZIIP is not expecting everyone to upgrade. This is more like the next generation of something that was already strong. Think technology updates that refine and enhance based on real user feedback. Like updating your iPhone.

If you:

• Love having the newest version

• Care about improved precision and durability

• Or were considering buying for the first time
  
  Then the HALO 2.0 makes sense.

If your current HALO is working beautifully for you, you are not behind and should not feel pressure to upgrade.

⏰ Why We Still Use ZIIP

Ashley: For me, it’s the all-in-one factor. My main concerns are jawline softness and loss of definition in my lower face. When I consistently use the lifting and contouring treatments in the app, I see a real difference in structure. My cheekbones look more lifted. My jawline looks tighter. It’s the device I reach for before events because the results are visible immediately, but I’ve also noticed long-term firmness when I use it regularly.

My favorite treatments in the app are the Instant Face Lift and the Lymphatic Drainage facials.

Alexa: My concerns are firmness through the lower face, even skin, and breakouts. I want lift, but I also want brightness. The lifting-focused treatments in the app give me visible definition through my jawline, and the glow treatments help when my skin looks tired. It’s the only device where I consistently see immediate results, especially in the lower face.

My favorite treatments in the app are the Everything Facial, Tone Corrector, and Clear Skin facials.

With the improved waveform precision in the HALO 2.0, the results feel even more consistent.

Here are our most recenter before and afters with the ZIIP 2.0:

💭 Last Thoughts

We don’t recommend big-ticket devices lightly.

If you’ve been considering ZIIP, the HALO 2.0 is the version that reflects real customer feedback, improved engineering, and added value with the included gels.

If it’s on your list, this is the version we would recommend! If you purchased it previously and have no issues - it’s still an amazing product!

Use code ASHALO and shop here

High: LA was definitely the high point of the month. February has been so cold and snowy and I think it was definitely driving us all a little crazy so some sunshine was needed. The weather tried to bring us down when it decided to be chilly and rainy for 80% of our trip but lucky the blizzard in NYC canceled our flight and we got a couple of sunny and warm days.

Before the pandemic, we would travel to LA at least 3-4 times a year. So many of our friends live out there as well as family so we tried to go as many times as we could. After CJ died and I had a scare with Penny after flying out there for a weekend, I hadn’t been back since 2022. It truly warmed my heart to spend so much quality time with Kitty and Kenny and have our friends out there finally meet Penny.

Low: The State of the Union Address - y’all I didn’t even watch it. This is the first year I didn’t even seek out clips. I am so embarrassed that this orange turd continues to drive this country into the ground.

Funniest moment: On a recent trip with Penny, we were in an elevator alone and I told her that my neck hurt. I was like “I must have done something to my neck.” She looked at me right in my eyes with a look of disgust and said, “Fuck your neck.” Y’all. The laugh I laughed. I genuinely think I scared her with how hard I laughed. She used it so well I couldn’t even be mad.

Biggest cry: Can y’all please check out the animated shorts and the documentary shorts nominated for Oscars this year? I SOBBED during Forevergreen (might be able to find online) and cried even harder during Armed Only With a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud (on HBO Max)

Proudest moment: We attended Penny’s first art show at her school and it was truly so beautiful. We really could not have picked a better school for her and I love the way they encourage empathy and communication through art! I cried a lot!

Best purchases: THESE PIGEON PAJAMAS and THIS STEPHEN MILLER SUCKS SWEATSHIRT

Best gifted item(s): The new Olaplex No3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment - y’all this stuff is magic! I’ve been testing it out over the past two months and I swear it has healed my hair! You apply to your hair for 3 minutes before you shower and then rinse it out! Your hair is immediately softer and stronger! Perfect if your hair is damaged and it reduces future breakage! It was finally released on February 24 and I’m so excited for y’all to try it!

Best read: Strangers - truly such a fucked up book but more than that, a warning to make sure you have a good prenup and never share accounts.

Hopescroll: I know we are all in love with Punch the Monkey right now but please take a look at how some wildlife conservationists have helped similar animals.

Social media posts you might have missed:

• Please check your voter registration!

• I created a kit with Dermstore!

• A positive of raising kids in New York.

• I put salmon sperm in my skin!

• New Typology kit I love!

• I forgot my Seed and freaked out.

• LA Pics here and here!

Best things I ate this month: All of the following LA food:

• The fried chicken from Anajak Thai

• The lasagna rolls from Donna’s

• A passion fruit mango smoothie from Oakberry Açaí that I can’t stop thinking about. If you live in Venice please go get this smoothie.

Current obsession: These Shirley temple gummies from oHHo are seriously so good and make me so happy - they are the perfect dosage! They really help me not lose my shit when everything is currently awful.

Peak of the Month: In general having the family in LA was the peak of my month but there were two specific moments that stand out:

One was that our first true ride at Disneyland besides the carousel was “It’s a Small World” and Penny ended up sitting in the front with me and Kendell. Seeing her face light up and her pointing out all the cool things she saw was truly a core memory moment.

Also, after years of wanting her to come to LA and meet my kitties, it finally happened and it was such a sweet moment. Penny is such an animal lover and so respectful of them. My kitties had also never met a child before so it was definitely adorable on both ends.

Also noteworthy mentions include Penny meeting some of my best friends for the first time and finally eating at Donna’s — omg it was so good.

Challenge of the Month: I had a really horrible experience with the dermatologist that I connected with to bring y’all my melasma series. She was so rude that I decided to pay for the $475 treatment in full so that I wasn’t committed to posting nice content for her anymore. I definitely won’t be going back and I’m proud of myself for having integrity for myself and my community.

Funniest Moment: We genuinely laughed so hard at how unhinged the Mr. Toad ride was at Disneyland that we went back and rode it again. Make it make sense.

Little Win: Even though the dermatologist sucks, the treatments I’ve gotten recently (Picosure Laser and VI Peel: Precision + Peptides) seem to be really helping my melasma. I’ll keep tracking my progress over on Instagram!

Best Buy:

• I’m obsessed with these Margaux flats — they’re so comfortable and chic (and the quality is worth the price point)

• This new Lake and Skye perfume — 11 11 Moon — is my current go to fragrance. It’s so sexy and elegant and the perfect winter to spring scent.

• I use and love the Educated Mess Grow-a-Pair serum for my eyebrows, but I’ve been loving the prostaglandin free Grande Lash Sensitive Lash Serum. My lashes have been growing like weeds because of it with no orbital fat loss!

Best Bite: These were my favorite bites of the month (all in LA):

• The breakfast chimichanga from Ship to Shore Marketplace in Disneyland

• The panang curry with Chinese eggplant from Anajak Thai

• The Caesar salad and garlic bread from Donna’s

• The mortadella focaccia sandwich with prosciutto, burrata, basil pesto, arugula, and pickled red onion from Beethoven Market’s

• The single cheeseburger, fries, and strawberry milkshake from For the Win

Best Movie or Show I Watched:

• The series finale of Tell Me Lies — I thought it was wrapped up perfectly and actually really funny

• Almost every single one of the Oscar-nominated documentary shorts as well as the Oscar-nominated feature length documentaries

• The season finale of Traitors had me and Kendell SHOOK. That’s possibly one of the best episodes of TV EVERRRRR!

• Anyone else really into American Love Story?? I love the nostalgic feel and the soundtrack is god tier

Current Obsession:

• These pretzels are ADDICTING

• This song from the Wuthering Heights soundtrack — it won’t get out of my head

• These jeans that I bought from Rent the Runway — great for mid size girlies

• This customizable keychain I bought for my new purse

Feel-Good Finds: happy ending for this doggie and I can’t stop watching Sir Winston videos:

One Last Thing:

Love always,

If you are also in need of a visual lobotomy after this dark week of news, you came to the right place. We are gearing up for the Oscars and have tons of movies to watch.

There’s also been a plethora of great shows on TV (it’s almost like they knew January and February would be a hellscape) so we have plenty of recs.

Sit back and enjoy 15 minutes of peace before entering back into the bad place.

Movies We Loved:

Is This Thing On? (Prime Video)

Ashley: Steve and I really loved this movie and I think it will 100% resonate with any married couple or children of divorce. Will Arnett and Laura Dern are fantastic in these roles (Bradley Cooper is actually the highlight of this movie). It’s nothing life changing but a beautiful portrayal of the dissolution of a marriage and how we lose our identities in marriage.

Sorry, Baby (HBO Max)

Ashley: I’ve been dying to see this one ever since Alexa’s reviews and it truly didn’t disappoint. I don’t want to ruin the movie for anyone, but as someone who experienced something similar in college, I love how this movie portrayed all the ways in which we fail survivors and how it will forever impact your life. I loved Eva Victor in Billions and they were absolutely fantastic in this role both as a director, writer, and actor.

The Housemaid (Prime Video)

Ashley: Yoooooooooo, I loved this movie!!!!! I feel like I’m a little late to this one because I didn’t read the book but I thought this was so fun, twisty and weirdly poignant? Steve and I weren’t that excited to watch this one and we both left the movie being so happy we watched it! Also, did Brandon Sklenor have a lot of stuff done or something because I didn’t find him hot at all in It End With Us and in this movie he was HOTTTTT.

Sinners (HBO Max)

Ashley: WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG TO WATCH THIS? Well, I know but I should have just watched it without Steve. Steve hates anything with vampires, zombies, etc so I didn’t even tell him this movie had vampires in it because I knew he wouldn’t agree to watch. I still cannot get over how LAYERED this film is!!!! Think you know everything about it - nope! Ryan Coogler is a genius and I actually think Michael B. Jordan should win the Oscar now.

The Perfect Neighbor (Netflix)

Alexa: I’m on a documentary kick right now for the Oscars so I’m going to highlight three of the feature films that are nominated. The Perfect Neighbor is the most easily accessible because it’s on Netflix. This movie made me scream cry at the end. It highlights Florida’s Stand Your Ground law and how white people are using it as justification to commit violence the Black community. Most of this film was captured on police body cameras so you get an intimate look into the situation and how it played out. It’s a hard watch but things like this are important to see.

Cutting Through Rocks (Limited Release In Theaters)

Alexa: I cried so many times watching this. Sara Shahverdi runs for councilor in her village in Iran because she wants better for women and girls in her community. Viewers watch as she fights for change, all while challenging young girls to avoid child marriage and teaching some of them to ride motorcycles. Sara is a true unsung hero that exists is this world. Never asking for flowers, just for a better future for women. I was so beside myself watching this — I hope for a free and equal Iran one day. This may be my favorite documentary of the year.

Mr. Nobody Against Putin (On Demand)

Alexa: Another film that was filmed in secret and then smuggled out of the country. Pasha creates content/programs for a school in his town in Russia. When the Ukrainian attacks start happening, the school’s curriculum is upended and they start force feeding their students propaganda. Although Pasha vehemently disagrees with what’s being taught, he keeps his job in order to secretly film the disturbing reality. Watching documentaries about North Korea and Russia are pure nightmare fuel. Who needs horror films when you can watch these and realize your country is only a stones throw away from being identical?

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Happy 1st Monthly Round Up of 2026!!

Man this month has been a DOOZY! From us losing our Grandma, to huge snowstorms, to Alexa being sick the entire month, to ICE goons ruining this country, to our flights being cancelled … 2026 has definitely been… not good so far.

Let’s recap this month and hope for a better January!

High: I feel like such a sap for saying this but the best moment of this month has to be seeing the success of my IVF doc, Dr. Lucky Sekhon! She released the fertility Bible, The Lucky Egg this month, and I swear that I saw her everywhere! I really am not exaggerating when I say that I would not have Penny today if it wasn’t for Dr. Lucky. When I say that every single thing that could go wrong, went wrong, and Dr. Lucky’s composure and positive attitude coupled with facts and stats were the only thing that kept me going. She even helped me find a different MFM when I was unhappy at the care I was receiving at Columbia! I went to a book release party for her and was just so overjoyed to see a room of people celebrating her. At one point she came over and said that every single person at her table could trace knowing each other back to me and I just sobbed! Life is so crazy - I am just so thankful and happy for her to receive all the success in the world!

Low: Girlfriend’s death by far. Though Alexa and I went to see her recently with Penny - we knew her death was rapidly approaching but it still took me by surprise. We used to joke that nothing could kill her because she was so tough but ultimately MAC was too powerful for her little body. I’m so sad that politics came between us for so long but I’m so happy that I took Penny to meet her and they loved each other so much. This is your reminder to call your grandma.

Funniest moment: Penny got up and talked at Girlfriend’s funeral! Alexa and I decided to give an impromptu speech and Penny decided she would like to say something as well. She said “I’m going to write Girlfriend a letter about a creepy spider” and “I loved hugging Girlfriend and holding her hand.” Ok this is a mix of hilarious and really sweet - now I’m crying even thinking about it.

Biggest cry: Just watching my Mom be really sad. It’s a strange feeling to feel like you are parenting your parent through the death of their parent but that’s kind of how me and Alexa felt this month. I wish that we lived closer so that I could truly be there for her!

Proudest moment: Penny does an afterschool program called Broadway’s Next Step and we really don’t get that many updates on what goes on but we got to see a little performance from them this week and me and Steve were just delighted! The class is basically improv for toddlers and it’s exactly as cute as you are imagining! Penny was such a hoot! She is so dramatic and was such a little leader in the class. I just know she is going to be a broadway star one day!

Best purchases: All of my best purchases recently have been organization things for Penny. This is probably a product of feeling like we have too many things and not enough room for said things in our apartment after Christmas but I digress. Here are my most favorite recent purchases that contain all her art supplies, toys and stuffed animals:

• This rotating art supply organizer makes Penny so happy and helps me keep everything sorted! Having this has made her so into art projects!

• This 10 drawer rolling cart has room for all her coloring books, paper, workbooks, sticker books, etc! I had a smaller version that she quickly outgrew! This was easy to put together and looks chic!

• I added this door organizer on the back of her bedroom door along with these clear toy bags and it’s so easy to keep everything grouped together now and she can see what is in each bag!

• Penny has SO MANY STUFFED ANIMALS and we truly do not have room for them so I really wanted to get one of these animal cages but I really don’t like the look of the ones that say zoo and/or most of them are giant! This one has wheels and a drawer at the bottom!

Best gifted item(s): Lake and Skye’s new 11:11 Moon is the most heavenly scent! I really cannot describe the smell except I love the notes of coconut and lemon! It’s truly ethereal and I brought it on a trip with me to Cabo and every single person asked me what I was wearing!

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Welcome to 2026!! *Psycho movie music plays*

No, but really though.. how have so many horrible things already happened this year?

Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here we will talk about movies and books and tv shows that you can binge watch this month (because there are PLENTY) and take your mind off of the hellscape surrounding us.

Movies We Loved:

Marty Supreme (In Theaters)

Ashley: I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned this or not but every Wednesday, Steve and I go to couple’s therapy and then we go see a movie immediately after so we don’t talk about whatever we just did in therapy. This is truly a dream scenario for me because we can quickly check off all the movies I need to watch! I was semi-excited for this one because of Alexa’s rave reviews but I have to be honest, I am not the biggest Safdie brothers fan. Their movies give me so much anxiety and I don’t even enjoy the experience! However, Marty Supreme was so fun. Timmy C definitely deserves the Oscar and I honestly really loved Gwyneth and Mr. Wonderful in this as well!

Alexa: Y’all know as of this moment, I think Chalamet gave the best lead male performance of the movies I’ve seen so far. He has yet to be unseated from any other movies I’ve seen (as much as I hate giving him the crown). You can read my full review over on Letterboxd.

No Other Choice (In Theaters)

Ashley: Truth be told, we were supposed to go see Is This Thing On? but I messed up the tickets so we decided to check this out - best decision ever. Steve turned to me at one point of the movie and said he thought this was the best movie of the year and he loved it more than Parasite. If you are a Park Chan-wook fan, put this at the top of your list. No Other Choice was a smart, funny, and heartbreaking commentary on Capitalism and how men derive their identities from their jobs. Lee Byung-Hun is so fantastic in this role - I honestly am feeling a little torn about my Oscar choice now - it could easily go to Lee.

Zootopia 2 (In Theaters)

Ashley: I think that Steve and I may have loved this more than Penny but this was such a great kids movie! So relevant to today’s society and the push to other communities. I loved the first Zootopia but I think I loved this one more!

People We Meet on Vacation (Netflix)

Ashley: I am in the acknowledgements of this book and I consider myself to be one of the first people who was screaming about Emily Henry from the rooftops when I first encountered her YA books. I am a true Emily Henry Stan. I feel like there are two camps of her books. You either love Beach Read and Book Lovers or you love PWMOV, Happy Place, Funny Story and Great Big Beautiful Life. While I am in the BR & BL camp, I was so excited for this movie because I knew Yulin Kuang (who wrote How to End a Love Story) was writing the screenplay and I knew she would be able to evoke the feeling of an EH book.

My Mom, Alexa, and I watched this after a particularly hard weekend and we all thought it was so delightful and funny! I am now in love with Tom Blyth and Emily Bader. The music, the outfits, the chemistry - finally a great rom-com!!!!! I truly did not get all the negativity surrounding the movie. As someone who is routinely disappointed in book to movie adaptations, I learned a long time ago that I had to view them as two completely separate projects. I will forever be so angry at what they did to The Storied Life of AJ Fikry - but also, I want studios to keep making these adaptations for my fav authors! I saw so many people say they didn’t love the book so they didn’t want to watch the movie - if that’s you, reconsider please!

Alexa: I am obsessed with this movie and I’ve watched it 5+ times already…. Tom Blyth is officially my new white boy of the month. He’s so hot and charming and a wonderful dancer. Also Emily Bader, the woman that you are!!! I hope you get a million more roles. Full review coming soon.

Train Dreams (Netflix)

Alexa: If y’all follow me on IG, you already know that this film is my #1 so far of 2025. I’ve yet to see something else that made me feel what this movie did (Hamnet came in a close second). The cinematography is STUNNING — you will be stunned. And I love the score and the humbleness of this film. What a beautiful love letter to grief and the American frontier. You can read my full review over on Letterboxd.

The Housemaid (In Theaters)

Alexa: Not an Oscar-worthy film, but I still had a great time with it. I’d rewatch!! You can read my full review over on Letterboxd.

Roofman (Paramount +)

Alexa: Watched this on a plane ride back from NYC and I thought it was cute. Definitely a unique story — added points because it’s set in North Carolina!! You can read my full review over on Letterboxd.

If I Had Legs I’d Kick You (Rentable On Demand)

Alexa: Rose Byrne would be my top pick for lead female actor this year if Jessie Buckley’s performance in Hamnet existed any other year. This movie is confusing and anxiety inducing and hard to watch at some points. It elicits feelings of claustrophobia and isolation and loss of agency that demanding caretaker roles often entail. I thought it was an important watch. This is the year of mothers’ stories being told and I’m not mad at it. Full review coming soon.

Come See Me in the Good Light (Apple TV+)

Alexa: This documentary will rip you in half. I’m warning you. I called my mom crying after watching it and asked Kendell a million times if he knows how much I love him. Life is so fragile and short and living it through poetry is such a badass way to do it. I’m in awe of Andrea Gibson and their talent and resilience as they battled cancer. Please watch!! Full review coming soon.

Beyond Utopia (Rentable On Demand)

Alexa: I’m really freaked out by the concept of North Korea and my sister knows that, thus she convinced me to watch this after a documentary influencer she follows recommend this one. If you don’t know much about what day to day life looks like in North Korea, or the process of escaping, this movie will shock you. I can’t believe a place like that exists in 2026. Full review coming soon.

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Dr. Lucky’s book The Lucky Egg comes out on Tuesday, January 13th. You can preorder or purchase her book on audiobook, hardcover, or e-book here.

You can follow her on Instagram here.

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• Follow her on Instagram

• Follow the Instagram for her podcast “Health Wanted”

• Listen to her podcast

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Guys — how is 2025 over in two weeks?! Honestly… good riddance. I don’t know if this was our year, fam.

But before this year is over.. from the bottom of our hearts: thank you. We keep these newsletters and podcasts going because of you — your support, messages, listens, and notes mean more than we can ever explain 🥹

As we head into the holidays, I hope yours are warm, cozy, and filled with love, comfort, and really good food. Please watch all the feel-good holiday movies, put on the nostalgic songs, and lean into anything that brings you a little extra joy — we could all use more good feelings as this year comes to a close.

Happy Holidays ❤️💚✨

Mid-Month Media will see you again in 2026!

Movies We Loved:

Hamnet (In Theaters)

Ashley: This movie is SOOOOOOO beautiful. Ali and I decided that we wanted to read the book before the movie came out because we knew that it was going to destroy us and whewwwww. I’m actually not sure if Ali cried during the movie because I saw it with Steve (he cried!) but I was crying so hard that I felt like I was going to have a panic attack at one point. I don’t want you to think that this movie is only sad, it’s full of happy and beautiful moments as well. I personally love these type of movies because they make me feel more seen. Give me real life depictions of grief any day.

So many people keep asking me if I would recommend reading the book before the movie. I don’t think you HAVE to but I definitely think it will enrich your experience of watching it. The book goes into so much detail about their families and Agnes’s inner thoughts. There is also an interesting chapter that really goes into how the plague spread across Europe that can’t be missed.

Alexa: Ok I did cry because holy crap is Jessie Buckley’s performance phenomenal. She deserves the Oscar this year. Also, Chloe Zhao is so good at connection and story building and a patient screenplay — this is no exception. This movie will have you feeling so seen if you’ve ever had a life changing experience with grief. Please see this movie! You can read my full review on Letterboxd here.

Eternity (In Theaters)

Ashley: I feel like such a Scrooge for this one because while it was a nice reprieve from all of the dark and heavy movies I’ve been watching lately - I really did not like this movie! It’s hard to go into detail about what I didn’t like without spoiling anything so if you have seen this movie in the comments - let’s discuss.

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Netflix)

Alexa: I think this was my favorite Knives Out yet. Josh O’Connor is having his moment and man.. he is so wonderful to look at. The dichotomy between religion and atheism, MAGA and the left, two sides to a story, are compared so well in this film. I thought this one really had something to say and I was here for it. Full Letterboxd review coming soon!

Jay Kelly (Netflix)

Alexa: Ok to be fully honest — this wasn’t my favorite watch of the year. Clooney and Sandler are really great in it, but the first 2/3rds were painfully boring to me, the screenplay was fine but some parts of the script were so aggravating (like Sandler saying puppy 55 times), and a lot of the scenes/acting were just flat out kind of stupid. HOWEVER. The last third was really powerful to me and I think trudging through the first 2/3rds is worth it to get to the end. The final line and scene had me in tears. What if what you devoted your entire life to was actually a waste? You can read my full Letterboxd review here.

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Ashley’s Recap:

High: PENNY’S POTATO PARTY! In a month of extremely sad things, planning Penny’s potato birthday is one of the only things that kept me going and laughing! Who knew that there would be so many potato themed party supplies? Who the heck is planning all of these potato parties? It was an extremely weird theme (potatoes x kpop demon hunters) and I truly cannot even think about all the people that made it happen without crying! The food truck!!! The relatives that drove from Charlotte twice that week!!! Friends that took 5 hours out of the most busy Saturday of the year to celebrate our angel!!!! An internet friend turned family that made her cake!!!!!

I could go on and on but the high of seeing how much Penny loved Super Spud will probably keep me happy until I die.

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Welcome to Ashley’s 2025 Gift Guide! 🎁✨

I pulled together all my favorite finds across so many categories — truly something for every person, every budget, and every “I have no idea what to get them” moment.

And because we know you love double the recommendations…

👉 Click here to shop Alexa’s Gift Guides!

Thank you for using our links and codes when you shop (you get the discounts, and we get a tiny commission for sharing our recs 💛). Your support this year has meant everything, and I hope this makes your holiday shopping feel a lot easier and a little more fun. 🎄🥂

Happy Holidays from our seesters to yours ♥️💚

Heads up — there are 10 guides! The email may get cut off for being too long, so make sure you view the full message to see all the gift guides.

Everything you see in each collage is linked below it👇🏼✨

And if you want to skip straight to the master list and shop all categories in one place, you can do that right here! 🎄🎁

Ashley’s Gift Guide — the crowd pleasers that anyone will like:

• Little Customizable Locket: I was gifted this locket and I get a million compliments on it. I love that the pictures look antique and you don’t have to put pictures in it yourself!

• Hatch Restore 3: This is probably my favorite item of 2025. I am a notoriously bad sleeper and this helps set up nighttime schedules for me to wind down and gently wake me up in the AM! It also has a reading light mode that doesn’t bother Steve at all! I use a Hatch for Penny’s room so I love that I can control both from my phone but the nice thing about this Hatch is you don’t need your phone at all! I am so used to the brown noise sound that I can actually use it on the road from my phone! This thing is endlessly cool and helpful.

• Lola XL Blanket: I didn’t want to believe the hype about these blankets but we have the giant one in black and me and Steve fight over who gets to use it. It’s so soft and looks so luxurious!

• Weezie Women’s Long Signature Robe: Despite this company having the worst name of all time - I really do love their makeup towels and I was surprised to love this robe so much! My biggest complaint with most robes is that the sleeves are too long and I get annoyed when doing my makeup and hair but this robe has a way to button up the sleeves! Monogramming it can make it instantly more personal and thoughtful!

• Hotel Lobby Votive Collection (ASHLEY25 for 25% off): Take advantage of this discount because they give out soooo few discounts ever! I give Hotel Lobby Candle’s out as housewarming gifts because every single scent is perfect and every single person I know loves them! I put the votive collection on here because it gets you the most bang for your buck but I seriously recommend any candle they make!

• Flamingo Estate The Chef’s Kiss Gift Set: Flamingo Estate gifted me this set earlier this year and I could not get enough of the salsa macha. I’m recommending it for the salsa macha alone but the box is also so nice and the olive oil and honey are top notch too!

• Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: I’ve converted every single person I know that hates Apple earbuds to these because they are so comfortable that you will forget you have them on!

• Lake & Skye 11 11 Fragrance Oil Collection (ASHLEYVIP for 31% off): You know how you feel when you discover a book before anyone else or a cool new restaurant? I feel that way about Lake & Skye. I started wearing 11 11 in 2015 when I found it at a cool Hampton’s beauty shop and people would literally stop me on the street to ask what I was wearing. A rollerball will last you forever and you can layer for a heavier scent!

• Dedcool x Calpak Boarding Bundle (ASHLEY15 for 15% off): Somehow I became a laundry influencer this year and Dedcool is one of my favorite new companies! I love that their amazing scents come in body lotions and perfumes too - this is the perfect gift for anyone that travels a lot!

• Type League Press Personalized Mug: Once upon a time, I got the bright idea to put Berly’s school picture on a coffee mug as a gift for his fam and they were so popular that people on instagram were asking me for them! I still have mine to this day and love that Type League has made me mugs that say both Penny’s Mom and Jax’s Mom! I cherish them and smile every morning when I drink coffee out of them!

• Therabody Theraface Depuffing Wand: If you frequently experience a puffy face - this thing is magic! You can make it hot or cold to massage on your face and instantly depuff! I like to apply my skincare and then use the hot massager to make the products absorb more deeply and then use the cold function under my eyes! I always find this in Steve’s bathroom bc he steals it from me.

• Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Tennis Sneakers: #spiveeboks - need I say more?

• Brooklinen Washed European Linen Core Sheet Set: This sheet set will make all your other sheet sets feel poor.

• Night Pillow (SEESTER40 for 40% off): I was DEVASTATED when the Night pillows went out of production! Kalle found someone to reverse engineer how they were made and now they are back! These are the best pillows out there for your skin and hair.

• Aura Frame Picture Frame (ASHLEY for $65 off Holiday Exclusive Stone Collection Frame): I’ve personally gifted this over 10 times. Grandparents love the Aura frame because multiple family members can update the pictures from anywhere and it’s so easy to set up!

• Amazon Kindle Paperwhite: Whenever people tell me that they want to read more, I always suggest a kindle. Having a very thin and light “book” with you at all times will help your reading count soar!

• Mejuri Birthstone Necklace: The most delicate and thoughtful necklace!

• Jeni’s Best Sellers Collection: Nothing says I love you like a couple of pints of delicious ice cream!

• Cuyana Travel Case Set: Nothing is more chic to me than staying organized in style.

• HP Portable Instant Photo Printer: This printer is so tiny you can carry in your back pocket! It’s so fun to bring to events so that everyone can instantly print off pictures in real time!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — things on my wishlist:

• The Brick: My job is on my phone so it’s hard to put it down both because of entertainment and being connected 24/7. I’ve seen enough influencers rave about it at this point that I’m making it mandatory for 2026. I’m getting one for Steve too!

• Murdle Board Game: I was obsessed with Murdle last year and I’m obsessed with board games so I can’t wait to play this with my fam on Xmas Eve.

• Daniel Wellington Quadra Mini Arch 3-Link Amber Sunray Rose Gold: I just feel like people who wear watches look so cool and adulty. I need to do more of that.

• Buck Mason White Cloud Jersey Slim Crew: It’s the perfect white tee.

• Buck Mason Natural Featherweight Silk Cashmere Crew: I’m a sucker for comfy clothes - what can I say?

• Cable Management Box: I have a super tiny desk that is full of cords so I need this for aesthetic reasons!!!!

• Mark & Graham Techfolio Organizer: Nothing grinds my gears more than a bunch of chargers at the bottom of my bag with a ton of knots.

• Aritzia The Super Arctic Parka Long: I got this for my sister last year and I’m jealous of how warm it is!

• Aurate Lab Grown Emerald Stud Earrings: Diamonds are boring, emeralds are in!

• New Balance 530 Sneakers: Apparently, white sneakers are out but I love this color way!

• Agolde Low Curve Fray in Milkshake: I saw these on another fellow short girl recently and immediately put them on this list.

• Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant: Seeing the tailored wide leg everywhere this season and feel like these will be a great closet stable.

• Cos Relaxed Wool-Blend Wide-Leg Pants: Honestly the wider the leg - the better for my potato legs.

• Madewell Fair Isle Boxy Sweater: Fair Isles are everywhere and this one is so cute.

• Aligne Christine Fair Isle Roll Neck Sweater: See above.

• Sunglass Hut SL 652: Saint Laurent makes my favorite sunglasses and these are no exception though I really do love the Prada ones on the fashionista list.

• Naadam Ultra Luxe Cashmere Scarf: All of my scarves are kind of itchy so I need to upgrade.

• Naadam Signature Cashmere Ribbed Beanie: If I buy a beanie that isn’t cashmere I instantly regret it and scratch my head for hours. Plus, I never get the dreaded beanie forehead line if it’s cashmere!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for the beauty obsessed:

• Currentbody LED Red Light Therapy Mask (ASHLEYSPIVEY for 20% off): I love that this mask perfectly molds to your face and it even goes below the chin to help with that saggy chin/neck skin! Pair it with the chest and neck mask for extra benefits!

• InnBeauty Firming & Lifting Trio with Bag: If you want a Rich Cream dupe - this is the trio to get! The Extreme Cream + the Elastic Cream will keep your skin so hydrated and plump up any fine lines instantly.

• T3 Airebrush: I have never been very good at doing an at-home blowout but this tool changed all that. Blow Dry brushes can be so bad for your hair but this one has multiple settings and will make your hair feel so soft and healthy.

• Dermaflash Luxe+ Advanced Sonic Dermaplaning: The first time I used this, I almost cried because I got so much hair off of my face that I swore I hated y’all for letting me walk around like a werewolf. You CANNOT cut your face with this and the added vibration helps take off dead skin! Your skin will look amazing after using this!

• Newa Plus Starter Kit (ASHLEY15 for 15% off): This is the only at-home professional-grade, FDA-cleared radio-frequency technology for tightening skin, boosting collagen and visibly reducing wrinkles. This one is more of a time commitment than the Ziip or the red light mask but only for a month! Then you can use 2–3 times a week!

• Dyson Airstrait: The airwrap is old news, and honestly there are better and cheaper ones on the market now (cough, cough the T3 one is better). However, I still ride hard for my airstrait. This thing dries my hair and straightens it so well! Plus, I love that my hair doesn’t smell fried after using it like when I use a straightener!

• Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner: Since the loss of my beloved Shiseido liner (RIP) this is the one I reach for most often. It’s not a replacement for that one but I love how pigmented this is and how easily I can smudge it! I really recommend buying her eye pencil sharpener because it gives them the sharpest point!

• T3 Switch Kit Classic Trio: The most requested tutorial I get is “A curl/wave tutorial” and honestly the secret is this curling iron! I’ve had it for forever and I still use it all the time.

• ZIIP Halo (ASHALO for 20% off): This is BY FAR the most effective little skin device I own. This thing is like a gym for your face and you will see immediate lift!!!! Do not use this without downloading the app on your phone and using the tutorials! You get different intensities when you use the app!

• ZIIP Dot (ASHALO for 20% off): Ali and I got to try this at a ZIIP event and it made Ali’s zit disappear so quickly! It’s so cool - if you struggle with breakouts, this is the one to get.

• Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream: The lore behind my most beloved facial cream is that I used it in the hospital when before and after giving birth to Penny because I needed a very paired down skin routine and every single nurse and doctor commented on how amazing my skin looked. I will forever repurchase despite the insane price tag.

• SkinMedica TNS+ Serum (VIP for 25% off): My biggest complaint about this product was how it needed to be stored (upside down) but with the new packaging - it’s truly a perfect serum! This stuff is like the fountain of youth - apply before sleep to wake up to a new face!

• Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads: I originally turned down a gifting campaign for this product but Gillian Del Zotto told me they were amazing and she was right! I love that you can put your fingers into the pad my skin is seriously so glowy the next day! The SPF primer by them is also fantastic!

• Bondi Boost Sonic Hair Dryer: This is the little hair dryer that could! When you see this thing - you truly will not be able to comprehend how powerful it is. I can dry my hair so quickly with it and it’s so light!

• Medik8 Crystal Retinal (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): As a retinol hater, I will never stop talking about how this stuff completely changed my skin! It’s so effective without being harsh on your skin like retinol.

• T3 Aire 360: As I was saying above, I don’t even reach for my Dyson airwrap anymore because I love this so much! I also love the more oval shaped brush that is similar to the airebrush!

• Dr. Brandt Dermal Micro Points (30% off sitewide): I was waiting for this technology to make its way from South Korea to the US and I’m so glad Dr. Brandt implemented it into a product! This is like microneedling in a bottle and it helps your serums and moisturizers absorb better!

• Dr. Brandt Liquid Sun Shield SPF 50 (30% off sitewide): The best spf of all time!

• Dr. Brandt Neck Tightening Cream + Gua Sha (35% off 11/26 + 11/27 with code NECK35): As someone who holds all their tension in their neck (and my neck is getting old af) the routine of gua sha-ing my neck with this cream has released so much tension and I’ve seen visible results in regards to my tech neck!

• Augustinus Bader x Victoria Beckham The Foundation Drops: Alexa bought these for me and I wanted to hate them but goddamnit I love them. They have pretty good coverage for drops and they make my skin so glowy! Plus I love that they have the same active ingredient as the rich cream so the drops are skincare as well!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for the fashionista:

• M.Gemi The Cristina Booties (ASHLEY15 for 15% off): As someone who has potato legs, I’m actually not a huge fan of booties because most of the time they make my stumps look even stumpier. Plus, so many are just not that comfy. However, these booties will make you a believer! I love the square toe (more room) and the Italian leather is so soft and lux! I didn’t have to break these in at all and I walk in them all the time!

• Rothy’s The Cozy Clog: I never thought I would be a clog person but I legitimately love these.

• Mademoiselle Jules Cable Girl Necklace (ASHLEY15 for 15% off): Jules gifted me a necklace this year with Penny and CJ’s initials and I get so many compliments on it still! This cable girl necklace is an elevated version of the one I have! You can use with so many charms on her site!

• Mademoiselle Jules Mama Charm Necklace (ASHLEY15 for 15% off): See above!

• Dolce Vita Alenna Pump: Calfhair kitten heels are everywhere right now and I have this comfy pair!

• Gap Icon Trench Coat: This oversized trench goes on sale all the time and it’s a classic so snatch it up when you see it at a reduced price!

• Mille Ashton High Rise Wide Leg Flare Jean (ASHLEYS15 for 15% off): Kendrick Lamar made flares popular again and these are probably my favorite pair of jeans ever. They are on the pricier side but I promise that you will get enough wears per cost out of them.

• Saint Laurent 587 New Classic Square Sunglasses: At least 10 of my friends bought these after trying mine on - they look so good on everyone and they are so lightweight.

• Stuart Weitzman 5050 Knee-High Lug Boot: These are classics that you should have in your closet anyway but they lug sole is a trendy update for this year!

• Anine Bing Kelanie Jacket: I saw this on someone and immediately ordered it but I also ordered a couple of dupes because I didn’t want to love it. Despite my other purchases, I did indeed love this jacket. I promise you will too.

• Stuart Weitzman Vinnie Zip Bootie 85: These booties look equally as good with dresses as they do with pants and can instantly elevate any outfit!

• Frank and Eileen Montecito Sweater: Everyone needs 1 quality sweater a season and this is worth the purchase. I don’t know why but this sweater reminds me of Meghan Markle.

• Asics Gel-Cumulus 16 Sneakers: Good luck finding these anywhere because they are sold out everywhere!

• Prada Eyewear Oval-Frame Sunglasses: These are the sunglasses of the year - trust me.

• Aritzia Postage Trench Coat: An update to a classic and significantly cheaper than some of the most popular ones! I love that it comes in so many different colors!

• Madewell Fringe Shirt-Jacket: I would have worn this in junior high and it seriously looks good on everyone.

• Varley Betsy Sweatshirt: All the cool moms in Tribeca are wearing this varley set.

• Varley The Slim Cuff Pant 27.5”: See above.

• Adidas Tokyo Shoes: I thought these looked like bowling shoes but they are very cute on.

• Gap Low Slung Extra Baggy Jeans: These are by far, my most comfy jean even if they remind me a little of JNCOs.

• Agolde Ren High Rise Wide Leg Jeans: These are my bestselling jeans this year for good reason.

• Rachel Antonoff Parker Puffer: People will stop me on the street to tell me how much they love this puffer!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for the host/chef:

• Our Place Dream Cooker: I retired my Fast/Slow Pro this year after some scratches to the interior and I am so happy with this! It’s probably the most attractive multicooker out there and it actually works well!

• Rachel Antonoff Butter Apron: There aren’t enough cute aprons out there.

• Joanna Buchanan Gem Wine Stopper: For the new year, I want to add more whimsy in my life. I’ll be buying more stuff like this because it makes me happy.

• Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer: Ok this might be pretty niche but it’s rare to have a garbage disposal in NYC and you need a drain strainer! Drain strainers historically gross me out but I love that this one inverts in and out so it really removes all the food without you having to touch it a lot because that makes me gag.

• Magnetic Microwave Splatter Cover: I never thought splatter covers were important until I tried this one and I love that it stays at the top of my microwave!

• GreenPan 8 Cup Rice Cooker: Anyone else have a husband that won’t eat rice because it’s too carby? Well this rice cooker perfectly cooks rice and REMOVES CARBS! It’s seriously magic.

• Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder Set: This set works on gravity so you literally just turn it upside down for it to work! Grinding by hand is for losers!

• Caraway Non-Stick Ceramic Baking Sheet Trio (ASHLEYSPIVEY10 for 10% off): Baking sheets can be a really frustrating item because they turn brown and the stains are impossible to get off so they just look dirty all the time. These sheet pans are nonstick and so easy to clean. After a year, mine still look absolutely perfect.

• Caraway 13pc Glass Food Storage Container Set (ASHLEYSPIVEY10 for 10% off): I just read a scary article about how even the best plastic storage containers are poisoning us all so I’m extra happy I purchased this set earlier this year. I love the organizer that comes with it and how substantial these are!

• Impresa Coffee Pod Holder: I have a tiny kitchen so I’m always looking for ways to store items! This goes under the cabinets and I have it right beside the coffee maker.

• Caraway Large Sauté Pan with Lid (ASHLEYSPIVEY10 for 10% off): This is my most used pan and it’s still in perfect condition!

• Caraway 6 Piece Non-Stick Ceramic Bakeware Set (ASHLEYSPIVEY10 for 10% off): Sorry for all the Caraway stuff but these products are seriously that good. My sister just raved about the cake pans after making Penny’s cake!

• Material Kitchen Stand (ASHLEY20 for 20% off): Remember me saying that I have a tiny kitchen - this is a really cool way to display and store your knives, plus it doesn’t take up a lot of room.

• Alice Lane Home Vintage Ribbed Candle Holder (SPIVEY20 for 20% off): Everyone loves a nice candle holder!

• Alice Lane Home Bubble Candle Dish (SPIVEY20 for 20% off): Everyone loves a nice candle dish!

• Joanna Buchanan Evil Eye Metal Straws, Set of 4: Remember the whimsy goal? Wouldn’t you be so happy to drink from these straws?

• Brightland Artist Series Gift Set: This set features 4 delicious types of olive oil and I just love these bottles!

• Jennifer Fisher Salt Trio: If you haven’t discovered the world of Jennifer Fisher salts - you’re missing out! The spicy salt is my fav.

• At Home Leopard Marble Cook Book Holder: I consistently treat my cookbooks like shit. Don’t make my same mistakes - get a cookbook holder!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for the littles in our lives:

• Hally Hair Gem Pen (ASHLEY10 for 10% off): If Penny is having a bad day, I can break out this hair gem pen and let her go to town - instant mood booster! Great for Halloween, holidays, or just a way to make kids happy!

• Rachel Antonoff Toddler Puffer — Sandwiches: Remember my pasta puffer? Penny’s is sandwiches on one side and pasta on the other. It’s truly the coolest coat!

• Hally Hair Glitterati (ASHLEY10 for 10% off): You know the slick back sticks for pony tails and buns? Well this one has glitter in it too! You can use on hair, face, or body!

• Charmspring Morning/Night Starter Pack (ASHLEYS20 for $20 off): It helps Penny to see what she needs to do during the day and night so if you aren’t ready to go digital yet - this is a great way to get the kiddos involved!

• Active Play System: This device is perfect for days when you can’t go outside but you want a way to keep your kids active!

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Holiday Bundle 2025: We’ve used our instax so much and Penny loves to use it as well!

• 3 in 1 Toddler Slide: We’ve had an indoor slide into a ball pit since Penny was old enough to walk and she still loves it.

• Foam Ball Pit: See above!

• Star Ball Pit Balls: Get cool balls - it’s worth it.

• Tiny Land Kids Play Tent: This tent is 100% Penny’s happy place! Install twinkle lights inside to make it extra special!

• Melissa & Doug Cool Scoops Ice Creamery: We got this for Penny’s 1st birthday and she still plays with it all the time!

• Tiny Land Play Kitchen: Play kitchens for kids can be so boring but this one looks modern and Penny still loves hers!

• Ice Cream Beach Toys Set: This ice cream sandbox set will make your kid the most popular kid on the playground!

• Disney Encanto Magical Madrigal House Playset: Penny really went thru a long Encanto period and this house is still one of her favorite things!

• Kids Vacuum Set: Why do kids love vacuuming so much? It cracks me up! This one actually works!

• Premium Acrylic Floating Bookshelf: I guess this is technically more for parents than kids but if you put this in a highly trafficked area, it will 100% make your kids reach for more books.

• Cowgirl Dino Driving 1950s Pink Cadillac Print: Fun art in a kid’s room is so important.

• Tonie Box 2: If you don’t want your toddler to yell at you 100x a day to play a song - get them a tonie box! I personally love the book ones like Dragons Love Tacos!

• Yoto Wired Headphones Mini Bundle: I keep this stashed in Penny’s backpack and she loves listening to it when we are on the go. Super similar to the tonie box but much smaller!

• Milo 3 AI Robot for Kids: It’s probably time we accept that our kids will mostly be friends with robots now.

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for gifting on a budget:

• Exit Lane by Erika Veurink: Always a fan of gifting books! If you aren’t familiar with 831 Stories - they are shorter romance novels with more progressive pairings and usually the author will give updates on the characters even after the books end!

• Reduce Halo 32oz Water Bottle (BFCM20 for 20% off): I never see anyone talking about this water bottle and I don’t know why! The top of the water bottle pops up like a handle so you can carry it around! I think it looks way cooler than a Stanley.

• Crown Affair The Towel: If you know someone that has super thick hair - they need this! It dries my hair so quickly and reduces frizz.

• Quite Puzzling Corner Market 500 Piece Puzzle: Someone in my community alerted us to this company (created by her sister in law) and the puzzles are seriously so great.

• The Sill Easy Care Duo: Plants make anyone’s home instantly more happy! Get them a pair that’s easy to take care of.

• Piro Extra Virgin Olive Oil Piro: This is a really nice olive oil that I tried recently that is super high in antioxidants!

• Lash Next Door Love to Read Smut Kindle Case: Perfect for a book lover, or I guess technically a kindle lover!

• One Line a Day Journal: I’ve been trying to do this more often because I don’t have time to journal a lot a day but I absolutely can jot down my favorite memory of the day.

• Free People Quilted Carryall Bag: This is one of those bags that holds a ton and you can wash it so easily! It’s the perfect everyday bag. I keep mine in the bottom of Penny’s stroller.

• Comfort Colors Custom Vintage Pet Photo Shirt: Legitimately this will delight anyone with a pet.

• Tablet Stand Pillow with Pillow and Detachable Bowl: Honestly I just want this for me lol.

• Lash Next Door A Book A Day Kindle Case: More cute kindle cases!

• Hanni The Shower Edit: This is a perfect shower set that ensures the recipient will have exfoliated and hydrated skin all throughout the Winter.

• Naturium The Glow Getter Collection: This glow getter collection is so hydrating too! I am obsessed with the body wash.

• Grown Alchemist Cryoballs: Like a way better gua sha!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — stocking stuffers:

• Alice Lane Home Harper Hand Book Mark: A bookmark that looks like a very tiny hand? Sign me up!

• Cakes Sticky Cakes Circles: Why was I trying all the worst sticky boobs before I found these? They are truly the best.

• Cann The Roadie Sampler (ASHLEYS20 for 20% off): I cannot tell y’all how much joy Cann has brought into my life! I rarely drink anymore because I prefer chilling out with a Cann - plus no hangover the next day!

• AirFly: Hate using the airplane headphones? Connect your airfly and use your headphones to watch a movie!

• Lake & Skye 6 Scent Discovery Set (with 11 11 Vanilla) (ASHLEYVIP for 31% off): I love a discovery set for a stocking stuffer! This one has 6 great scents and they last forever!

• Ground Up Salted Maple Almond + Cashew Butter: This is better than any peanut butter out there! I could just eat it straight from the jar.

• Reduce Saltini 16oz Sea Glass: Have a friend that loves margaritas - they will love this!

• Eby Cheeky Underwear: Eby makes underwear with grippy sides so that it won’t roll up or down when you pull down your pants. They are the best creation ever.

• Captain Blankenship Hair & Scalp Serum: Ali and I have been using this since 2022 when our scalp feels dry! It prevents dandruff, makes your hair so shiny, and I swear massaging it into my scalp made my hair grow back quicker.

• Dr. Dana Nail Kit: This nail kit will save you so much money because it makes your nails look amazing! I stopped getting manicures once I started using this and my nails have never looked better.

• Discover Night Silk Scrunchies, Skinny: I only use silk scrunchies in my hair to prevent damage!

• Jennifer Fisher Spicy Salt: Trust me on this one - it’s amazing!

• Large Pill Organizer with Medicine Labels: I keep this in my purse at all times and you wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve pulled it out to give medicine to someone!

• Biodance Multi-Care Experience Kit: These are THE BEST MASKS! Want glass skin - use these!

• Rechargeable Hand Warmer: If you frequently have to be outside in the cold - these are a lifesaver!

• Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Smoothing Lip Scrub (30% off sitewide): I love using this 1x a week and then coating my lips in aquaphor to prevent them from looking dry and chapped.

• Inn Beauty Lip Glaze Vault: I’m not a lipstick person but I love these lip glazes!

• Sephora Collection 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set: These brushes are so soft and work so well, plus I love the storage container it comes with.

• Silicone Shower Mitt: Loofahs and wash clothes are gross in the shower. A silicone shower mitt is antibacterial and antimicrobial plus it exfoliates so well!

• Hanni Shave Pillow: Once you use this, you will never use shaving cream again! It’s the best for travel too!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for him:

• The Football History of Philadelphia Book: I bought this in 30 secs when I saw online for Steve and his Dad.

• Brooklinen Dreamweave Waffle Bath Sheet Bundle: I don’t know why but dude towels always smell like mildew. These dry so quickly so they will never stink! Plus, they are giant!

• Portable Charger with Built in Cables: This is the absolute best portable charger! It can charge everything!

• Todd Snyder Cotton-Merino Everyday Beanie: Dude beanies can look weird. This one doesn’t.

• Elemis Day and Night Duo: If your guy has no idea about skin care routines, start him off with this.

• Barbour Classic Bedale Wax Jacket: Just a great classic jacket.

• Nekteck Neck Back Massager with Heat: Honestly a great present because you can use it too.

• Naadam Signature Cashmere Hoodie: This hoodie is so soft and looks so good on everyone!

• Bonobos Italian Moleskin Bomber: Again, another great classic jacket.

• Trova Go Plus V2: A great way to store valuables like a watch! It’s a smart storage box that can only be unlocked with Bluetooth!

• Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): If your guy has a bare bones skincare routine but is getting older - this serum is a miracle worker! It’s so great for hydrating and fine lines.

• Scienlodic SciThera Recover Feet: These slippers target daily foot recovery as eliminating fatigue and soreness with red light, especially after work out or extended walking.

  With the added blue light, suppress itchy feet, reduce inflammation and inhibit fungi growth.

• Cold Ice Bath Premium Face Bowl: Honestly, Steve asked me for this.

• Bombas Men’s Sunday Slipper: Steve also asked me for this.

• Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe: Steve’s always losing chargers so this is a win win for us both.

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: These are the most comfy over ear headphones I’ve ever worn and the noise cancelling is fantastic!

• Playing Cards and Deck of Cards Case: If your husband/boyfriend loves playing poker, this set is so chic and the case is too!

• The Brick: It’s time to finally get them off their phones!

Ashley’s Gift Guide — for those with expensive taste:

• Hotel Lobby Candle Grand Holiday Collection (ASHLEY25 for 25% off): 100% worth the price.

• Lunya Washable Silk High Rise Pants Set: Silk is so luxurious but it’s a pain to wash - these pajamas feel amazing and are easy to take care of!

• ZIIP The Superior Set — Halo (ASHALO for 20% off): If you can get all the bells and whistles for the ZIIP, this set is worth it.

• Dorsey Clemence Graduated Necklace in Moissanite: This is so delicate and shiny in person.

• Bacchus & Clio Parisian Tour: One of my most asked travel questions is who helped us plan our Paris trip and I cannot refer enough of y’all to Charlotte. She made our trip so special and personalized, and she’s a real life friend now too!

• Calpak Trnk Large Hat Box: Nothing makes me more upset than not being able to store my giant hats properly.

• Higher Dose The Supermom Bundle: The Supermom Bundle combines grounding, light, and mineral therapy for a complete body-mind reset. I have no idea what any of that it but it sounds nice.

• Ray Ban Meta Glasses: I wanted to hate these but they are actually really cool.

• Boox Palma 2 Mobile ePaper eBook Reader Fingerprint Recognition Smart Button Dual Microphones: Way chicer than a kindle and lighter!

• Beautifect Makeup Box: A portable vanity table? Hell yes.

• Burberry Check Alpaca Wool Blend Scarf: Just a really nice scarf.

• Ssense Brown Archy Yoga Mat: The coolest yoga mats!

• Rachel Antonoff Martini Mockneck Sweater: I’m honestly in love with her whole holiday collection.

• Todd Snyder Bennett Winch Canvas Suit Carrier Holdall: A duffle and a suitbag in one!

Happy Holidays,

Ashley 💚

Welcome to Alexa’s 2025 Gift Guide! 🎁✨

I pulled together all my favorite finds across so many categories — truly something for every person, every budget, and every “I have no idea what to get them” moment.

And because we know you love double the recommendations…

👉 Click here to shop Ashley’s Gift Guides!

Thank you for using our links and codes when you shop (you get the discounts, and we get a tiny commission for sharing our recs 💛). Your support this year has meant everything, and I hope this makes your holiday shopping feel a lot easier and a little more fun. 🎄🥂

Happy Holidays from our seesters to yours ♥️💚

Heads up — there are 10 guides! The email may get cut off for being too long, so make sure you view the full message to see all the gift guides.

Everything you see in each collage is linked below it👇🏼✨

And if you want to skip straight to the master list and shop all categories in one place, you can do that right here! 🎄🎁

Alexa’s Gift Guide — the crowd pleasers that anyone will like:

• Naturium Glow Getter Oil Body Wash: I’ve given this body wash to everyone I know and they’ve all fallen in love with it. It’s great for shaving and for people who hate putting on lotion after showering.

• Rothy’s Casual Clogs (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): I saw how cute these looked on my friend Caroline and my sister, and instantly knew I needed a pair. They fit my feet perfectly and are the easiest shoes to slip on — ideal for running errands or a cozy day at home. Obsessed.

• Rare Beauty Eau de Parfum: I have fallen in love with this perfume and I layer it with almost every scent now. It’s warm and feminine and perfect for the fall/wintertime!

• Dedcool Mini Deluxe Trio (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): Dedcool fragrances are so cool girl/guy coded (they’re unisex). Every fragrance is addicting and these are some of the most universal of their scents that everyone is guaranteed to love.

• Crz Yoga Butterluxe Leggings: These are Lululemon dupes but for way less money. I find that they attract less cat hair than my aligns and something about the material pills less. I always reach for these over any other legging.

• Beis The Book Tote: This is the perfect bag for anyone who constantly carries around their computer or tons of items. It also fits over a suitcase handle so it’s perfect as a personal item on a plane!

• Loops Switch 2: I can’t stress this enough: protect your hearing now, because once it’s gone, it’s gone. Loops have been a game-changer for me — loud movies, flights, concerts, sleeping… they handle it all. The best part? You can switch modes depending on how much sound you want to let in. Truly one of those “why didn’t I get these sooner?” products.

• Barefoot Dreams Adult Robe: I got myself and Kendell one of these robes and he genuinely never takes it off. It’s the coziest robe I’ve ever worn, without feeling stuffy!

• Away Bigger Carry-On Flex: I’ve had my Away bag for 5 years (and y’all have seen how much I travel). You would never know that it’s 5 years old. It still wheels like a dream, barely has wear and tear, and fits everything you need. I love the flex because it can extend into a bigger bag if you need to fit more things (and I’m still able to use it as a carry on 99% of the time).

• Everlane Half-Zip Sweater: Everyone needs one of these sweaters. It’s comfy, easy to throw on, but still looks chic. The most universal gift you can give someone!

• Mejuri Gold Vermeil Dôme Huggies: I love simple earrings like these. I throw them on with everything because they look good with every outfit! Always good to have a reliable pair like this.

• Etsy Custom Pet Portrait: The best thing you can do for someone with a pet(s) is get them an adorable portrait painting of their baby’s/babies’ cute little faces. This is a no brainer for any pet parents out there!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — things on my wishlist:

• Kindle Paperwhite: I’ve been trying to read more and I love using my sister’s Kindle app — might as well get something I can just keep all the books on! I heard this is the best one.

• Fujifilm Instax Mini Smartphone Printer: This is a cool new option for Polaroid lovers where you can connect this printer to your phone and print out photos on your phone as Polaroids — no Polaroid camera required. So cool!

• The Brick: Sissy keeps raving about this as a tool to help with screen time — I’m intrigued!

• Kitchenatics Baking Cooling Rack: I have needed a good baking rack for awhile and I heard this is one of the best options!

• Bissell Steam Mop: I feel like no matter how much I mop or sweep or clean our floors, they still feel dirty. I really want a nice steam mop so I can get up hard to clean grime and sanitize!!!

• Chalkboard Calendar: I love watching those chalkboard marker calendar videos on TikTok. I have become excited to fill out our monthly calendar every month and this would be such an aesthetic new way to do it!

• Chalk Markers: I need these to outfit the new chalkboard calendar!

• Electric Body Brush: I hate not being able to reach my full back while showering, and this dual arm cleaning brush is just what I need to reach all those unreachable crooks.

• Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine: I want an all in one, nice espresso machine for our morning time routine. I’ve heard great things about this one. It grinds the beans into the basket, makes espresso, and foams your milk.

• Head Ti.S6 Tennis Racquet: I’ve been wanting to get into tennis for a new hobby and I saw that these rackets are great for beginners!

• Bagsmart Bubble Gym Bag: I’d love this cute little gym bag (with a racket pocket) to fit all my things in on the way to the tennis court.

• Anthropologie Bubble Letter Monogram Necklace: I think these little bubble necklaces are such chic statement pieces.

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for the beauty obsessed:

• ZIIP Halo (ALEXASPIVEY for 20% off): Y’all know me and Sissy love our ZIIP Halos. It’s by far the most effective at home tool I’ve ever used. Make sure you download the app and utilize the demo videos!

• ZIIP Discovery Gels (ALEXASPIVEY for 20% off): These are cute sample size gels to use with the ZIIP Halo. Each of them have different benefits and the creator of ZIIP said she spent an insane amount of hours perfecting these.

• Sacheu Beauty Lip Stay-n Bundle (ALEXA15 for 15% off): They are by far my favorite lip stains that I reach for time and time again. They last all day and these are some of my favorite colors.

• Educated Mess Grow a Pair Lash Serum (ALEXA30 for 30% off): I’ve posted before and afters of my lashes after using this serum and it’s truly incredible. More than anything it’s made my lashes denser and thicker. Plus it’s prostaglandin free!!

• Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Vitamins & Mineral Sunscreen Serum SPF 50: I am currently obsessed with this sunscreen. It’s dewy but not greasy, and it still gives that glowy effect hours later, even after drying down. It’s also beautiful under makeup!

• Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner: This is by far the best eyeliner I’ve used in awhile. It comes in the most beautiful shades, has a sponge smudger at the end that actually works, and it has great staying power. Make sure you get the sharpener too!

• Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced Gel Serum (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): This is my favorite vitamin c right now. I have a few, but this is the one I keep reaching for. It’s a great formula and it’s Medik8 so you know the vitamin C is beautifully stabilized for max potency!

• BK Beauty Flawless Face Bundle: I think BK beauty has the most elite brushes on the market right now. These three are my favorites by them that I use in my everyday routine. I’ve washed them dozens of times and they still look brand new!

• Patrick TA Blush Duo in “Just Enough”: I’ve never gotten more compliments on a blush before. Everytime I want to feel extra girly and beautiful, this is the one I put on. It’s universally flattering and guaranteed to get you compliments.

• Cyklar Vanilla Verve Glow Oil: These oils feel so lux, and this smell is the most perfect vanilla scent. Plus the absorb pretty quickly without leaving that greasy feeling!

• Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil (no code need — 30% off sitewide): I rarely find an oil cleanser that I love more than the One Love Vitamin B, but this one is standing up to it. I love how it melts off all my makeup, including waterproof mascara!

• Beaubble Berry Freckled Pen (ALEXADSPIVEY for $5 off): I’ve had this same freckle pen for 3 years and it’s still perfect. Literally such an incredibly well made product that still works just as well as the day I got it. Truly can’t believe it’s lasted me this long!

• Currentbody LED Neck Décolletage Mask (ALEXASP for 10% off): This neck mask is the easiest hack for making sure you give love to your neck skin throughout the week. You can wear this while doing just about anything!

• Huda Beauty Faux Filler Jelly Oil: Imagine your lips looking extremely plump and juicy just from a lip gloss. This lip gloss is STUNNING and so hydrating because it has an oil element to it. I’m obsessed with this one!

• Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream Mini Routine: If you want to try out the Augustinus Bader line before committing to the price point, this is a great place to start!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for the fashionista:

• Freja Chrystie Bag: I’ve worn the mini version of this bag for months in the color pistachio and I get non stop compliments on it! This larger version of it in this espresso color lives in my head rent free.

• Good American Barrel Sleeve Denim Jacket (ALEXA15 for 15% off): This is my favorite jacket right now. It goes with everything whether the outfit is dressy or casual. Plus it cinches in the middle!

• Rent the Runway Subscription (RTRXASPIVEY50 for 50% off your membership): I recently restarted my subscription and it’s such a fun way to play with fashion throughout the month. And I’m not buying clothes that will add more and more clutter to my already small closet.

• A Domani Sleepwear (ALEXASPIVEY for 15% off your order): I’m wearing these pajamas right now LOL. They are so unbelievably comfy and created by women, for women. They have a special blend of material that stays cool — making them great for women experiencing menopause, postpartum, or cancer treatment.

• Aritzia The Super Puff2o Long: I splurged on this coat a few years ago and I just keep it in NYC at my sister’s. Make sure you get this waterproof version — it’s so worth the extra money for snowy days.

• EBY Wireless Bralette (CYBER for 30% off): I cannot stop wearing this bra. It’s so comfortable and completely wireless, but doesn’t make your boobs look sad. It’s a win-win.

• Good American Good Ease Petite Relaxed Jeans (ALEXA15 for 15% off): I’m a creature of habit I’m realizing. These are the jeans that I cannot stop reaching for. I’m so tired of jeans that make me feel uncomfortable and are tight on my stomach — these are the opposite and look cute with almost every single style of shirt.

• Warby Parker Lupita Glasses: Sissy just got these for me in the clear, non prescription style. They are simply for fashion purposes and man are they cute. I love using these to jazz up an outfit!

• Everlane The Boxy Sweater: Everyone needs a good, cotton sweater. This one is consistently rated the top recommended sweater for a reason!

• Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses: If you love that chic, 90’s, almost European glasses style then these are literally the perfect glasses! I get non stop compliments on these.

• Anthropologie Birthstone Huggie Earrings, Set of 4: This is such an easy way to gift someone something personal and chic! (Maybe I’m biased because I have so much jewelry in my birthstone — emerald lover 4eva).

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for the host/chef:

• Favorite Cutting Board: I posted a video awhile ago where a guy broke down all the best materials for cutting boards, and end grain cutting boards scored the highest. I’m obsessed with the way this one performs and looks!

• Caraway 12-piece Ceramic Cookware Set: Caraway creates some of the best pans, baking sheets, cake pans, etc that I’ve ever used in my life. I’m not lying to y’all — they are seriously worth every penny for how truly non stick they are!

• The Spice House Best Sellers Gift Box: My friend gifted me some Spice House spices a few years ago and I loved them so much. This is a perfect set to gift the chef in your life.

• Graza The Trio Cooking Oil Set: I love how the Graza bottles look in my kitchen! This set has all three kinds of their oils.

• Sur La Table Marble Salt Keeper: I love a good salt keeper and this one truly say “I’m a chic, I’m a bad bitch, and I’m cool from my head to my toes to my salt keeper.”

• Maldon Sea Salt: MOST ELITE SALT EVER. You haven’t lived unless you’ve tasted Maldon sea salt. I’m sure every chef if your life would agree!

• Le Creuset Oval Dutch Oven: Most all purpose, universal, all in one cooking item you could own. You can truly do it all with this lil cutie.

• Wine Decanter: Everyone needs a cool wine decanter. This one is chic and unique!

• Thermapen: It never hurts to have a high quality cooking thermometer. You/they will use it more than you’d think!

• Jacobsen Salt Infused Slide Tin Collection: Theme of this post: salt is an incredible gift. Truly — what is food without salt? BLAND AF. These flavored salts will jazz up any dish!

• Luma Flume Electric Lighter: Regular lighters are out. Cool, vibey, electric lighters are in.

• Glass Twist Napkin Rings, Set of 4: A good host needs adorable napkin rings! I love these curly hand blown ones.

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for the littles in our lives:

• Uncommon Goods DJ Pad: Why not start them young? Get the party started with this baby DJ pad!

• Uncommon Goods Kids Glitter Hearts Toilet Bombs: Penny thinks anything poop related is hilarious and I think these are perfect for kids who are potty training!

• Starface The Big Lil Skincare Gift Set: The preteens/teenagers love their star shaped zit patches — just trust me.

• Mini Microphone: Why not? You know what I mean?

• Smells like Six Seven Candle: If you have a teenage boy in your life, just get them this candle. They’ll probably roll their eyes, but secretly they’ll think it’s funny.

• Uncommon Goods Construction Plate & Utensils: Honestly, I just want these for myself. Is there better way to start your day than eating breakfast off a construction site plate???

• Unicorn Rider for Kids 4 to 9 years: The new age rocking horse.

• Stackable Catch-All Trays: I think these are so cute for a girl’s room/desk. Such a great space saver that’s also adorable!

• Loops Engage Kids 2: Everyone needs Loops — especially children. Protect your loved one’s hearing at all costs!

• JBL Go 4 Speaker: This is such a fun speaker option because of the different color way but also how portable it is!

• Custom Charm Necklace: I can’t imagine a single girl not loving a custom charm necklace.

• Uncommon Goods I Love My Body Musical Book: In this household we are body positive and grateful for what our bodies do for us everyday — in every shape and form This is a great way to introduce that early on!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for gifting on a budget:

• Phlur Holiday Coffret Mini Perfumes Set: Phlur has some of the coolest scents and this mini coffret bottles are screaming my name. One of them is Missing Person which is a scent that’s supposed to remind you of someone you know, but can’t quite put your finger on it.

• Personalized House Line Illustration: I love a good gallery wall and good ones all have a one line drawing of some sort. This is such a great gift for new homeowners or friends with adorable houses!

• Dieux Forever Eye Masks: These reusable eye masks are environmentally friendly and made from antibacterial material. They are truly genius and such a foolproof gift!

• Sézane Jewelry Box: I can’t travel without a good jewelry box and this one is luxe without breaking the bank.

• Dedcool Best Sellers Sample Pack + 20% off your First Fragrance (no code needed — 30% off sitewide): As I mentioned earlier, Dedcool has some really complex fragrances and this kit lets you try 6 of them. Plus you can buy the full size version of the one you like most and get 20% off!

• Checkered Onyx Catch-All: Everyone needs a good catchall tray. I’m loving any checkered lately — it adds such a fun pop of color and pattern!

• Anthropologie Bubble Letter Monogram Bag Charm: If someone you know loves bags, this would be such a cute gift. Bag charms are in and the bubble letters are such a fun pop!

• Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Holiday Variety Set: Mighty Patches are my favorite hydrocolloid patches ever and I’ve probably bought at least 100 boxes at this point.

• Anthropologie Festive Icon Stud Earrings: These studs are so pretty and come in so many different styles. I love how chic the martini ones are!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — stocking stuffers:

• Tower 28 SOS Skincare Set: If someone you know suffers from eczema, the Tower 28 SOS line is such a soothing option for them! The spray is also great for people who travel a lot on planes — it’s a great antibacterial formula.

• Lake and Skye Body Mist Discovery Set (ALEXAVIP for 31% off): These body/hair mists were some of my favorite finds from 2025. They all smell so good! These would be perfect to split up as stocking stuffers.

• Machete French Hair Pin: I think there’s nothing cooler than a girl that just throws her hair up in a super relaxed but chic way. French pins are perfect for those kinds of relaxed styles.

• Custom Comb for Purse: I actually just got gifted these at one of my friend’s bachelorettes and it’s such a great addition to my purse.

• Summer Fridays The Lip Butter Balm Minis: Everyone loves these Summer Fridays lip balms so it’s a foolproof way to jazz up a stocking.

• Rare Beauty Amber Vanilla Fragrance Layering Balm: I brought this scent to NYC with me and I haven’t been able to stop reaching for it. It has all the best notes of the original 11 11, but with a vanilla twist.

• Rhode Skin The Rhode Kit: This is also another gift that anyone would be excited to find in their stockings. Rhode’s formulas are luxuriously beautiful!

• CNS Cuticle Oil: I always have this cuticle oil in my bag. It helps me keep my nails strong and not pick at my cuticles.

• Naturium Mini The Glow Getter Oil Body Wash: I’ve already gotten everyone addicted, mainly through them trying out this mini version.

• Olaplex The Mini Essentials Hair Care Set: I love how Olaplex products make my hair feel. These are all mini versions of their bestsellers!

• Salt & Stone Mini Deodorant Set: Every scent pairing I’ve ever smelled from Salt & Stone has me seriously impressed. My sister swears by their deodorant!

• Charlotte Tilbury Mini Iconic Lip Cheat Lip Liner Trio: Charlotte Tilbury’s pillow talk lip liner is a classic staple that every makeup loving cutie needs!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for him:

• Braun Series 8 Electric Razor For Men: A good razor is truly life changing — this one is expensive, but so worth it in quality.

• Leather Catchall Tray: Once again, I think every person needs a good catchall tray. Such an easy way to stay organized and look cute!

• Crown Affair The Leave-In Conditioner: Kendell randomly tried this leave in conditioner and I’ve literally never seen his curls look better. He’s almost used 2 bottles of it. I can’t believe how good it makes his hair look!

• Fur Oil (ALEXASPIVEY15 for 15% off): This is another skincare item Kendell has been loving. It helps with skin softening and ingrown hairs, but it’s also an oil that you can use for like 20 more things!

• Personalized Golf Set: Kendell is very into golf right now and I feel like this kit has everything he’d need in it. Especially the scorer because I can’t read his handwriting for anything

• Engraved Leather Golf Tag: This is another cute way to add some pizzazz to your man’s golf bag.

• Loops Switch 2: See above!

• Good Quality Human Hat: This is Kendell’s favorite hat company. They have so many swaggy designs and color combos.

• On Cloud Men’s Cloud 6 Black: I love my On Cloud shoes and these are by far their best men’s shoe option!

• The Hotbox Air Purifier Kit (SPIVEY25 for 25% off): One of my followers makes these boxes to help clean the air of those who partake in smoking. It’s really cool and super effective!

Alexa’s Gift Guide — for those with expensive taste:

• Bacchus and Clio Paris Tour: Charlotte is by far the best tour guide we’ve ever met. Plan a trip to Paris and then reach out to her to plan a consultation. Please mention us! We adore her and her wealth of knowledge. I will truly never forget some of the things she explained to us because she did it in such a fascinating way!

• Whisker Litter-Robot 5: The Litter Robot is a mandatory product as a pet parent. I’m so spoiled by it and can never go back to an older litter box.

• Oura Ring 4: I love my Oura Ring! The sleep breakdown is so helpful for me and it let’s me know when I’m been stressing too much, or when I’ll start my period!

• Mansur Gavriel Candy Bag: This is such a chic, cool girl bag. It will make any outfit look immediately elevated.

• Monica Vinader Oval Jewelry Box: This is a little bit of a pricier jewelry box, and I love how it has a little more space than the usual square shaped ones!

• Missoma Molten Snow Twisted Pendant Necklace: This necklace screams elegance and taste.

• Byredo Mojave Ghost Hand Cream: I fell in loved with this scent years ago — it’s such an expensive smelling scent.

• Bose Soundlink Home Bluetooth Speaker: Bose makes the best speakers in my opinion and this speaker from this look so retro and chic.

• Alice + Olivia Mateo Denim Carpenter Jacket (currently only $222.75 instead of $495): Please take advantage of this deal! One of my favorite jackets is currently almost 50% off — SUCH A STEAL!

Happy Holidays,

Alexa 💚