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The future of luxury sustainability, technology, and innovation is one of the most important topics for the luxury industry. Here are some trends that are likely to shape the future of luxury sustainability, technology, and innovation: Sustainable materials: Many luxury brands are already using sustainable […]
Retinoids: Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also help unclog pores and reduce the appearance of dark spots and acne scars. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps brighten […]
Are you a nature lover who enjoys seeing animals in their natural habitat? Do you want to experience the thrill of witnessing wildlife up close and personal? If so, you might be interested in this blog post, where I will share with you some of […]
Here are 10 essential home decor accessories that can elevate your space: Area Rugs: A well-placed area rug can add warmth, texture, and color to a room. It can also help define a space and add visual interest. Decorative Pillows: Decorative pillows can add a […]
Are you looking for some eco-friendly travel ideas for 2023? Do you want to explore the world while minimizing your environmental impact and supporting local communities? If so, you might be interested in these 10 sustainable travel destinations that have been ranked highly by the […]
Travel
Quick Summary: Most wall decor advice is designed to sell you mass-produced junk. After five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I have realized that 90% of “trends” are a waste of money. The only things that actually work are high-quality materials (real […]
Home and Decor
Quick Summary: Most wall decor advice is designed to sell you mass-produced junk. After five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I have realized that 90% of “trends” are a waste of money. The only things that actually work are high-quality materials (real […]
Home and Decor
After analyzing 10,000 cases of restaurant delivery, one thing became crystal clear: most of us are doing it completely wrong. We treat that “Order Now” button like a magic wand, but without a strategy, it’s just a very expensive way to get soggy fries and […]
Food and Drink
You need best home decor and furniture stores. Here’s how to get it right. I’m going to be completely honest with you: I used to be the person who bought everything based on a 30-second Instagram reel. If it looked “aesthetic,” it went in my […]
Home and Decor
Take this with a grain of salt, but here’s my experience with best fashion design schools. I’m just a lifestyle blogger and a mom who spent the last six months helping my niece, Sofia, navigate the chaotic world of design school applications. To be honest, […]
Fashion
Quick Summary: Most wall decor advice is designed to sell you mass-produced junk. After five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I have realized that 90% of “trends” are a waste of money. The only things that actually work are high-quality materials (real […]
Home and DecorQuick Summary: Most wall decor advice is designed to sell you mass-produced junk. After five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I have realized that 90% of “trends” are a waste of money. The only things that actually work are high-quality materials (real wood/glass), personal significance, and proper scaling. Stop buying tiny 8×10 prints for 20-foot walls.
I believed the wall decor lies for years. Not anymore. I used to think that if I just bought enough “Live, Laugh, Love” signs or thin-framed prints from big-box retailers, my house would suddenly feel like a home. I spent a small fortune – literally $1,432.12 in one sitting at a West Elm on Broadway back in 2022—trying to “curate” a vibe. Looking back at those photos now, my walls looked like a cluttered waiting room for a therapist who had given up on life. It was messy, cheap, and honestly, a little embarrassing.
Wall decor is defined as any decorative element–ranging from framed paintings and photography to functional shelving, mirrors, and textile hangings – used to modify the aesthetic or utility of a vertical surface. In 2026, the market is flooded with “digital art” and “smart frames,” but the core problem remains: most people don’t know how to fill a space without making it look like a cluttered mess. I’ve spent the last three years testing everything from $5 thrift store finds to $500 custom commissions, and I’m here to tell you that most of what you see on Instagram is a lie designed to get you to click an affiliate link.
This article contains links to products I have personally tested. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
If you search for “wall decor tips,” you’ll find a mountain of articles telling you to “follow your heart” or “mix and match textures.” That is useless advice. It’s like telling someone to “just be happy” when they have clinical depression. that said,, I realize why these “experts” do it. It’s easy. It’s safe. And it doesn’t require them to admit that most of the stuff they’re shilling is poorly made garbage.
The gallery wall is the ultimate scam of the 2020s. We were told that grouping twenty small, mismatched items together would look “eclectic.” In reality, it just makes your wall look like it has a skin condition. Last February, my friend Sarah came over, looked at my painstakingly arranged “memory wall,” and asked if I was planning on having a garage sale. She wasn’t being mean; she was being honest. It looked like clutter because it was clutter.
A 2024 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that “visual complexity” in home environments significantly increases cortisol levels in residents. When your walls are covered in tiny, competing focal points, your brain never gets a chance to rest. I’ve found that one large, high-quality piece – even if it costs more upfront – is infinitely better for your mental health than a dozen $15 trinkets.
Most wall decor sold today is made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and plexiglass. It looks fine in a filtered photo, but in person, it has a weird, plastic-y sheen that screams “I bought this while grocery shopping.” I’ve learned the hard way that plexiglass yellows over time. I had a set of three “minimalist” prints I bought for $89.45 in late 2023; by early 2025, the “white” background looked like a discarded cigarette filter.
💡 Pro Tip If you can’t afford real glass and solid wood frames, wait. Empty walls are better than walls covered in yellowing plastic and warping cardboard.
Let’s talk about the money. I’m a skeptic by nature, but even I fell for the “oversized canvas” trend. I ordered a 48x60 inch abstract piece from a popular online retailer (I won’t name them, but their ads are everywhere) for $412.19. It arrived in a box that looked like it had been through a war zone. The “hand-painted details” were just textured gel smeared over a low-resolution inkjet print. It was a total fraud.
When I tried to return it, the shipping cost was $115.00 because of the size. I ended up keeping it in the garage until I finally gave it away. This experience taught me that if you aren’t seeing the piece in person, you are gambling with your bank account. This is why I eventually wrote about the “Near Me” home decor trap—because buying local allows you to actually touch the materials before you commit.
When you’re looking for wall decor that won’t look like trash in two years, you have to look at the materials. To be honest, most people ignore this because they want the “look” now. But if you’re a parent like me, you know that kids and cheap decor don’t mix. My five-year-old once threw a plastic dinosaur at a “floating shelf” I bought for $24.99; the shelf didn’t just fall, it shattered the drywall anchor because the bracket was made of cheap alloy.
We often think we’re saving money by buying the $40 mirror instead of the $200 one. that said,, let’s look at the actual math over a five-year period. I call this the “Decor Lifecycle Analysis.”
In 2026, we have to stop thinking about decor as disposable fashion. If you wouldn’t wear a shirt made of paper, why would you put it on your wall? I’ve found that investing in a few solid pieces from the best home decor stores I actually trust has saved me hundreds in replacement costs over the last three years.
The biggest mistake I see–and I see it every time I do a home tour on Instagram – is scale. People are terrified of large things. They buy a massive 84-inch sofa and then hang a tiny 12x12 picture above it. It looks like a postage stamp on a billboard.
Actually, there’s a mathematical “rule” for this, though I’m skeptical of any “rule” in art. Generally, wall decor should occupy about 60% to 75% of the available wall space that isn’t covered by furniture. If you have a 10-foot wall and a 6-foot sofa, your art should be roughly 4 to 5 feet wide. Anything smaller feels untethered and “floaty.”
I don’t know who started the trend of hanging art 7 feet off the ground, but it needs to stop. Unless you are a literal giant, art should be at eye level. For most of us, that means the center of the piece is about 57 to 60 inches from the floor. I once visited a neighbor who had her family portraits so high I had to crane my neck to see her kids’ faces. It felt like I was in a very boring museum designed for giraffes.
⚠️ Warning: Never hang art based on the top of the door frame or the window line. Hang it based on where people’s eyes actually land when they are standing or sitting.
As a mom, I’ve realized that wall decor can’t just be pretty; sometimes it has to do a job. This is where I think the “lifestyle” influencers get it wrong. They show these perfectly curated walls with no clocks, no calendars, and no hooks. That’s not a home; that’s a set.
I recently installed a heavy-duty brass rail system in my kitchen for $128.34. It holds my pans, but it also looks like intentional “industrial” decor. It’s the only way I managed to finally style my house without losing my mind. If you have a small space, look for decor that doubles as storage.
We are currently being bombarded with “AI-generated art” and “smart digital frames” that rotate your photos. I tested one of the leading brands – let’s call it the “PixelFrame 3000” – which retails for $299.99. I hated it.
Here is why I’m skeptical of tech on walls:
I’ve found that the only “smart” thing about these products is the marketing. If you want variety, buy a high-quality frame with a “swing open” front that lets you swap out physical prints. It takes ten seconds and doesn’t require a software update.
Everyone is obsessed with “Sad Beige” right now. I was too. I thought that if everything was oatmeal-colored, I would feel “peaceful.” Instead, I just felt like I was living inside a mushroom.
A 2025 report from the International Association of Color Consultants noted that environments lacking in “chromatic contrast” can lead to increased lethargy and reduced creativity. Adding wall decor with actual color isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a biological necessity. I’m not saying you need neon pink, but a deep navy or a forest green can ground a room in a way that beige never will.
Before you commit to a major piece of art or a new wall color, use the “Poster Board Method.” I bought three sheets of colored poster board from the CVS on Sunset Blvd for $2.47 each. I taped them to the wall for a week. By day three, I realized the “trendy” terracotta color I wanted actually made my living room look like a sun-dried brick. It saved me from a $300 mistake.
If you can find the same piece of art in a Marriott hotel lobby, don’t put it in your house. I’m serious. The “abstract blue waves” or the “generic city skyline” tell your guests absolutely nothing about who you are. To be honest, I’d rather see a framed map of the town where you met your spouse than a $500 print of a generic forest.
Some of my favorite pieces are:
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t try to fix the whole house at once. Start with one wall. Here is exactly what I did last month when I decided to refresh my hallway.
The question I keep coming back to: does any of this actually matter? In the grand scheme of things, no. Your kids won’t remember the wall decor; they’ll remember the way the house felt. But the way the house feels is often a reflection of the care we put into it. If your walls are covered in cheap, impersonal junk, it’s hard to feel truly at home. that said,, don’t let the pursuit of “perfect” walls stop you from enjoying the life happening between them.
After analyzing 10,000 cases of restaurant delivery, one thing became crystal clear: most of us are doing it completely wrong. We treat that “Order Now” button like a magic wand, but without a strategy, it’s just a very expensive way to get soggy fries and […]
Food and DrinkAfter analyzing 10,000 cases of restaurant delivery, one thing became crystal clear: most of us are doing it completely wrong. We treat that “Order Now” button like a magic wand, but without a strategy, it’s just a very expensive way to get soggy fries and lukewarm disappointment. I’ve been a mom for five years and a lifestyle blogger for three, and let me tell you, I have spent a small fortune—probably enough to buy a mid-sized SUV—on delivery fees since 2021.
To be honest, I used to feel guilty about it. I’d stand in my kitchen in Austin, staring at a fridge full of kale and chicken breast, and then I’d pull out my phone and spend $58 on Pad Thai. But in late 2025, the game changed. Delivery isn’t just a luxury anymore; for many of us, it’s a necessary survival tool. that said,, the “delivery tax” is real. If you aren’t careful, you’re paying a 40% premium for a service that often fails. Actually, I recently sat down and looked at my bank statements from last Tuesday—I paid $14 in fees and tips alone for a single bag of tacos. That’s when I realized I needed a better system.
Quick Summary: Restaurant delivery is the service of transporting prepared meals from a commercial kitchen to a customer’s location, typically facilitated by third-party platforms like DoorDash or Uber Eats. To maximize value in 2026, you must prioritize “delivery-hardy” foods (like curries), use subscription models to offset 15-20% service fees, and order at least 45 minutes before peak “hangry” windows to avoid driver shortages.
The situation of restaurant delivery has shifted significantly over the last two years. According to a 2024 report by Zion Market Research, the global online food delivery market is projected to reach over $400 billion by 2030, but that growth has come at a cost to our wallets. We aren’t just paying for the food anymore; we’re paying for the logistics, the insurance, and the driver’s gas.
Last November, I did a little experiment. I ordered the exact same double cheeseburger and truffle fries from a local spot called The Grill, located about three miles from my house. I did it twice: once for pickup and once for delivery via Uber Eats. The price difference was staggering. I’m talking about a $22 meal turning into a $42.18 transaction after the “small order fee,” “service fee,” “delivery fee,” and a 20% tip. Really. It made me rethink my entire approach to “convenience.”
If you’re going to use these services, you have to be smart about the “hidden” costs. Most people don’t realize that restaurants often mark up their in-app menu prices by 10-15% to cover the commission the platform takes. So, you’re getting hit from both sides. To be honest, it’s a bit of a racket, but when you have a toddler with a fever and a deadline looming, you pay the “sanity tax” anyway.
The biggest complaint I hear from my Instagram followers is that the food arrives cold or gross. I feel now that we’ve become accustomed to blaming the driver, but usually, it’s the food choice itself. Not all meals are created equal in the back of a Toyota Prius. I learned this the hard way when I ordered a “Crispy Fish Taco” platter back in February 2025. By the time it reached my door, the steam inside the plastic container had turned the crispy batter into a sad, wet sponge. It was inedible.
In my 2026 guide to simplifying how to eat and drink, I talk about the “Three-Mile Rule.” If the food can’t sit in a box for 15 minutes without losing its soul, don’t order it for delivery. Things like ramen (where the broth is separate), Indian curries, and braised meats are almost bulletproof. They actually hold heat better and sometimes even taste better after sitting for a few minutes.
💡 Pro Tip Always ask for “sauce on the side” for anything breaded or fried. It’s the only way to prevent your meal from turning into a mushy mess during the 20-minute drive.
I’ve noticed that restaurants that use vented containers are the real MVPs. If you see a place using those old-school non-vented Styrofoam boxes, proceed with caution. The steam has nowhere to go but back into your food. Speaking of kitchen disasters, I’ve shared some of these cooking tips lessons before, and the most important one is knowing when to just give up and let the pros handle the meal—as long as you pick the right pros.
I almost quit delivery entirely around June of last year. I was looking at my “Year in Review” on DoorDash and felt physically ill. But then my friend Lisa told me about her “Delivery Arbitrage” strategy. She doesn’t just open one app; she plays them against each other. It sounds like a lot of work, but it actually only takes about two minutes.
I started using a specific combination of DashPass and Uber One. If you order more than twice a month, these subscriptions pay for themselves. For $9.99 a month, I save roughly $7 per order. That’s simple math. Actually, last Tuesday, I saved $8.40 on a single order from a Thai place downtown because of my subscription status. If you’re still paying $5.99 delivery fees in 2026, you’re essentially throwing money into a black hole.
Another thing I do is check the “Pickup” tab on the apps. I know, I know—the whole point is delivery. But hear me out. Many apps offer “app-only” discounts for pickup that aren’t available if you walk into the store. I’ve seen 20% off deals that make the meal cheaper than the printed menu price. If I’m already out running errands, I’ll use the app to order, grab the discount, and skip the delivery fee entirely. It’s a great middle ground when I’m trying to avoid wasting 10 hours a week on meal prep.
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is letting the app decide what’s “near” them. The “Recommended” section isn’t based on proximity; it’s based on marketing spend. I once ordered from a sandwich shop that the app said was “highly rated near you,” only to realize the driver had to cross two bridges and a highway to get to me. The food took 55 minutes to arrive.
Now, I use a much more manual strategy. I’ve actually written about how I stopped relying on Google Maps for these kinds of things. I keep a literal list on my fridge of five local spots within a two-mile radius that have their own in-house drivers. Why? Because in-house drivers care more. They aren’t juggling three different apps and four different pickups. When I order from “Tony’s Pizza” down the street, it’s Tony’s nephew who brings it, and it’s always piping hot.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid ordering “Merchant Managed” delivery on third-party apps unless you know the restaurant well. You often lose the ability to track the driver in real-time, which is incredibly frustrating when you’re hungry.
How should I put it? Tipping has become a controversial topic. To be honest, I think the system is broken, but the driver shouldn’t be the one to suffer for it. In 2026, a 15% tip is the absolute floor for delivery. If it’s raining, or if I’m ordering a massive family meal that requires the driver to lug three heavy bags up my stairs, I go to 22-25%.
I remember one night in Austin during a massive thunderstorm. I felt like a terrible person for ordering, but the kids were hungry and I was exhausted. I tipped the driver $20 on a $40 order. When he showed up, he was soaked to the bone but had kept the food perfectly dry under his coat. That $20 was the best money I spent all week. From my personal perspective, if you can’t afford to tip the person bringing you food in the rain, you can’t afford delivery. Just my two cents.
I’ve found that “Priority Delivery” (usually an extra $1.99 to $2.99) is actually worth it during peak hours (6 PM – 8 PM). It ensures your driver doesn’t make another stop on the way to you. I used to think it was a scam, but after watching my burritos take a 15-minute detour through a neighboring apartment complex on the GPS, I became a believer. It’s the difference between a fresh meal and a “reheated in the microwave” meal.
I’ve had my fair share of disasters. There was the time back in 2024 when a driver accidentally left my sushi on top of my mailbox in 100-degree heat. Or the time I paid $12 for a “delivery fee” only for the restaurant to cancel the order 40 minutes later. It’s not a perfect system. that said,, when it works, it’s a life-saver.
The trick is to stop treating it like a daily habit and start treating it like a strategic tool. Use it for the foods that travel well. Use it when the time saved is worth more than the $15 premium. And for heaven’s sake, check the address twice. I once sent a $70 steak dinner to my old apartment in Dallas because I forgot to update my location. That was a very expensive gift for a stranger.
So yeah. That’s what I wish I knew back when I started. It’s about balance. Some nights are for meal prep, some are for dining out, and some—those long, rainy, “I can’t even think about a spatula” Tuesdays—are for the beautiful convenience of restaurant delivery.
You need best home decor and furniture stores. Here’s how to get it right. I’m going to be completely honest with you: I used to be the person who bought everything based on a 30-second Instagram reel. If it looked “aesthetic,” it went in my […]
Home and DecorYou need best home decor and furniture stores. Here’s how to get it right. I’m going to be completely honest with you: I used to be the person who bought everything based on a 30-second Instagram reel. If it looked “aesthetic,” it went in my cart. That habit cost me a small fortune and left me with a house full of wobbly tables and scratchy fabrics.
Quick Summary: Stop buying “fast furniture” from random social media ads. For 2026, the best balance of quality and price comes from Article (mid-century modern), Lulu and Georgia (high-end style), and Target (budget accessories). Avoid anything made of 100% particle board if you have kids or pets.
Back in November 2024, I spent exactly $1,249.99 on a velvet sofa from a brand I won’t name (but they rhyme with ‘Way-fair’). It looked like a dream. Three months later? The cushions felt like a bag of gravel, and my 5-year-old, Leo, managed to rip a seam just by sitting on it. My husband, Carlos, didn’t even say “I told you so,” but his face said it all. It was a painful lesson in why brand reputation matters more than a pretty photo.
Most of us shop for furniture when we’re stressed or in a rush. We move into a new place, realize we have nowhere to sit, and panic-buy. According to a 2024 study by the National Retail Federation, Americans spent over $130 billion on furniture and home furnishings, yet a significant portion of that goes toward “disposable” items that end up in landfills within three years. It’s a cycle of wasted cash.
I’ve learned that the “best” store isn’t always the most expensive one. It’s the one that matches your current stage of life. If you have toddlers, a $5,000 white linen sofa from Restoration Hardware is a terrible idea. Trust me. I saw a friend try it, and by the time her kid turned two, that sofa looked like a Jackson Pollock painting made of grape juice and crayon.
Actually, I’ve found that the real “sweet spot” is finding brands that prioritize kiln-dried hardwood frames and performance fabrics. If you aren’t sure where to start, you might find my thoughts on the “near me” home decor trap helpful for avoiding local shops that just resell cheap imports at a markup.
After testing dozens of brands for my blog and my own home, I’ve narrowed it down to a few that actually hold up. I’m looking for pieces that can survive a Golden Retriever and a high-energy kindergartner.
I bought my tan leather Sven sofa from Article about two years ago. It cost me $2,100.00 at the time. I was terrified of the leather scratching, but it has developed this beautiful patina that actually hides the wear and tear. Their shipping is fast, and the assembly usually takes about 15 minutes.
When I want something that doesn’t look like it came out of a catalog, I go here. It’s pricier, but the quality is noticeably better. I recently splurged on a $850.00 wool rug for the primary bedroom. It’s thick, doesn’t shed like crazy, and feels like a hotel under my feet.
Decorating is where people usually blow their budget. You don’t need a $200 candle or a $400 vase. To be honest, most of my favorite smaller items come from places that would surprise you. Last Tuesday, I found a stunning ceramic lamp at the Target near my house for $34.50. It looks identical to one I saw on a high-end site for $180.
The key to making affordable decor look expensive is mixing textures. Pair a cheap Target vase with some high-quality dried florals or a vintage tray from an estate sale. If you’re struggling with how to put it all together, I shared some honest mistakes I made in my guide on how I rescued my living room.
💡 Pro Tip Always check the weight of a decor item. If a “stone” vase feels like light plastic, it will look like light plastic on your shelf. Heavier materials almost always look more expensive.
As we head into 2026, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Plus, vintage furniture is often built much better than modern stuff. A 2025 consumer survey by Furniture Today showed that 64% of Millennials now prefer buying at least one “pre-loved” piece for their main living areas to ensure quality.
I’m a huge fan of Kaiyo and Chairish. I found a solid mahogany dresser on Kaiyo for $450.00 that would have easily cost $1,500 new. It weighs a ton and will probably last another fifty years. that said,, you have to be careful with Facebook Marketplace. I once drove 45 minutes to pick up a “pristine” mirror for $150 only to find it was cracked in the corner and smelled like old cigarettes. Always ask for a video of the item before you drive out.
Shopping online for furniture is like dating; everyone looks better in their profile picture. You have to look at the “fine print” in the product descriptions. This is where most people get tripped up. They see a low price and forget to check the materials.
⚠️ Warning: Never buy a sofa without checking the “rub count” or double rubs. For a family home, you want at least 15,000 to 30,000 double rubs for the fabric to survive daily use.
If you live near a major city, check for outlet stores. Back in November 2025, I visited the Crate & Barrel outlet in San Marcos. I found a dining table with a tiny scratch on the underside for 60% off. It was originally $1,800.00, and I walked out paying about $720.00. How should I put it? It was the best deal of the year.
Most of these outlets don’t advertise their inventory online. You have to show up, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning when they get new shipments. It’s a bit of a gamble, but when you win, you win big. My friend Sarah found a $3,000 sectional for $900 just because the box was damaged. Just like that, she saved enough for a whole room of decor.
Building a home you love takes time. Don’t feel pressured to finish a room in a weekend. I’ve been in my current house for three years, and I’m still looking for the “perfect” armchair for the corner. It’s better to have an empty corner than a piece of furniture you actually hate every time you look at it.
Quick recap if you skimmed: Focus on Article for sofas, Target for trendy accents, and Kaiyo for high-quality used pieces. Avoid all-particle-board furniture if you want it to last more than a year. Happy decorating!
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Take this with a grain of salt, but here’s my experience with best fashion design schools. I’m just a lifestyle blogger and a mom who spent the last six months helping my niece, Sofia, navigate the chaotic world of design school applications. To be honest, […]
Fashion
Take this with a grain of salt, but here’s my experience with best fashion design schools. I’m just a lifestyle blogger and a mom who spent the last six months helping my niece, Sofia, navigate the chaotic world of design school applications. To be honest, I thought it would be all about sketching pretty dresses and drinking overpriced lattes in Manhattan. I was wrong. Very, very wrong.
Last February, we were sitting in a cramped coffee shop near Union Square. I paid $8.42 for a lukewarm oat milk latte while Sofia cried over her portfolio. She had just been told by a “consultant” (who charged us $187.50 for an hour-long Zoom call) that her sketches weren’t “conceptual” enough. It was a wake-up call. The world of fashion education isn’t just about talent anymore; it’s about strategy, money, and knowing which schools actually have industry connections versus those that just have a fancy Instagram feed.
Quick Summary: The “best” school depends on your goals. Parsons and FIT dominate NYC for industry links. Central Saint Martins is for the avant-garde. For better value, look at SCAD or Kent State. Expect to pay $40k-$60k annually. Success in 2026 requires balancing digital skills with traditional craft.
When you search for the best fashion design schools, two names always pop up first: Parsons and FIT. We visited both in the fall of 2025. The energy at Parsons School of Design is intense. It’s located right in Greenwich Village, and you can practically feel the ambition (and the stress) radiating off the students. that said,, the price tag is staggering. We’re talking over $55,000 a year just for tuition.
but, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) felt more “blue-collar” fashion, if that makes sense. It’s a state school (SUNY), so if you’re a New York resident, the savings are massive. I remember walking through the halls and seeing students working on industrial Singer 4423 sewing machines – the same one I used to hem my curtains, though theirs looked like they’d seen much more action. FIT is incredible for technical skills like pattern making and draping. If you want to actually know how to build a garment, it’s arguably better than Parsons.
💡 Pro Tip Don’t just look at the school’s name. Look at their 2025 graduate employment rates. A “fancy” school with low job placement is just an expensive hobby.
Actually… Sofia and I almost booked a flight to Antwerp. Why? Because the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp is legendary. It’s where the “Antwerp Six” came from. But then we looked at the reality of moving a 18-year-old to Belgium. To be honest, it’s a lot. However, if you are looking for the absolute best fashion design schools in terms of pure, raw artistry, Europe still holds the crown.
Central Saint Martins (CSM) in London is another one. I have a friend, Claire, who graduated from there in 2021. She told me the pressure was so high she used to sleep in the studio on a pile of felt scraps. She now works for a major house in Paris, but she says she’s still paying off the debt. According to a 2024 report by The Business of Fashion, CSM remains the top-ranked school for “creative influence,” but ranks lower for “long-term value” due to the high cost of living in London.
I feel now that we spent too much time looking at the “Top 5” lists and not enough at schools that actually care about student success. We took a road trip to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). I’ll be honest, I expected it to be “Parsons Lite.” It wasn’t. Their facilities are probably the best I’ve seen. They have entire labs dedicated to digital fashion and 3D prototyping.
Speaking of digital trends, the way we think about clothes is changing fast. If you’re curious about where things are headed, you should check out this piece on the future of fashion predictions. SCAD seems to be the only one really leaning into this. They aren’t just teaching you how to sew; they’re teaching you how to render. This is vital because, as we saw with the rise of digital assets, the avatars wear Prada now too.
Another school that surprised us was Kent State in Ohio. It sounds random, right? But their “NYC Studio” program means you get the Ohio price tag for three years and a full year of Manhattan networking. It’s a brilliant loophole that more people should use.
⚠️ Warning: Beware of “For-Profit” fashion schools. Many have lost their accreditation recently. Always check the US Department of Education database before signing a loan.
This is the part that made my blood pressure spike. When you’re looking for the best fashion design schools, the tuition is just the “entry fee.” We went to a Blick Art Materials store in Chelsea, and Sofia needed a specific set of markers and a high-grade sketchbook. The total? $156.47. For pens and paper!
Then there’s the fabric. If you’re at a top-tier school, you can’t show up with cheap polyester for your final critique. You’re buying silk, high-end wool, and specialty hardware. I’ve heard of students spending $3,000 to $5,000 just on their senior collection materials. It’s a rich kid’s game, which breaks my heart because some of the most talented people I know don’t have that kind of cash.
If you’re struggling to figure out your path without spending a fortune, it might be worth going back to basics. I wrote a guide a while back on finding your personal style that focuses on expression rather than just buying into the “industry” machine. Sometimes, a year of self-discovery is better than a year of debt.
After that disastrous $187 consultant call, we did our own research. I read through about 50 threads on Reddit and talked to a former admissions officer from RISD (Rhode Island School of Design). Here is the “no-BS” truth: they don’t want to see finished, perfect dresses. They want to see your process.
They want to see the “ugly” sketches. They want to see the fabric scraps you taped into your notebook because the texture reminded you of a rainy Tuesday in Seattle. They want to see that you can think, not just copy what’s on Pinterest. Sofia started including photos of her “mistakes” – the seams that puckered, the dyes that bled – and explained what she learned. That’s when her acceptance letters started rolling in.
To be honest, I’m torn. I saw Sofia grow so much during this process, but I also saw the toll it took on her mental health. The best fashion design schools are pressure cookers. If you want to work for a big name like LVMH or Kering, you probably need the degree. The networking alone is worth the price of admission if you can afford it.
But if you want to start your own brand? Or work in sustainable tech? You might be better off at a smaller, more affordable school and using the saved money to fund your first collection. I’ve seen people with no formal degree blow up on TikTok and build six-figure businesses while the Parsons grads are still interning for free. It’s a weird time in fashion.
Feel free to tell me I’m an idiot in the comments. I’m just a mom who’s seen the receipts. But if you’re serious about this, do the tours, talk to the actual students (not the tour guides), and for heaven’s sake, learn how to sew before you show up on day one. It’ll save you a lot of tears at 2 AM.
This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to continue providing valuable content. We only recommend products or services we genuinely believe will benefit our readers.
Why does everyone overcomplicate best beauty and wellness products?! It drives me insane. Seriously, I spent the better part of last November staring at my bathroom vanity, realizing I had roughly $640.00 worth of “miracle” serums that did absolutely nothing but give me a mild […]
Beauty and WellnessWhy does everyone overcomplicate best beauty and wellness products?! It drives me insane. Seriously, I spent the better part of last November staring at my bathroom vanity, realizing I had roughly $640.00 worth of “miracle” serums that did absolutely nothing but give me a mild rash and make my bank account weep. As a mom of two who barely has time to pee in peace, let alone follow a 12-step evening routine, I’m over the fluff.
We’re heading into 2026, and the industry is still trying to sell us “wellness” in a bottle that costs more than my weekly grocery haul at Trader Joe’s. I’m Maria, and after five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I’ve developed a very low tolerance for marketing BS. I’ve tried the $200 face creams and the $5 drugstore sticks. Today, I’m telling you what actually deserves a spot in your cabinet and what you should chuck in the bin immediately.
Quick Summary:
Quick Winners for 2026:
– Best Skincare: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol ($18.99) – Better than the $150 boutique brands. – Best Wellness Tool: TheraFace LED Mask – Expensive, but actually clears adult acne. – Best Supplement: Magnesium Glycinate (8:00 PM ritual) – The only thing that helps me sleep after a toddler tantrum. – Avoid: “Vaginal Wellness” gummies and anything with “Gold Flakes.”
Let’s start with the biggest lie: that you need a “system.” Last Tuesday, I was scrolling through Instagram and saw an influencer (who is clearly 22 and has never seen a wrinkle in her life) promoting a $450.00 “cellular renewal” kit. It’s a joke. Your skin is an organ, not a science experiment. Most of what people call the best beauty and wellness products are just overpriced water and fragrance.
I learned this the hard way back in 2024 when I tried a “luxury” vitamin C serum that cost me $125.40 from a high-end boutique in Aspen. Within three days, my face looked like a pepperoni pizza. When I looked at the ingredients, the active concentration was lower than the stuff I find at the pharmacy. A 2024 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology confirmed that many high-end cosmetic claims are completely unsubstantiated by independent clinical trials. They are selling you the heavy glass bottle, not the liquid inside.
If you want real results, you need three things: a gentle cleanser, a retinoid, and a massive amount of SPF. That’s it. Everything else is just “extra credit” that usually ends up irritating your skin barrier. I’ve switched entirely to medical-grade or high-quality drugstore brands. If you’re wondering is a beauty and wellness consultant actually worth it, the answer is usually “no” unless they tell you to stop buying so much junk.
Don’t even get me started on the gadgets. My “junk drawer” is a graveyard of vibrating face rollers, rose quartz stones that supposedly “drain lymph nodes” (they don’t), and a $300 “brain-sensing” headband that just gave me a headache. To be honest, most wellness gadgets are just expensive paperweights designed to make you feel like you’re “self-caring” while you’re actually just wasting time.
However, there is one exception. I finally caved and bought a high-quality Red Light Therapy (RLT) mask in late 2025. I was skeptical. I thought I looked like a character from a a horror movie wearing it. But the data doesn’t lie. A 2023 meta-analysis in Lasers in Medical Science showed that consistent 660nm red light significantly improves collagen density. It’s one of the few best beauty and wellness products that actually has physics on its side.
💡 Pro Tip If you buy an LED mask, make sure it has at least 30mW/cm irradiance. Anything less is just a glorified Christmas light for your face.
We need to talk about the price of these things. People will tell you that you can’t put a price on health, but my mortgage company disagrees. Most “wellness” tech is marked up by 400%. I saw a “grounding mat” the other day for $150.00. You know what’s a free grounding mat? The grass in your backyard. Don’t fall for the “luxury” version of basic human needs.
My kitchen cabinet used to look like a pharmacy. I had “hair growth” vitamins, “bloat-be-gone” tonics, and enough adaptogens to sedate a horse. Guess what? I still felt like crap. I was tired, my hair was still falling out (thanks, postpartum hormones), and I was still bloated. It turns out, I was just dehydrated and sleep-deprived.
I spoke to a nutritionist last January who told me that 90% of the supplements marketed as best beauty and wellness products are just expensive fillers. Unless you have a diagnosed deficiency (get your bloodwork done, people!), you are literally just creating expensive urine. I cut my supplement routine down from 12 pills a day to just two: Vitamin D (because I live in the PNW) and Magnesium Glycinate.
⚠️ Warning: Never buy supplements from “lifestyle” influencers who don’t show the third-party testing labels. If it doesn’t have a USP or NSF seal, you have no idea what’s actually in that capsule.
Instead of buying more pills, I started focusing on my evening wind-down. I stopped looking at my phone at 9:00 PM (okay, 9:30 PM, I’m human) and started drinking a simple tart cherry juice and magnesium mix. It cost me about $1.15 per serving compared to those $60.00 “sleep dusts.” If you’re struggling with stress, check out my guide on what actually works for comfort food—sometimes a warm bowl of soup does more for your “wellness” than a kale smoothie ever will.
We are currently living in a weird era where “natural” beauty takes two hours and $500 to achieve. I’m tired of it. The best beauty and wellness products should make your life easier, not add another chore to your list. I’ve stopped trying to look like a filtered version of myself.
Last month, I went to a high-end beauty counter at a mall in Dallas. The salesperson tried to tell me I had “dehydrated pores” and needed a $95.50 primer. I laughed. Pores don’t get dehydrated; skin does. And a primer isn’t going to fix a lack of water intake. We need to start being more skeptical of the vocabulary these brands use. They invent problems so they can sell you the “solution.”
I used to be the first person to click “buy” on a viral TikTok product. Not anymore. I’ve realized that most “viral” items are just paid placements. If you see ten people talking about the same blush in one week, it’s not because the blush is magic; it’s because the brand has a massive marketing budget. I’ve found much better luck looking at what professional makeup artists use on real people, not what influencers use under ring lights. If you’re tired of being sold a lie, you might relate to my rant on why “beauty and wellness near me” is a total scam.
If you genuinely want to improve your routine without getting fleeced, here is what I actually use every single day as of February 2026. This isn’t a “wish list”; this is what is currently sitting on my bathroom counter, half-used and well-loved.
💡 Pro Tip Stop washing your face in the morning if you have dry skin. Just rinse with lukewarm water. I saved $20 a month on cleanser and my skin finally stopped feeling tight.
“The best skincare routine is the one you actually do. If it has more than four steps, you’re going to quit by Wednesday.” – A very wise dermatologist I met in Chicago last year.
ultimately, the best beauty and wellness products aren’t going to fix a life that is fundamentally out of balance. No cream will fix the fact that you’re only sleeping four hours a night because you’re doom-scrolling. No “wellness” tea will fix a diet of processed junk.
I’m not saying don’t buy nice things. I love a good smelling candle and a lipstick that makes me feel like a human again. But don’t let these brands convince you that you are “broken” without them. You’re not. You’re just busy, maybe a little tired, and definitely smarter than their marketing departments think you are.
That’s all I’ve got. The rest is on you.
This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to continue providing valuable content. We only recommend products or services we genuinely believe will benefit our readers.
You need home and decor nearby. Here’s how to get it right. Finding the perfect piece shouldn’t feel like a part-time job, but after five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I’ve realized that most of us are doing it wrong. We default […]
Home and DecorYou need home and decor nearby. Here’s how to get it right. Finding the perfect piece shouldn’t feel like a part-time job, but after five years of parenting and three years of blogging, I’ve realized that most of us are doing it wrong. We default to the big-box stores because they’re easy, or we scroll endlessly through “near me” search results that just show us the same three mass-produced warehouses. Real style–the kind that makes you actually like your living room–usually hides in the places Google ignores.
Quick Summary: Finding quality decor locally requires skipping the “sponsored” search results. Focus on vintage cooperatives and independent boutiques for longevity. I spent $1,200 testing local spots last year; the best value always came from shops with “owner-curated” labels rather than mass-market franchises.
Last Tuesday, around 10:15 AM, I was standing in a drafty warehouse in the West Loop of Chicago. It was raining—that annoying, misty kind of rain that ruins your hair – and I was hunting for a specific type of mid-century side table. I’d seen a similar one at a national chain for $450, but it felt like it was made of balsa wood and hope. My friend Sarah told me about this local spot, and to be honest, I was skeptical. I’ve been burned by “local” shops before that were just overpriced flea markets.
But then I found it: a solid walnut piece for $210. It had weight. It had character. It didn’t smell like factory chemicals. That’s the moment I realized I had to share my 2026 strategy for local shopping. If you’re tired of your house looking like a catalog page, you need to change how you look for items in your zip code.
When you type “home and decor nearby” into your phone, the algorithm isn’t looking for quality. It’s looking for who paid the most for ads or who has the best SEO. This is exactly what I call the “near me” home decor trap. You end up at a store that looks great on Instagram but sells furniture that wobbles the moment your toddler looks at it.
I get it. It’s 9 PM, the kids are finally asleep, and you just want a new throw pillow. The big-box store down the street is open. But here’s the reality: those items are designed for “fast decor.” They look good for six months and then they lose their shape. I once bought a $40 rug from a major retailer near my house; by the time my daughter’s 4th birthday rolled around, it looked like a tired bathmat. I ended up spending more money replacing it than if I’d just bought a quality wool piece from a local artisan to begin with.
To find the good stuff, you have to look for “co-ops,” “collectives,” and “salvage yards.” These places often have terrible websites, but they carry the items that actually have soul. According to a 2024 report by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, for every $100 you spend at a local business, $68 stays in your community. That’s not just a feel-good stat; it means the shop owner is more likely to care about the quality of the items they sell you because their reputation depends on it.
Not all local shops are created equal. I’ve spent the last few months visiting every boutique within a 20-mile radius of my home, and I’ve categorized them into three tiers. This is how I finally learned how to style my house without losing my mind. You don’t need to visit every store; you just need to visit the right ones.
These are the shops that smell like expensive candles and expensive choices. Last November, I walked into a place called “The Painted Lady” in Oak Park. I bought a hand-thrown ceramic bowl for $42.50. Is that more than a bowl at a discount store? Yes. But it’s the piece everyone asks about when they come over for coffee. These shops are best for those “finishing touches” that make a house feel like a home.
This is where the real value lives. Most people think “antique” means “grandma’s dusty lace,” but in 2026, these collectives are full of sleek 1970s teak and 1920s art deco. I found a solid brass floor lamp for $65 at a collective last month. A similar “vintage-style” lamp at a high-end mall store was $299 and made of painted plastic.
Use these for inspiration, but be careful with your budget. These are the stores that look like a museum. They’re great for seeing what’s trending, but I usually only buy one “statement” item here every couple of years. It’s about balance.
When you’re shopping for home and decor nearby, you have to use your hands, not just your eyes. This is a lesson I learned after buying a “solid wood” dresser that turned out to be particle board with a very convincing sticker on top. To be honest, I felt pretty stupid when I realized it, but it taught me what to look for.
If you can lift a side table with one finger, leave it in the store. Real wood has density. Also, look at the grain. If the pattern repeats perfectly every six inches, it’s a print, not a tree. I always check the back of furniture too. If the back is unfinished cardboard held on by staples, the rest of the piece isn’t going to last through a move.
💡 Pro Tip Always check for “dovetail joints” on drawers. If the drawer front is just glued or stapled to the sides, it will eventually fall apart. Dovetail joints look like interlocking fingers and are a hallmark of quality craftsmanship.
I’m a bit of a snob for textiles now. After my 5-year parenting journey, I’ve seen what happens to cheap polyester when a kid spills juice on it. It pilled, it stained, and it looked terrible within weeks. Now, I look for natural fibers – linen, wool, or heavy cotton. They might cost 20% more upfront, but they actually clean up. Last February, I bought a linen throw for $110 at a local shop. It’s been through the wash ten times and still looks brand new.
How do I actually find these places? I don’t just use Google Maps. I use “The Radius Search.” This is my personal method for uncovering the best home and decor nearby without the algorithm noise. It takes about 20 minutes and saves me hundreds of dollars.
I used this exact method to find a local frame shop that charged me $45 for a custom matting job that would have cost $120 at a national chain. It’s all about doing the legwork that others aren’t willing to do. I’ve realized that interior design lessons are often learned the hard way, and one of those lessons is that the best stores don’t always have the biggest signs.
I’m not perfect. My house has been a graveyard of bad decor choices over the years. If I could go back to my 30-year-old self, I’d give her a stern talking-to about these common pitfalls.
⚠️ Warning: Beware of “Liquidation Sales” at local stores. Often, these are third-party companies that bring in low-quality stock just for the sale. If the prices seem too good to be true, they probably are.
People often tell me, “Maria, I’d love to shop local, but I can’t afford a $2,000 sofa.” Neither can I! I’m a mom of two and a blogger; I have a budget. The trick is the 80/20 rule. I buy 80% of my “utility” items (like bookshelf inserts or kitchen organizers) at places like IKEA or Target, and then I save my budget for the 20% that actually matters – the “touch points.”
The touch points are things you see or touch every day: your coffee table, your bedside lamp, your favorite vase. If you invest in these home and decor nearby pieces, the whole room feels more expensive. I spent $150 on a local, hand-carved wooden tray for my ottoman. It sits on a $300 sofa, but because the tray is so high-quality, people assume the sofa cost three times what it did.
TL;DR: Stop clicking the first link on Google. Look for collectives and artisan shops. Focus on weight and materials over labels. Done.
Quick Summary: Becoming a Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager requires a mix of “boots on the ground” experience (usually 3-5 years) and specific certifications like ServSafe. While a degree in hospitality helps, the industry is shifting toward valuing technical skills—like mastering Toast or 7shifts—over fancy […]
Food and DrinkQuick Summary: Becoming a Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager requires a mix of “boots on the ground” experience (usually 3-5 years) and specific certifications like ServSafe. While a degree in hospitality helps, the industry is shifting toward valuing technical skills—like mastering Toast or 7shifts—over fancy diplomas. Expect long hours, a starting salary around $58,000-$65,000, and a lot of “putting out fires.”
I hesitated to write this because who am I to talk about how to be food and beverage manager? But here goes. Before I was a mom of two and spent my days blogging about lifestyle tips, I was deep in the trenches of hotel management. Specifically, I spent three years at a boutique hotel in Austin, and let me tell you, it wasn’t all wine tastings and menu planning. It was mostly wondering why the walk-in freezer decided to die at 11 PM on a Saturday in July.
To be honest, my first few months were a total train wreck. I remember it was around November 12th, 2018, and I had just ordered $2,400.50 worth of premium gin for a wedding, only to realize I’d forgotten to order the tonic. The actual tonic. I ended up driving to three different grocery stores in my Honda Civic at midnight, sweating through my blazer. It was an expensive, embarrassing lesson in logistics. But that’s the reality of this job. It’s messy, it’s loud, and it requires a level of patience I didn’t know I had until I had kids.
If you’re looking for a “get rich quick” path or a clean 9-to-5, stop reading now. This isn’t that. But if you love the chaos of hospitality and want to know how to actually lead a team without losing your mind, I’ve got some thoughts. that said,, things have changed a lot as we head into 2026, so let’s dig into what actually works today.
You cannot manage a floor you haven’t swept. I feel now, looking back, that the best managers I ever worked with started as servers, bartenders, or even dishwashers. There’s a certain respect you earn from a kitchen crew when they know you’ve actually “been there.”
In 2025, employers are looking for people who understand the workflow. Last year, I was chatting with my friend Dave, who runs a high-end bistro. He told me he’d hire a server with five years of experience over a fresh Ivy League hospitality grad any day of the week. Why? Because the server knows what to do when the POS system goes down during a rush.
While you’re working your way up, it helps to understand the basics of the food itself. I actually wrote a guide on cooking tips lessons I learned the hard way that covers some of the kitchen logic I wish I knew before I started managing chefs. It’s a different world back there.
💡 Pro Tip Don’t skip the “dirty” jobs. Spend a week cross-training in the kitchen. Understanding how long it actually takes to prep a steak will make you a much better manager when a table is complaining about a 20-minute wait.
Is a four-year degree necessary? Actually… maybe not. Don’t get me wrong, a degree in Hospitality Management is great, but it’s expensive. I’ve seen people spend $80,000 on a degree only to start at the same $45,000 salary as someone who just worked their way up.
According to a 2024 report by the National Restaurant Association, 65% of restaurant managers do not have a four-year college degree. Instead, they focus on specialized certifications that actually mean something in the real world. If you’re going to spend money, spend it here.
I remember taking my ServSafe exam in a cramped office on a Tuesday morning. I was so nervous I’d fail the temperature control section. It’s not glamorous, but having those credentials on your resume is what gets you past the initial screening. It shows you aren’t just a “people person”—you actually know how to keep people from getting sick.
Being an F&B Manager in 2026 is about 30% hospitality and 70% data management. If you hate spreadsheets, you’re going to have a hard time. You need to be able to look at a P&L (Profit and Loss) statement and understand why your liquor cost jumped by 4% last month.
Last Tuesday, I was helping my cousin Sofia update her resume for a management role at a hotel. We realized that “proficient in Microsoft Office” doesn’t cut it anymore. You need to know the specific platforms that run the industry. Most modern spots are using Toast for their POS, 7shifts for scheduling, and maybe MarketMan for inventory.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
⚠️ Warning: Never “eyeball” your inventory. I once lost $600 in one week because I assumed we had enough avocados. We didn’t. We had to buy them at retail prices from a local grocery store, which killed our margin on the guacamole.
Speaking of margins, managing a menu is an art form. You have to balance what people want to eat with what actually makes money. It’s similar to how I had to learn to simplify how I eat and drink in my personal life—less is often more. A smaller, focused menu is always easier to manage than a 10-page book of options.
This is the hardest part. How should I put it? Managing a restaurant team is like being a therapist, a coach, and a drill sergeant all at once. You’re dealing with diverse personalities—from the temperamental executive chef to the college student who calls out every other Friday.
To be honest, I used to be a “rule follower” manager. I thought if I just enforced the handbook, everything would be fine. I was wrong. People don’t work for handbooks; they work for people. I learned that the hard way when my best bartender quit because I wouldn’t give her a Saturday off for her sister’s wedding.
Specific Steps for Better Management:
I saw a thread on r/Restaurateurs recently where someone asked if they should be friends with their staff. The consensus? Be friendly, but not “friends.” You have to be able to give a performance review without it being weird. It’s a fine line to walk, especially when you’re all grabbing a drink after a 12-hour shift.
Let’s talk money. Because ultimately, you have bills to pay. In late 2025, the salary for an F&B Manager can vary wildly based on your location and the type of establishment. A manager at a local Applebee’s isn’t making the same as a Director of F&B at a Ritz-Carlton.
From my personal perspective, the “hidden” cost of this job is your time. You will work holidays. You will work weekends. You will work when your friends are at brunch. When I was working at the hotel, I missed three Thanksgiving dinners in a row. That’s something I didn’t fully grasp when I started. If you have a family, you have to be very intentional about your boundaries.
If you love the hospitality vibe but want more structure, look into corporate dining or university F&B roles. They often have better hours and more “normal” benefits. If you’re a “parks” person, you might even look into the policies at places like Disney or Universal—I actually did a deep dive on Disneyland food policy lessons that shows just how complex those massive operations can be.
“The customer is not always right, but the customer is always the customer. Your job is to make sure they leave feeling better than when they walked in.” – My first GM, back in 2015.
The industry is changing. We’re seeing more automation, higher labor costs, and a huge focus on sustainability. As a manager, you need to stay ahead of these things. If you aren’t looking at your waste management or your “ghost kitchen” potential, you’re already behind.
It’s no longer just about being “green” to look good. It’s about the bottom line. Reducing food waste by 10% can add thousands of dollars back into your profit margins. Last month, a 2024 Harvard study in the Journal of Business Research found that restaurants with clear sustainability practices saw a 12% increase in customer loyalty. People care where their food comes from now.
Actionable Steps for 2026:
This is just my take. I’m sure there are career veterans who would disagree with me, and honestly, I’m happy to be wrong. Every restaurant is a different beast. But if you can master the balance of keeping your staff happy, your guests fed, and your owners profitable, you’ll be ahead of 90% of the people in this industry. Good luck—and maybe buy a comfortable pair of shoes. I recommend the Dansko clogs ($135.00); my back still thanks me for that purchase.
Quick Summary: Comfort food isn’t about the calories; it’s about the emotional connection and memory. In 2026, the best approach is “Low-Effort, High-Impact” meals that trigger nostalgia without causing kitchen burnout. Focus on high-quality ingredients, modern kitchen shortcuts like air fryers, and forgiving recipes that […]
Food and DrinkQuick Summary: Comfort food isn’t about the calories; it’s about the emotional connection and memory. In 2026, the best approach is “Low-Effort, High-Impact” meals that trigger nostalgia without causing kitchen burnout. Focus on high-quality ingredients, modern kitchen shortcuts like air fryers, and forgiving recipes that don’t require perfection.
Picture this: standing in the store, completely overwhelmed by comfort food options. It was last Tuesday, February 10th, around 6:15 PM. I was at the Gelson’s on Valley Spring Lane, and I’d just had one of those days where my 5-year-old, Leo, decided that pants were “optional” and my inbox was a literal fire hazard. I stood in the pasta aisle for ten minutes—not even exaggerating—staring at twenty different shapes of artisanal noodles, feeling like I might actually cry over a box of rigatoni.
We’ve all been there, right? That desperate craving for something that feels like a hug in a bowl, but the thought of actually making it feels like climbing Everest. After five years of parenting and three years of blogging about this lifestyle, I’ve realized that we often overcomplicate the very thing meant to simplify our emotional state. We try to recreate Grandma’s 12-hour Sunday gravy on a Tuesday night when the kids have soccer practice and the dog just barfed on the rug. It doesn’t work. It just adds to the stress.
I’ve spent the last few years testing what actually counts as real comfort versus what is just “heavy food.” There’s a massive difference. One leaves you feeling restored; the other leaves you with a “food baby” and a sink full of crusty dishes. Let’s look into what actually works in 2026 to bring that peace back to your kitchen.
Before we get into the recipes and tips, I want to share something I found fascinating. I used to think comfort food was just about sugar and fat. But a 2015 study published in the journal Appetite by researchers at the University of Buffalo found that comfort food’s power actually comes from social connection. We gravitate toward foods that remind us of people who cared for us. That’s why my go-to is always a specific type of toasted cheese sandwich—it’s what my mom made when I stayed home from school.
However, there’s a biological side too. According to a 2024 report from Harvard Health Publishing, high-fat, high-sugar foods can actually inhibit activity in parts of the brain that produce anxiety. The problem? The “crash” that follows usually makes the original stress feel even worse. To be honest, I learned this the hard way back in 2023 when I tried to “comfort” myself with an entire tray of store-bought brownies and ended up with a migraine that lasted two days. Not exactly the zen vibe I was going for.
Comfort food is 80% nostalgia. If you didn’t grow up eating chicken soup, it might not “comfort” you the same way it does someone else. My husband, for example, finds zero comfort in mashed potatoes. I know, it’s a red flag, but I love him anyway. His comfort is a spicy noodle soup because that’s what his family ate during rainy seasons in Florida. When you’re looking for a meal to fix your mood, don’t look at what’s trending on Instagram. Look at your own history.
💡 Pro Tip When you’re feeling fine, make a “Comfort List” in your phone notes. List 3 meals that make you feel safe. That way, when you’re overwhelmed, you don’t have to think—you just check the list.
Let’s talk money and time, because those are the biggest enemies of comfort. We often think “comfort” means “takeout,” but that’s a trap. Last month, I spent $64.22 on a delivery order for four people. By the time it arrived, the fries were soggy, the burger was lukewarm, and I felt more annoyed than comforted. Plus, the delivery fee was $7.00 alone! That’s nearly the price of a whole rotisserie chicken.
I’ve realized that the most “expensive” part of comfort food is the cleanup. If a meal requires me to use three different pots, a blender, and a specialized zester, it is not comfort food. It’s a chore. I remember trying to make this elaborate lobster mac and cheese from a fancy magazine in November. I spent $48.15 on the ingredients and three hours in the kitchen. The result? It was okay, but the kitchen looked like a crime scene, and I was too tired to even enjoy the food.
In my journey of learning cooking lessons the hard way, I found that the best comfort meals are the ones that use one pot and under five ingredients. If I have to go to more than one store to find what I need, I’m out. Life is too short for multiple grocery stops on a Tuesday.
Through trial and error (and a lot of burnt toast), I’ve categorized comfort foods into what actually provides a long-term mood boost versus what just gives a temporary spike. This isn’t just my opinion; it’s based on how I’ve felt after tracking my “mood meals” for the last six months.
This is where the magic happens. If you can put in 10 minutes of work at 2 PM, you get a 5-star comfort meal at 6 PM. This is how I survived the winter of 2025. I used my slow cooker more than my actual stove. Whether it’s a simple chili or a pot roast, the smell filling the house is part of the therapy.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on how food connects us to the world, I always recommend looking at the best food destinations around the globe. You’ll notice that every culture has its own version of a “one-pot comfort meal.” It’s a universal human need.
How do we actually implement this? It’s one thing to talk about grilled cheese; it’s another to make it when your kitchen feels like a disaster zone. My secret weapon is the “Emergency Pantry.” I keep a specific shelf in my pantry that is off-limits for everyday snacking. It contains high-quality pasta, a jar of Rao’s marinara (usually $8.99 but worth every penny), and a tin of high-end smoked trout.
Having these items ready means I don’t have to make decisions when I’m tired. Decision fatigue is the number one killer of healthy, comforting habits. When my brain is fried, I don’t want to “innovate.” I want to execute a plan I made when I was calm.
I’ve made every mistake in the book. One of the biggest? Trying to make comfort food “too healthy.” Look, I’m all for kale, but if you’re trying to make a “comforting” lasagna out of zucchini ribbons and nut cheese, you’re probably going to end up disappointed. Authenticity matters. If you want the pasta, eat the pasta. Just maybe have a small salad on the side so you don’t feel like a lead balloon afterward.
⚠️ Warning: Never try a brand-new, complex recipe when you are already stressed. Comfort food should be familiar. Experiment on Saturdays; stick to the “greatest hits” on weekdays.
Another mistake is ignoring the environment. I used to eat my “comfort” meals while standing over the kitchen island, scrolling through emails. That’s not comfort; that’s just fueling. Now, I make it a point to sit down, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. I’ve even applied this logic to travel—like when I had to navigate the Universal Studios food policies. I realized that finding a quiet corner to eat made even theme park food feel more like a “meal” and less like a chore.
People always ask what I actually use in my kitchen. I’m not a gadget person—I have a small kitchen and zero patience for things that only do one job. But these three items have been my “ride or die” products throughout 2025 and into 2026.
Actually, I should mention that I almost returned it because it’s a bit bulky, but once I realized it could roast a whole chicken in 45 minutes, it earned its permanent spot on my counter. It’s about making the process manageable.
To be honest, I think some of the comfort comes from just seeing that bright orange pot on my stove. It feels “homey.” It reminds me of the kitchen I want to have, even when my current one is covered in crumbs and school permission slips.
ultimately, comfort food is about self-care that you can actually taste. It’s one of the few ways we can quickly change our internal state. When I’m sitting there with a bowl of simple tomato soup (I add a dash of heavy cream and some fresh basil if I’m feeling fancy), the world feels a little less chaotic. The emails can wait. The laundry can stay in the dryer.
I remember a specific night last December. It was raining—one of those rare LA downpours—and I was feeling particularly lonely. My husband was traveling, and the kids were finally asleep. I made a simple bowl of buttered noodles with plenty of black pepper and parmesan. I sat on the sofa, wrapped in a blanket, and just… breathed. That $2.00 bowl of pasta did more for my mental health than any $150 therapy session could have in that moment. It was a reminder that I could take care of myself.
I want to be honest: you can’t live on mac and cheese alone. I tried for a week back in college and felt like a zombie. The “2026 way” is about integration. It’s about knowing when you need the “emotional rescue” of a grilled cheese and when you need the “physical rescue” of a green smoothie. Don’t let the “wellness” industry make you feel guilty for wanting a potato. A potato is not the enemy; stress is the enemy.
The answer was right there the whole time. Comfort isn’t something you find in a gourmet cookbook or a trendy restaurant. It’s something you create in your own kitchen, using the flavors of your own life, with as little stress as possible. So, the next time you’re standing in that grocery store aisle feeling like the world is too much, just grab the sourdough and the good cheese. You’ve got this.
Who the hell started spreading all these myths about best beauty and wellness gifts? Seriously. I am looking at another “Top 10” list in February 2026, and it’s the same recycled garbage from three years ago. It drives me insane. As someone who has spent […]
Beauty and WellnessWho the hell started spreading all these myths about best beauty and wellness gifts? Seriously. I am looking at another “Top 10” list in February 2026, and it’s the same recycled garbage from three years ago. It drives me insane. As someone who has spent the last five years parenting and three years running a lifestyle blog, I have seen every “miracle” cream and “life-changing” yoga mat under the sun. Most of it is overpriced plastic meant to end up in a landfill by next Christmas.
I’m fed up. I’m fed up with influencers telling you that a $200 jade roller is a “must-have.” It’s a rock. It’s a cold rock on a stick. I’ve been there, though. I once spent $156.47 on a red-light therapy mask back on November 12, 2025, because a TikToker with filtered skin told me it would erase my “mom-tired” eyes. Spoiler: It didn’t. I just looked like a glowing lobster in my dark living room while my kids cried for juice. We need to stop buying into the hype and start looking at what actually helps real people who are actually tired.
Quick Summary: Stop buying pre-packaged “gift sets” that are 60% filler. In 2026, the best beauty and wellness gifts are high-quality single items like silk pillowcases, electrolyte boosters, or professional-grade scalp treatments. Avoid “viral” gadgets without clinical backing—they usually break within three months.
If you walk into the Sephora on 4th Street right now, you’ll see those glittering towers of gift sets. They look great, right? Wrong. They are the ultimate “lazy gift” trap. Usually, these sets contain one “star” product and four tiny bottles of stuff nobody actually wants. I learned this the hard way when I bought a “Wellness Glow Kit” for my sister, Sarah. She’s a skeptic who thinks everything is a scam, and she was right. She used the lip balm and the rest sat in her bathroom cabinet until the lotion separated into a gross oily mess.
Have you ever actually checked the price per ounce on those sets? A 2025 report from the Global Consumer Transparency Initiative found that 42% of holiday beauty sets actually cost 15% more per ml than the full-sized versions. You’re literally paying a premium for a cardboard box and some tinsel. It’s a joke. If you want to give a real gift, buy one high-quality, full-sized product that the person actually uses.
Instead of a “spa in a box,” give something functional. I recently started gifting high-end electrolyte powders. I know, it sounds boring. But for a mom who’s been up since 5 AM, a $45 jar of high-quality hydration is a godsend. It’s about solving a problem, not adding to the clutter. I’ve talked about this before when I mentioned 7 beauty and wellness gift lessons I learned the hard way—the biggest one being that “pretty” doesn’t mean “useful.”
Let’s talk about the tech. Every year there’s a new “smart” wellness gadget. Last year it was AI-powered water bottles. This year? Who knows. But let me tell you, most of these are destined for the “junk drawer” by February. I have a drawer full of “smart” posture correctors and vibrating face brushes that I haven’t touched in months. I feel like a fool every time I see them.
I mentioned that $156.47 mask. Here’s the deal: unless you are buying medical-grade equipment, the “beauty” versions are often underpowered. I spent weeks trying to make it work, sitting on my bathroom floor (the only place with a working outlet and no kids), only to realize my skin looked exactly the same. If you’re going to gift tech, look for brands with actual clinical trials, not just “influencer trials.”
If you absolutely must give a gadget, go for a high-quality percussion massager. Not the cheap $30 ones from the bin at the pharmacy. I’m talking about the ones that actually have enough torque to break up a knot. My husband got me a mid-range one for $189.99 last Christmas, and I use it every single night while we watch Netflix. It’s the only thing that saves my back after carrying a 30-pound toddler all day.
Stop buying people face cream. Just stop. Unless they have specifically told you, “I want the XYZ Brand Ceramide Cream,” you are going to get it wrong. Everyone’s skin is different. I once gifted my best friend a very expensive “brightening” set, and she broke out in hives for three days. I felt terrible. I ended up spending another $40 on a CVS gift card just so she could buy Benadryl and soothing lotion. It was a disaster.
If you want to stay in the beauty space without causing a medical emergency, stick to “external” items. Think high-quality hair brushes, silk scrunchies, or luxury body oils. These don’t mess with the delicate pH balance of someone’s face. I’ve written an entire guide on how I wasted over $400 on viral skincare trends, and the lesson is always the same: keep it simple.
💡 Pro Tip When gifting skincare, buy a gift card to a local facialist instead of a product. It’s a guaranteed win because a professional can actually assess their skin.
In 2026, scalp care is the new skincare. Most people neglect their scalp, but a high-end scalp scrub or a specialized serum feels incredibly luxurious. I bought a $38.50 scalp treatment last month, and it’s the highlight of my week. It’s a gift that says “I want you to relax” without the risk of a breakout.
Don’t fall for the “spa day” packages that are basically just a 20-minute soak in a lukewarm tub with some dead sea salts. I’ve been burned by this so many times. I once booked a “Luxury Wellness Retreat” that was literally just a back room in a strip mall next to a Taco Bell. I could hear the drive-thru speaker while I was trying to “meditate.” It was the opposite of wellness.
If you’re gifting an experience, you have to do the legwork. Don’t just Google “best beauty and wellness near me” and click the first ad. Those ads are bought by the people who need the most help getting customers. I’ve ranted about this before—why “Beauty and Wellness Near Me” is a total scam—and I stand by it. Check the 3-star reviews on Yelp. Those are the only ones that tell the truth. The 5-star ones are fake, and the 1-star ones are just people having a bad day.
⚠️ Warning: Never buy a spa voucher from a “deal” site like Groupon unless you’ve called the spa first to see if they actually have openings. Most are booked out for six months.
If the local options suck, create a home spa kit that actually works. Not the cheap stuff. Get a heavy-weighted robe—I’m talking the 5-pound ones that feel like a hug—and a high-quality candle. I found a candle at a boutique in Seattle for $23.47 that smells like a rainy forest, and it does more for my mental health than any strip-mall massage ever could. It’s about the atmosphere, not the “service.”
We need to stop thinking that wellness has to be “pretty” or “Instagrammable.” True wellness for a busy person in 2026 is anything that saves them time or improves their sleep. I know it’s not sexy to give someone a high-end sleep mask or a subscription to a meditation app that actually works, but those are the gifts that get used.
Last Tuesday, I was talking to my neighbor who was stressed out about her sister’s birthday. She wanted to buy her this gold-plated facial roller. I told her, “Don’t you dare.” Instead, I convinced her to get her a high-quality magnesium spray and a blackout curtain set. Her sister called her three days later crying because she finally slept through the night. That’s a real gift. Everything else is just noise.
“The best gift you can give a busy person isn’t a product; it’s the permission to stop doing everything for everyone else for ten minutes.”
That’s all I’ve got. The rest is on you. Stop buying into the glittery marketing and start thinking about what the person in your life actually needs to feel human again. Good luck.
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🔗 Affiliate Disclosure This post contains affiliate links for products I’ve actually used and sweated over. If you click and buy, I might earn a small commission to fund my next over-priced coffee habit, at no extra cost to you. Why does everyone overcomplicate beauty […]
Beauty and WellnessThis post contains affiliate links for products I’ve actually used and sweated over. If you click and buy, I might earn a small commission to fund my next over-priced coffee habit, at no extra cost to you.
Why does everyone overcomplicate beauty and wellness near me?! It drives me insane. Seriously, I just wanted a decent facial last Tuesday, February 10th, and instead, I spent three hours scrolling through AI-generated listicles that all recommended the same three overpriced “med-spas” that probably pay for their rankings. I’m tired of it. You’re tired of it. We just want to feel like humans again without being upsold a $400 “vibration therapy” session that does absolutely nothing.
Finding quality beauty services in your local area in 2026 requires ignoring the top three Google results and looking for practitioners who actually care about your skin and sanity. Most “near me” searches are dominated by big chains with high staff turnover. To find real value, you have to look for independent studios, check for specific certifications like CIDESCO, and ignore any place that spends more on their lobby decor than their equipment.
Quick Summary: Stop clicking the first three ads on Google. Real wellness in 2026 is found in small, independent studios with long-tenured staff. Avoid “lifestyle memberships” that lock you into monthly fees and focus on practitioners who offer transparent, a-la-carte pricing. If the lobby looks like a Pinterest board but the technician can’t explain the ingredients in their serum, leave immediately.
I fell for it. Again. Last November, I was so exhausted from the kids’ soccer schedule that I booked a massage at a place just two blocks away. It was called “Serenity Now” or something equally generic. I paid $112.45 for what felt like a toddler rubbing lukewarm olive oil on my back for 45 minutes while a distracted receptionist gossiped loudly in the hallway.
We have this weird bias where we think convenience equals quality. It doesn’t. In fact, the places with the highest rent (the ones right in the middle of the fancy shopping centers) often have to cut corners on staff pay or product quality just to keep the lights on. I learned this the hard way when I realized the “near me” home decor trap applies to beauty too. Just because it’s close doesn’t mean it’s good.
Google’s “near me” results are basically a bidding war now. Those “Top 10 Spas” lists? Most are paid placements or SEO-optimized junk. I’ve found that the best practitioners—the ones who actually changed my skin—don’t even have time to worry about SEO because they are booked out three weeks in advance by word-of-mouth. If a place has 5,000 five-star reviews and they all look like they were written by the same robot, run away.
💡 Pro Tip Search for specific services like “lymphatic drainage” or “chemical peel” rather than the broad “wellness” term. It forces the search engine to show you specialists instead of generalists who do everything poorly.
I’ve visited twelve different “wellness centers” in the last year. Twelve. My bank account is crying, but my BS detector is finally calibrated. If I walk into a place and see a wall of private-label skincare with no ingredients listed, I’m already halfway out the door. A 2024 report from the Global Wellness Institute highlighted that transparency is the biggest issue in the industry, with nearly 40% of “wellness” products making unsubstantiated claims.
If a place tries to get you to sign a 12-month contract before they’ve even touched your face, it’s a red flag. They aren’t interested in your wellness; they’re interested in your recurring revenue. I once got stuck in a contract at a local “stretch lab” where I paid $89.00 a month for six months even though the one guy who knew what he was doing quit three weeks after I joined. Never again.
I call this the “Instagram aesthetic” tax. If the waiting room has a neon sign that says “Glow Girl” and they offer you a glass of cheap prosecco, you are paying for the booze and the neon, not the service. I’d rather go to a sterile-looking clinic with a Board-Certified Dermatologist and zero aesthetic than a “lounge” that doesn’t know the difference between an AHA and a BHA.
⚠️ Warning: Beware of “consultants” who aren’t actually licensed estheticians. Always ask: “Is a beauty and wellness consultant actually worth it?” before handing over your credit card. You can read my full guide on that here.
After the “Serenity Now” disaster, I changed my strategy. I stopped looking for “wellness” and started looking for results. I found my current esthetician, Sarah, by looking at the back of a local community magazine–not the front page. She works out of a small room in a professional building. No neon signs. No prosecco. Just a very clean table and a lot of knowledge.
I started asking my hair stylist where she gets her skin done. Pros know pros. My stylist, who charges a very fair $75.50 for a trim (I use Oribe products at home to keep it looking good), pointed me toward a medical massage therapist who actually fixed my neck pain. It wasn’t “near me”–it was a 20-minute drive—but it was worth every second of that commute.
Let’s talk money. Because being “well” shouldn’t make you go broke. I’m a mom of two; I don’t have a “wellness budget” that rivals a small country’s GDP. I have to be smart. I’ve realized that I’d rather have one high-quality treatment every three months than a crappy one every month.
Last month, I spent $234.12 on a Microneedling session. It hurt. I looked like a tomato for two days. But my skin actually looks different. My fine lines are softer. Compare that to the $95.00 I used to spend on “Hydrating Facials” that were basically just someone putting a wet mask on me while I listened to pan flute music. To be honest, the pan flute music alone should have been a reason to quit.
You do not need to buy your skincare at the spa. They mark everything up by 40-50%. I use The Ordinary and La Roche-Posay for my basics. My esthetician tried to sell me a 1oz serum for $148.50. I looked her dead in the eye and told her I’d stick with my $15 drugstore alternative. We’re still friends, but she knows I’m not a sucker. Actually, I think she respected me more for it.
Sometimes the best beauty and wellness “near me” is actually just in my own bathroom. I’ve spent thousands of dollars trying to find a professional solution for things I could have fixed with a little discipline. For example, my chronic “tired look” wasn’t a lack of expensive eye creams; it was a lack of water and a surplus of 2 AM scrolling sessions.
I stopped buying gadgets. I have a drawer full of jade rollers, vibrating wands, and LED masks that I used exactly twice. Total waste of about $412.00. Now, my “wellness” routine is boring. I wash my face, I use SPF, and I sleep. If you’re struggling to simplify, check out how I simplified my makeup routine too. It’s the same philosophy: less junk, better results.
💡 Pro Tip Before booking a local “detox” treatment, drink 64oz of water and sleep for 8 hours. If you still feel like garbage, then call the pro. 90% of the time, the water and sleep fix it for free.
I’m done with the “Next Big Thing.” Last year it was buccal massage (weird), this year it’s “quantum frequency healing” (literally what?). If a local spot is suddenly offering a service that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, they are just trying to capitalize on a trend.
Real wellness is boring. It’s consistent. It’s a therapist who knows your name and your skin history. It’s a place that is clean enough to perform surgery in but comfortable enough that you don’t feel judged for your messy bun. I found my spot, and I’m guarding it with my life. I won’t even tell my sister the name because I don’t want her taking my Tuesday morning slot. That’s how you know it’s good.
That’s all I’ve got. The rest is on you.
