Here Are All the Hallmark Channel Christmas Movies You Need to Watch This Year

Nicole Villeneuve
Oct 29, 2016

Look, we know it’s still fall. We’re still working on our Halloween costumes and milking every last bit of pumpkin spice errthing (well, mostly errthing) out of these comfortably cool months. But before you know it, it’ll be Gilmore Girls premiere weekend, aka Thanksgiving, and after that, of course, comes the most wonderful time of the year: Christmas.

Starting this Saturday, October 29 (yep, before Halloween!), with the premiere of A Wish for Christmas, the Hallmark Channel turns into a full-fledged all-day, all-night Christmas movie channel, so if you’re someone who’s not fond of seasons being celebrated earlier than they maybe should, this is not for you. But if you’re like us and can’t wait to embrace all things Christmas, read on for highlights from the massive movie lineup, and have your calendar ready for some serious couch-time scheduling!

1. October 29 — A Wish for Christmas: Lacey Chabert plays Sara Shaw, a woman who needs some help from Santa to have more bravery and speak her mind at work — but the wish only lasts for 48 hours. Will Sara learn to stand up for herself even without the help of magic? We have a feeling that might be a “yes.”

2. November 5 — The Mistletoe Promise: Jaime King and Luke Macfarlane play strangers who meet serendipitously and who have one thing in common: They’re both Scrooges about Christmas. As they enter a pact to help each other through the season, their fake coupledom might end up being more than business.

3. November 12 — Every Christmas Has a Story: Lori Loughlin ALSO plays a Christmas cynic who, while on air as a broadcaster, slips up and shares her feelings with viewers. As she gets forced on assignment to try to rebuild her image, she might just end up loving the season after all.

4. November 13 — Christmas Cookies: This one centers on the classic story line of a giant corporate company trying to shut down a mom-and-pop shop (in this case a cookie company), and all the changes of heart that happen within.

5. November 19 — My Christmas Dream: Danica McKellar plays a retail manager with dreams to be promoted to the Paris store. She has to impress her boss with a store display first, and ends up falling for her old co-worker who she enlists to help. Will she stay or will she go?!

6. November 20 — A December Bride: Jessica Lowndes plays aspiring interior designer Layla who is dreading her cousin’s upcoming wedding to her own ex-fiancé. When she ends up begrudgingly going to the wedding with the guy who introduced the bride and groom, sparks fly.

7. November 23 — Christmas in Homestead: Taylor Cole plays a famous actress who, while on location in the Christmas-obsessed town of Homestead, Iowa, finds an unlikely romance with the local inn keeper and single dad, Matt. The small-town life might end up being more fulfilling than she thought.

8. November 24 — Christmas List: Alicia Witt plays Isobel, a woman obsessed with creating the picture-perfect Christmas. But when her boyfriend bails and she’s tempted by a new romance, she learns to embrace the unexpected.

9. November 25 — Journey Back to Christmas: Candace Cameron Bure plays Hannah, a WWII-era nurse who finds herself transported to the year 2016. In her journeys she learns that the true meaning of Christmas is timeless.

10. November 26 — A Heavenly Christmas: Kristen Davis plays a workaholic who meets an untimely end and finds herself learning to become a Christmas angel in Heaven. She’s not great at it off the bat, but over time, she learns she’s actually pretty good at helping other people.

11. November 27 — Broadcasting Christmas: As two reporters (Melissa Joan Hart and Dean Cain!) duke it out for a coveted hosting job, they must spend the two weeks leading up to Christmas outdoing each other by finding the best Christmas stories to report on. But in so doing, the people they meet and the stories they hear give them some perspective on what’s really important — and it isn’t just a job.

12. December 3 — A Dream of Christmas: Nikki DeLoach plays Penny, a woman who isn’t content with her life. When she wakes up one morning in an alternate reality and with everything she THOUGHT she wanted, she quickly learns to appreciate what she had — and now she’s got to get it back.

13. December 4 — Looks Like Christmas: Two single parents duke it out over who will run their children’s school’s Christmas play, only to have to learn to work together and maybe — JUST MAYBE — fall in love. We know you didn’t see that one coming.

14. December 10 — A Nutcracker Christmas: Lilly’s biggest dream comes true when she lands the lead in The Nutcracker. But when she receives the tragic news that her sister has died, her world falls apart.

15. December 11 — Meant to Be: Maddie is an all-business marketing exec whose car troubles lead her to the holiday-obsessed town of Christmas Valley. While there she meets strangers who feel like family and starts questioning what it really is she wants from life.

16. December 17 — My Christmas Love: Okay, this one sounds super fun. When a hopeless romantic starts anonymously receiving the gifts from 12 Days of Christmas at her door, she and her squad set out to find the mystery suitor and see if it’s too good to be true.

17. December 18 — Sleigh Bells Ring: The woman in charge of her town’s Christmas parade gets a chance to use Santa’s REAL LIFE SLEIGH in the parade. Obviously, this sleigh has special powers and it leads her to all sorts of magic, like the Christmas spirit and also a handsome man.

18. December 25 — When the Heart Calls Christmas: This Christmas-day flick tells the heartwarming story of a town coming together to give those less fortunate a happy holiday.

19. January 1 — A Rose for Christmas: Rachel Boston plays Andy, who needs to take the reigns from her sick dad and finish his client’s float for the Rose Parade. She’s stuck working with a stodgy businessman, but, spoiler alert: Maybe they’re more compatible than it seems.

Which Christmas movie are you most excited about? Let us know over @BritandCo!

(Photos via Hallmark Channel)

8 Small Rolling Suitcases To Elevate Your Travel Game

I can't be the only one who dreads deal with TSA during security checkpoints, so it's important for me to find small rolling suitcases that make traveling 10x easier. I can't tell you how many times my items have been haphazardly ransacked during 'random' security checks only for me to curse my packing skills — ugh!

There's one bright side to my dilemma though: small rolling suitcases that have study exteriors and well-proportioned interiors. This is the key to making sure my travel essentials stay in one place. Tired of tripping over your suitcase because of its unstable wheels or fearing that you still won't do everything TSA agents ask? I've got 8 chic small rolling suitcases that'll help you navigate the airport without breaking a sweat in no time!

Shop Small Rolling Suitcases Here!

Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carryon Luggage (Ivy Green Topography)

One of the most important features of small rolling suitcases is their exterior. Since you'll likely be sprinting through the airport or jogging down escalators if they're not busy, you need something that can withstand being dragged. Herschel is known for creating luggage that's travel-tested

This carryon luggage is made with 70% recycled polycarbonate and it has silent wheels. It's like your travel companion that truly understands you have places to be and doesn't complain as you're navigating your busy airport.

CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage (Rose Gold)

Here's your sign to get a rose gold rolling suitcase that can serve as your carryon item. It has 360-degree spinner wheels that'll work with you and not against you (IYKYK), plus the internal pockets make it easier for you to pack efficiently. You may want to check with the attendants on your flight, but this suitcase is designed to fit under your seat so you don't have to fight with an inconsiderate person for a space in the overhead storage bin.

Monos Terracotta Carryon

Sometimes you just want something cute and floral like this limited edition rolling suitcase. It's water-resistant and has an internal lining that's made from 100% recycled polyester! The internal features I like are the buckle straps that makes sure your clothes won't slide all over the place and the removable compression pad with zippered pockets to store flat items.

BÉIS The Carry On Roller (Atlas Pink)

We've all had experience with the dreaded TSA line that makes us question our sanity and age. But, BÉIS wants to eliminate your stress with their pink carry on rolling suitcase. It also have 360-degree wheels that'll happily go wherever you do and the interior? Well, let's just say you'll be able to find what you need when it's time to place everything on the conveyor belt.

Take that TSA agents!

OLOV 18” Underseat Carry-On Small Suitcase (Blue)

Embarking on a few quick getaways this summer and don't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage? You'll need to consider small rolling suitcases that are sturdy, yet lightweight. OLOV'S under seat carryon features an interior buckle to keep your items secured and allows you to pack the basics.

It also has a three digit combination lock in case someone decides to press their luck if you happen to fall asleep during your flight.

Vera Bradley Small Spinner Luggage (Fresh-Cut Floral Green)

In need of a portable rolling suitcase that can hold your clothes and serve as a charging dock for your phone? Vera Bradley already read your mind and has just the thing for you. The interior has two zippered sides that allow you to separate your necessities from each other based on function (clothes on one side and sandals on the other).

This spinner luggage also has an integrated lock that makes your time in TSA go a little smoother. If it's not obvious, we've had some rather unpleasant experiences with agents mishandling our items 😖.

Bric’s By Ulisse Carry-On Expandable Spinner with USB Port (MANGO)

If you thought we were done showing you chic and functional small rolling suitcases, you're almost right. Besides reminding us of the sunny weather we've been experiencing during spring, this carryon has a three stage telescopic handle that makes holding on a breeze!

From there, the interior has a pretty printed lining, full zipper section and mesh pocket, a stretchable strap to protect your items, and a shoe/laundry bag!

And just when you thought the features stop there, the carryon wants you to know it has a TSA-approved lock that comes with a universal key that only security can use to carefully inspect your items.

Sigh, we just love thoughtful designs!

BKYLN Tees Mint Gardenia Carry On Suitcase

Doesn't this cute mint green and floral suitcase seem like it was made to store all your vacation outfits? Designed in none other than Brooklyn, NY, this beauty is available in three sizes and is as functional as it's chic. It also has spinner wheels that make traveling a breeze and will look good no matter how it's stored.

Follow our storefront for more travel inspo!

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

Lead image via Monos

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16 Foods To Instantly Give Your Skin An Inside-Out Glow For Summer

What you eat can greatly affect your skin, causing different side effects, both good and bad. Luckily, there are so many foods that can revitalize your skin and get it back to feeling radiant and looking glowy from the inside out — and just in time for summer! If you don't know where to start, we've got you covered with expert advice on all the best foods for your skin, plus all those bites you might wanna avoid.

Best Foods For Your Skin

Photo by Olena Bohovyk/Unsplash

Grapes, Strawberries, Blood Oranges, and Watermelon

Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics, says that colorful fruit are key to achieving good skin! She says, "Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, and healthy fats like butter or plant oils help improve skin immunity and protect against environmental UV damage. Liquid collagen is popular as a skin-rejuvenating food or supplement, but when you do that, make sure you are making the smoothie with collagen peptides. The collagen is broken into small pieces called peptides which absorb much better and signal your body to regenerate collagen." So clearly, collagen is vital if you want to have glowy skin.

Elina also says, "It is a scientifically proven fact that people who eat very high levels of antioxidant-rich diets with fruits and vegetables and anthocyanosides — they can stay in the sun without any protection much longer because their body can protect them naturally from UV damage." Her three rules for healthy skin?

  1. No processed foods.
  2. Eat tons of antioxidants.
  3. Use an SPF — preferably one that is a mineral Zinc Oxide based — alongside protective hats in the sun.

So not only can certain foods make your skin look radiant, they can also protecting you from the sun with proper precautions! We love to hear that!

Photo by Dose Juice/Unsplash

Leafy Greens, Broccoli, Asparagus, and Edamame

Leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, and edamame are some of our favorite foods to eat that will give you that inside-out glow. Nutritionist and wellness expert Jessica Green says, "Silica rich foods are a great place to start — these include celery, asparagus, banana, cucumber, green beans to name my favorite. When you juice some of these, they can become more bio-available. Celery juice for instance is excellent at giving your skin a beautiful natural glow. Collagen rich foods can help improve skin elasticity — bone broth is my absolute favorite for not only its skin benefit but bone broth is also very calming for the gut."

Skin elasticity can easily be improved through these foods and can make you look 10 years younger! I definitely notice a significant difference in my skin when I regularly eat collagen-rich foods than when I don't!

Photo by Thought Catalog/Unsplash

Avocado and Olive Oil

Avocados and olive oil are really going to up your skin game, and giving you that gorgeous glow for summer we're really looking for. Kristen White, RDN, CLT, says, "Clean fats like olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, and tallow in our diet help replenish needed vitamins and fatty acids to help skin look its vibrant best." That's exactly what we want!

In regards to olive oil, it really is the must-have when it comes to achieving a glowy complexion. Jenny Jiles, a holistic nutritionist says, "Olive oil is the GOAT. We know why all of those women in the Mediterranean look so vibrant and sexy as they age, because olive oil is such a staple in their diet. Don’t be afraid of this healthy fat, it’s filled with antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids which help protect your skin from free radicals to reduce those fine lines and help you glow from the inside out. Add olive oil to any and all of your meals, savory or sweet (yes, trust me on that)." So I guess the key to looking like an Italian goddess this summer (and always) is olive oil!

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco/Unsplash

Chia, Flax Seeds, and Sunflower Seeds

Many seeds and grains are going to be crucial in giving you radiant skin. Plus, they have so many healing properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation in the skin. Christine Glaser, CEO of DIY Skincare Business, says, "Chia and flax seeds are also helpful for all skin types and can aid in toxin removal." And sunflower seeds actually have antibacterial properties too that help get rid of toxins in order to keep your skin looking fresh and clear; thus the radiant skin we're trying to achieve here!

Photo by María Sainz Cabezalí/Unsplash

Red Bell Peppers, Carrot, and Tomatoes

You always want to have a variety of colors when eating fruits and vegetables because this will help you get the most out of your diet and achieve maximum radiance. A health expert and dietician, Chrissy Arsenault of Kori, says, "Eat lots of fruits and veggies. Choose 2-3 colors of fruits and veggies at every meal – fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) that protect your skin from damage." And tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are very rich in color so they will give you so many great nutritional benefits that will assist in giving you a perfect inside-out glow!

What foods should I avoid for my skin?

Photo by MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS

If you want radiant, clear, acne-free skin then you definitely want to avoid foods high in dairy or sugar. Jessica Green says, "When it comes to foods to avoid for radiant skin, sugar and dairy float to the top. Both are inflammatory. Sugar causes glycation which damages the skin's elasticity. Dairy (cow dairy specifically) tends to be one of the most common foods that cause reactions for people including acne and puffiness." I'm definitely taking note to try and cut our these foods now!

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Lead image via Pexels/Sora Shimazaki

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RIP Rory Gilmore, You Would’ve Loved These Two “Tortured Poets Department” Songs

If there are two things you can count on, it's that I'm always thinking about Gilmore Girls and I'm always listening to Taylor Swift. As soon as I pressed play on The Tortured Poets Department, I could tell this album would resonate with so many experiences I had a child and a teenager. I've always been imaginative (and, admittedly, a bit spacey), and to this day, I never leave home without a book.

I've built thousands of imaginary worlds and crafted endless stories, but have always had difficulty keeping up with real-world relationships. So, needless to say, when I listened to Taylor Swift's new album and heard "I Hate It Here" and "The Bolter," I felt seen. I also realized these two songs would speak to Rory Gilmore in the same way!

Rory Gilmore Would Love "I Hate It Here" By Taylor Swift...

Image via Warner Bros. TV

"I Hate It Here" totally showcases Taylor Swift's ability to express raw emotions, and it also perfectly captures Rory Gilmore's struggles during certain periods of her life. The lyrics reflect frustration and dissatisfaction we can all feel sometimes (I know I've definitely felt them), and while Rory and Taylor's dreams in and of themselves are different, they both want to leave their small towns to achieve them. Whether it's feeling overwhelmed by expectations or facing setbacks in her career in Gilmore Girls season 5, Rory has moments throughout the series where she feels a bit trapped.

But even more than the physical meaning of the song is the imaginary one. Taylor sings about creating worlds in her mind and diving into books to escape the mundane. Rory reads more than any fictional character I've ever seen before because she also craves that escapism! The lyrics of "I Hate It Here" resonate with Rory when she wants to live different lives, and it encapsulates the moments when she struggles or questions her decisions — relatable!

...And She'd Feel Attacked By "The Bolter" By Taylor Swift

Image via Warner Bros. TV

TBH, I'm half convinced "The Bolter" is referencing Amy March (after all, Amy has been "reviled" by readers for hundreds of years, and she "almost drowned...in frigid water" like Taylor sings), which is just another literary reference Rory would pick up on.

In "The Bolter," Taylor Swift captures the essence of a woman constantly seeking adventure and change, just like Rory Gilmore, and it's all about the idea of a restless spirit. While the lyrics can be taken from a hypothetical standpoint (feeling trapped by relationships or other people's expectations), we can also talk about it literally considering Rory physically runs away from Jess.

Rory might desire love, but the idea of it also scares her — two facts that don't cancel each other out! Just like Taylor Swift, I think Rory's thrilled by the idea of escape simply because she's so risk averse in other areas of her life. Once again, I say, relatable!!

"The Bolter" and "I Hate It Here" are both incredibly engaging songs because they highlight just how complex we are as humans — both in the ways we relate to ourselves and other people. And they're just two Taylor Swift songs Rory would definitely add to her playlist.

Which Taylor Swift and Rory Gilmore parallels do you see? Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture musings!

Lead image via Warner Bros. TV

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