Minka Kelly Says “Friday Night Lights” Helped Her Heal From A Chaotic Childhood

Apr 21, 2023

You might recognize Minka Kelly from Friday Night Lights and Euphoria, but her brand new memoir Tell Me Everything(releasing May 2) shows a whole new side of her story. The memoir gives us an inside look into her childhood, bouncing around the country as she was raised by a single mother who struggled with addiction and worked as a stripper.

In an interview with People, Kelly says she wants Tell Me Everything to help women who "might have complicated relationships with their mothers, feel less alone [and] to know that we don't have to be a victim of our circumstance."

www.youtube.com

Minka Kelly on Opening Up In New Memoir: "I Carried A Lot of Shame" | PEOPLE

Kelly's grace and optimism allows her to find the silver linings of her childhood — even though it was difficult, she also describes it as colorful and chaotic, noting that it made her adaptable. Acting became a place where Kelly could channel all of the emotion she didn't know how to process otherwise. After a few guest roles, she landed popular girl Lyla Garrity on the family sports drama Friday Night Lights in 2006.

"I found acting before therapy, so it was my first sort of place where I got to learn who I was. And that's a big part of acting is knowing what you have to offer," she says.

Image via Amazon

She credits her first acting teacher Janet Alhanti with helping her grow and develop as a woman: "No one had ever seen me the way she did or called me on all the bullshit that I was offering, and that felt really good for someone to be a little hard on me."

Kelly and her mother eventually reached a point in their relationship when they were no longer speaking, and it wasn't until her mother began to get sick that they began to mend their relationship.

"I spent a lot of my youth wishing my mom was something she wasn't," Kelly continues in the interview. "I only was able to really appreciate how special she was when I got much older. In fact, when it was maybe a little too late."

Kelly's mother passed away from cancer in 2008. However, she knows that, even though it's tempting to focus on the past, there is still so much of her story to tell: "I'm a work in progress I think like a lot of women out there."

You can pre-order Tell Me Everything here, and check out our email newsletter for more inspiring celebrity content.

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

Header image via Amazon

What To Watch After You Finish "Bridgerton"

Just like fantasy stories can transport us to new worlds, period dramas are one way to get a whole new (er, old) glimpse of the world you wouldn't see otherwise. Just like contemporary films, period dramas have their fair share of relationship drama and scandal, with some amazing outfits to boot. After you've watched (and rewatched) season 3 of Bridgerton, add one — or better yet, all — of these picks to your watchlist! Once you've figured out what you're pressing play on first, read up on why The Bridgerton Cast Is “Obsessed” With Claudia Jessie.

Atonement — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Universal Pictures

Every time I talk to my team here at Brit + Co about their favorite period dramas, Atonement always makes the list. And for good reason! It's an emotional, sweeping piece that feels like different genres as it moves from family drama to romance to a war epic. The cast includes names like Saoirse Ronan, James McAvoy, and Keira Knightley.

Little Women — Stream on Hulu

Image via Sony Pictures

Everyone can love this story, even if you don't have sisters — although being a sister has definitely made me love it even more. There are two versions I recommend: the 1994 version with Winona Ryder, Christian Bale, and Kirsten Dunst, or Greta Gerwig's 2019 version with Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, and Emma Watson.

In my opinion, Greta's version is a little bit more thought-provoking for the viewer, but between both film's arcs, I prefer the 1994 film's linear structure. You can't go wrong with either movie, so why not watch both?

Emily — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

My Letterboxd review after seeing Emily in theaters basically called this family the English, more tragic version of Little Women's March sisters. The celebration of creativity and identity feel even more powerful against the darker aesthetic and all of the painful experiences Emily Brontë lives through. Plus, it has one of the most emotional scores of 2023 that I've had on repeat ever since I watched it!

Mr. Malcolm's List — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

When Julia Thistlewaite gets rejected by London's most eligible bachelor (the titular Mr. Malcolm), she decides to turn her friend into his ideal match, and get a little bit of revenge while she's at it. Anyone who loves Bridgerton's costumes (and Princess Diana's revenge dress) is gonna want to add this to their queue.

Pride & Prejudice — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Focus Features

Avid fans of Jane Austen's book (including yours truly) will likely give you two recommendations that each have their own viral scene: Colin Firth's lake diving in the 1995 BBC mini series or Matthew MacFadyen's hand flex after helping Keira Knightley into a carriage in the 2005 film. All jokes aside, both titles are wonderful celebrations of the story!

Belle — Stream on Max

Image via Searchlight Pictures

In this political, historical romance, Belle is the illegitimate, biracial daughter of a British admiral who's raised by her uncle. As she grows up alongside her cousin, Belle questions her identity as she realizes she belongs with neither the servants nor the family. And when she meets John, she becomes in integral part of the abolitionist movement in England.

Downton Abbey — Stream on Peacock

Image via PBS/NBC

If you love period pieces but prefer a slower pace, I'd recommend Downton Abbey. The stakes are high and some viewers still haven't gotten over the death of their favorite character (I'm talking about myself here), but I don't think it's as overstimulating as a lot of other dramas involving war, death, and relationships. Plus you literally CANNOT go wrong with Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess. The studio just announced a third movie, so now is the perfect time to start the series!

Becoming Jane — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Disney/Miramax

James McAvoy makes the list again with this semi-biographical film on Jane Austen's life. One of the best parts of any historical drama is when the main couple dances at a ball, and Becoming Jane has one of my favorite dances of all time. Fans of the author criticized the film when it came out, but if you go into it with an open mind, it's very enjoyable (and might just make you cry, too).

Marie Antoinette — Stream on Max

Image via Columbia Pictures

I finally watched Sofia Coppola's iconic film for the first time, and it was as much a feast for the eyes as I'd hoped. Kirsten Dunst stuns as the infamous queen, and in addition to the textured, maximalist visuals, the story did make me think about Marie Antoinette in a new way. Considering I've been obsessed with her since middle school, that's saying something!

Emma — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Focus Features

If you love the visuals in Marie Antoinette, then I'm pretty sure you'll love this 2020 Jane Austen retelling. Every detail of the movie feels like its own piece of art (even the physical blocking and movements of the actors feels like a dance), and they all come together to create something cohesive, beautiful, and fun. You can also go for Gwyneth Paltrow's 1996 version or Clueless, which was inspired by Austen's book.

Sense and Sensibility — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Columbia Pictures

With names like Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant, this movie has always felt wildly underrated, so consider this my official plea asking you to watch it. It's got everything: Family! Drama! True love! Taylor Swift also said during her Tribeca Film Festival talk in 2022 that it inspired her album Evermore, so there's that.

Why Didn't They Ask Evans? — Stream on BritBox

Image via BritBox

I love this miniseries so much that I watch it every year. At this point, it's a tradition! Lucy Boynton and Will Poulter are so fun together, and their banter will leave rom-com lovers giggling and kicking their feet. Plus the 1930s fashions are just SO good.

Let us know what your favorite period dramas are in the comments, and check out the 2024 Movies you can look forward to this year!

Lead image via Sony Pictures

This post has been updated.

15 Light Summer Meals You’ll Have On Rotation All Season Long

After all of summer's daylong adventures spent outside in the heat, the very last thing you want to do is fire up the oven for dinner. These 15 light summer meals come to the rescue with fresh ingredients, minimal prep work and cook time, plus the perfect serving sizes so you don't feel weighed down one bit.

Niçoise Salad

Salads are perhaps the most expected light summer meals, but this one totally defies expectations by being packed with tons of nutritious goodies like tomatoes, green beans, olives, egg, and tuna. (via Brit + Co)

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

The trick to making these gorgeous Mediterranean chicken skewers is letting the marinade, well, marinate for up to 24 hours. This period of letting the flavors soak in is the most labor-intensive part of this recipe – the actual grilling part will only last 10-12 minutes! Serve with some fresh veg to really get in the groove. (via Brit + Co)

Greek Salad

This no-cook salad makes the ultimate side dish for backyard get-togethers! It's bursting with flavor from crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, salty olives, and feta cheese. The tangy dressing is a simple mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper – all measured to your liking. (via Brit + Co)

Pineapple Al Pastor Tacos

Pineapple is the prime fruit for summer, so we'll take any excuse to incorporate it into our recipes! A strong, flavorful al pastor marinade generously coats some chicken before getting quickly grilled and layered with pineapple salsa in this light summer recipe. Goes exceptionally well with an ice-cold beer or tequila cocktails! (via Brit + Co)

California Black Bean Burgers

All you need to craft these uber-fresh (and way better than store-bought) veggie burgers is a food processor and the hearty mix of beans, grains, and spices. Forewarning, you will need to use the oven to cook 'em, albeit at a low temperature of 250°F. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Chickpea Cranberry Lettuce Wraps

Sometimes chowing down on meat feels like too hard a chore, especially in the scorching-hot summer. That's where vegan recipes like this one come in! No cooking is required for the chickpea-cranberry filling that gets stuffed into crisp romaine wraps. These make an excellent light lunch or even mid-day snack! (via Brit + Co)

Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs

Although these chicken thighs require a good amount of time in the skillet, you could easily save yourself the time and effort by meal prepping a ton of pieces to eat on throughout the week. The honey-lemon flavors are *not* to be missed, and once cooked, you can enjoy this protein hot or cold. (via Brit + Co)

Spring Mix Salad with Lemon Baked Tofu

This crunchy salad is topped with perhaps the tastiest baked tofu bits around. They get wonderfully seasoned with ginger, lemon, miso, mustard, and other spices, all while supplying a good serving of plant-based protein. The salad bed itself is also bulked up with quinoa, avocado, and edamame. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

If you're hungry for something a bit heartier, the Instant Pot can be a big helper in achieving satisfying summer meals since it's relatively hands-off. This one-pot pasta dish is pressure cooked to cheesy perfection for only 5 minutes, and delivers a delicious garlicky, umami-y flavor you'll wanna eat again and again. (via Brit + Co)

Watermelon Feta Mint Salad

Watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, and fresh mint is an underrated combo that you just *have* to try out this season. This salad recipe makes a great side for any and all light summer meals, or you could simply serve it as the main course just as easily! (via The Edgy Veg)

Vegan Summer Rolls

Any food served in wrap form gets our stamp of approval, and these vegan rolls stuffed with miso-glazed tofu pieces and plenty of colorful veggies are simply ahh-mazing. They are also super adaptable based on you and your family's personal preferences. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Make some bomb Caesar salad, toss some freshly-cooked pasta in that bad boy, and boom – you've got yourself one of the easiest, tastiest light summer meals out there. You don't necessarily need to craft your own dressing, either, if you don't want to. Just go with the best store-bought stuff to save yourself some time this summer, and it'll be just as good! (via Completely Delicious)

Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

You certainly won't miss out on your daily serving of veggies with this Asian-inspired noodle salad! The best part is the carrots, radishes, and cabbage are all thinly sliced and julienned so they kind of hide in between and blend in with the egg noodles. The peanut sauce that drenches every inch of this dish is to die for. (via Vikalinka)

Quinoa, Cherry & Goat Cheese Salad

Recipes that have both savory and sweet elements to them are fantastic for switching up your usual meal routine. This summer-ready quinoa salad brimming with cherries, goat cheese, and mint is just the thing you need for a healthy and fun-to-eat lunch or dinner this season! (via Averie Cooks)

Tuscan Bean Salad

Bean salads are a nice summer lunch staple to hang onto since they're heavy on protein content. You won't need to turn on a single appliance to make this one that assumes the best Tuscan flavors – cannellini beans, tomatoes, parsley, and onion are tossed together and served with a perfectly zesty dressing. If you wish to bulk up your bite even more, consider adding sliced salami or diced chicken to the mix! (via Earthly Provisions)

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is worthy of any summer BBQs, potlucks, or dinner parties you have in the pipeline. It's definitely on the more filling side, but still light enough for the season since you can serve it cold. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Subscribe to our newsletter for more fresh summer recipes!

Lead image via Crowded Kitchen.

recipes summer recipes light summer recipes healthy meals food

Kyle Richards Just Leaked Whether She'll Return For "RHOBH" Season 14

Last season of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, we all speculated that Kyle Richards swapped one Mo for another given her separation from Mauricio Umansky and budding friendship with Morgan Wade. While Richards was tight lipped throughout each episode, we learned a lot more from Buying Beverly Hills and tabloids alike, featuring more definitive timelines and theories about what was really going on at home with the Richards-Umansky family. Now, with Mauricio reportedly fully moved out and Morgan allegedly out of the picture, what's left for Real Housewives of Beverly Hills season 14? Here's a breakdown of everything we know, from returning cast members, remaining couples, and more.

Who's returning to "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" for season 14?

Images via Bravo

There aren't any official announcements from Bravo about the returning cast yet, but there are plenty of stories out there about who's not returning — and who's potentially getting demoted!

First up is Dorit Kemsley. Dorit's been on the show a while now, gabbing and girling with Kyle Richard throughout the latter half of the show's history — but there's been a wrench in that relationship ever since Kyle befriended Morgan Wade. And now, The Daily Mail exclusively reported that Dorit may even get demoted to "friend of the show" after not being fully truthful about the state of her relationship with husband PK Kemsley — more on that in a moment. Kyle Richards "dismissed" these reports, but we'll have to see about that. Fingers crossed she and Kyle can mend things...and that she and the producers can as well!

Next, we've gotta address Anne Marie Wiley. Anne Marie was let go from the show after just one season — where we can't help but giggle at the journey from calling herself a literal doctor to finally addressing that she's actually a nurse — and is allegedly okay with it. She told Peoplethat she's "in a great space" since then, so...good for you, girl! Just maybe don't obsess over someone's esophagus in your next foray into the film and TV world.

A regular for the last three season, Crystal Kung Minkoff is also not returning to the RHOBH world, according to Deadline. She noted on Instagram how heavy it was to carry "the weight" of being the first — and only — Asian American woman to join the RHOBH cast. Her presence and thoughtful opinions will definitely be missed!

Kyle Richards just announced on her Amazon Live this Tuesday that she's all set to return for season 14. She explained that even though the last year of filming was tough given the state of her marriage, she's ready to return to the show and have some fun. While she and Mauricio are still in the middle of their split, she anticipates he'll make some appearances on the show still. She said, “I’m sure he will [appear this season] because, you know, he is obviously family."

For now, we can only assume that Garcelle Beauvais, Erika Jayne, Dorit Kemsley, and Sutton Stracke will make a return, but only time — and tabloids — will tell!

Will any new cast members join "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" season 14?

Image via NBC

Apparently Melanie Griffith, known for starring in projects like Working Girl, is joining the RHOBH crew for season 14, according to In Touch Weekly! She's a long-time friend to Kyle Richards, and I think that'll add a great dynamic...especially given how rocky things got between Kyle and Dorit last year. The girl needs friends now more than ever!

One of the sillier rumored cast situations is that Chelsea Handler was joining the show. The hilarious comedian quickly shut that down, however.

A person we don't think will ever return as a main cast member, friend, or otherwise? Miss upside down jacket herself, Denise Richards. 🤭

Who's still a couple on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" right now?

Image via Netflix

That's a very, very good question! Kyle and Mauricio are definitely broken up, and seemingly for good. The only other remaining couple was Dorit and PK, but that's all changing quickly. In April, The Daily Mailreported that PK's living in the Beverly Hills Hotel at the moment. Now, Dorit officially posted an update about their relationship on Instagram. It says:

"We as a couple have been subject to a lot of speculation about our marriage. We have had our struggles over the last few years and continue to work through them as two people who love each other and share two amazing children together. To safeguard our deep friendship and maintain a harmonious environment for our children we have made the mutual and difficult decision to take some time apart and reevaluate our relationship while we prioritize our children. We appreciate your love and support while we continue to do the work necessary throughout this journey. With love, Dorit and PK"

Comments poured in from fans and fellow housewives alike. Lisa Rinna commented, "I love you ❤️," followed by Kathy Hilton and Anne Marie Wiley's prayer hands and heart emojis. While this doesn't necessarily spell out divorce, it doesn't look great for the longtime couple. All in all, I'm hoping for a healthy outcome for the whole family!

When will "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" season 14 air?

Image via Bravo

There's no set air date for Real Housewives of Beverly Hills season 14, but I'd have to guess that we'll see these ladies (and whoever else joins them) by sometime in 2025.

Looking for more entertainment news? Follow us on Facebook!

Header image via NBCUniversal Media

kyle richards real housewives real housewives of beverly hills tv mauricio umansky entertainment reality tv

7 Delightful Bridgerton Cocktails For Your Season 3 Premiere Watch Party

Dear readers, if there's on thing that's certain, it's that we're just brimming with excitement for Bridgerton season 3(which premieres on Netflix May 16). The gossip amongst The Ton tells us that this next installment is absolutely worth giving a toast to – or even prepping an entire Bridgerton brunchspread! There are 8 whole episodes to indulge in, so you'll want something to sip on as the show unfolds. Take these Bridgerton-inspired cocktails with you for your season 3 watch party!

Garden Gimlet

This floral gimlet is perfect for an outdoor get-together, similar to how the Bridgerton cast strolls down the promenade. Simply mix 2 oz Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin, 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup in a coupe glass, then top things off tastefully with a lavender sprig. (via Empress 1908 Gin for Brit + Co)

London Fog Latte

These London Fog lattes are also traditionally made non-alcoholic, but you can always add in a splash of your go-to spirit! To make one, steep 2 Earl Grey tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes, then add ¾ cup steamed (or warmed) milk and 2 to 3 tablespoons vanilla syrup or honey for sweetness. Yum! (via The Official Bridgerton Guide to Entertaining for Brit + Co)

Rumor-Stirring Blueberry Lavender Fizz

These fizzy sips come sans-alcohol, but you can always spice things up with your favorite vodka or gin. To make one of these cocktails, muddle 1 teaspoon dried lavender flowers in a cocktail shaker before adding 1 tablespoon blueberry jam, 1⁄2 ounce lemon juice, 1⁄2 ounce lime juice, 1⁄2 ounce heavy cream, and 1 large egg white and shaking vigorously (without ice) until texture changes to a foam. Next, add some ice and shake again until chilled. Strain the mix into a Collins glass and top it off with sparkling water and lemon zest! (via Brit + Co)

Alpine Wildflower Old Fashioned

Floral notes are key, and this Old Fashioned is a master at including the best flavors. To make it, muddle 2 oz Stranahan’s Original, 1 brown sugar cube, and a pinch of grated cinnamon in a rocks glass before adding 2 dashes Angostura bitters and stirring to combine. Add a big ice cube and garnish with edible flowers for full effect! (via Stranahan’s Original Single Malt Whiskey)

Paloma Tea Party

The ton might've not been drinking tequila, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a tequila cocktail for the season 3 release! This one takes on the flavors of a paloma, and it's scrumptious. To make it, mix 6 oz 21Seeds Grapefruit Hibiscus Infused Tequila, 2 oz simple syrup, 2 oz lime juice, and 6 oz grapefruit juice in a pitcher – or better yet, a tea kettle – with ice, and serve! (via 21Seeds Tequila)

Caviar Dreams

Remind yourself of all things fancy and elegant with this slow-sipper. To make it, shake 2 oz Stranahan's Original, 0.25 oz dry vermouth, 0.25 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes aromatic bitters over ice. Strain into a cocktail glass, then garnish lavishly with olives, caviar, and a potato chip on the side. (via Stranahan’s Original Single Malt Whiskey)

Orange Honey Smash

This sweet, citrusy smash reminds us of the stunningly bright visuals in the show, and it's sure to be a hit. To make it, stir 2 oz Stranahan's Original, 0.5 oz sweet vermouth, 0.25 oz honey liqueur, 0.25 oz Amaro, 1 dash Angostura bitters, and 1 dash Orange bitters over ice. Then, strain into a coupe glass and garnish with an orange twist. (via Stranahan’s Original Single Malt Whiskey)

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on all things Bridgerton and for more cocktail recipes!

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

bridgerton drinks cocktail recipes florals tv netflix cocktails

Our Favorite AAPI Brands To Shop This Month — And Always!

We love to celebrate and support all different types of fabulous AAPI founders, and one way to do so is by shopping their incredible products! I know I'm not alone when I say I love coming across new brands, especially if they're BIPOC or women-owned. And while I'm sure you don't think you need a cute new slip dress or hand-poured candle, I'm confident you'll find something to snag from one of the below AAPI brands!

AAPI Fashion & Beauty Finds To Shop

Ming Wang Knits Midi Slip Dress

This cute slip dress is full of summer colors like flamenco and pale marigold that make it impossible to look away from. The pleated detail adds depth and dimension to the dress while the smart color blocking style gives it a versatile appeal. Have a cute summer soiree or daytime wedding to attend? This dress has your name on it.

Misook Midi Fit & Flare Dress

Black dresses will always be trendy because of their chic factor. Misook's fit and flare dress has a button-front design that has exposed stitching on the front, but don't let that deter you. If anything, that's what helps this dress stand out from the crowd.

The other thing that I absolutely adore about it is that it features hidden side pockets. They may not be needed, but they're certainly welcomed here!

If you want to look like the ultimate "it girl" this summer, add this midi dress to your shopping cart ASAP!

Pistola Denim Aria Jumpsuit

If you're not sure if you want to wear denim dresses this summer, give jumpsuits a chance! They're the epitome of cool and make you look stylish with minimal effort.

Pistola Denim designed their retro denim jumpsuit to have comfortable stretch (so important) so you can move around without feeling like you're being restricted by the fabric. Whether you want to pair it with cowboy boots or a cute pair of heels is up to you!

Maile Kitty Heel in Black Canvas

Since we're on the subject of how the color black makes things look good, Maile's black canvas heels have stolen the heart of the fashionista that lives in a portion of my mind. They're the epitome of 90s style and will look good with Misook's midi black dress.

Since the heel height is under 4 inches, you'll feel comfortable sauntering from place to place.

Behno Tina Baguette Mini Pebbled Ruched (Buttercream)

Butter yellow is the color of the summer and Behno's tiny baguette basically confirms it. The exterior is designed with supple leather and it comes with a chain crossbody strap in case you get tired of holding it in your hand.

I happen to love that it comes in a dust bag to signal the luxurious quality of it. Although it's a mini bag, your cellphone, wallet, keys, a pair of sunglasses, and lip oils can fit inside without an issue!

Ming Yu Wang Orbita Earrings

There are a ton of earrings on the market, but this pair stands out with their orbital design. They're rhodium plated and recycled with cute multicolored resin objects that line the inside of them. Whether you want to wear them daily or reserve them for a special date night, these earrings are sure to be the center of attention wherever you go.

These earrings are sure to sell fast during AAPI month so make sure you order a pair today!

BONBONWHIMS Heart Gumdrop Tennis Necklace (Deep Red)

Haven't you heard? Tenniscore is in and we have the Challengers film to thank for that. I love that this necklace has featured on the TODAY show according to BONBONWHIMS' site and is 18K sterling silver-plated.

Those of us with sensitive skin know that we have to be careful when we wear certain jewelery because certain things trigger allergic reactions, but BONBONWHIMS isn't hearing any of that with this hypoallergenic necklace.

It's also available in different colors should you find that you're not a fan of the deep red color.

AMYO Tiny Starburst Earrings

These 14K earrings are a perfect buy during AAPI Month due to their dainty design. Featuring cubic zirconia stones in the center of the dangly shapes, you won't lose the back of your earrings because they also have a click close design that makes putting and taking them off super easy.

Notte Amore Mio Charm Necklace

I can safely wear statement necklaces again now that my son is almost four so I'm proud to say Notte's Amore Mio charm necklace is a bias pick.It has a thick gold-plated moon-cut chain and several charms that will make any outfit you wear feel stylish.

You can also customize one of the charms to feature your Zodiac sign and it's a handmade necklace.

YENSA AAPI Month Kit

In honor of AAPI Month, YENSA has curated a collection of their skincare staples! You'll find the brand's Super Glow Radiance Polishing Mask, Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Face Cream, and their Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Eye Creaminside of the kit.

ONE/SIZE On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray

If there's one person whose makeup judgement I trust, it's Patrick Starrr. Known for creating memorable makeup looks on YouTube, Starrr founded ONE/SIZE as a way to celebrate underrepresented cultures and voices.

This is just one of the standout products that I not only stand by, but it even has Beyoncé's stamp of approval! Besides being waterproof, it offers up to 16 hours of protection from the elements.

Seriously, you need this setting spray if you're looking for something that'll keep your makeup intact without irritating your skin.

Avatara The Simple Shield Balancing Moisturizer + SPF 30

Need a balancing moisturizer that also protects your skin from the sun? Avatara wants to introduce you to The Simple Shield!

Made with SPF 30, you'll also find things like hyaluronic acid and ceramides inside. While one works to add moisture to your skin, the other locks it in place. In Avatara's words, think of this like a "skin-balancing Kombucha."

No wonder it's one of their bestselling products!

Apothékary Glow Getter Starter Set

Sometimes we all deal with dullness regardless of our skin type, but Apothékary has a solution that all but banishes that: their Glow Getter Starter Set. It's full of collagen-boosting and skin-restoring goodies that are meant to have lasting effects on the skin. Included in the set are:

Firm Believer: a collagen-boosting herbal formula that helps produce glowing skin
You Dew You: a skin-restoring formula that's antioxidant-rich and soothes skin inflammation
Formula Frother
Gold Daily Remedy Spoon

DAMDAM Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask

Vitamin C has been a game changer for my skin so I always look for products that include it like DAMDAM's Skin Mud Pure Vitamin C Brightening Mask. If you have oily or combination skin like me, you'll love that it helps minimize pores, tackle any elasticity issues you're facing, and help balance your skin's natural oils.

While I could rave about Vitamin C all day, this mask also has kaolin clay in it and is certified as being plant aware at Sephora!

AAPI Home, Kitchen, and Lifestyle Brands To Shop

Aerangis No. 40 LIvraria Antiga

This candle is so book-lovers coded because it's scent is described as 'sandalwood and old books.' It's meant to offer a grounding experience with a hint of romance whenever lit, making it the perfect companion to your new "romantansy" book. The full notes are:

Top: Ceylon Pepper, Saffron, Lemon Peel
Middle: Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood
Base: Vanilla, Birch Resin

You'll also get 50 hours of burn time without inhaling toxic fumes!

Copper Cow Coffee Vanilla Ground Coffee

This coffee may make you breakup with Starbucks beyond AAPI Month. You can trust that you're getting 100% Vietnamese coffee that's a delicious blend of robusta and arabica, and is also sustainably sourced. The vanilla beans are very real and ground into absolute perfection so you can serve coffee however you want at home.

Want to make a cold brew or rely on your french press? Copper Cow Coffee makes it easy for you to follow your coffee-loving heart's desires.

Blume Matcha Coconut Blend

Blume has a yummy Matcha Coconut Blend that's going to replace your favorite morning drink soon. Instead of giving you coffee jitters, this organic blend from the Shizuoka region of Japan will give you the flavor and boost of energy you need.

It's a nice blend of stone-ground, hand-picked matcha and antioxidant-rich moringa that'll make you want to stand on your balcony or patio in the morning while sipping it. It's also balanced with L-theanine which is why you won't experience the usual side effects of drinking coffee.

And get this: you'll be able to make 30 lattes with this blend!

Potluck Combo Set of Gochujang and Ssamjang

Tired of relying on the same rotation of seasonings and flavorings when cooking? Well, it's time to introduce your kitchen to Potluck's combo set of Gochujang and Ssamjang! They're sweet and spicy Korean pastes that'll help you create an excellent marinade to use on whatever light lunchmeal you're eating.

There are no additional sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives in these yummy tastes you'll be glad you discovered during AAPI month.

Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp

If you're not familiar with Fly By Jing yet, now really is the time to find your new fave sauce! Founded by Jing Gao, she sought to reclaim her original name — instead of going by Jenny like she had for years — and introduce the flavors of her hometown (Chengdu) to others. This viral condiment comes in six different flavors, with the Sichuan Chili Crisp being the most popular. The other options you have are:

Muu Wearable Breast Pumps

Since Mother's Day should be everyday IMO, it wouldn't be right if I didn't include something for breastfeeding mamas. Founded by first-generation Korean-American Janice Gott, Muu is an affordable, mom-designed wearable breast pump that makes pumping easier. Although wireless breast pumps have become popular, this is another option if you're worried about whether you've charged it enough when you're on the go.

That's where rising AAPI product designer Tiffany Tao steps in. She specifically designed Muu to be hands and fuss-free so you can pump whenever you need to.

Have a board meeting to attend that coincides with your pumping schedule? Muu will be right there. Out with your friends and realize you're overdo for a pumping session? Muu will be in your purse ready to spring into action when you're in need.

What are your favorite AAPI brands to shop? Let us know in the comments!

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

Lead image via Copper Cow Coffee

This post has been updated.

aapi aapi brands fashion food shopping