I don’t know if you’ve heard, but Madewell is running a pretty huge promo right now. 40% off almost everything! The code is OHJOY ! Links to the outfits I’m wearing in the photos above are here: White Sweater outfit, Green Shacket outfit

If you’re buying for yourself, get a pair of Perfect Vintage Jeans. If you’re buying gifts, look at their leather bags and sunglasses (oh and these pretty earrings!).

I’ve gotten back on my Home Chef routine and I am truly loving it. I was getting so tired of thinking of lunch ideas, so I turned back to Home Chef and literally felt the stress melt away. They have added *so* much to their line up since I took a break, and I’m truly happy to be back.

Speaking of cooking, I made these cookies for the kids a few weeks ago and they were a hit!

Are you feeling ready for the holidays? I’m looking forward to them this year! We have a few very fun things planned, and also some space and quite time during December as well, so I think it’ll be a good mix!

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

Wander Beauty brow pencil “taupe” – do not underestimate the pigment in this pencil! It’s so good!

Wander Beauty blush and highlighter stick “nude glow”

Free People Sweater

Virtue Healing Oil

Hotel Lobby Candle “Miami”

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation – so easy to wear, and looks great on everyone!

Home Chef

Bark Thins Dark Chocolate Pretzels – dangerously good.

R&Co Television Shampoo for volume

Madewell sweetheart top

Ticket to Ride kids board game – I played this with the kids the other day, it was fun!

gorjana Parker XL Bracelet

This week’s discount codes:

Aera: 20% off all diffusers using my code KATE20

Minted: KATECARDS22 (20% off sitewide + free shipping *exclusions apply) Live for this week only! 

Madewell: 40% off using code OHJOY

Ongoing promo codes:

Rifle Paper Co: Use code KATEB25 for 25% off at Riflepaperco.com

Corkcicle: Use my code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off items at Corkcicle until Dec 15

ABLE: SMALLTHINGSHOLIDAY40 will get you 40% off of anything on their site through 11/28!

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE20 gives you 20% off any items at BaggingRights.com

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Loopy Cases: 10% off when you use code smallthings10

BFB Hair: Use code smallthings10 for 10% off all Hair Extension products only for followers!

Material: KATE20 will get you 20% off your order until the end of Dec.

01. Hydrangea Art Print 02. You’re Fun Wall Art 03. Emory Undone Art Kit 04. French Hair Claw – Autumn 05. All-in-One Popcorn Pods 06. Treat Yourself Gift Bouquet 07. Mystery Starter Houseplant 08. Christmas Sweets Tea Towel 09. (similar)Warhol Wooden Dominoes 10. Leather Wine Bag 11. Vivian Howard Rub 12. Dogwood Gift Box 13. Feather Gray Card Wallet 14. Watercolor Christmas Workbook 15. Autumn Wreath Soy Candle 16. Paint by Numbers Kit 17. Paint Swatch Notecards 18. Graticube 19. Twirl Book 20. Verdant Wave Wall Art 21. Cross Stitch Kit

How gorgeous is that hydrangea print on the top left of the collage?

Supporting small businesses is always important, but it makes a big impact, especially around the holidays! Amanda, my creative operations director, put a lot of thought and care into this gift guide! From artwork to sweet treats, there is a great variety of gift ideas to choose from!

01. Pocket Watercolor Painting Book 02. Virtual Space Ping Pong Game Set 03. Unicorn Dreams Cozy Comfort Set 04. Glow in the Dark Blanket 05. Unicorn Jewelry Kit 06. Where’s Bluey Seek and Find Book 07. LEGO Technic Monster Jam Truck 08. Double-Sided Transform Vehicle with Music 09. LED Bow and Arrow for Kids 10. Activ Flyer Kids Flying Rings 11. Ejecting Battle Robots 12. Enchanted Unicorn Sparkle Mix 13. Cat Crimes Brain Game 14. Girls Two-Piece Cotton Pajamas 15. Airbolt Racer Airplane 16. Glow in the Dark Two-Piece Pajamas 17. Walkie Talkies 18. Glow in the Dark Basketball 19. DIY Handbag Kit 20. Kids Kindle Paperwhite 21. Talking Points Family Game 22. The Worst-Case Scenario Card Game

I’ve been waffling on whether or not to buy my boys (ages 7 and 8) a kid’s kindle but I think this year may be the year. My eldest is very into reading, and I genuinely believe he would enjoy being able to read in bed on the kindle since it has a backlight.

Beyond that, I’ve been focusing on what gifts Justin and I could give the kids that would be something they use for a long time. Of course, they each have individual interests and likes, but things like games, outdoor toys, or blankets for forts are the kinds of gifts they would get a lot of use out of!

Justin bought the boys Loog Guitars a few years ago and they still play them. It’s a great first guitar for a child who expresses an interest in playing. Justin plays guitar and has repeatedly said that these guitars are perfectly designed for kids.

The ONLY place where I get my bedding and linens is having a Black Friday promo and it’s worth taking advantage of! They are offering 20% off, no code needed! So in an effort to help you shop, let me share my absolute favorite items from Brooklinen.

At the top of my list for the best sheets, we’ve got the luxe sateen. They feel like a 5-star hotel sheet set. If you like something a bit cozier in the winter months, try the brushed flannel sheets. They are very soft and hold in warmth! Lastly, if you’re looking for a happy medium between those two, try the heathered cashmere. They feel luxurious but have a softness to them as well!

The hardcore sheet bundles are a perfect intro to the goodness of Brooklinen! For example, the Luxe Hardcore Bundle has a flat sheet, fitted sheet, 4 pillowcases, and a duvet cover. It’s kind of everything you need! You can choose from 20+ colors or patterns!

I’ve had a Brooklinen duvet for years, and switch out my duvet cover from time to time. They also have weighted blankets, which I got in a twin size so I can have one on my side of the bed when I sleep! My husband doesn’t like a weighted blanket, but I love having one to add some extra weight to my bedding.

Beyond the bed linens, their towels are some of the best I’ve used. They have bath sheets, which are enormous in the best way possible, and also cozy standard-size towels. There are different degrees of plushness to them too, so you can really hone in on what you’re looking for in the linens of your home!

Whether you’re updating your own linens or buying a gift this season for a loved one, I can highly recommend Brooklinen for any bedding, bath, or other linen needs.

Save 20% on Brooklinen products by clicking here!

This post is sponsored by Brooklinen.

01. Miranda Frye London Necklace 02. Maya Brenner Monogram Necklace 03. Madewell Chunky Small Hoop Earrings 04. Crystal Slider Bracelet 05. Bezel Chain Huggie Earrings 06. gorjana Parker Layering Set 07. gorjana Venice Mini Bracelet Layering Set 08. ABLE Double Sparkle Hoops 09. Loopy Phone Case 10. Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Masks 11. Shower Steamer Pouch 12. L’Occitane Hand Cream Set 13. Bumble & bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Hair Set 14. Madewell Key Fob 15. Kate McLeod Sleep Stone Body Moisturizer 16. Screen Cleaning Wipes 17. BaBylissPRO Nanotitanium Straightener 18. UGG Slide Slipper 19. LAKE Pajamas Pima Robe 20. Shearling Cuff Mittens 21. fresh Sugar Lip Care Set 22. UGG Scuffette II Slipper 23. Women’s Garment Bag 24. Personal Safety Alarm 25. Corkcicle Tumbler 26. Clare V. Grande Fanny 27. Slip Silk Scrunchie Set 28. New Balance Sneaker 29. The Frankie Clutch 30. Tory Burch Miller Case for AirPods 31. Tory Burch Miller Top Zip Card Case 32. Clare V. Coin Clutch 33. Bagging Rights TOTE-ALLY

I’m a firm believer that you cannot go wrong with jewelry as a gift. Simple hoop earrings, or a pretty bracelet, are a gift that works for so many women.

When it comes to beauty gifts, think about gifting items that may feel a little bit more special than what she would use every day. Does she apply moisturizer every day? Check out the Kate McLeod body stones. Is she into skincare products for her face? The Wander Beauty eye masks are not only pretty but feel delightful under the eyes!

Of all the great items on the list, though, the most fool-proof option is a Lake Pajamas robe. I’ve been wearing Lake Pajamas robes for years and have zero desire to try any other brand. They are simply the best.

Please be sure to use my codes below for an extra discount!

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com – if you have the budget for it, get one of the tote-ally bags and fill it up with a few special things for someone you love!

ABLE: SMALLTHINGSHOLIDAY40 will get you 40% off of anything on their site through 11/28!

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping! (Smallthings20 will get you 20% off from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday).

Loopy Cases: 10% off when you use code smallthings10 – it’s the only phone case worth having.

Corkcicle: Use my code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off items at Corkcicle – I LOVE my sports canteen and my cooler!

01. Vuori Insulated Vest 02. Warby Parker Fletcher Sunglasses 03. Vuori Waffle Hoodie 04. Vuori Sunday Element Jacket 05. Tommy John Cotton Trunks 06. Vuori Kore Shorts 07. Jack Black All-Over Wash 08. Handheld Electric Massage Gun 09. UGG Ascot Slipper 10. Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm 11. Olight Headlamp 12. Prada Eau de Toilette 13. DJI Mavic Mini Combo Drone 14. Olight Warrior X Turbo Tactical Flashlight 15. Olight Rechargeable EDC Flashlight 1200 Lumens 16. Corkcicle Commuter Cup

The bottom line is that men are just hard to buy for. Whether it’s my dad, my brother, my husband, my brother-in-law, etc., it’s just difficult to wow them with a gift.

In my family, we’ve pulled back on gifting amongst adults and shifted to focusing on the kids, but if you’re buying for a man, I hope some of the ideas above give you a bit of inspiration!

Since Justin flies drones for his business, people often ask me, or him, what drone he recommends. His answer is always “anything from the brand DJI“. It’s the brand he exclusively uses for Raleigh UAV, and you can buy a starter drone at a lower price, or spend some serious cash on a much more advanced drone.

Please be sure to use my code below for an extra discount!

Corkcicle: Use my code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off items at Corkcicle.

I know that the scent in my home is the first thing I notice when I walk in, so it’s certainly something others notice as well! My Aera diffuser is set up on a schedule so I can be sure the house smells great at peak times of the day.

And the nice thing about the scent capsules from Aera is that they are so effective, the smell lingers in the room for some time after they are turned off.

The limited edition Holiday capsules are perfect for this season. Winter Wreath smells of sweet berries, Holiday Cheer has that classic cinnamon smell, and Majestic Fir smells like a fresh-cut pine tree!

Between my Aera diffuser in my family room, and the Aera mini in my guest room and laundry room, I can be sure those areas smell inviting, and warm, and instantly make you think of the holidays.

The scheduling feature of the Aera diffuser, and the Aera mini, allows me to autopilot this element in my home. And I really appreciate that the capsules last for up to 800 hours, are non-toxic, and are pet safe.

Aera has a great variety of scents to choose from on their site, but I’d highly recommend the limited edition holiday gift set which includes scents to last you all winter long!

You can save 20% on either Aera Diffuser by using code Kate20 at checkout! Click here to shop!

This post is sponsored thanks to Aera.

01. Umbra Four in a Row Game 02. Snowflakes & Kisses Shower Steamer 03. Sugarfina Pop the Champagne Gift Set 04. Amish Popcorn Library 05. Old Fashioned Glasses Set 06. Acupressure Mat Set 07. Kate McLeod The Body Routine Set 08. Our Place Always Pan 09. ABLE Wine Charm Set 10. Matte Black Electric Tea Kettle 11. Oster Electric Wine Opener 12. Rotating Tea Light Candle Holder 13. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker with Sundae Kit 14. Aera Diffuser 15. Grey Stingray Tray with Acrylic Handles 16. I Should Have Known That Party Trivia Game 17. Madewell Siblings Wick Trimmer 18. Material Trio of Knives 19. Wine and Champagne Chiller 20. Infused Olive Oil Gift Set 21. Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer 22. Motion Sensor Tracking Smartphone Pod & Holder for Handsfree Video 23. Nielsen-Massey World Vanilla Extract 24. Katin Wood Centerpiece Bowls 25. Brooklinen Wool Throw Blanket 26. S’mores Maker

You know I love popcorn, so gifting someone you love a whole ton of popcorn sounds pretty ideal in my book. It’s also an incredibly safe gift for people for who you may not be sure what to buy. You could make a really cute gift basket with some popcorn kernels, seasonings, and a cute bowl and essentially gift them a “movie night in”.

Games are also an easy gift to give people that you may not be completely sure how to buy for. While it may not be something they use immediately, it’s nice to have a selection to choose from when the mood is right!

Overall, I like to think about things that may be a little less “common” for someone to already own and gift them something that feels special that they may not also buy for themselves regularly.

A few of my personal favorite brands are having promos right now, so check out the promo codes and details below!

ABLE: SMALLTHINGSHOLIDAY40 will get you 40% off of anything on their site through 11/28!

Aera: KATE20 will save you 20% on all diffusers.

Material: Use my code KATE20 for 20% off your purchase.

Brooklinen is having a 20% off sale from Black Friday to Cyber Monday. No code is needed.

I hope you’ve had a nice week and are looking ahead at a relaxing weekend! I feel like my weekends are numbered before the madness of the holidays really kicks in, so I’m grateful we don’t have a ton going on right now!

Today is Veteran’s Day and I just want to say thank you to those who have served!

I got a tray for my Peloton Tread so I can work on my laptop and walk. I got it because my least favorite part of my job is the days where I have a lot of time blocked out to work on the computer, so I wanted to see if it helped my productivity and focus to walk, albeit at a very slow pace. I’ve used in a few times and really like it! I wondered if it was going to make me feel like I wouldn’t have enough space on the tread for my normal gate, but it’s totally fine.

I’ve been sharing updates on Instagram, but this is the tread tray I purchased.

Speaking of Amazon, did you hear that GAP is now available to purchase on Amazon?!

Sugarwish, the best way to send candy as a gift to someone, now has COCKTAILS!

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation – Shade 5.25

Huda Beauty Concealer – Shade Vanilla Swirl 3.1B

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder for Undereyes

Julep Cream Eyeshadow Stick in Ginger Matte – a nice, soft toffee color!

Hourglass Eyeshadow Singles Palette

Chanel Eye Contour in Shade 12 – allows me to do the softest hint of eyeliner.

Lip Kit by Pat McGrath

Julia Marcum from @ChrisLovesJulia – we met for lunch and she was lovely!

Biltmore Malbec Wine – possibly my favorite wine of all time!

Corkcicle Cooler Backpack

Alterna Bond Repair Overnight Treatment – perfect for restoring strength to fragile hair.

Powerbeats Pro

Waist Length Align Tank – really love this, but I would recommend sizing up 2 sizes. It runs very, very snug.

Stunning Dress from Banana Republic

Long Sleeve Silk Maxi Dress

Winter Wedding Guest Dress

GAP Satin Button Down – runs true to size and comes in a handful of colors!

Popcorn Containers

Henley – it runs small but it’s a very nice henley to wear with denim.

Girljean in Adolpha Wash by Madewell

Workout Standing Desk Tray

Banana Hair Clip

Varley Zip Sweater – Love the color of this sweater!

Norfolk Jacket

Half-Zip Sweater

Free People Sweater

This week’s discount codes:

Material: KATE20 will get you 20% off your order

Ongoing promo codes:

Rifle Paper Co: Use code KATEB25 for 25% off at Riflepaperco.com

Corkcicle: Use my code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off items at Corkcicle until Dec 15

ABLE: SMALLTHINGSHOLIDAY40 will get you 40% off of anything on their site through 11/28!

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Loopy Cases: 10% off when you use code smallthings10

BFB Hair: Use code smallthings10 for 10% off all Hair Extension products only for her followers!

Watch my recent beauty favorites video here!

If you’re looking for a medium coverage foundation, which is my favorite kind to wear, read this post (I know it’s old but I still recommend these!).

Toffee-colored eyes with pink lips is one of my favorite fall makeup looks, click here for product recommendations and watch how to get the look.

A flattering eye makeup routine.

Curious about makeup brushes? Here is a rundown of my favorites and what they all do.

My top 5 mascaras.

If you’re in the market for a new shampoo and conditioner, check this post!

K18 has been a game-changer for me in the bond repair department. I still love a hydrating hair mask, like this one by Pureology, but if you’re interested in a bond repairing treatment, read about my experience with K18 here.

This retinol has been such a great match for my skin, it’s gentle yet so effective!

I love the Lancome Teint Idole original formula for a full coverage foundation, but this new glow version is absolutely beautiful!

You know, I feel like Thanksgiving gets the shaft every year but *this* year in particular it feels like we have completely moved on from even the idea of Thanksgiving and are into Holiday mode.

And while I’m looking forward to it, I feel like November is really our peak Fall month here in Raleigh, so I want to savor all the fall things! I need to make another batch of Apple Fritters, and want to make an apple pie too!

We’re looking at a low key weekend ahead, which is just what the doctor ordered. October felt very full, so I’m grateful to have a few days of no plans for this month. Justin and I are kicking around ideas of things to do to make Christmas special this year, and I’m already deep into the mental gymnastics of how to make Christmas gifting feel both fun and not excessive.

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

Fireplace Screen – this was in the house when we moved in, it’s a really beautiful screen!

NARS Lip Color in “Tease Me”

Lip Lab in NYC

R&Co Television Volumizing Shampoo – offers crazy volume! Heavily scented, though, so be warned.

The Equinox Hotel in Manhattan – a fantastic hotel in a great spot of Manhattan.

The Smith Restaurant

Sneakers I wore in NYC – so comfortable for walking around all day.

Striped Rails Sweater – got this on my trip and really love it!

Sarabeth’s Brunch – quintessential New York breakfast/brunch.

Hotel Lobby Candle

Pullover from Amazon

More suggestions for the Sephora Holiday Savings Event, now open to all Beauty Insider tiers:

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

Too Faced Bronzer – such a gorgeous, easy to apply bronzer.

Patrick Ta Cream and Powder Blush

Lancome Lash Idol Mascara

Huda Beauty Concealer – a fuller coverage than NARS, but not as cakey as Shape Tape.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer – a great universal concealer.

Urban Decay Naked 2 Pallet

Bumble & bumble Invisible Oil Primer

Amika Un.done

Virtue Healing Oil – literally healed a severely damaged part of my hair.

Verb Ghost Hairspray

Alterna Volume Spray

Kerestase hair product for dry ends

Alterna Bond Repair

ghd Flat Iron – I wish it had a heat dial, but other than that is a great iron.

T3 Blow Dry Brush – watch my demo here!

Shani Darden Retinol Reform

Dr Denni Gross Eye Treatment

Fresh Black Tea Mask

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Masks

This week’s discount codes:

Material: KATE20 will get you 20% off your order

Ongoing promo codes:

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

ABLE: Kate15 will get you 15% off of anything on their site!

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Loopy Cases: 10% off when you use code smallthings10

Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara. Professional Makeup Tinted Brow Mascara. Don’t Blow It Fine Hair Air Dry Styler. Ghost Hairspray. Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector. Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick. Tinted Lip Balm with Avocado Oil. Gwen Studs. Nano Titanium Ionic Straightening Iron. Medium Hair Bands. Long-Sleeve Tunic. High Waisted Leggings. Retro Runner Sneakers. Belt Bag with Adjustable Strap.

I looked at creating this capsule through the lens of someone who doesn’t want to take a lot of time, but wants to feel pulled together.

I think every woman needs one great pair of black leggings in her closet. I love the Lululemon Align leggings, but Amazon makes some great options at a lower price point as well.

When it comes to hair and beauty, I selected easy, effortless, and sheer options that you can run around in and not feel overly styled. A tinted moisturizer is a one stop shop for a healthy looking complexion!

If you’re looking for another beauty/style capsule, click here!

Between all the deep conditioners, treatments, bond repair, hydration, protein infusion, etc. it can be hard to know exactly what is best for your hair.

The first thing you need to do is discuss this with your hairstylist. Ask him or her what they think since they likely know your hair and what your styling process looks like. They also can visually assess your hair and get a feel of what it may need by touching it.

If you either don’t have a stylist, or you’re in a pinch and need to figure out how to solve a hair problem on your own, hopefully, this post will give you a bit of direction.

First, look at the front, ends, and top layer of your hair. What does it look like? Are the ends split? do you see white along the tips of the hair? Is it crinkly? Does it look frayed out? Is it smooth with clean ends? Anything you see here can help determine what kind of treatment may best help your hair.

If your ends look like a broom, you’ve likely got a heat and/or dryness issue. Add a hair oil or deeply hydrating serum into your routine right away, and look for treatments and hair masks that add hydration to the hair!

If your ends are split, and you are seeing white around the broken parts, you may need to incorporate a protein or bond-repair treatment into the mix. A hydrating treatment would also help as well, but a bond repair product may help seal that hair back together and prevent it from getting worse.

If your hair looks straight and clean on the ends, but you’re dealing with crinkly or frizzy hair, it may just need a hydrating and smoothing product.

If your hair looks and feels fine, but lacks shine, you can easily add shine back into it either with an at-home treatment or using a spray whenever you style.

If you happen to be looking for a hair tutorial for the waves pictured above, you can find it here!

Outfit Details: Booties, Jeans, Sweater, Sunglasses, Earrings

After a swift trip to New York City with my mom and sister, I’m back home and ready to spend the weekend with my kids. Unfortunately my sister wasn’t feeling well while we were there, so she spent a lot of the time resting in the hotel room. I wish she could have joined my mom and I for all the things we did, but I know how hard it is to be out and about when all you want to do is rest.

My mom and I had a great time shopping around SoHo on Thursday. And we went to breakfast and walked up and down 5th Avenue on Friday morning. We did our best to make the most of the time, and checked in with my sister during the day.

And now we’re ready to celebrate Halloween this weekend! We haven’t carved pumpkins yet so it’s on the agenda for today. And I have supplies to make witches fingers (chocolate dipped pretzels), so we’ll do that as well!

I get a comment on this oversized sweater every time I wear it. It’s warm and stretchy, and the length works with denim or leggings. This one by the same brand looks like a similar sweater that is a bit more lightweight!

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

Athleta Vest

Mateo Bar de Tapas – a fantastic restaurant in Durham.

Amazon Sneakers

Ribbed Henley from Anthropology

Old Navy Jeans

Amazon Dolman Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater

Aquage Uplifting Foam

Kenra Volume 25 Hairspray

Away Bigger Carry On – My mom, sister, and I all have this bag and love it!

Sephora Holiday Savings Event gift sets I recommend:

Lancome Be An Idol Set

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush Set

Sephora Collection Pro Bushes

Laneige Minis Lip Sleeping Mask Set

This week’s discount codes:

Loopy Cases: 10% off when you use code smallthings10

Corkcicle: Use code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off your entire purchase

Tommy John: Offering the best code I’ve ever seen! 30% off using my code KATEBRYAN30

Ongoing promo codes:

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

ABLE: Kate15 will get you 15% off of anything on their site!

Rifle Paper Co.: Code KATE will get you 20% off your purchase at Rifle Paper Co. now through Sept. 30.

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Brooklinen – Promo code smallthings for $20 off orders over $100. Good until the end of October.

I think we could all collectively agree that our skin, especially our face, feels a bit more drab and dull in the winter. Not only are we inside more, but the air is drier, and skin can look dehydrated and lacking in vibrancy when it’s cooler outside.

There are 4 things I do with my makeup when I want to look healthy, rested, and vibrant. All of the products I used in this demo are from Sephora, and now is a great time to shop because it’s the first day of the Holiday Savings Event! This is one of the few times of the year that Sephora offers a discount based on your tier as a Beauty Insider.

Here is some helpful info:

• The dates: 10/28-11/7
  • Rouge: 10/28 -11/7 — 20%
  • VIB: 11/1-11/7 — 15%
  • Insiders: 11/3-11/7 — 10%
• PROMO CODE: SAVINGS

Another layer to this Holiday Savings Event is the 30% off all Sephora Collection (which includes some of my favorite brushes). I’ll link a handful of my favorites below, but take it from me: if you aren’t loving your foundation, it could be a brush problem. These Sephora Collection brushes are the kind of things that you buy once and use for years and years to come.

Okay, let’s get into the 4 things I do to create a warm and vibrant makeup look in the cooler months.

First, I use my long-time adored foundation which is Armani Luminous Silk. It’s an oil-free foundation that allows you complete coverage control, meaning you can apply a light coat with your fingers or layer it with a foundation brush. Armani Luminous Silk looks the most like skin, to me, in the finish but covers up the things you want to be covered without eliminating your freckles. This is likely my most recommended foundation of all time.

Next, I add bronzer. I know it’s winter, but isn’t this really peak bronzer season? We may get naturally sun-kissed in the summer, which can defeat the point of bronzer, but the winter is when we need to add back in the warmth and color that may otherwise be lacking.

My favorite bronzer is Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer in milk chocolate. A tip when applying bronzer in the wintertime is to have a light hand, use a matte finish, and bring whatever is left on the brush down your neck and onto your collarbone. This way your face will not look separated from your neck. My favorite brush to use for applying bronzer is the Sephora Pro Bronzer Brush in #80.

I also use a cream blush in the winter and avoid topping it (or setting it) with a powder blush. For example, the blush palette I love is the Patrick Ta Blush Duo in “She’s That Girl”. If I want maximum color payoff, I will set the cream with the powder. In the winter, though, I’ll just apply a healthy wash of the cream color and let it be. I want the reflection of the cream on my skin! The brush I’ve been loving for blush is the Soft Pinch Blush Brush.

Lastly, I’ll reach for a cream highlighter. I really love the ease of use of the Fenty Matchstick Shimmer Skinstick. I like the shade Starstruck on my skin tone. It’s easy to glide on and blend with your fingers. For this makeup look, I applied the cream highlighter before the cream blush so it kind of gave it a lit-from-within glow. I loved the result!

I’ve used so many of these products over and over again through the years. I’ve repurchased Lancome Lash Idole, Armani Luminous Silk, Patrick Ta Blush Duo, Laura Mercier Cream Eyeshadow in Au Natural, and even the Naked 2 Basics Palette numerous times. I expect these products to perform, and they always do.

I hope you’re able to take advantage of the Sephora Holiday Savings Event and shop during your window. If you aren’t signed up to be a beauty insider yet, go ahead and do that now so you can have access during the Insiders shopping window (11/3-11/7) ! The code, again, is “SAVINGS” and all Beauty Insider members will receive free standard shipping on all qualifying online purchases in the U.S. and Canada!

This post was sponsored by Sephora.

Look at these babies! This was from 2019! I wish I could go back to my kids at this age for one day. This already feels like a million years ago.

Family photo season is upon us and you may be wrangling kids, posing with your pet, or both, so here are a few helpful posts and recommendations to get you fully prepped and ready for a photography session.

Read this post to see the 3 things I do to ensure my makeup lasts all day.

If you need a flattering eye makeup look, check here.

You can watch a demo of my “not a filter” makeup routine here!

If you are looking to add a hint of color to your skin, check out my favorite self-tanning products from this post.

A very pretty hairstyle that looks good no matter what texture or length is a half-up style. Practice this a few times before the shoot day!

and if you need a hair tool recommendation, I have a handful to share with you here!

Need a lipstick recommendation? I’ve got you covered.

It’s nice to be able to pull out your favorite full-coverage foundation for a day that you are getting photos taken, and I love this one!

Watch this quick video from the posing queen herself, Caralyn, on how to pose for a photo!

Need a new dress? I rounded up a handful of very pretty options here.

Don’t forget to polish your nails! Use the Dazzle Dry system for the longest-lasting polish!

If you’re struggling with what to wear, or figuring out what color looks good on you, consider having your colors done by Created Colorful. I did this and it was very eye opening!

I couldn’t quite tell from the website, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover how cozy this black puffer coat is from Madewell. I have a fair amount of lightweight jackets, so a thicker puffer like this one was the perfect option for when the temperatures really drop here in North Carolina.

I’m wearing some of my favorite black jeans, a stretchy ribbed turtleneck (that I sized up in, though I wish I had gotten my true medium), and some chunky boots.

I grabbed my favorite sunglasses, the Ashcroft in black, and added small thick hoops for jewelry.

I’ve also got my eyes on this pretty blue sweater. And I found a shorter puffer jacket if you prefer a shorter length than that of this black one.

Madewell is running a promo right now for 20% off $100+ or 30% off $200+ with code “GOSPREE” .

One of the things I love the most about using a cream eyeshadow stick is that it kills two birds with one stone. It not only provides a base to the eyes like a “primer” for powder eyeshadow, but it also adds a wash of color as the first layer to the eyes. You can use your fingers or a brush to blend it out!

Whether you want to add an additional color to the crease, or outer corner, or you simply want to keep the eye look minimal with one color, these are the 4 most neutral, easy-to-wear taupe/browns to wear.

From the left: Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye color in Au Natural (easily my most worn color of all time), Bobbi Brown Cream Eyeshadow Stick in Nude Beach (a more pigmented and peachier base), Julep Beauty Cream to Powder Eyeshadow stick in Putty Matte and Ginger Matte. Putty matte is like a lighter, cooler version of Au Natural, and Ginger Matte is a warmer color that isn’t quite as rich as Nude Beach.

From left: Julep Ginger Matte, Julep Putty Matte, Bobbi Brown Nude Beach, Laura Mercier Au Natural

I just have to say that we’ve had so many sunny days in October and it has been a delight! I love that we still have mild weather through this month compared to the very cold Octobers I remember from the midwest!

The kids are on a weekend visit with my parents, which they are loving, so Justin and I have the house to ourselves. It’s wild. It’s so odd for it to be just be us. The kids were so excited about this sleepover weekend in South Carolina, and I’m so grateful they get to have that time down there!

I’m making my way through reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. It’s very thought-provoking so far, I’m curious to see how it pans out.

Did you catch my recent beauty favorites video on YouTube?

These Christmas tree drinking glasses are so cute!

This cream blush stick in “Golden Guava” is such a pretty color for the cooler months.

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

Infinito Malbec

Electric Wine Opener

New Hope Valley Railway – we took the kids on the halloween ride last weekend.

Sporty Chic Madewell Bag

Mid-Rise Black Denim

Ribbed Turtleneck Top – the light brown is such a beautiful color

Tie-Belt Midi Shirt Dress

Square-Neck Velvet Bodysuit – looks so cute but I admit I wish it wasn’t a full bodysuit.

Girljean in Adolpha Wash – these have all the stretch you could want in a jean.

Cool Cotton Tunic Shirt

Amazon Flannel Shirt – perfect for wearing unbuttoned over leggings and a tank

Virtue Labs Healing Oil

Olive and June Quick Dry Polishes – I’m looking forward to testing these out!

Seed Probiotics

Athleta Vest – love the length of this!

Perfect NC Parka

Wool Cashmere Wrap

Lake Pajamas Robe in the elderberry color

NARS Powermatte Lipstick in “tease me”

Created Colorful

Spanx Air Essentials clothes

Bathroom Light Fixture

Comfy Amazon Sweater

Zella Hybrid Puffer Jacket – like an amped up sweatshirt

Black Oversized Sweater

Little Boys Sweatshirt

This week’s discount codes:

Rent the Runway: Code KATERTR will get you 40% off 2 months of an 8-item plan!

Corkcicle: Use code K8BRYAN25 for 25% off your entire purchase for the next 72 hours

Ongoing promo codes:

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

ABLE: Kate15 will get you 15% off of anything on their site!

Rifle Paper Co.: Code KATE will get you 20% off your purchase at Rifle Paper Co. now through Sept. 30.

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Brooklinen – Promo code smallthings for $20 off orders over $100. Good until the end of October.

How was your week? Mine went by quickly, like usual, and I’m looking forward to the weekend! My sister and I are going to take the kids on a Halloween themed train ride. It should be fun!

I made Half Baked Harvest Burrata with Lemon Pepper Salami as an appetizer for a night at my sisters’ house last weekend. And then proceeded to make it one more time at home. It’s outstanding!

My wheels are turning about Thanksgiving already because we’ll be staying in Raleigh for it this year. My parents usually split time between staying a few nights with me and a few nights with my sister. It’s nice to live close to each other so we can easily gather up *almost* the whole family!

I discovered this cream to powder blush stick in “guava” is absolutely beautiful! It has a subtle shimmer toit but doesn’t look too sparkly.

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed:

ABLE Merly Jacket

Athleta Venice Wide-Leg Pants

lululemon Align waist-length top – I’ve worn this an embarrassingly large amount of times since it arrived on my doorstep.

ABLE Harriet Sweater

Treerunner Adventure Park

Created Colorful – loved having my colors done!

FRESH Sugar Lip Treatment in Bloom – the prettiest pink.

Pureology Hair Mask

R+Co Television Volumizing Shampoo – crazy volume with this but does have a very strong fragrance.

Amish Popcorn

Pizza Steel

Makeup For Ever Full Cover Concealer – my longest used concealer for covering blemishes

Huda Beauty Concealer

ZSupply Tee in the color Lite Cola

Hank’s Downtown Dive in downtown Cary

Hotel Lobby Candle New York

This week’s discount codes:

Spanx: 10% off + free shipping and returns using code KateXSpanx

Ongoing promo codes:

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

ABLE: Kate15 will get you 15% off of anything on their site!

Rifle Paper Co.: Code KATE will get you 20% off your purchase at Rifle Paper Co. now through Sept. 30.

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Brooklinen – Promo code smallthings for $20 off orders over $100. Good until the end of October.