Sleighing The Holiday; Gifts for Everyone on My List from Bed Bath & Beyond

Knocking Out my Christmas List all in one place
In Partnership with Bed, Bath & Beyond
December 15, 2016
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Entertaining

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blog-holiday-giftingBreville Cordless Kettle, my favorite! blog-holiday-gifting2blog-holiday-gift-giving blog-holiday-gifting3

You know, there’s something to be said for knocking all of your Christmas shopping out in one sweep.  Impossible, you say?  I thought so too, honestly.  Because typically this time of year, I can be found running around town, trying to beat the holiday traffic to cross everyone off my Christmas list.  So when Bed Bath & Beyond invited me to the store to find gifts for EVERYONE on my holiday list this year…I was game, and intrigued (read: relieved?!) by the idea. 

Truthfully, I hadn’t been in a Bed Bath & Beyond since I moved into our home.  At that point, it was more like I was visiting the store twice a day; there was always something I forgot I needed.  But once we were settled, Bed Bath & Beyond kind of fell off my radar.  But after my recent visit, I can tell you it will never fall off my radar again.

Upon walking through the front doors, I was immediately blown away by the range of goods.  I mean, I even came to find a whole wine section; they didn’t have a wine section before, did they?!  But okay, back to Christmas shopping: as I raked the aisles with my husband, mother, father, Addison, etc. in mind, I spotted a ton of homewares, tech finds and stocking stuffers that would be great under the tree this year.  This Amazon Echo, for one, will be a huge hit with the Mr.  And I am absolutely obsessed with my cordless kettle that I have in my bedroom, so I’m gifting one to my mother…she’ll be in heaven.   Grilling accessories for dad, and plenty of coffee and a few Kate Spade goodies for my MIL.  And of course, I HAD to pick up a little something for myself…I mean I collect copper cookware, so this mini version was calling my name.

If you’re still scratching your head over what to gift that last person on your Christmas list, check out what I snagged from Bed Bath & Beyond below.  It really was a one-stop-shop for gifting this year.  I’d love to know: have you finished your shopping yet?!  Truly, MKR

 

Pawslife™ Plaid Fleece Dog Blanket/Bone Gift Box with Toys in Red

For Addison, $19.99

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For my fur baby and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Addison, this festive plaid fleece blanket is going to be a hit.  She loves cuddling up on throw blankets (and laundry), so it’s perfect that now she can have her very own Christmas blanket and toys, to boot.  

Breville® Variable Temperature Kettle™ BKE820XL

For my mom, $129.99

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This cordless kettle…let’s just say that I’m obsessed.  I know my mom will love it as much as me too.  I keep mine in my bedroom, where I boil water for nighttime tea, warm water & lemon in the morning, etc. I’m considering buying another one for our guest room; it would be perfect for entertaining out-of-town guests. 

Amazon Echo

For the Mr., $139.99

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This is such a strong gift for the techy on your list; that’s my husband Anthony for me.  The Amazon Echo is the latest-and-greatest hands free device that lets you control music, thermostats, lights and more with the sound of your voice. I know he’s going to love it! 

Grilling Accessories

For my dad, $4.99+

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A dad can never have too many grilling tools and accessories, so I stocked up on goods for him to use on his Big Green Egg this year.  Along with this set, I found a Georgia Bulldogs 3-Piece Sportula BBQ Set (which is amazing). 

kate spade new york Simply Sparking "This Is The Life" Mug

For my mother-in-law, $19.99

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My MIL is coffee-OBSESSED, and celebrates the season with a Red Cup from Starbucks like me, so this kate spade new york mug will be perfect under the tree, accompanied by three packs of Keurig® K-Cup® Starbucks® Holiday Blend Coffee K-Cups®. 

Tabletops Unlimited® Cookware Collection in Copper

For myself (!), $19.99 each

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Perfect for the chef on your list (and yourself), these gorgeous stainless steel pots and pans with a striking copper exterior finish create a timeless look. Each piece comes in a miniature size, which is a) irresistible because everything mini is adorable and b) perfect for whipping up a quick meal by myself or for my husband and me. 

 

kate spade new york One in a Million™ Initial Business Card Holder

For the WOM team, $29.99 each

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I grabbed an initialed business card holder for each of the girls on Team WOM for a little #girlboss inspiration in the new year, and to celebrate a great 2016. 

ASOBU Whiskey Stones (Set of 2)

For my brother-in-law, $29.99

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Anthony’s brother is a whiskey man, and this set of white ceramic whiskey stones will make a fine addition to his home bar. 

MLB 5-Piece Golf Ball and Divot Tool Set

For Anthony's Boss, $17.99 each

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Anthony’s boss is the biggest Braves fan I know, so he’ll be thrilled when Anthony gives him a few boxes of MLB golf balls and date to get on the greens come early Spring.

Burt's Bees Baby® 9-Piece Take Me Home Gift Basket in Blossom

For my bestie & the new mama, $59.99

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This sweet gift basket will be perfect for my BFF who just had a baby!  As a big fan of Burt’s Bees, I feel good about gifting this set that includes a mini lotion, a kimono and pant set, bib, hat, blanket, and more to keep her baby warm and cozy in soft, organic cotton.  

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha | This post is in collaboration with Bed Bath & Beyond, a brand we love and adore. All opinions are 100% our own. 

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Boozy Chocolate Peppermint Bread Pudding

An Irresistible Southern Staple, Perfect for the Holidays!
December 14, 2016
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Desserts

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Chocolate peppermint bread pudding recipe by @waitingonmartha
Chocolate Peppermint Bread Pudding | Recipe by @waitingonmartha

Chocolate and peppermint is one of my all-time favorite flavor combos.  This should come to no surprise to you if you’ve tried our Chocolate Peppermint Martini, our Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cupcakes, our Chocolate Candy Cane Popcorn and how could I forget about our Chocolate Peppermint Buttercream Cookie Cake?!  There’s just something about the cool, minty freshness of peppermint paired with smooth, rich chocolate.  

And simply, I’ve also been craving a good bread pudding recently.  When I say good bread pudding, too, clearly I’m talking about decadent, over-the-top bread pudding like this boozy Chocolate Peppermint Bread Pudding here today.  I, in true form, opted for what I consider the best-of-the-best ingredients (it makes such a difference!) and used fluffy, sweet Brioche bread and my new favorite Peppermint Mocha southern cream liqueur.  And because I had my favorite Peppermint Vitality Essential Oil from  The Well Code, on hand (I use it every day for my head and tummy) I was able to infuse the dessert with that extra boost of peppermint without having to buy the store bought sugary crap.

The beauty of bread pudding is all in the baking; it’s actually a simple dish to make, and it’s one that still delivers a gourmet effect when served to a table of hungry brunchers and indulgent desserters alike. The bite-size cubes of sweet bread lightly toast to perfection, giving the dish a crispy crust on the top and around the edges.  That toastiness of that top layer offers the perfect balance to the softness of the soaked gooey bread beneath, sopping up the smooth, creamy peppermint liqueur.  

If boozy bread pudding isn’t on your holiday menu this year, I highly suggest that changes STAT.  And once you try it at home, I’d love to hear how it turned out!  Enjoy!  Truly, MKR

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Boozy Chocolate Peppermint Bread Pudding
Serves 8
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Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
45 min
Total Time
1 hr 15 min
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
45 min
Total Time
1 hr 15 min
Ingredients
  1. 2 loaves of Brioche Bread, cubed
  2. 1 stick butter, un salted
  3. 4 cups milk
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 2 cups Jackson Morgan Peppermint Mocha Liqueur
  6. 6 large eggs, beaten
  7. 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  8. 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  9. 1 teaspoon Vanilla
  10. 1 teaspoon salt
  11. 15 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (if you're using Peppermint extract only use 2-3 drops)
  12. Powdered Sugar for topping
Instructions
  1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Butter/spray a large baking dish and fill it with cubed bread.
  3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm milk, butter, vanilla, sugar and salt. Continue cooking just until butter melts; mix in cocoa powder and once completely combined remove from heat.
  4. Add eggs to cooled milk mixture and whisk; pour mixture over bread.
  5. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until custard is set but still wobbly and edges of bread have browned.
  6. Let cool for 10 minutes, sprinkle powdered sugar on the top and serve.
Welcome by Waiting on Martha https://waitingonmartha.com/

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

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Having a Moment, Velvet. The 12 Pieces you need to Shop Now

All the Hearts Eyes for these Velvet Blazers, Clutches, Heels & More
December 13, 2016
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Having a Moment

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velvet-fashionjackson

In case you missed it (which is doubtful): velvet is having a MAJOR moment right now.  From blazers to boots to clutches to even sweatpants, we’re seeing velvet details on all of the items at the top of our must-have list this holiday season. It’s really no surprise that this luxe look is red-hot right now though.  There’s something about smooth velvet that screams holiday glam, don’t you think?  

It didn’t take me long to fall for the trend; the plush, rich material in all of these deep jewel tones is really just irresistible this time of year.  I’m especially partial to the emerald and merlot shades, and I’m THIS close to pulling the trigger on this burgundy velvet blazer (only $89) once I get through my Christmas shopping. 

So to get you covered for your final stretch of holiday parties, we included 12 velvet pieces to shop now. I’d love to know if you’re as obsessed with the velvet trend as we are!  Would you rock these velvet ankle boots?!  Cheers, Kat

Tassel Velvet Crossbody Bag

BP, $39

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It doesn’t get much better than tassels and velvet, and this gorgeous crossbody bag has both.  And we’re tempted to stock up on both colors (Emerald and Burgundy) at such an irresistible price point! 

Velvet Pleat Midi Skirt

ASOS, $100

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We didn’t think we’d be such big fans of the velvet midi skirt look, but oh man we are. This high-waisted pleat skirt begs for a calendar filled with holiday parties.  Pair it with a statement top, or hit a home-run with a monochromatic sweater.  

Velvet Blazer

Smythe, $695

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It’s all in the details, and this plush emerald green velvet blazer has everything and more.  Its tailored peak-lapel blazer with gold-tone crest-embossed buttons that gleam against the rich fabric are perfect for the holiday season. Our favorite part? It dresses up our favorite basics in five seconds, flat. 

Carrson Strappy Sandal

Steve Madden, $99.95

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The second we spotted these strappy velvet sandals, we knew they had to be ours.  These heels hit all of our favorite features: a classic d’Orsay profile, an open toe, a closed counter and a gleaming metallic half-moon heel.

Batwing Velvet Sweater

Topshop, $48

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This grey velvet sweater brings a new definition to casual-cool. Its drapey shape ensures a cozy fit that will be worn all season long (and maybe on repeat, let’s be honest). 

King Charles Velvet Smoking Slippers

Del Toro, $350

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We should have known we’d be suckers for velvet all along, thanks to our long-time love for velvet smoking slippers.  And of course, Del Toro makes the finest.  How can you say no to these cavvies?! 

Velvet Joggers

BP, $45

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Another win for the casual-cool, these velvet joggers are completely acceptable to wear in public.  Dress them up with a pair of strappy heels and a blazer for a fashion-forward look at your holiday party this weekend.  You’ll be as comfortable as you are chic.  

Rockstud Velvet Clutch

Valentino, $1,495

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Be still our hearts.  This Rockstud Velvet Clutch simply steals the show. The iconic pyramid studs paired with the lush velvet clutch achieves a ladylike elegance with contemporary edge. It comes with a drop-in chain strap, making it easy to wear over the shoulder and as a clutch. 

Velvet Blazer

Halogen, $89

Shop Now >

This trim velvet blazer will soon be a wardrobe staple.  It’s a great price point if you’re still on the fence about the velvet trend, and it has a timeless, tailored fit that is universally flattering. It’s available in Black and Burgundy. 

Velvet Dress

Mango, $99.99

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This black velvet dress is perhaps the easiest way to slip into the velvet trend.  With long bell sleeves and flared hem, it’s the perfect LBD for the holiday season. 

Small Love Quilted Velvet Crossbody Bag

Rebecca Minkoff, $175

Shop Now >

Navy blue velvet has never looked so plush! This electric, quilted crossbody bag with gold hardware is the perfect companion for your holiday get-up, and will be enjoyed well into the new year. 

Velvet Ankle Boots

Chloe, $693

Shop Now >

This supple merlot velvet in a western-inspired silhouette is giving us all the velvet feels.  You can depend on these Velvet Ankle Boots to make a statement every time you wear them. 

Featured Image, Fashion Jackson

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