Customize It: One-Of-A-Kind Objects We Love

Everyone loves a touch of personalization. From custom messenger bags to custom iPhone covers to custom fabric to custom sneakers, the Internet has made customization oodles easier and the possibilities go far beyond a simple monogram or color choice.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, the time is fast approaching to order those special personalized gifts, and we’re pleased to present a collection of our favorite finds online.

1. Map Cuff Links ($52.00)

Choose a pair of map-friendly locations super special to you and the cuff-link-wearer in your relationship.

2. Herkimer “Diamond” Ring ($48.00)

Put a ring on it already! Or at least put a really beautiful specially picked stone on it to celebrate Cupid’s day of love. These “diamonds” are gorgeous pieces of quartz found only in Herkimer, New York.

3. Custom Tram Scroll ($299.00)

Great for the couple who’s moved around a few times, traveled extensively, or has a bold checklist of places to hit in the next year, this tram scroll is a beautiful totally customizable piece for your home. And if you’re not quite ready for a 20″x60″ commitment, go for the 8×10 print option.

4. Custom Bangle ($22.00)

For the gal who needs the right colored bangle for every outfit, grab 1 or 2 or 3 of these and make her day. Or choose colors and patterns that reflect your wedding, a place you love, or a team you follow.

5. Leather + Metal Luggage Tag with Custom Quote ($43.00)

Your darling loves to travel? So do we, and adding a rugged touch of class (yes, a rugged touch of class) to our luggage is perfect for the global explorer. Customize with a quote, an address, or an inside joke.

6. Custom Double Banner Ring ($40.00)

An edgy take on the engraved ring, this double banner ring is a dose of street style with a romantic twist. Engrave your names, a place you love, anything you like so long as it’s short enough! (Can we say Twitter handle?)

7. Ideal Bookshelf Painting by Jane Mount ($220.00-$450.00)

Got a bookwork for a mate? Choose 7-21 of their favorite books and turn those titles into a beautiful piece of artwork.

8. Custom Inspector Stamp ($23.00)

Does your guy or gal have a really awesome catch phrase? Or maybe just a really awesome name? Snag this keychain inspector stamp (self-inking!) and they’ll be tagging cards, papers, and walls all over the place.

9. HOME One-of-a-kind Map Sculpture ($151.56)

Looking for a handmade personal way to jazz up your mantel, bureau, or bookshelf? Choose four map-able locations and commission a unique typographical sculpture.

10. Leather Excursion Travel Case ($129.95+$10 monogram)

Another idea for the “rugged touch of class” traveler, this case is modeled after the classic shaving bags of the early 1900s.

11. Sand Imprint Flip Flops ($19.95)

Kind of ridiculous, but also kind of awesome… right? Make those footprints say whatever you want, or simply get a pair with your names so you can leave a little sand love wherever you go.

12. Custom Text Necklace ($44.99)

Just like the only thing you need to complete Valentine's Day – other than a box of chocolates and a cute date night dress – is a superbly pink cocktail, the perfect finishing touch for your upcoming Oscars party is a Barbie-approved drink! Strawberries, blackberries, cherries, and more put in the work in these beautiful sippers that can speak to the very-pink vibes floating around.

Ahead, the best pink cocktails you can make ahead of your night out with your boo *or* with your gals. No matter what pink cocktail you make, you'll be sipping in true party fashion.

Strawberry Jalapeño Margaritas

Sweet + spicy is a flavor combo that we will never fall out of love with, which makes us love this margarita recipefor V-Day. (via Brit + Co)

Grapefruit Mezcal

Grapefruit is so full of flavor, especially in the winter, which makes it a great pick for an anytime pink cocktail. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Jelly Margaritas

This pink cocktail is equal parts sweet and tart, and will make any romantic night in way more fun. (via Brit + Co)

Cosmopolitan

Channeling Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City is a major power move to make for V-Day, so of course, you gotta go with her signature cocktail – which also happens to be pink! (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Blackberry Margarita Sour

Sip on some frozen goodness with this pink marg recipe! The berries technically make it healthy, right? (via Half Baked Harvest)

Rosé Sangria

This pink batch cocktail recipe makes a sizable amount that you can share with all of your girls for Galentine's. (via Amanda Wilens)

Grapefruit Paloma

The light citrus notes of grapefruit are perfectly complemented by bouts of chunky salt in this delicate pink cocktail that makes a play on the classic Paloma. (via Barley & Sage)

Sex on the Beach Cocktail

Peach, orange, and cranberry join forces to form a super fruity flavor in this sipper. (via Veggie Society)

Watermelon Basil Gin Cocktail

You can always count on watermelon to leave you refreshed! Prep this spiked pink drink to cool down when you need it most! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Sea Breeze Cocktail

This sip is as simple as shaking three ingredients together and enjoying it with your lover for Valentine's Day. (via Culinary Hill)

Elderflower Sour

This delicate pink cocktail highlights the sweet floral notes from Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin. To make it, shake 2 oz of the gin, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup, and 1 oz egg white over ice. Shake it again without ice. Then, strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with rose petals for a touch of pure romance! (via Empress Gin)

Strawberry Mint Margarita

Strawberry and mint additions make this pink cocktail ultra-light! (via Cozy Cravings)

Raspberry Mojito

Raspberries turn your regular mojito into a totallyBarbiecore sipper. (via Amanda Wilens)

Raspberry Thyme Negroni Sour

The combo of fruit and herbs that this cocktail highlights make it the most elevated pink cocktail for the holiday. Serve it some cool glassware for added enjoyment! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Bloomtown Gimlet

This pink cocktail version of a gimlet is wonderfully tart. To make it, shake 1 oz Freeland Gin, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz simple syrup, 2 dashes Bittercube Cherry Bark + Vanilla bitters, and 2 dashes Miracle Mile Yuzu bitters over ice. Then, strain the contents into a Nic & Nora glass to enjoy! (via Freeland Spirits)

Easy Triple Citrus Margarita

Take happy swigs of OJ and grapefruit juice in this healthy margarita! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Blood Orange French 75

The French 75 is just about as classy of a cocktail as they come. Traditionally made with lemon, champagne and gin, this one gets an unexpectedly sweet flavor (and hot pink color!) from juicy blood oranges. (via Cookie and Kate)

Cotton Candy Champagne Cocktail

Anything from Lauren Conrad is *obviously* going to be an elegant show-stopping winner. Plus, a pink drink doesn’t get much simpler than pouring champagne over cotton candy — no cocktail shaker needed. (via Lauren Conrad)

Pink Mojito

With this pink cocktail, you can pretend like you’re on a island getaway. Add a beachy rom-com to your Netflix queue and chill without a care in the world! (via Supergolden Bakes)

Silver & The City

This pink cocktail is for the lovers who wanna get lit this Valentine's. To make it, shake 1.5 oz Patrón Silver, 0.75 oz Patrón Citrónge, 0.75 oz cranberry juice, 0.5 oz lime juice, and 0.25 oz simple syrup over ice and strain into a chilled martini glass! Garnish with an orange twist for a classy finish. (via Patrón Tequila)

Pink Lemonade Vodka Cocktail

Pink lemonade just screams summertime – but you can sip it anytime! In this case, it gets spiked and garnished to power up the lively vibes. (via No Spoon Necessary)

Rhubarb Basil Cocktail

If you’re a fan of mojitos, you’re definitely going to dig this pink cocktail. The fresh basil is such a refreshing flavor alongside the tart rhubarb. Don’t stress if you can’t find fresh rhubarb right now — frozen works just fine! (via Kitchn)

Strawberry Ginger Pink Lemonade Cocktail

This pink cocktail uses homemade strawberry vodka to infuse the deliciously fresh flavor into every sip. (via Healthy Seasonal Recipes)

Thyme + Pink Grapefruit Greyhounds

The elegant herbal touch of thyme in this pink cocktail is a perfect complement to the grapefruit. (via Freut Cake)

Follow us on Pinterest for more pink cocktails!

This post has been updated.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's relationship has captivated us throughout the years. Their story has love, family, loss, and of course, royalty. But how did the Duke and Duchess of Sussex come to be the powerful, independent couple they are today? Here's everything we know about the pair's relationship timeline, starting from the first time they met!

Mike Coppola / Getty Images for 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Gala

July 2016: Meghan and Harry meet

After initially meeting on Instagram (a classic plot point for 21st century relationships), Meghan and Harry met for a first date in London.

“I was scrolling through my feed and someone who was a friend had this video of the two of them [and Meghan], it was like a Snapchat,” Harry said of is digital introduction to Meghan in the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries. He remembers asking himself, "Who is that?"

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

November 2016: Meghan and Harry reveal they are officially dating

It was an official statement from Kensington Palace that confirmed Meghan and Harry's relationship.

At the time, Meghan faced mass amounts of sexist and racist backlash through the media for her association with the royal family. Kensington Palace denounced the hate in a statement:

“Some of this has been very public — the smear on the front page of a national newspaper; the racial undertones of comment pieces; and the outright sexism and racism of social media trolls and Web article comments,” the statement read. “Some of it has been hidden from the public — the nightly legal battles to keep defamatory stories out of papers; her mother having to struggle past photographers in order to get to her front door; the attempts of reporters and photographers to gain illegal entry to her home and the calls to police that followed; the substantial bribes offered by papers to her ex-boyfriends; the bombardment of nearly every friend, coworker, and loved one in her life.”

Despite the hate, Meghan and Harry persevered as a couple.

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

September 2017: Meghan shines a light on her relationship with Harry

Meghan revealed even more information about her connection with Harry in a Vanity Faircover story in September 2017.

“We’re a couple. We’re in love,” she told Vanity Fair. “I’m sure there will be a time when we have to come forward and present ourselves, and have stories to tell, but I hope what people will understand is that this is our time. This is for us. It’s part of what makes it so special, that it’s just ours. But we’re happy. Personally, I love a great love story.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

November 2017: Meghan and Harry are engaged

Meghan officially moved to London in the fall of 2017 and the couple announced their engagement not long after.

Harry proposed to Meghan at Nottingham Cottage on the grounds of Kensington Palace with a ring made from two of Princess Diana's diamonds, and she said "yes" on the spot!

An official statement from the palace detailed their engagement further:

“His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle,” it read. “His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month. Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.”

Meghan recalled the moment Harry proposed on the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries:

“He’s down on one knee and I was like, ‘Yes!’ I was so joyful and excited. I was like, ‘Ah we’re doing this."

Ben Birchall / Getty Images

May 2018: Meghan and Harry’s wedding

Meghan and Harry got married at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. They admitted a few years later that they had actually exchanged vows three days before they walked down the aisle, for the sake of privacy.

“No one knows that,” Meghan said in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. “We called the archbishop and just said, look, this thing, this spectacle is for the world, but we want our union between us, so the vows that we have framed in our room are just the two of us in our backyard with the archbishop of Canterbury.”

Millions of people tuned in for their televised wedding ceremony on May 19, 2018.

October 2018: Meghan announced her first pregnancy

On October 15, 2018, Kensington Palace released a statement informing the public that Meghan and Harry were expecting their first child the following spring.

The news broke while Meghan and Harry were on a 16-day royal tour through Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. The pair returned home and settled in at Windsor Castle's Frogmore Cottage to start prepping for the baby.

Dominic Lipinski / Getty Images

May 2019: Meghan and Harry welcome their first child

The couple welcomed their first son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019."We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses’ son weighs 7lbs. 3oz," an Instagram post from @sussexroyal read. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives."

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

January 2020: The couple steps back from their roles in the royal family

After "many months" of deliberation, Meghan and Harry had decided to "transition" from the royal family in early 2020.

In an official statement, they shared their plans to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family, become financially independent from Her Majesty, and split time between the United States and United Kingdom.

"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement read. "We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties."

They moved to the U.S. a couple months later, staying in Montecito, California until they bought a home in Santa Barbara in the summer of 2020.

November 2020: Meghan announced she had a miscarriage with her second child

Meghan admitted she experienced a miscarriage with her second pregnancy, writing in a vulnerable New York Times op-ed essay that the loss of her second pregnancy with Prince Harry felt like “an almost unbearable grief.”

“I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second,” Meghan wrote. “Hours later, I lay in a hospital bed, holding my husband’s hand. I felt the clamminess of his palm and kissed his knuckles, wet from both our tears. Staring at the cold white walls, my eyes glazed over. I tried to imagine how we’d heal.”

March 2021: Interview with Oprah

The couple sat down for a very candidinterview with Oprah in March 2021, coming clean on multiple topics that had arose since living in the public eye. From Meghan’s mental health to the dynamic of the royal family – including the racism Meghan had experienced since becoming a member – they spoke honestly.

Yui Mok / Getty Images

June 2021: Meghan and Harry welcome their daughter, Lilibet

The pair publicly announced their second pregnancy in February 2021, welcoming their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten Windsor, a few months later.

Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021 in Santa Barbara, California.

Kirsty O'Connor / Getty Images

June 2022: Meghan and Harry attend the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Meghan and Harry headed to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, marking their first joint appearance in the U.K. in over two years at that point.

The two weren’t publicly mingling with other senior royalty in attendance, though they reportedly introduced Lilibet to the Queen in private during their trip.

"They aren't part of the [working] royal family anymore, and that's a decision they have taken — but maybe [the public] hasn't quite accepted that yet," a source close to the couple told Peoplein 2022. "Yes, they were low-key. They paid their respects and went home."

September 2022: Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral

Meghan and Harry were called to Windsor Castle on September 8, 2022, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II passed away at age 96.

They briefly reunited with Kate Middleton and Prince William to support the royal family amid the news. According to Kensington Palace, the rare meeting was actually William's idea, with a source noting that it "was an important show of unity at an incredibly difficult time for the family."

Sascha Schuermann / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

December 2022: The Harry & Meghan docuseries drops

The first volume Meghan & Harry Netflix docuseries hit screens on December 8, 2022. The pair addressed their full love story, their new family, and dived deeper on their reasons for distancing from the royal family in the three-part series.

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

March 2023: Meghan and Harry were told to leave their royal residence in the U.K.

Meghan and Harry were asked to “vacate” Frogmore Cottage in the spring of 2023.

"We can confirm The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been requested to vacate their residence at Frogmore Cottage," a spokesperson for the couple's Archewell Foundation told People.

Andrew Chin / Getty Images

January 2024: The truth comes to light about Queen Elizabeth’s blessing for Meghan and Harry’s daughter’s name

An inside source disputed the claim that the late Queen Elizabeth had not given Meghan and Harry her blessing to name their daughter after her known nickname, Lilibet.

“Meghan and Harry 100 percent got permission from the queen to use the name Lilibet,” the insider said. “The report is not true. [Harry and Meghan] don’t know where this is coming from...They’re shocked that this is coming now; it seems out of nowhere and out of left field. They just feel like it’s more of the same spear campaign that continues against them.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

March 2024: Meghan and Harry were in Austin, Texas for SXSW

Meghan was slated to speak on a South by Southwest panel for International Women’s Day 2024, so she and Harry traveled to Austin, Texas.

While they were in Austin, the couple had a date night at Soho House Austin.

“They were happy and in great spirits,” an eyewitness told People. “Harry was very animated throughout the dinner. They were super low key and seemed happy to be around the upbeat vibes at the lively venue.”

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Lead photo by Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation.

You've DIY'd their gift, picked out the perfect date night outfit, and now it's time to settle on a romantic, mouth-watering drink menu for Valentine's Day. We're here to report that pink cocktails are the perfect solution for Valentine's Day.

You don't have to be a master chef or cocktailextraordinaire to make these delicious pink cocktails. No matter what you indulge in, these pink drinks lend a festive air to your evening at home and taste pretty darn good, too! Keep reading to pick out your favorite pink cocktails for the holiday!

What is a good romantic drink?

While we'd consider anything shared with your partner to be a romantic drink, red wine is a great option since it's considered to be an aphrodisiac drink. If you're not into wine, pink cocktails will do!

What alcohol should I get for Valentine's Day?

If you're planning on making one of these pink cocktails, grab some fruit juice from the store or buy some fresh fruit as a mixer. Grapefruit juice, passion fruit juice, or blood orange juice are all great options. Here's the booze you can stock up on:

  • Gin
  • Vodka
  • Wine
  • Tequila
  • Mezcal
  • Champagne or sparkling wine

What is the most romantic cocktail?

Any cocktail with champagne in it is a great, romantic choice for a Valentine's Day drink.

What are the 5 most popular cocktails?

You can never go wrong with classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds, margaritas, martinis, Bloody Marys, and Palomas. Check out our Cocktails 101 guide for more sippable inspiration!

Delicious Pink Cocktails To Make This Valentine's Day

Citrus Mezcal Cocktail

Mezcal is a sister liquor to tequila, with a slightly smokier and more complex palette. There's nothing to not love about these refreshing and delicious Valentine's cocktails made with mezcal, grapefruit soda, rose, lime juice, and thyme! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Jalapeño Margaritas

It's getting hot in here! Spice things up this V-Day with these delish pink margs that also pack the heat. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Rhubarb Bellinis

For an elegant option, make sure that both of your primary ingredients are pink. This pink cocktail is sweet, bubbly, and exactly what we need this Valentine's. (via Brit + Co)

Rachel Green-Inspired Rose Gulab

To create this pretty pink drink, shake 1.5 oz Ketel One vodka, 0.75 oz pomegranate syrup, and 0.75 oz lemon juice, then strain into a glass. Top it with rose petals and some lemon zest to make it an extra fun drink. Once summer rolls around, swap the ice for ice cream for a sweet treat! (via Brit + Co/ Byblos Miami)

Honey Strawberry Basil Margarita

You don't have to wait for warm weather to whip this margarita up, and V-Day is the perfect excuse. With honey, basil, and strawberries, this is one pink cocktail that will surely dance across your tastebuds. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Jelly Margarita

This watermelon and lime tequila cocktail is the perfect combination of boozy fun and simple sweetness. It's an enticing hot pink shade for the holiday! (via Brit + Co)

Rose Gin + Tonic

This pink drink earns its colorful qualities from a splash of Glendalough Rose Gin. To make it, add 2 oz of the gin to a wine glass with ice. Finish the cocktail off with tonic water, a lime slice, and a sprig of mint for one of the best (and easiest) Valentine's cocktails out there! (via Glendalough Distillery)

Rosa Raspberry Chocatini

Any drink that has anything to do with chocolate is a hit in our books. To make this dessert-y drink, mix equal parts chilled Rosa Regale red wine and Stoli Chocolat Razberi vodka in a wine glass. Garnish with raspberries and shaved dark chocolate! (via Rosa Regale)

I've Got A Slush on You

This satisfyingly slushy pink cocktail is perfect for sharing over a V-Day pregame. Blend 2 oz Cutwater Hibiscus Vodka, 1oz Aperol, 2 oz strawberry syrup, 1 oz lemon juice, and a few drops of rosewater with ice and pour it up! (via Cutwater)

Blushing Kiss Martini

The hint of elderflower liqueur in this gin martini adds a floral element that can’t be beaten. Rim the glass with a slice of grapefruit and stir with a thyme stem for a subtle herbiness. (via Bakers Royale)

The Love Potion Cocktail

Sweeten up this pink Champagne cocktail with a blackberry simple syrup that adds a ton of flavor and turns it all a light shade of pink. (via Lark & Linen)

French Blonde

The French Blonde just so happens to be one of Taylor Swift's favorite cocktails, and even if you're not celebrating February 14 with a partner, this sip is one of the best Valentine's cocktails to enjoy with your gals for Galentine's!

To make it, shake 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur, 1 oz dry gin, 2 oz Lillet Blanc, 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice, and a few dashes of lemon bitters over ice and strain. Sip away! (via Lillet)

Haru’s Cherry Blossom Cocktail

Think outside the bar cart and combine some sake and cherry-flavored vodka in a shaker with peach puree and cranberry juice. It's like your new vodka cranberry! (viaPolka Dot Wedding)

Grapefruit Elderflower Spanish Gin + Tonics

Curl up on the couch with your love and this subtly pink drink, and you're in for some major cuddles. There's no shaker required, so refills are a cinch. (via Craft & Cocktails)

Cham-Bramble

This pink cocktail blends botanicals and the bright kick of lemon for a sweet V-Day sip. To make it, mix 1 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 oz Chambord over ice, garnishing the drink with a lemon wedge. If you wanna get fancy, top this cocktail (or any of our Valentine's cocktails) off with a heart-shaped lollipop! (via Chambord Liqueur)

La Fleurette Cocktail

Serve this tasty pink cocktail in an elegant coupe class for that romantic old-Hollywood feel. (via Lulus)

Love Potion #9 Martini

This triple-berry martini is easy to make, easy on the eyes and really easy to drink. Give it a sultry feel with a few cubes of dry ice... your cocktail will be smokin’. (viaThe Cookie Rookie)

Mi Amor 24

Tequila, grapefruit soda, and rosé Prosecco form this fun twist on the classic French 75. Make this pink Valentine's Day cocktail even more romantic by garnishing with berries! 

To make it, combine 1 oz tequila, 0.75 oz pomegranate juice, and 2 oz grapefruit soda in a chilled glass. Next, top the glass off with Josh Cellars Rose Prosecco. Enjoy! (via Josh Cellars)

Kir Royale

This fruity pink drink features champagne and creme de cassis, and if you want an extra pink look, swap the blackberries for raspberries. (via Culinary Hill)

Pink Señorita

Tequila is the way to just about anyone’s heart. Mix a couple of these sweet and sour Pink Señoritas to pair with your chips and guac this V-Day. (via Superman Cooks)

Rhubarb Bramble

This eye-catching pink cocktail is as fun to make as it is to sip on! To make it, shake 1.5 oz gin, 0.75 fresh lemon juice, and 0.75 oz simple syrup over ice until cold. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. Finish it off with a drizzle of crème de cassis and a orange twist for garnish. (via Edinburgh Gin)

Pink Strawberry Sangria

If playing mixologist isn’t really your thing, a simple sangria will be the perfect pink cocktail for your Valentine’s Day celebrations. This one only requires strawberry vodka, pink Moscato, lemon-lime soda, and fresh strawberries. We're in love with fruity Valentine's cocktails like these! (viaSimply Whisked)

Strawberry Champagne Margarita

Pair these sweet and sparkling margs with your date’sfavorite tacos and they’ll never forget the sweet gesture. Don't have champagne? Swap it for sparkling wine instead. (via Pizzazzerie)

Pomegranate Rose Gin Fizz

Earthy gin pairs beautifully with the fruity pomegranate and rose water included in this Valentine's cocktail recipe for a truly botanical experience that anyone will be pleased with! (via Ahu Eats)

Raspberry Pink Champagne Floats

This desserty drink is the ultimate way to end the evening on V-Day. All it takes is a scoop of raspberry sorbet and a splash of pink Champagne! Easy Valentine's Day drinks for the win. (via The Cookie Rookie)

Berry Gin + Tonic

This is a super easy pink cocktail that you can make in a pinch! To make it, mix 2 oz Aviation American Gin and 4 oz Fever Tree Grapefruit Tonic Water in a glass before finishing it off with ice, a few raspberries, and a lemon wheel. (via Aviation American Gin)

Strawberry Cream Mimosa

The morning after Valentine's Day should be just as special as the night before. If your previous sentiments didn't solidify your love, breakfast in bed and this strawberry cream mimosa on Feb 15 totally will. (via Swanky Recipes)

Rosé, Gin and Pink Peppercorn Cocktail

If you’ve ever turned your nose up to boxed wine, prepare to change your opinion. All you have to do to make these Valentine's Day cocktails is add a few choice ingredients to boxed rosé, and it’s transformed into the pink cocktail of every foodie’s dream. (viaKitchn)

Rose Lemon Spritzer

Why give a bouquet of roses when you can make a rose cocktail? This spritzer is a refreshing, elegant and simple way to say, “I love you.” (via Half Baked Harvest)

What are your Valentine's Day plans this year? Share your pink cocktail recipes with us @BritandCo!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Taylor Swift loves to reference the past in her songs. Every new album adds another layer to a whole web of lore (as the kids say), and The Tortured Poets Department is no different! There are enough pop culture references to to keep you glued to Google for the whole weekend, which is why I read every single lyric to decode each movie and literary reference so you don't have to! Keep reading for the full scoop from our fearless leader: The Chairman of the Department ;).

Literary References In The Tortured Poets Department

Image via engin akyurt/Unsplash

Down Bad — "Did You Take All My Old Clothes, Just To Leave Me Here, Naked And Alone"

While "Down Bad" feels like a reference to aliens, it's also reminding us of the story of Adam and Eve, who were left naked in the Garden of Eden after eating the Fruit of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The "experiments" Taylor Swift references in the first verse (plus the "Fortnight" music video) are also giving Mary Shelley/Frankenstein!

Image via Amazon

So Long, London — "You Left Me At The House By The Heath"

Hampstead Heath is a beautiful area of London that reportedly inspired C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia in the late 30s and early 40s. As Narnia's self-proclaimed biggest fan, I'm totally claiming this indirect literary reference, especially since the Pevensies have to stay at the Professor's house when they're evacuated from London.

Image via Amazon

I Hate It Here — "I Hate It Here So I Will Go To Secret Gardens In My Mind People Need A Key To Get To"

This Taylor Swift song is all about wishing she was somewhere else during an early period of her life, and referencing The Secret Garden makes total sense. In the book, lead character Mary has to access the Secret Garden to discover the hope, joy, and healing she's lost.

Image via İlknur ERDURAN/Pexels

thanK you aIMee — "I Pushed Each Boulder Up The Hill"

This seems to be another Greek mythology reference, this time to Sisyphus. He was forced by the gods to roll a boulder up a hill — and then do it again when it rolled back down. Considering this song seems to reference Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, and the drama that led to Reputation, it feels like a reference to the feud that rears its head over and over again.

Image via Robin Erino/Pexels

Cassandra — "So They Killed Cassandra First Cause She Feared The Worst And Tried To Tell The Town"

In Greek mythology, Cassandra (whose name means "she who entangles men," FYI) was a beautiful woman, and princess of Troy. The god Apollo falls in love with her, and gives her the power of prophecy — that is, until she rejects him and he turns the gift into a curse where no one believes her anymore.

Image via Amazon

The Bolter — "She Fell Through The Ice, Then Came Out Alive"

This is another indirect literary reference I'm claiming that totally reminds me of Amy March from Little Women. Amy falls through the ice when the March sisters are all children living in Massachusetts. Fans have historically hated her character, which is tied to the "A curious child, ever reviled // By everyone except her own father" lyric.

Movie References In Taylor Swift's New Album

Image courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys — "I Felt More When We Played Pretend Than With All The Kens"

The internet has claimed Taylor Swift as the real-world version of Barbie, and after last year's blockbuster hit (and Taylor referencing Ken in "Hits Different") we get another nod to our favorite doll. Plus, this song reminds me of Syd from Toy Story destroying his toys, and "he was my best friend down at the sandlot" got me thinking about The Sandlot. So many movie references, so little time!

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Guilty As Sin? — "How Can I Be Guilty As Sin?"

Taylor Swift wrote "Carolina" for the book-to-movie adaptation of Where The Crawdads Sing. In "Carolina," she sings that Kya's community has "said that I was guilty as sin and sleep in a liar’s bed.”

More Pop Culture References

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  • The Tortured Poets Department — Taylor Swift mentions poet & writer Dylan Thomas, singer-songwriter & poet Patti Smith, and American singer Charlie Puth, boygenius singer Lucy Dacus, producer Jack Antonoff.
  • But Daddy I Love Him — This is a line in both The Little Mermaid and The Notebook.
  • Florida!!! — Florence Welch is featured on this song, which mentions a hurricane. Florence + The Machine has a song titled "Hurricane Love."
  • Guilty As Sin? — Taylor also references "The Downtown Lights" by The Blue Nile, as well as the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus in The Bible.
  • Who's Afraid Of Little Old MeWho's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf revolves around a bitter and aging couple who weaponize the youth of their guests against one another.
  • loml — "The coward claimed he was a lion" is a reference to The Wizard of Oz, while "Mr. Steal Your Girl" is a Trey Songz track.
  • I Can Do It With A Broken Heart — This whole song is about Taylor Swift's Eras Tour.
  • The Alchemy + The Prophecy — In Taylor Swift's TIME interview, she references Harry Potter, which has huge themes around alchemy and prophecies.
  • Clara Bow — This song references Clara Bow, Stevie Nicks, and Taylor herself!
  • So High School — Taylor Swift Mentions video game Grand Theft Auto, Artistotle, and American Pie. She also mentions games like Kiss Marry Kill, Truth or Dare, and Spin the Bottle

Which of these pop culture references in The Tortured Poets Department is your favorite? Check out the latest news on the album here!

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Hearty dinner recipes are always going to be high on our list, but spring and summer tend to call for light lunch ideas to keep us energized and able to enjoy longer hours of sunshine everyday. I'll be the first to say that eating chicken pasta or pizza for lunch often makes me feel sluggish, so I try to stay away from them during the work day. Not only that, but I've noticed I feel better when I eat something that's a little fresher and healthier. If your summer plans include having as much energy as possible, here's 15 light lunch ideas to help you successfully get through your days!

Light Lunch Ideas: Tasty Salads

Chicken Tzatziki Avocado Salad

Light lunch ideas don't have to be tasteless just because they don't cause you to feel sleepy in the middle of the day. One of the best ways to enjoy something tasty is to make a Mediterranean dish. This chicken tzatziki avocado salad is full of season, roasted chicken, feta, kale, and creamy tahini sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Farro

This recipe had us at goat cheese! If you haven't had a chance to try it yet, this roasted golden beet salad with farro is a great way to introduce it to your palate. It also features shallots, thyme, and honey to balance out the crunch you'll get from the almonds! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Cobb Salad

Add this chicken cobb salad your list of non-complicated light lunch ideas! It's full of tasty ingredients like avocados, cherry tomatoes, and eggs that'll hit the spot during lunchtime. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry and Asparagus Salad with Chicken

Your salad needs an upgrade that involves lightweight fruit like strawberries. You can always exclude the chicken if you've been eating a meatless diet. (via Completely Delicious)

Feta Green Goddess Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

We're not sure who made this rule but pasta salad just seems to be one of the light lunch ideas that works extremely well for summer. This recipe features a homemade green goddess dressing that lightly covers the delicious ingredients, making it one of our favorite meals. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Smashed Potato Spring Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

We love that this smashed potato spring salad can be eaten during summer. The Creamy lemon dressing complements the butter lettuce, asparagus, and green onions that you'll happily devour. (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

Simple Cold Pasta Salad

Simple light lunch ideas are the stuff that our summer dreams are made of. After all, meals like this cold pasta salad are great alternatives if you're truly looking for something quick and lightweight. (via Barley and Sage)

Summer Sesame Noodles

Is it a salad or noodle dish? Maybe it's both! One thing we know is that you'll get a ton of healthy vegetables and noodles drizzled in a sauce that has sesame paste, vinegar, and more! (via Gastro Plant)

Light Lunch Ideas: Creative Sandwiches, Tacos, and Wraps 

Breakfast Bagel Sandwich with Smoked Salmon

Skipped breakfast? It happens to the best of us! Make up for it during lunch with this breakfast bagel sandwich with smoked salmon. Our mouths are already craving the herbed cream cheese that's on it. (via Vikalinka)

Smoked Turkey Sandwich with Spicy Mayo

Craving a smoked turkey sandwich that has a kick to it? Make this dish for lunch, but don't forget to bring something soothing to drink that'll help counter the mayo's spiciness! (via The Original Dish)

Tasty Tacos

Tacos Rancheros

This is technically another breakfast meal, but we like to think that some meals can double as light lunch ideas! This is a great option if you have to eat lunch early. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Kale Chicken Caesar Wraps

You've never had chicken caesar like this before. The dressing doesn't have a ton of calories so you'll get to eat something that's healthy and yummy! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Light Lunch Ideas: Veggies

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini

Our mouths are watering looking at this garlic parmesan zucchini dish! The fresh garlic and parmesan make for a dish that's full of hearty flavors without making you feel sluggish. (via The Endless Meal)

Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes

Although these aren't considered sweet potato boats, you can think of them that way thanks to their shape. The spicy chickpeas in the center offset the sweetness of the sweet potatoes while the feta adds a lightweight flavor. (via Cozy Cravings)

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

This roasted vegetable quinoa bowl is one of the best light lunch ideas we've come across and it's gluten-free! Not only does it feature sweet potatoes, but you'll also get to savor juicy yellow squash! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Follow us on Pinterest for more light lunch ideas to cook this summer!

Lead image via Vanilla and Bean