16 Holiday Gifts That Are Perfect for the Fashionable Hostess (Under $50)

Whether you’re stopping by your BFF’s annual holiday cocktail party, visiting your S.O.’s family for the weekend, or attending a gathering at your boss’s home, arriving empty handed is a holiday sin on par with finishing the last of the eggnog. You’ll want to show your gratitude by bringing a little “thank you.” But when the hostess is all about high style, not just any gift will do. Here are our favorite gift picks for the fashionable hostess in your life. From agate coasters to Rachel Zoe’s new coffee table book, this year’s finds go way beyond candles — although we included one of those too! These thoughtful gifts are sure to impress even the most stylish hostess on your list. And did we mention nothing is over $50?

1. Rosanna Ladies Choice Tray Chic Happens ($22): We dare you to find something more perfect for the fashionable hostess on your list.

2. Living in Style: Inspiration and Advice for Everyday Glamour ($28): This book comes from celeb stylist, designer and all around fashion darling Rachel Zoe. In these glossy pages, she shares tips, advice and inspiration along with style insights from her fashion insider friends and family. It’s the perfect gift for the glamour girl in your life.

3. kate spade new york Pierrepont Place Two-Piece Bar Set ($50): With this stylish bottle opener and corkscrew set, she’ll never be unprepared for an impromptu toast. The best part? This duo comes pre-boxed, so all you have to do is throw on a bow and you’re ready to go!

4. Olli Ella Pom Pom Belly Basket ($45): This adorable seagrass basket is as functional (it’s a great choice for storing linens, books and blankets) as it is stylish. What’s cuter than fluffy pom poms?

5. Umbra Tesora Jewelry Stand ($30): Every stylish lady needs a place to store her beloved baubles. This contemporary jewelry stand combines copper and concrete for a sophisticated yet industrial vibe that city gals will love.

6. Target Animal Print Design Faux Fur Throw ($42): She’ll love cozying up on this plush faux-fur blanket. When not in use, it’ll add a touch of luxe to her bedroom or living room.

7. Maya Brenner Porcelain Catchall ($45): Fan’s of jewelry designer Maya Brenner’s signature state necklace will love this handy catchall. Your host can display it in her bedroom to stash jewels and trinkets or in the front hall for keys and change. Either way she’ll show off her state love.

8. Jonathan Adler Pop Champagne Candle ($42): Any stylish hostess would go nuts for one of Jonathan Adler’s ultra-chic designs. This festive mirrored candle is certainly no exception. It fills the air with notes of pink grapefruit, sparkling champagne, raspberry, rose petals and French cassis.

9. Vogue & The Met Museum of Art’s Costume Institute ($50): For art and style lovers, the Met’s annual Costume Institute exhibition is the most spectacular event on the planet. This book’s pages are filled with photographs from the exhibitions in tandem with the Vogue fashion shoots they inspired—as well as party pics from the uber exclusive galas.

10. Thymes Kimono Rose Sink Set ($33): Show your appreciation with this chic set featuring Thymes Kimono Rose Hand Wash and Lotion in an attractive ceramic dish. She’ll be proud to display it next to the kitchen sink.

11. Lulu & Georgia Agate Coaster Set ($45, set of four): Bring natural beauty to your gal pal’s coffee table with these glamorous agate coasters. Each piece is uniqe and chic AF.

12. DENY Designs Heather Dutton “Be Merry” Mugs ($25, set of two): She’ll think of you every time she sips her fave AM beverage from one of these merry mugs. A bright, cheerful color palette gives this traditional tree motif a modern touch.

13. Ban.do The Power Trip – Metallic Gold ($32): Give her the gift of solid gold. Ok, it’s not actually solid gold, but it’s chic and practical to boot. Power Trip comes with a USB cord and two types of plugs for the wall or your car. She’ll be ready to charge up her iPhone (5/5s, 6/6+, 6s/6s+ and iPod 5th generation) anywhere. And at just $32, it only looks like a gazillion bucks.

14. kate spade new york Pearl Place Dot Stemless Champagne Glass Set ($50): Cheers to the season, because there’s no better way to celebrate than with some bubbly! Gift her these gold-spotted stemless champagne glasses. They’re dishwasher safe, so your host can spend more time with her guests and less time hand-washing dishes.

15. Sugarfina Jonathan Adler Tall, Dark & Rich Candy Bento Box ($28): Gift some seasonal sweets with this chic Sugarfina x Jonathan Adler collab. And who doesn’t love dark chocolate sea salt caramels, brown butter brittle and dark chocolate toffee almonds?!

16. Rosanna Token Of Affection Tray Shoe ($14): What does every fashionable hostess have in common? They throw amazing parties and loves shoes! This would also make a fab Secret Santa present.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Brit + Co never plays around when it comes to holiday parties (or any parties for that matter). But around these parts, ain't no party like a white elephant or Secret Santa party because it's prime time for ridiculous gifts. From LED holiday flair to pocket manfriends (we'll explain), we've rounded up the ultimate buys for gift-swap domination. That's right — we're your one-stop shop for the absurd, the unusual, and the totally delightful.

Read on and prepare for a serious celebration of the random. Now, let's get this white elephant gift party started.

Oaxacan Floral Taper Candle

Take taper candles to a whole new delicate level with these hand-shaped candles.

5-Minute Daily Meditations

Gift this calendar featuring 5-minute meditations to help your pal get centered and focused for the new year.

Mixtape Cassette Sponges Set

Everyone can use a sponge and how fun are these?

Glitter Christmas Light Up Flashing LED Sunglasses

What lights up and will instantly turn you into the opposite of the Grinch?

Yoda Buddha

The best white elephant gift, you will have.

Gastro Obscura 

From the team that brings you all the bizarre travel stops in Atlas Obscura comes this guide to what to eat around the world filled with food adventures and edible wonders.

Ticker Sock - Retro Floral

The perfect gift for the sock-lover in your life.

Popsicle Puzzle

Flashback to summer in puzzle form!

Cat Stretch Ceramic Cup

There’s bound to be a cat lady who will make efforts to steal this precious mug.

Mini Cinema Light Box

Never stop dreaming of the perfect gift...

Craftsman Beer Soap Sampler

For the beer lovers on your list, give ’em a brand new way to get their hopped up fix.

Sloth Face Tote Bag

What’s cuter than a sloth face on a tote bag?

Slip Silk Eyemask

The gift of a good night's sleep is priceless.

Horse Head Squirrel Feeder

If you haven't seen this ridiculous thing going viral, it's time to get in the know. It's a squirrel feeder shaped like a horse head, so it looks like the squirrel is a mini-horse when he's snacking. Amazing.

Pears, Apples, and Cheese Gift

Fall fruit with a cheesy mix is a white elephant gift we would happily accept.

Dog Butt Magnets

Magnets, in dog butt form. Why not?

Air Sofa

Love HANGING OUT everywhere you go? Have lungs, will travel.

Campfire Cologne

You know how your clothes smell after a weekend of camping? Now you can smell like that ALL the time.

Custom Shaped Pet Pillow

Is your pup or cat so narcissistic it only wants to snuggle with itself? There's a custom pet pillow for that.

Kitty Butt Coasters

MEW-ve over, forgettable gifts! This gift is so specific, it will never be forgotten.

The Mountain Fanny Pack Kittens T-Shirt

Kitties AND a fanny pack. All in one shirt!

Fried Egg Rug

When it comes to egg love, we don’t yolk around. P.S. Your dad called, he wants his pun back ;)

Moulin Roty Circus Shadow Puppets

For the impromptu puppet show you’ve always dreamed of.

Tipsy Elves Get Lit Light Up Ugly Christmas Sweater

Shine bright this holiday season with this battery-powered Christmas sweater that will help you literally get lit.

Happy Feet Shark Slippers

Duunnn dunnn… duuuunnnn duun… duuunnnnnnnn dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dun dunnnnnnnnnnn dunnnn.

Pocket Manfriend

Have a friend in need of a bearded companion? Get her/him a manfriend in pocket size - you can take him anywhere! Choose from 17 personalized guys.

Star Wars Millennium Falcon Bottle Opener & Keychain

What better way to end a long day than with a tasty bottle of brewski opened with a bottle opener from a galaxy far, far away.

Cereal Marshmallows

Sprinkle them on whatever you like!

Tattly Frida Kahlo Tattoo Set

For when you're not ready to commit to a real tattoo, try these fun faux tattoos.

Mariah Carey Merry Christmas Vinyl

Throw this classic holiday record on before your white elephant party ends!

Pin Up Pickles Cool Dilly Beans

Just imagine being able to say, “Cool beans!” when it’s unwrapped.

Bow & Drape Just in Queso Striped T-Shirt

Remember the #cheesepocalypse? One year, Velveeta was flying off the racks and causing the first ever Velveeta shortage! Luckily, we’ve always got a backup supply so we can make queso all the live long day.

RaveLife Light Up Bow Tie

The perfect thing to pair your light up jacket with? A light-activated bow tie, duhhh.

Mood Cat Poster

We're digging this mood.

SheaMoisture Maracuja & Shea Oils Beard Conditioning Oil

Decorative beards and mustaches are definitely here to stay, so give that guy in your life the products he needs to keep things tidy.

Transparent Kitchen Safe

Protect your cookies from… people who apparently steal your cookies so often that you need a safe?

PE Generic Portable Pizza Pouch

You never know when you’ll need to carry a slice to-go.

Homesick Candle

Give the gift of the outdoors with this soy-based candle.

Bananagrams

A fun game really is the gift that keeps on giving.

Groot Chia Pet 

It's a Chia! It's a pet! It's a Chia Pet!

Piece Pie Puzzle

This gift might make the recipient hungry and take days to complete, but it'll make for a good time.

Sassy Animals Coloring Book 

Coloring + sassy animals = a win in my book!

Coffee Mug Warmer

Anything to do with coffee is sure to be a heart-warming gift.

Cartoon Cow Slippers 

These keep your feet warm and are super adorable.

Shrek Mini Waffle Maker 

This waffle maker delivers fresh and funny waffles every morning.

Wonderful Winers Playing Cards

You can never go wrong with a silly deck of cards.

Dinosaur Adult Onesie 

A comfy and funny gift everyone will enjoy! 

Tortilla Blanket

Turn your friends into giant human burritos!

Funny Sloth Coffee Mug

A mug that accurately depicts us all before our coffee.

Pickle Flavored Cotton Candy

Pickle lovers won't be able to get over this one.

Frankie the Dancing Hot Dog 

This dancing hot dog adds some fun to your desk.

Wine Glasses Set Of 4

These wine glasses are fun and functional!

Banana Duck Plush Toy

A banana and a duck? How cute!

This Book is Literally Just Pictures of Animals Silently

The best coffee table on the market, hands down.

What white elephant gifts are you gifting this year? Share with us @BritandCo!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations

Nails breaking constantly? Wishing you didn't have to rely on tips at the salon? Desperate for that long nail look? You’re not alone. Despite it being used as an annoying and vapid phrase women would say in TV shows, breaking a nail is very painful and can ruin a (usually expensive) manicure. But don’t fret — we’ve rounded up five simple ways to get your nails to grow longer and stronger.

What causes weak fingernails?

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

But first, what causes unhealthy, brittle, breakable nails? A lot of factors that may not instantly come to mind. According to WebMD, these factors can contribute to weak nails:

  • Aging: As we get older, our nails get thinner and can crack or peel.
  • Harsh nail products: Both nail polish and nail polish remover can have strong chemicals that can damage and dry out your nails, leading them to break.
  • Wet nails: Consistently have your hands in water, maybe doing the dishes or bathtime for the kids? This could be drying out your nails.
  • Underlying health issues: Vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and many other health issues could be the cause of nails breaking.

How can I strengthen my nails?

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Dealing with some of these factors? While we can’t help you with the underlying health issues (please see a doctor if you think you may be dealing with something!), there are many easy things you can do to improve your nails and encourage growth.

  • Cuticle oil
  • Biotin
  • Diet
  • Nail protection
  • Avoid picking and peeling
Here's why each factor is important, plus how you can go about successfully achieving them.

Find a Cuticle Oil

You may only use cuticle oil when your manicurist applies it, but that doesn't have to be the case. Cuticle oils are an inexpensive and easy way to promote nail health and growth by keeping your nails hydrated. Cosmetically, cuticle oils encourage longer-lasting manis and leave your nails looking shiny and polished. But they do much more below the surface: cuticle oils create a healthier environment that allows strong growth for your nails.

Interested in adding cuticle oil to your beauty routine? Check our a few of my faves:

Photo via Cora Pursley/Dupe

Explore Biotin

Biotin is an important type of B vitamin that helps our bodies turn food into energy. It’s also one of the top recommended supplements for hair and nail growth, and for good reason. Many scientists say a daily biotin supplement can improve nail strength in as little as a few weeks.

“Since it is water soluble, biotin (or vitamin B7) can’t be stored in the body and must be acquired from diet or through supplementation,” shared Rachel Kilroy, Director of Product Innovation at Solaray, the original pioneers in supplement health and wellness. Solaray has developed a new supplement that provides biotin in a unique way.

Solaray’s Timed Release Biotin strategically supports nail health with a powerful 5,000 mcg of this important nutrient, delivering half of the biotin rapidly and the other half gradually over a period of up to 8 hours for sustained support,” Kilroy continued. “With consistent use, this vegan formula—lab verified for purity and potency—can provide comprehensive support for longer, stronger nails.”

Supplements not your thing? Biotin can be found naturally in many foods, like cooked eggs, whole grains, soy and other beans, nuts and nut butters, salmon, mushrooms, and cauliflower.

Photo via Daniella Cappellari/Dupe

Eat A Nail Friendly Diet

Nails require a balanced, healthy diet for proper growth and strength. According to Medical News Today, making small tweaks to your diet can make a big impact on your nails. Adding in nutrients like more iron or calcium in your diet will have your nails growing long and strong.

Dieticians recommend a colorful diet for nail growth consisting of colorful fruits and veggies, nuts, seeds, eggs, lean meat, avocado, sweet potato, and whole grains.

Photo via Sash Gabriel/Dupe

Protect Your Nails While Wet

Constantly doing dishes, managing bath time, gardening, or swimming? The water may be the cause of your breakage.

Your nails are like sponges, constantly expanding and contracting when water goes in or out of the nail cells. This can strain your nails, causing them to weaken, peel, and then break.

When possible, grab a pair of rubber gloves to wear while cleaning to protect your nails from the water and make sure to fully dry your nails after they’re in water. Hand creams are also a win for your nails after water exposure.

Avoid Picking, Peeling or Biting

Bad habits that are addicting. While peeling off your gel manicure can be so satisfying, it’s one of the worst things you can do for your nails. Same with constantly picking or biting your nails. As someone who used to constantly bite her nails down, I can assure you my nails are much healthier and stronger after kicking that habit.

Want to quit that habit? Try a nail bite deterrent, like this one from ella+mia or this one from LONDONTOWN and watch your nails grow before your eyes.

Looking for more beauty tips and inspo? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter for more!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Laura Walt/Dupe

Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These gift ideas ideas will help you say "this made me think of you ."

RVCA Verdite Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season.

The North Face Versa Velour Nuptse Jacket

Keep him ahead of the trends with the latest edition of The North Face's Nuptse puffer, now available in this cozy velour style.

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinemas home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties.

Sunswell THE R&R PANT

Made for rigorous wear and from recycled materials, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

COSORI Pour Over Coffee Maker with Double Layer Stainless Steel Filter

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Kansas City Chiefs Graphic Crew Sweatshirt

You'll score points for scouring the resale market for a vintage sweatshirt or tee repping his favorite team or championship game. But if you're struggling to find the perfect piece, opt for this vintage-inspired NFL collection for Abercrombie & Fitch.

Happy Nuts Man Slab Natural Soap in Naughty List

This manly bar soap is infused with scents of black charcoal and shea butter that tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch The Western Shirt Jacket

The sherpa lining on this shacket hugs his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout cold season.

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's returning to the office, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set will please the most studious types.

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Kiehl's Wrapped Skincare Set

Once you introduce him to a simple skincare routine, he'll understand why you're religious about yours. Let him join in on the self-care with this high quality (and beginner-friendly) set.

American Eagle AEO 1977 Eau de Cologne

This spray will make an unforgettable addition to your man's cologne lineup, or a nice, beginner-friendly introduction to fragrance if he doesn't have one yet. It's packed with notes of dewy greens, cedar leaf, and warm musk and will match every season.

Etsy Custom Soundwave Art Print

From the song played during a first dance to the one you always blast together in the car, every couple has their favorite song. Memorialize yours for your music-loving man.

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

Give him the gift of an outdoor adventure with plans to camp, hit the beach, or stargaze, then tack on this easy-to-pack blanket for him to take along!

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Veritable Classic Indoor Garden Grower

If your man likes to cook, gifting him this indoor herb grower means he no longer has to rummage around the outdoor space to build a home garden or go on any frantic last-minute grocery runs for the greens he needs.

Polaroid Everything Now Generation 2 Instant Camera & Film Set

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Everlane The Felted Merino Cable-Knit Crew

If he prefers to skip the shopping trips, a classic new sweater will help spruce up his style for the season.

Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky

A word of advice: if you're not yet in a committed relationship, you don't need to overthink a gift! During the early stages of dating, add a bow to his beverage of choice for a flirty, thoughtful gesture.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gift for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday gift guides!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

Images via brands.

This post has been updated.

I've got a thing for Reese Witherspoon's book club which is why I couldn't wait to get my hands on Yulin Kuang's debut novel How to End a Love Story. Chosen as Reese's Book Club's May Pick, it features a romance that almost shouldn't make sense. I mean, when's the last time you realized you trauma bonded with someone? Except Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's character arcs as well as the entire plot of How to End a Love Story doesn't even feel like that.

Instead, Yulin uncannily peels back the layers of what it means to be a layered human being who happens to be carrying trauma, talent, success, imposter syndrome, and burning desire in their hearts. Even that doesn't scratch the surface of who Helen and Grant are. Trying to capture their essence feels like I'm stumbling over my words which points to how great this novel is and that means Yulin's goal has been accomplished.

Though she loves perfectly executed rom-coms and is fortunate to be working on them in the filmmaking space, she doesn't consider How to End a Love Story as one. "...I was searching for something more aligned with the Brontë sensibility of romance in the writing of this book. Less warmth and charm, more id-level storytelling and unchecked carnal desire," she explains.

Yulin Kuang's Journey To "How To End A Love Story"

Image via Zach Wallnau

Some people seem to be born knowing they're destined to right, but some of us stumble into it and realize, "Hey, I'm pretty good at this." For Yulin, her journey to her debut novel How to End a Love Story takes the latter route. Her first dream, you make ask? To be an Olympic figure skater.

"...that didn't pan out so I turned to storytelling," Yulin admits. That pivot led her to set her sights on becoming an author as she began honing her creative writing skills via your classic marble composition notebooks. If you're still wondering if she kept some of them, the answer is yes!

The screenwriter and author then found herself drawn to other aspects of writing and film. She says, "I eventually fell in love with screenwriting and directing while in undergrad at Carnegie Mellon, and I spent my first decade post-grad concentrating on my filmmaking career."

Yulin Kuang's Approach To Filmmaking

It's a reason why her hard work and the stars aligned for her to adapt Emily Henry's Beach Read and People We Meet on Vacation.

When I ask what helps her approach the book-to-film trajectory, she credits writing fan fiction. This feels similar to Christina Lauren's own experience, further proving that fan fiction deserves the utmost praise for helping some of the best literary and film minds who ultimately birth what I could only describe as masterpieces.

Yulin says, "Fan fiction is where I first learned you could play with characters originated by someone else to discover what you’d make them do in your own version." Although it would be easy for anyone to snap their fingers and have their first pitches accepted by everyone, she learned to lean on what writing fan fiction taught her.

"Early in my career, I would pitch on book-to-film adaptations and I’d be like, 'Change nothing, just shoot the book!' And I wouldn’t get those jobs, because I didn’t have a clear “take” and because you can’t actually just shoot a book – adaptation is an art form unto itself. So onceI started approaching adaptation with more of a fan fiction mindset – 'What is my take on these characters and this world?' – that helped me approach the book-to-screen trajectory more successfully," she proudly says.

However, this doesn't mean she never questioned if she could still find ways to create new ideas. "...in 2021, at a time when everything else I was working on was an adaptation, I found myself wondering if I had anything original left within me," she remembers.

It's natural for creatives to experience moments of doubt, but Yulin has been able to turn the tide and discover untapped ideas in her mind. Just don't expect her to set her own expectations about any adaptations she's working on.

She says, "Know that I am an avid reader of romance and a frequent consumer of this genre across mediums, and I will be bringing everything I know going into these adaptations. But more specifically to Beach Read, which I have more creative ownership over as the writer/director."

How Yulin Kuang Relates To Her Main Characters In "How To End A Love Story"

And since How to End a Love Story is truly Yulin's own creative body of work, it makes sense that main characters Helen and Grant have pieces of her personality as well as her characteristics.

"I gave Helen all my hopes and insecurities from high school and gave her the alternate universe path where I had pursued publishing instead of Hollywood. I examined what might have happened if I’d grown into certain qualities I’ve actively tried to grow away from," she says of Helen Zhang.

Right away, readers get the sense that Helen is a whip-smart and hardworking, but her penchant for being cautious about her success also peeks through. Though she's written highly successful YA (read: young adult) novels, Helen waits with bated breath for the moment people will call her bluff. She's relatable because many of us wonder if we're simply cosplaying as versions of ourselves who've reached any level of success.

On the other hand, there's Grant Shepard. He's seemingly this cool, calm, and collected screenwriter who has a complicated past with Helen. Yulin says, "I gave Grant a lot of the qualities I’m proud of and/or have coveted as a working screenwriter, and I certainly relate to many of his thoughts on screenwriting and the current state of our industry."

The more the reader learns about Helen and Grant, the more it becomes obvious that there's more to them than meets the eye. Sure, they are complicated...but who isn't?

"At their core, Helen and Grant are just two kids from Jersey trying to make it in Hollywood, and of course I relate deeply to that," she says.

Yulin Kuang's View Of Rom-Coms

Based on Yulin's genuine interest in romance novels and the fact she's well-versed in adapting them, she knows what it takes to make rom-coms flourish. Her first take? "Romantic tension is key to any romance – I always need to know why our couple can’t be together now. The second that tension is gone, so is audience interest," she points out.

This explains why we can't get enough of reading books about it, listening to albums dedicated to it, or watching films that depict all levels of romance. Still, there are some people who approach the genre with a side eye.

"There seems to be a natural human suspicion of things that make us feel too good – like, 'That can’t possibly be good for us, that’s just candy!' I wonder if it’s something evolutionary at work," she says before doubling down. "You can’t argue with the fact that people absolutely fucking love rom-coms, and I will die on the hill that a well-earned happily ever after is both harder to achieve and more narratively satisfying when it’s pulled off successfully."

She's the type of writer who really appreciates a big kiss that's handled correctly onscreen, but she's also not afraid to "groan every time it's fumbled." But, she knows everyone still won't see romance the way she and so many others view it, but she doesn't really care.

"Ultimately, I don’t concern myself too much with changing minds that don’t want to be changed.There are enough smart people who recognize the power and value of rom-coms, and I’d rather spend my precious time creating art to surprise and delight the people with good taste."

Need I say that this is yet another reason why How to End a Love Story works so well?

How Yulin Kuang Wishes The World Would Celebrate AAPI Month

As much as she's vocal about screenwriting and rom-coms, Yulin also has thoughts about the way society-at-large talks about BIPOC creative artists. "There’s a real, 'This is important, eat your vegetables,' vibe to things. And while that might be true, it’s not the most appealing way to market or discover art," she says.

She admits this could be due to how many diversity-in-film panels she's attended. As a Black woman, the conversations I see every year during Black History Month seem to have a certain "Let's check this box so everyone can be happy" vibe, so I can imagine attending panels about diversity and inclusion can start to sound repetitive after awhile.

Yulin doesn't hold back when she says, "I’m a little jaded when people ask me diversity questions at this point. I don’t want to attract the kind of readers who are only showing up to be supportive of my Asian-ness. It’s a bit like showing up to a date where someone says, 'I’m so excited that you’re Asian!!!'" This is an analogy I can so get behind because it makes a lot of sense!

It's one thing to have representation, but I like to think it's always obvious when people are approaching the conversation in a way that 'others' BIPOC people. We're literally not asking for a trophy, but more so an acknowledgement that we shouldn't be excluded from conversations, spaces, and careers or treated differently.

This sentiment is shared by Yulin who says, "That’s the thing about me that I didn’t do on purpose, and while I’m glad you’re excited, I hope there are things that I did do on purpose that you find exciting, too" and feels there is a way to be a genuine ally.

"...support AAPI creatives by all means, and perhaps begin by celebrating us as individual artists even after the designated month ends. And where applicable, talk about our work like it’s candy, not vegetables. I’d rather be irresistible than important," she states.

Take a page from Yulin Kuang's book and pick up a copy of How to End a Love Story today! You won't regret it!

Looking for more reading recs? Be sure to check out our storefront for more of our fave books!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Amazon

Calling all BookTok, bookstagrammers, and leisurely readers: the Amazon Book Sale has landed! I can barely contain myself because there’s so many great titles — including more than a few picks from Reese Witherspoon’s book club — that Amazon is discounting for it’s special reading crowd.

I know I’ve been stuck on romantasy books for a while (sorry, not sorry!), but there’s so many other great picks you’ll be able to snag on sale. And if you’re a Kindle type of woman, you’re not being left out.

Amazon isn’t leaving any stone unturned with this sale so let’s jump right into what to expect and which books are on sale right now!

When is the Amazon Book Sale?

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The Amazon Book Sale began May 15 and will end on May 20, so you still have time to add very discounted books to your TBR list!

What should I expect from the Amazon Book Sale?

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The Amazon Book Sale will feature titles from different genres that you can save up to 50% on. Not only that, but Kindle users can save up to 80% on books! In case you’re wondering, you're not dreaming — this is really, really good.

The best news about the sale is that you can start shopping deals NOW. So, what are you waiting for! Take a peek at our picks!

Are Kindle books included in the Amazon Book Sale?

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Yes! You'll be able to find a plethora of discounted kindle books during the Amazon Book Sale. The best news is that you can access three months of Kindle Unlimitedfor $0!

Shop Book Editors' Picks During the Amazon Sale

None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell

Alix Summer and Josie Fair quickly become friends after a chance meeting on their birthdays. They seem to have things in common which leads Alix to feature Josie on her podcast. But the closer they get, the more Alix feels conflicted about her new friend.

Before she can piece together her concerns, Josie has found her way into every part of Alix's life and it's only after she disappears that Alix realizes how much danger she's in.

Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum

Jen Weinstein and her friend Lauren Parker are ever popular in Salcombe, Fire Island during the summer season. They seem to have a hold on anyone that comes in contact with them, including their husbands. However, there's no denying that grudges have been steadily building over the years due to things unspoken. And Rachel Woolf? Well, she's just there to have a great time even if it's at someone else's expense.

However, who knows more than they're willing to share and who would be so angry that they'd commit a murder?

Weyward by Emilia Hart

Weyward is a moving novel that alternates between various timelines and involves a family's mystical powers.

In the present time of 2019, Kate takes refuge at her great-aunt's cottage that's worlds away from the person she's afraid of. She's not entirely sure, but she can't shake the feeling that there was more to her great-aunt than was outwardly presented.

The timeline of 1619 is then introduced and readers get to know Altha, a woman who's accused of having something to do with a farmer's death. The thing is Altha truly does know magic associated with the world around her, but people are on edge and will do anything to have a witch trial.

Then in 1942, we meet young Violet who feels trapped in more ways than one. She wants nothing more than to live a life that's not confined by hiding behind society's expectations of women. Her only connection to her mother and her past is finding the word 'weyward' in her bedroom, thus setting off a chain of events that lead back to 2019.

Stock Up On #BookTok Favorites

It Ends With Us & It Starts With Us Box Set by Colleen Hoover

For the first time ever, get your hands on the limited edition box set of Colleen Hoover's finest, It Ends With Us and It Starts With Us!

It Ends With Us begins with Lily believing that Ryle couldn't be more perfect for her despite his tendency to be rough around the edges. There's also the fact that he's not 100% open to dating. But, they somehow form a sort of love dance that becomes a romantic relationship. However, this is challenged when her first love Atlas comes back into her life.

It Starts With Us finds Lily and Ryle divorced, but they still communicate on friendly terms. But when Atlas comes into the picture again, Lily doesn't hesitate to let him into her world. It shouldn't feel complicated, but she knows that Atlas is the last man Ryle wants around. The ending is just as shocking, poignant, and beautiful as It Ends With Us.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Still excited that the movie adaptation of Red, White & Royal Blue is getting a sequel that'll premiere on Amazon Prime? Me too, but we'll have to wait for more news to drop about it! Until then, we can revisit our favorite couple by Casey McQuiston's book that's on sale for $15!

House of Ash and Shadow by Leia Stone

Fallon Bane spends a great deal of her life being untouched because of a lethal curse she was born with. Despite her acceptance, she still yearns for intimacy. To make matters worse, her father's own health becomes comprised which leads her to seek out help from a healer fae — Ariyon Madden.

He not only begins helping her, but he always touches her in a way she's never experienced before. Fallon is shocked that she's still ver much alive and things finally seem to look bright for her. That is until Ariyon tells other powerful fae about her.

From there, Fallon learns the truth about who her family is and why her curse exists..

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

Young Feyre commits an offense agains the immortal and very powerful fae that sends her to their magical world. Though she's away from a life of poverty and tension, she misses her family.

Still, she resides in the home of the 'beast' who allows her to live in his home — Tamlin. What she quickly realizes is that he's actually one of the powerful faes and that she's not the kind of prisoner she thinks she is. Even more, she begins questioning everything she'd learned about the Fae world because it's not quite like what mortals say it is.

As the hostility between Feyre and Tamlin dies down, an ancient evil continues spreading through his world and it'll be up to Feyre to help stop it.

Shop More Amazon Book Sale Deals!

The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn

Anna Fox has agoraphobia so she spends time by herself at home by herself and fills her days with drinking, watching comfort movies, and being a nosy neighbor. That's how she knows a new family — The Russells — have moved across from her.

She continues her usually nosy activities and finds herself witnessing something that seems horribly wrong. As she frantically tries to piece together the mystery of what happened, it becomes clear that the lines of her imagination and reality have become blurred.

Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

Kate Mularkey was never the popular girl until she met her best friend Tully. Their lives are polar opposite, but there's no denying how tight their bond is. Over time we learn that Tully has abandonment issues and looks for anyone — especially men — to love her. Her journey takes her to the big apple where she achieves all the glitz and glamour that life has to offer.

Kate goes on to become a wife and mother, two things she believes she wants, but it becomes clear that she's missing something. That something is what begins to burn a hole in her being and the more she watches her best friend Tully live a successful life, the more she wants that for herself too.

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Elena Richardson and Mia Warren go to warn in this moving novel about classism. It dares to ask readers who deserves to be seen as a shining example of a mother as both women eventually face how far they're willing to go to protect those they love.

For Elena, Shaker Heights is all she's ever known. She's married, has four children, and is well-loved in her community. She believes that she's been able to achieve everything she has because she knows how to be the woman who doesn't color outside of the lines.

On the other hand, Mia is an artist who knows all about creating masterpieces with elements that are otherwise seen as messy. She and her daughter Pearl become a little too close to the Richardsons, finding their lives dangerously intertwined with them.

When a custody battle ensues that involves the young daughter of Mia co-worker, she finds herself willing to dismantle the pretty facade of not only Shaker Heights, but Elena as well.

Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed (Only 2 Left in Stock)

Cheryl Strayed has spent over 10 years dishing out advice as 'Dear Sugar' has touched people with her columns, podcast Dear Sugars, and Substack. Deciding to compile all of the best things she's ever told people, Cheryl Strayed pieced together Tiny Beautiful Things so that readers around the world won't have to look far for her empathetic wisdom.

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn

Georgia Mulcahy is the ultimate people-pleaser and her career is the epitome of it. She'd probably always be that way had it not been for a unexpected career change that sends her packing back home. Begrudgingly, she goes and soon discovers a diary where she once wrote down all of her heart's desires.

This inspires her to start checking things off her life's to-do list so that she can really start living. It's just that Levi Fanning is somehow her unexpected roommate while she's at her parents' home and his offer to help her complete her list feels like something she didn't know she'd encounter.

The more they spend time together, the more Georgie feels like there's more to life than checking off things on a list.

The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict

The Mitford sisters have always been the talk of the town, but nothing is as shocking as when one of the sisters decides she'd rather devote herself to a fascist leader. Another sister decides it's worth following her and this leads people to whisper salacious things about her alleged relationship with Hitler.

As the war between Great Britain and Germany threaten to spill over, their sister Nancy can't help but wonder what her sisters have gotten themselves into. She'll have to decide where her own allegiance lies.

Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle

Daphne Bell has always known how long she'll be with a man before moving on to the next one. It's not that she's flighty, but more so that the universe literally tells her what to expect. These little nudges have been in her life for over two decades and it's something she's learned to accept.

However, the universe decides to be cryptic by only clueing her in on the name of the next man she'll spend time with. It's odd because if Jake knew the things she did, there's a chance he could walk away from her forever and that's the last thing Daphne wants.

On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass

Brighton Hills appears to be a picturesque place to live. It's a community that beautifully blends luxurious living with the gorgeous nature that surrounds it and the neighbors always have their eyes on each other.

However, Cora's desire to find out if her husband is having an affair leads her to form a partnership with Paige. She's the one neighbor that Cora knows keeps a watchful eye on what's going on in Brighton Hills after her son died.

The two women work together to discover what Cora's husband is really up to, but what they may stumble across will send a shockwave through Brighton Hills.

Discounted Kindle Book Deals

Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalo

The Prince of Envy is struggling to save his demon court in Throne of the Fallen, but he's determined to find a way to do so. He's not afraid of the magic and mysterious people that keep crossing his path because nothing can stop his fierce desire to regain the control he once has.

Things are seemingly no different from Miss Camilla Antonius because she's facing blackmail by someone who literally makes her skin crawl. In order to change her fate, she reluctantly joins forces with The Prince of Envy and thus begins their dangerous journey through the Underworld.

It's the one place that may pull them together in more ways than one.

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen

Hart spends most of his time patrolling Tanria, but the loneliness does nothing to keep him company. Things couldn't be any different for Mercy though. She's tasked with making sure things are running properly at Birdsall & Son Undertakers and doesn't have time for anyone's foolery.

Ironically, Hart and Mercy both have taken up writing mysterious letters to strangers who have become their friends. The thing is they're not aware they've been communicating with each other.

It's a classic enemies-to-loves fantasy novel that'll make you smile with glee.

The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose

Molly Gray is the Head Maid at the prestigious Regency Grand Hotel and runs a tight ship that makes sure the hotel maintains a flair that guests have become accustomed to. All is going well until successful author J.D. Grimthorpe suddenly collapses and is pronounced dead.

This lands Detective Stark — someone Molly doesn't exactly get along with — back on the scene as it's realized there's something terribly wrong going on. Anyone could be a suspect, including Molly. It'll be up to her to revisit things she's kept secret — like the trip she took to Grimthorpe's property long ago.

Happy Place by Emily Henry

Emily Henry knows exactly what it takes to write a moving novel that's filled with friendship, laughter, and romance. That's why it's not surprising that Happy Place is well loved by #BookTok and #Bookstagram.

It's all about how a once happy couple — Harriet and Wyn — find themselves embroiled in an interesting ruse so their friends don't suspect something's wrong with them. The fact is that they're no longer together and can barely stand being in the same room anymore.

It would be find if they weren't expected to happily show up to the cottage that's become the yearly hub for them and their friends. Still, they begrudgingly decide to make an appearance.

What's the worst that could happen?

For the first time, you'll be able to read Happy Place on Kindle for $5!

We can't wait to see what you snag during the Amazon Book Sale! Check out our storefront for more reading recs!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead images via Amazon

This post has been updated.