20 Backyard Wedding Details That Will Make You Ditch Your Big Venue

Let’s face it: The more ways you can cut back on the cost of your wedding day, the better. So what if we told you that you can save serious dough without sacrificing style? The answer is literally in your backyard. Since renting out a wedding venue is easily one of the biggest budget suckers of wedding planning, these 20 wedding decor ideas will prove how easy it is to transform your very own backyard into an intimate ceremony and laid-back reception that can save you some serious cash. If you’re a bride on a budget, get your Pinboards ready for these effortless details that are totally relaxed and truly romantic.

1. Bridal Aisle:Creating an aisle in your backyard can be as easy as setting up a dramatic backdrop complete with chairs on either side. Add your personality to it with rugs, ribbons, or flowers. (via Taylor Clark Photography / Intimate Weddings)

2. Backyard Boho: Mismatched fabric on the chairs gives your reception dinner a homespun vibe that is totally relaxed. (via Jasmine Star Photography / Martha Stewart Weddings)

3. Pop of Pink: Making your sweetheart table stand out is easy when you incorporate bold colors (and giant peonies) that demand attention. (via Christina McNeill Photography / Brides)

4. Z Create Design Chair Signs ($38): These seats are taken! Claim your spots at the table with these adorable chair signs that proudly display your new titles.

5. Bridesmaid Style: No long, formal bridesmaid dresses here. Keep it casual by styling your girls in fun and flirty dresses that are perfect for twirling and dancing the night away. (via J. Bird Photography / Refinery29)

6. Lighting the Way: When it comes to your wedding photos, lighting is everything. Create a romantic and well-lit evening by displaying a combination of candles, string lights, and paper lanterns. (via Tana Photography / The Huffington Post)

7. Barn Inspired: Get creative with your seating arrangements by covering bales of hay with comfy blankets and strategically placing tree stumps near so that your guests can easily mix and mingle. (via Feather and Stone / Brides)

8. Dance Floor: We’re all for kicking your shoes off and dancing in the grass, but if you’re looking for something a little more traditional, consider installing a temporary dance floor that’ll make you forget you’re in your backyard. There’s no better way to share your first dance as newlyweds than under the stars. (via Clay Austin Photography / Wedding Chicks)

9. Ditched Tablecloth: Save your budget for the food truck and skip the linen rentals. Whether you opt for rustic carpenter tables or picnic tables, rely on a centerpiece and some lighting to dress up your occasion. (via Jillian Bowes / Intimate Weddings)

10. Floral Installations: Hanging flowers instantly makes for an upscale arrangement. Display your favorite stems above your head table for a glamorous addition to your decor. (via Laura Ivanova Photography / Style Me Pretty)

11. Double Backdrop: The same backdrop you use for your ceremony can easily be transitioned into a photo booth for your guests during the reception. After you’ve tied the knot, place a hashtag sign and a bucket of props next to the backdrop to encourage your guests to get their ‘gram on. (via Chandra’s Collection / 100 Layer Cake)

12. Love Bugs: Backyard weddings can draw some uninvited guests to your party. Keep everyone itch-free by supplying a bug spray station. For added protection (and lighting), place citronella torches around the perimeter. (via Priscilla Thomas Photography / Borrowed and Blue)

13. Drink Station: The lemonade stand setup will feel right at home in your yard, even if it’s not a kid-friendly beverage. (via Katelyn James Photography / Brides)

14. Main Menu: Decorating a pallet board with your menu is a quintessential detail for rustic-inspired backyard decor. (via Josh Snyder Photography / The Huffington Post)

15. More S’mores: This couple played up their newlywed status with a perfect play on their Moore surname. Even if your last name doesn’t offer up pun potential, this adorable idea that combines marshmallow wedding favors with dessert is one your guests won’t be able to resist. (via Leigh Elizabeth Photography / Style Me Pretty)

16. Backyard Bar: Serve drinks in style by hiring a bartender to mix up classic cocktails for your guests to enjoy. Fair warning — installing a bar into your backyard may become a permanent fixture. (via Chris Wojdak Photography / Storyboard Wedding)

17. Dessert Buffet: The only thing better than wedding cake is multiple wedding cakes. This way everyone will find something they love, even the pickiest of eaters. (via Inspire Styling)

18. Tent Rental: Setting up a tent in your backyard gives you that big venue feel while still saving on the cost of renting out one. Pimp out the space with stylish rentals that can totally transform your backyard into a wedding oasis. (via Justin DeMutis Photogrpahy / Style Me Pretty)

19. Chicken Wire Seating Chart: Who knew that a DIY seating chart could be so whimsical? Repurpose some chicken wire for a super creative and easy way for your guests to find their table. (via Allie Lindsey Photography)

20. Pallet Photobooth Backdrop: Stack wooden crates against the wall, and add a few totally boho floral arrangements for a befitting backdrop. (via Wedding Chicks / Thanos Asfis Photography)

Follow us on Pinterestfor more gorgeous ideas for your wedding reception.

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

Whether you're the maid of honor who's making sure the bride-to-be has a super exciting send off into this next chapter, or the bride-to-be in question who would rather take the reins of her own destiny, it's likely that you're gonna plan a bachelorette party prior to The Big Day. Amid all the wedding dress shopping and tablescape planning and talking through literally every single detail, it's important that this once-in-a-lifetime celebration with the bridal party is particularly special. And while Austin and Nashvegas are never a bad choice for a bachelorette party, sometimes you just want something a little different. With that in mind, I've rounded up 10 of the best bachelorette party destinations to pick for your favorite bride this year! Cheers, girlies!

Best Bachelorette Party Destinations In The United States

Image via AC Naples Hotel 5th Avenue

Naples, FL

There’s no better place to visit than sunny Florida and you can’t go wrong with a trip to Naples for a bachelorette party. Whether you want to relax by the beach or hit up the town, you’ll find everything in more in this city. Stay at the AC Naples Hotel 5th Avenue for easy access to the city’s unofficial main street and waterfront shopping destinations just a few steps away. For some nighttime fun, head on over to Cavo Lounge for a night full of dancing and drag shows and then late-night bites at The Hampton Social.

Image via The Equestrian Hotel

Ocala, FL

Looking for a more niche-option? Visit Ocala, Florida to be immersed in nature and wildlife of all sorts. From accommodations to attractions, nature and animal lovers will be in heaven. Horse lovers will fall head over heels for The Equestrian Hotel where they can watch horse races and enjoy a rejuvenating spa appointment. When meal time rolls around, stop by Mark’s Prime Steakhouse or Katya Vineyards for wine tasting and delicious fine dining your party will love.

Image via Paws Up Resort

Greenough, MT

A bride-to-be who can’t get enough of natural greenery will love a trip to Greenough, Montana. Start your trip at Paws Up Resort where you’ll find accommodations on a luxury ranch with glamping tents and vacation homes. Other activities in the area include trips to historical monuments like Greenough Mansion. Plus, stop by some craft distilleries including Montgomery Distillery to try hand crafted spirits and beverages.

Image via The Joule

Dallas, TX

The catchphrase “Everything’s better in Texas” not only applies to the southern culture, but also the restaurants, entertainment, and accommodations that make Dallas a must-visit destination. For bachelorette parties, not only will you find boutique hotels like The Joule filled with luxurious amenities like a spa and rooftop pools, but attractions including Party Cove for a relaxed boating experience and The Dallas Party Bike for lots of laughs, sights, and good times all around. When it comes time to eat, you’ll want to make reservations at Crown Block and Hudson House.

Image via The Ritz Carlton

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is known for its tasty food, soulful music, and historic landmarks making it the perfect bachelorette party destination. Kick your visit off right by getting a room at The Ritz Carlton which will immerse you into the heart of the French Quarter and then head on out to the streets to find a plethora of shops, restaurants, and activities. Stop by Brigtsen’s for some classic cajun cuisine and dance the night away at The Metropolitan.

Image via Rosehill Vineyards

Long Island, NY

I know what you're thinking: the Hamptons? In this economy? Well, I'm here to let you in on a little secret — Long Island is much bigger than Montauk. TKTK Hampton Bays TKTK The Hampton Maid TKTK Greenport TKTK North Fork Vineyards like Wölffer Estate Vineyards and Rosehill Vineyards.

Image via Haley Sprankle

Miami, FL

This may seem like your typical bachelorette party destination, but Miami is honestly always a smooth move. I'd book a star at The Goodtime Hotel so you can take advantage of Strawberry Moon and all it's party glory. Content Editor Haley Sprankle went recently, and there was a literal champagne shower in the middle of the pool...definitely good vibes for the girlies! If you're looking for some delicious dining, Miami has a ton of great food, too! Komodo is a sceney restaurant for all your Hot Girl pics (and the most delicious lobster lo mein), C.Viche 105 has amazing Peruvian fair like ceviche and lomo saltado, and Bachour is perfect for brunch! And while there's no shortage of places to go out in Miami, Wynwood is a great neighborhood to hit the town.

Best Bachelorette Party Destinations Around The World

Image via Hotel Rochechouart

Paris, FR

Take a trip to Paris for an international and culturally-enriching experience suitable for any bachelorette party. Aside from seeing the Eiffel Tower, you can make pit stops at The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Disneyland Paris. For added convenience, stay in the heart of Paris at Hotel Rochechouart that offers picturesque views and close proximity to popular destinations. There's plenty of perfect little side cafes and sweet spots to grab a drink, but here are a few options to keep in mind!
  • Visit one of the top 50 bars in the world, The Cambridge Public House, for unique cocktails and absolutely amazing pub food.
  • Swap out a more typical Magic Mike/Chippendales show and swing by Crazy Horse for a fun, artistic, and sexy show! The burlesque is amazing, and the girls will love sitting in the elegant theater with a few bottles of champagne to share. For a more tame burlesque show, visit the ever-iconic Moulin Rouge.
  • Book a reservation at Le Bon Georges for one of the best meals — and biggest wine selection!

Image via Atlantis

Atlantis, The Bahamas

Venture to the Bahamas to celebrate the bride-to-be at Atlantis. Choose from one of six resorts from The Cove for a more luxury stay to The Reef that’s geared more towards families. Aside from picturesque views and comfortable beds, you can engage in outdoor activities from marine adventures to crystal clear beaches for the ultimate relaxation experience. Plus, you may even be able to see some celebrities on your trip from Janet Jackson to DJ Pauly D.

Image via Meliá

Cozumel, Mexico

Mexico is always a good idea for a bachelorette party. Be sure to book your stay at Meliá Cozumel — it's an all-inclusive resort so all you have to worry about is whether you want a piña colada or a frozen margarita. From there, you've got beach days, pool soaking, spa appointments, and girly time galore. Sit back, relax, and party.

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Header image via RDNE Stock project / PEXELS

I don't know about you but as I'm getting older, I'm starting to understand why my parents and grandparents made the choices in footwear that they did. I used to judge silently at the arch support shoes they wore and scoff at their fashion sense, but suddenly I find myself constantly complaining about my feet and knee pain...I get it Grandma, and I'm sorry for judging. But part of the reason why I judged (again, SO sorry Grandma) was because I thought they didn't look as cute as other shoes I saw in stores. Luckily for you, that's where I come in. I'm here to show you why you need arch support shoes and how they can be super stylish as well, so you don't have to compromise on the cute-ness factor while also getting the comfort-factor. Let's get into it!

How do I know if I need arch support shoes?

Photo by Teslariu Mihai/Unsplash

You'll know you need arch support shoes if you're experiencing pain in your knees or your legs or your feet — and maybe even your neck! This means that the way you're walking is causing pain in your body and needs to be alleviated with more support or cushioning. Your legs and feet carry your weight throughout the entire day, so you need to make sure that they're getting the proper support they need in order to distribute your weight evenly.

Shop Cute Arch Support Shoes Here!

Kenneth Cole Lane Sandals

These adorable sandals are cute AND comfy — all the makings for your summer shoe essential. On their website it says that they offer "innovative footbeds made to cushion and cradle for all-day support. Soft, breathable leather insoles remain supple even when wet for long-lasting durability, and innovative padding materials provide ergonomic fits that redistribute pressure for unparalleled comfort." Sounds like the dream combo to me!

Franco Sarto Tinsley Mary Jane

Who says you have to compromise style for comfort? Not these cute babies! With these mary janes not only do you get cute shoes but also ones lined with a cushioned footbed with arch support. A necessary to remain comfortable.

FitFlop Gracie Slide

These sandals are so comfortable that you could wear them all day at Disneyland! If that doesn't prove the test of comfort then I don't know what does! What I love about these is that they're incredibly on-trend with their strap and gold detailing as well!

Dr. Scholls Time Off Sneaker

The perfect all-day shoe! Dr. Scholls knows how to make a comfortable walking shoe that still looks cute and pristine! They're a classic pair of sneakers but little does anyone know that they are lined with perfect cushioned footbeds to offer you the much needed support to get you through the day.

Birkenstock Kyoto Sandal

Birkenstock does it again, ladies and gentlemen! These sandals are a fun take on the classic two-strap sandals you've seen everywhere for years. These are a little different but still have the same classic support!

Hoka Arahi Sneakers

Hokas are notorious for being some of the best arch support shoes, perfect for evenly distributing your weight for going for long walks or runs. Everyone needs a comfortable running shoe!

Birdies Starline Raffia Flats

Raffiaarch support flats? Say no more! I adore the raffia pattern on these Birdies shoes and love even more that they have a seven-layer responsive, cushioned footbed with elevating arch support!

Rothy's Casual Clog

These might be my favorite on the list because of how they achieve a quiet luxury vibe with their minimalist style. They're seriously giving Olsen twinvibes with how simple yet sleek they are. The added bonus: arch support of course! So no complaining about your feet with these shoes!

OluKai Sunbeam Slide

Add these to cart because they are the perfect arch support-beach sandal that you will surely get a lot of wear out of this summer! If you have any summer plans to go on long walks by the beach then all you need are these shoes to stay comfy and cute!

Dr. Martens Carlson Slingback

Free People always manages to keep it cute and quirky and we love that they're doing that for us arch support girlies! Grab these Dr. Martens slingback for a cool look to your summer style.

Rothy's Mary Jane

You'll probably recognize these mary janes from how they went super viral on Tiktok last year for being wearable and fashionable. People have recalled how they wear these babies all day sightseeing and traveling and have no pain in their feet! We love it when style meets practicality.

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Header image via Rothy's

Wedding season is back, and busier than ever. If you're feeling like you spend every other summer weekend in attendance, only to spend the few weekends in between recovering — and shopping — for your next event, you're certainly not alone.

While it's wonderful to watch our loved ones wed, we all know how quickly the celebrations can add up, and we're here to remind you there's absolutely no shame in repeating a wedding guest dress a few times, or all season long! In fact, you'll find floral dresses can go a long way, as their multi-colored prints allow them to be styled with different accessories for a new look each time.

If you're juggling several different wedding themes in one season, say, beach unions and backyard weddings, try to invest in one good floral print that can adapt across locales, or scoop up a few extra-affordable picks and assign one to each setting!

Ahead, our favorite floral wedding guest dresses to help you get through the wedding season and all your formal festivities this summer.

Free People Alma Midi Dress

This subtle light pink midi is adorned with feminine florals and delicate ruffles that feel like spring and summer's BFF. The asymmetrical hem lends this dress a whimsical vibe, which will earn you compliments all season long. Pair with some cute heels and your go-to bag to complete the look! 

Available in sizes XS-XL for $168.​

Hutch Braylan One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

This maxi may have just one shoulder strap, but we promise it's secure as ever. Hugging your form in the most flattering way, the bust on this piece is elastic and very flexible, so it moves when you do. The lush green floral details pay homage to the seasons best blooms.

Available in sizes XXS-L for $319.

AFRM Shea Floral A-Line Maxi Dress

This illustrative maxi is the moment! Adorned with everything from flowers to butterflies, this wedding guest dress is for the young at heart. The shape is simple and flowy, starting out with a straight neckline and falling to an a-line skirt. It's also lined for added comfort!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $88.

Bardot Felicia Mesh Floral Midi Dress

For a more form-fitting floral option, this pink + red number will do the trick. It's quite stretchy, so you can sit, stand, and dance in total comfort. The ruching running along the sides gives your shape even more flattering definition for all the pics you'll be taking during the wedding.

Available in sizes 2-12 for $119.

Shona Joy Karla Paneled Maxi Dress

This paneled dress falls all the way to the floor in an elegant manner. It's covered in royal blue, white, and rustic brown florals for a very graphic feel. While the skirt is more flowy, the bust on this dress fits snugly, like a corset. It comes complete with a matching belt to make the 'fit more formal!

Available in sizes 2-12 for $420.

Abercrombie & Fitch Ruffle Strap High-Low Maxi Dress

We are in love with this ruffle-y wedding guest dress! Part of Abercrombie & Fitch's new wedding collection, this high-low silhouette is dotted with classic pink florals. The ruching follows the bodice as well as the straps to create a chic shape. The breezy printed chiffon material is lined on the inside with a solid polyester for total coverage.

Available in petite, regular, and tall sizes XXS-XXL for $130.

Steve Madden Adalina Floral Ruffle Maxi Dress

On the delicate side, we can't stop gawking over this femme chiffon frock. It's an off-white, more cream-colored fabric for staying cool in the spring + summer sun. The bold ruffles that cross in the front make sure your look doesn't go unnoticed. While most floral wedding guest dresses are covered in the blooms, this one is more subdued.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

Conditions Apply Chloe Strapless Maxi Dress

We actually adoreblack wedding guest dresses, and this one is still floral! You can make it strapless or opt for the included straps to feel more secure. The big graphic blooms will photograph beautifully, too. Only plan on wearing it to a wedding once? This dress doubles amazingly for any beachy vacations you've got on the cal!

Available in sizes XXS-XL and plus sizes 1X-3X for $148.

Petal & Pup Senorita Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress

With a high neck and a high-cut leg slit, this maxi dress is def ready for the wedding after party! The side cutouts transition to an adorable open back design that feels sexy ​and ​breathable. This pick secures in the back with a no-fuss string tie and just looks sooo fun!

Available in sizes 4-10 for $84.​

The A&F Camille Midi Dress

Made of smooth satin-y fabric, this midi follows your figure with some flattering seams that run down the whole dress. The upper part is definitely more fitted, but allows for some movement with an elastic backing. The thin spaghetti straps are totally adjustable, too, so you can find the fit that suits you!

Available in sizes XXS-XXL.

ASTR The Label Floral Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

This floral wedding guest dress is for the color lovers. It's smattered in flowers and leaves of all kinds that work wardrobe magic whenever you wear it! The puffed sleeves definitely speak to the romantic vibe of any wedding you're attending, and the neckline comes together beautifully with a fun front tie. This pick is finished off with a high-cut leg slit for added breeziness!

Available in sizes XS-XL for $99.

A New Day Women's Crepe Midi Slip Dress

This easy-to-wear slip dress is totally comfy! Crafted out of a lightweight crepe fabric, you can feel confident at any temperature. The v-neck and leg slit create a flattering balance in the silhouette, plus the pink floral pattern is the season's ultimate match! Adjust the straps with traditional closures to find your perfect fit.

Available in sizes XS-4X for $25.

Montce Petal Floral Maxi Dress

The bustier-like top on this floral maxi is everything to us! The ruched bra cups will draw attention to your ensemble and make you feel super fly. This dress secures in the back with a hook closure, and flaunts an open back for some light flirty vibes.

Available in sizes XS-XL for $218.

Motel Vilnia Floral Midi Dress

This versatile pick goes the less-traditional route in the way of florals. Its flower motifs are dotted separately all across the fabric, and match the neckline's velvet lining perfectly! We like that this dress is limited in its color palette to make matching with shoes and outerwear easy as can be. The bow in front of the chest seals the deal!

Available in sizes XS-XXL for $85.

Which floral wedding guest dress are you excited to rock this year? Follow us on Pinterest for more outfit inspiration!

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

Images via brands.

This post has been updated from a previous version with reporting by Meredith Holser.

When it comes to getting that glow, it’s important to have a dependable routine that not only works for your skin type, but one that’s compatible with your lifestyle, too. Not everyone has the time to slather on 20 different skincare products every day – myself included!

It’s taken me months and months to land on a skincare product lineup that works best for me. Luckily, this glowy skincare routine has saved me so much time, changed the way I approach skincare (including buyingskincare goodies), and makes me absolutely glow to the gods.

@britandco these skincare products have me in a chokehold. link to shop them in our bio! ⭐️ COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser ($11) ⭐️ COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner ($13) ⭐️ The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid ($10) ⭐️ Dieux Air Angel Gel Cream ($44) ⭐️ innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen ($22) ⭐️Good Weird Cold Brew Undereye ($26) #glowyskin#skincareroutine#easyskincareroutine#affordableskincare#glowup♬ original sound - soph 🦷

This glowy skincare routine is everything to me. With only 6 products and a total of 10 minutes maximum every day, this glowy skincare routine is the key for healthy, youthful-looking skin.

I can’t gatekeep these products any longer. Let’s get into why these picks fit right into a glowy skincare routine and what they can do for your skin!

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Clean skin sets the tone for glowy skin, so having an everyday cleanser in your skincare repertoire is crucial. I like this low-pH one from COSRX since it's very gentle. Though it takes it easy on my skin overall, I still feel a deep clean after I cleanse with it. The low pH makes this gel cleanser widely compatible for most skin types, plus you get lots of product for a low price.

The Good Morning Gel Cleanser is $14 on Amazon.

COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner

Toners can come in many forms (like exfoliating and brightening), but I find that I'm drawn to hydrating toners like this one from COSRX for my glowy skincare routine. Unlike the toners most of us grew up with – astringent, harsh, and drying – most toners on the market now are made to boost your skin's hydration! So, toners are friends, not foes.

This literally feels like my skin is chugging water when I put it on. I typically just apply it with my hands and press it in gently, so my face can absorb the most product. I'll also bring it down to my neck for added hydration. The propolis and honey extracts go easy on the skin, adding to the desired glow!

This Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner is $13 on Amazon.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid simply brings the moisture that's already hanging out in your skin forward, so you'll appear more moisturized and hydrated when you use it. I only use this before moisturizer when I feel like my skin is especially dry, and like the aforementioned toner, I press it in so my skin can soak it on up.

I enjoy a lot of things about this hyaluronic acid (like the ease of using the bottle, the simple ingredient list, and the elegant dropper), but I love the affordable price the most.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid comes in a bundle alongside the The Ordinary Niacinamide for just $17 on Amazon.

Dieux Air Angel Gel Cream

Oh, this gel cream moisturizer is sooo smooth. I've really never felt anything like it before! I genuinely feel like an angel every time I put Dieux's Air Angel on. I adore it because unlike other heavy cream or lotion moisturizers, it allows my skin to breathe. It goes on super lightweight so I'm not left feeling like I applied way too many layers of product.

It's also very easy to apply – the bottle has a convenient pump with a cap that makes traveling with it a breeze! Moisturizer is a total must when it comes to skin that glows, so don't sleep on product picks like this!

The Dieux Air Angel Gel Cream goes for $44 on dieuxskin.com.

innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen is that girl. As opposed to chemical sunscreen, mineral sunscreen contains actual physical barriers that protect your skin from harmful UV rays. That being said, this sunscreen does swipe on with a bit of a white cast, but it immediately blends out with the right amount of rubbing it in.

This SPF 45 formulation from innisfree (one of my fave affordable brands) has a color-correcting aspect to it, so it looks a tiny bit blue when you go to apply it. Once your skin's soaked it in, it leaves a creamy, satin finish that I think is perfect for a makeup base.

Think of this sunscreen as a preemptive measure towards the ultimate glowy skin routine – since you're protecting it from mass amounts of sun damage, your skin will look more youthful, hydrated, and even over time. And yes, you should be wearing sunscreen every day!

The innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen is $22 at Sephora.

Good Weird Cold Brew Undereye

OMG. This is the first under eye cream that I found was actually effective. It's genuinely like a cup of cold brew for your under eye area – and mine tends to need that extra energy!

Formulated with caffeine to reduce puffiness and diamond powder to fill in fine lines, I saw results from the Cold Brew Undereye from Good Weird (read my full review here) within a few uses. The application is also unbelievably easy. It goes on very soothing since it has a metal application tip. I actually toss this skincare pick in the fridge so the metal can cool down, and ultimately soothe my tired eyes.

I think having a brightened-up under eye area contributes massively to my glowy skincare routine, since darker circles can bring the glow (and the overall evenness of my skin tone) down.

The Good Weird Cold Brew Undereye goes for $26 on Amazon.

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Sourdough is having a moment. More specifically, sourdough starters, which have seemingly taken over our TikTok FYP (just check out the channel itself). But for so many, sourdough seems too complex to actually create. It’s not the ingredients or the actual baking that seems the hardest — it’s the patience that’s required during the sourdough starter process (and waiting while it’s cooking in the oven, but who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread?!). To demystify this delicately baked deliciousness and all it's prep, we chatted with expert baker, Annie Paul. Here are some the simple tips for making your sourdough starter experience less of a hassle!

​First, what is sourdough starter?

Photo by Adam Bartoszewicz/Unsplash

The reason you're seeing those aesthetic videos of sourdough starter moving around in a bowl is because, well, it’s technically alive. The starter consists of live fermented culture (wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria) created by fresh flour and water. Why is this an essential part of the sourdough bread baking process? It causes the dough to rise. And don’t get thrown off by the term “wild yeast,” because it’s pretty much found everywhere — fruits, flowers, vegetables, etc. all carry it!

But don't worry — it may seem intimidating to keep this concoction alive, but we've got you covered with one very hot tip.

​The Tip? Establish A Feeding Schedule For Your Sourdough Starter

Photo by Mikhail Nilov/PEXELS

Making a sourdough starter is approximately a seven day commitment. This can sound overwhelming, but if you stay consistent, it’s really not a hard feat! The easiest way to culture a successful starter is to establish a feeding schedule — this means adding in more fresh flour and water and allowing it to ferment for an extended period of time. You can leave it in a jar or bowl on the counter.

Depending on the recipe you're following and if your home is on the warmer side, you’ll likely be doing this twice a day with equal parts water and flour (around every 12 hours). A kitchen scale and written out time chart is one of the simplest tools to keep track of the ingredient amounts and times that your sourdough starter should be fed. Don’t know where to start? Just check out our beginner-friendly sourdough bread recipe.

PSA: You Don’t Have to Make A Sourdough Starter Yourself

Photo by Felicity Tai/PEXELS

To the bakers out there that are still intimated by the length of time it takes to make a good sourdough starter, you actually don’t have to make it yourself. “My best tip is to go to a bakery that makes really good sourdough bread and ask to buy some of their starter,” Annie Paul, winner of Magnolia Network’s Silos Baking Competition and bakery owner of A P Baked Goods in Michigan, said.

Paul added that most bakeries have a starter that’s “years and years old and that will really improve the flavor of your bread.” Asking your local artisanal bakery not only aids small businesses but also may get you the tastiest of results. No matter which sourdough starter path you choose (homemade or bakery bought), you will not be disappointed with a warm slice of bread and butter.

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Header image via Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS