Unique Objects from the MoMa Design Store

MoMA’s Design Store has a great selection of gifts that could best be described as contemporary art in the form of practical objects. Mondrian-inspired vases, the Vitra Eames Bird, and the classic vintage cat wall clock with its tick-tocking tail are just a few examples of the neat decor pieces you’ll find there. One standout is the $85 M.S.S. Wall Clock by Yohei Oki, which replaces numbers with rhythmically arranged geometric shapes. It’s an eye-catcher in black and ice blue.

Phaidon Press Coffee Table Books

Available at Amazon, Nordstrom, and from their own site, Phaidon Press books are coffee table classics, the kind of beautifully printed and fascinating tomes anyone would want to show off. Titles include Great Women Painters, Japanese Interiors, 1000 Design Classics, The Brutalists, Radical Architecture of the Future, and more, available for $49.95 and up.

Minted’s Direct-From-Artist Collection

Want to purchase from individual artists and creators but lack the time to shop in-person at holiday markets? Minted’s Direct-From-Artist collection is a curated marketplace of unique items shipped directly to you from each artist’s studio, and there are hundreds of items to choose from, including ceramics, wall art, baskets, and sculptures. It’s hard to single out favorites, but this $165 marble vanity tray by Brooklyn-based The Parmatile Shop is certainly a standout.

Cozy Cashmere Throws from Quince

Give someone a well-made cashmere blanket and they’ll be thanking you for years into the future. Who knows, they might even start wearing it as a cloak. There’s really nothing else like this ultra-soft fiber. It’s often blended with lambswool, alpaca wool, or polyester to lower the price point, but here’s a secret: you can get 100-percent Mongolian cashmere blankets at the crazy-low price of $129.90 from Quince, a company dedicated to making high-quality goods more affordable.

Colorful Cookware from Our Place

Coated with toxin-free ceramic in a range of shades that are to die for, Our Place’s cookware looks so good you’ll want to leave it out on the stovetop full time so everyone can admire it. The cult favorite Always Pan is the perfect introductory piece, measuring 10 inches in diameter with a matching lid for $99.

Luxe Candles from Le Labo and D.S. & Durga

With names like Spirit Lamp, ’85 Diesel, and Big Sur After Rain, D.S. & Durga’s scented candles ($65 each) clearly go beyond the typical. Fragrance notes like saffron, smoke, Scotch marmalade, and tea create complex and unexpected combinations. Le Labo’s luxurious candles ($82 each) pack a similarly sophisticated punch, filling the room with scents like the herb-infused Laurier 62 and the zesty lime and eucalyptus-based Verveine 32. Both brands can be purchased through Nordstrom with free shipping.

Kelly Wearstler Home Objects

If you’re after gifts that look like haute couture for the home, look no further than designer Kelly Wearstler, whose bowls, platters, vases, and tabletop objects are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. Most of these pieces are definitely an investment, but there are cute little splurges to be found, too, like the glass $300 Bubble Pitcher.

The post Sophisticated Home Decor Gifts for the Design Snob in Your Life first appeared on Dornob.

Bose Frames Tenor ($249)

Take out the earbuds with these combination speaker and sunglasses. Packaged in a sleek, black frame with polarized lenses, the Tenor’s state-of-the-art Bose Bluetooth speaker allows wearers to enjoy the natural sounds of their environment while discreetly listening to music in crystal clear quality.

Loftie Smart Alarm Clock ($149)

More than just an alarm clock, this smart device is also a white noise machine and includes a Bluetooth speaker that can play guided meditations, soothing evening playlists, and sound baths. It’s everything that special someone in your life needs to get the perfect night’s sleep.

Moleskine Smart Writing System ($279)

Digital technology makes note-taking and journaling so easy to store, but studies show that writing by hand increases brain activity over typing on a tablet or smartphone. The perfect compromise? The Moleskine Smart Writing System, comprised of a smart Ncoded paper and Smart Pen that instantly uploads digital copies of all your hand-written notes.

eTape16 Digital Electronic Tape Measure ($39.99)

For all your handy friends, this electronic tape provides a digital readout for all measurements and can even remember them, eliminating the need for a pen and paper to write it all down.

Anker Nebula Solar Portable Mini Projector ($399.99)

This compact mini projector lets your friends take their TV and movie-watching fun on the road. The1080p projector has a battery that can last for three hours on a single charge. It also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker to provide a full wireless entertainment experience in one machine.

Ekster Parliament Leather Smart Wallet ($69)

If your loved one isn’t ready to go all in on digital finance yet, this smart wallet provides identity theft protection with its RFID coating. With just the push of a button, their desired card is pushed up for easy access at the checkout line. The stylish wallet can also be connected and tracked via smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant so it never stays lost for long. It can hold up to seven cards and is handily powered by sunlight.

MUSE 2: The Brain Sensing Headband ($249.99)

Help your loved ones achieve greater focus and clarity this year with a Muse 2 Brain Sensing Headband. It monitors your brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and body movement in real time. When it’s connected to the accompanying smartphone app, the Muse 2 provides over 500 guided meditations for improved emotional and mental health.

Hydrate Spark 3 ($69.99)

Help your family stay properly hydrated with this smart, BPA-free plastic water bottle. The bottom glows when its times to take a sip again. Users can connect the Hidrate Spark to their phones to track how much water they drink each day and to track it if ever goes missing.

Solawave Advanced Skincare Wand ($149)

Give the gift of beauty with this skin care wand that uses red light therapy and microcurrent waves to roll back the clock on fine lines, dark circles, and acne scars.

Birdfy Smart Bird Feeder ($249.99)

For your aviary-loving friends, this bird feeder cam can identify over 6,000 types of winged creatures. With 1080p resolution, a macro lens, and built-in zoom, your loved one will be capture unmatched views of all their favorite birds. It also has a voice feature to keep any annoying squirrels from stealing the food.

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The post Top 10 Tech Gifts to Get Your Loved Ones This Holiday Season first appeared on Dornob.

For more ideas, check out the official Elf on the Shelf Ideas page, or browse the #ElfontheShelf hashtag on Instagram.

Elf’s Christmas Movie Night Kit

Ready to take in some Christmas flicks with the kids? Put together a little Christmas Movie Night kit the night before and place it in the living room for them to find in the morning. The official Elf on the Shelf website has a tutorial for creating a cute little scene featuring a snack caddy or bento box, movie snacks, and an Elf Pets Reindeer.

Pool Party Elf

A little blue tissue paper and some Elf-sized pool floats and palm trees can create a tropical pool party in your sink. You can find all these Elf-sized accessories and more on the official Elf on the Shelf shop.

Special Delivery Elf

The kids will run around the house looking for the Elf, only to finally discover that they’ve got a special delivery waiting at the mail slot (or out in the mailbox). If you aren’t aware, Etsy is a great source of handmade Elf on the Shelf accessories, like these personalized felt envelope costumes by Damiline. You can even have them embroidered with your kids’ names to make them a little more special. In a rush to pull it off? Try painting or drawing your own version on some paper.

Paper Bag Toy Race Elf

Gather up some of your kids’ favorite toys, tuck them into paper bags, and viola! You’ve got an imaginative new way to present your Elf on the Shelf one day this December. This idea from Stacy Molter is quick and simple, but kids will really get a kick out of it.

Instagram Elf

Your Elf is ready for an Instagram moment with this simple idea from Elf on the Shelf. All you need to do to recreate it is print out the Instagram photo frame from the Elf on the Shelf website, pose your Elf, and tape the frame to their hands.

Campfire Elf

This handmade accessory kit by TheImaginativeHealer on Etsy will help you create a cozy campfire scene complete with a miniature fire, two roasted marshmallows on sticks, four s’mores, four marshmallows in a bag, a little tartan blanket, and a plate.

Nutcracker Elf

Save this idea for those nights when you’re tired and need the simplest possible scene to put together in less than a minute. If you already have some Nutcracker figurines on hand (or other similarly-sized festive figures), just pose the Elf to “blend in” with them.

Elf on the Shelf Santa Cam

Instagram user Ashley Chung showed off this cute idea made from simple objects found at the Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby. Her “Santa Cam” features a camera picture frame, kids’ magnifying glass, wired lights, silver stud ribbon, craft paper, and sticker letters, but you could create something similar with whatever you find.

Mermaid Elf

Did you know you can buy Elf on the Shelf products on Amazon, too? This cute little “Merry Mermaid” costume is among them, ready to be posed on your Elf. Try creating a winter pool scene with a piece of blue paper, some white paint, and faux snow.

Soccer Goal Elf

Another item available on the Elf on the Shelf Amazon store is the North Pole Goal and Gear accessory kit. Dress your Elf figure up in a tiny soccer uniform and place it next to this folded paper goal.

Ball Pit Elf

A bag of red and green M&Ms, a sieve, and a tiny sign establish that this mini ball pit is for Elves only. This idea came from Ashley Byron of Stage.Organize.Sell, and it takes just a few minutes to put together.

Elf’s Toilet Paper Snowflakes

Uh-oh – this Elf took a clue from their much larger friend, Buddy the Elf, and perhaps went a little too far in their attempt to spread some Christmas cheer. Not even the toilet paper is safe. All you need to recreate this idea from Chloe Boyle is a pair of scissors and some sacrificial TP.

Tangled Up Elf

Okay, so maybe Elves don’t quite know what to do with floss. That makes this little scene from Elf on the Shelf a real learning opportunity, featuring nothing more than some dental floss and a little sign.

Totally Tubular Elf

An inflatable tube plus a matching scarf and ear muffs are all you need to create an adventurous tubing scene for your Elf. Get creative with some faux snow or even just some draped white fabric to act as the snowy hill.

The post All the Creative Elf on the Shelf Ideas You Need for the Rest of 2022 first appeared on Dornob.

Mirrored ornaments and reflective lights are visible in nearly every room, inviting viewers to see themselves in the White House, and find themselves “in the great story of America,” as the Bidens stated in a welcome letter in the 2022 White House Holiday Guide.

“The soul of our nation is and always has been ‘We the People,’” Dr. Biden says. “And that is what has inspired this year’s White House holiday decorations. The values that unite us can be found all around you: a belief in possibility and optimism and unity. Room by room, we represent what brings us together during the holidays and throughout the year.”

“We may celebrate different holidays, we may sing different songs or say different prayers, but our shared American values endure season after season. May the promise of ‘We the People’ light our path forward into the new year and bring us together always.”

The East Wing represents “Honor and Remembrance,” featuring bells to symbolize the unifying, healing power of music. The columns and beams of the East Wing Lobby are lined with greenery and red cardinals, which signify the presence of lost loved ones. The first Christmas trees featured on the White House Tour are covered in mirrored Gold Star ornaments inscribed with the names of fallen service members. In the East Colonnade, wintery birch trees, glowing lanterns, and handmade woodland animals evoke the feeling of tranquility after the winter’s first snowfall.

The Library features decor inspired by literature, history, and education alongside a copy of the Declaration of Independence, printed circa 1845. In the Vermeil room, a theme of “Kindness and Gratitude” comes together with piles of gifts from Operation Gratitude, a non-profit organization that delivers packages to deployed troops, first responders, and military families. If you look closely, you’ll see illustrations of the Biden family’s pets, Commander and Willow.

The China room evokes family traditions passed down through generations, with decor inspired by a grandmother’s baking tools. In the East Room, “Nature and Recreation” are honored with groupings of snow-covered fir trees and representations of National Parks from around the country. The decor in the Green Room is inspired by familiar carols, with sleigh bells, hand bells, and jingle bells all around.

In the Blue Room, “Unity and Hope” are represented by renderings of the official birds from all 57 states, territories, and the District of Columbia. This room features the grandest centerpiece of the White House holiday season, an 18.5-foot Concolor Fir from Auburn, Pennsylvania. The Red Room projects the comfort, peace, and strength we find in faith, while the State Dining Room embodies the idea of “We the People’” as the promise of the next generation, featuring ornaments crafted as self-portraits by the students of the 2021 Teachers of the Year from across the country.

A menorah created by the Executive Residence Carpentry Shop was a new addition to the decor this year, made of wood removed from the White House in the 1950s during the Truman renovation. Finally, the 2022 Gingerbread White House adds a sugar cookie replica of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall alongside the White House replica. Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed at Independence Hall.

Planning for the White House holiday theme began back in the spring, and Dr. Biden chose the theme by June. It always takes months of preparation to conceptualize and create a holiday display of this scale and prestige. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, more than 150 volunteers spent countless hours decorating the public rooms. The decor includes 77 Christmas trees, 83,615 holiday lights, 25 classic wreaths, and thousands of garlands, ornaments, and displays.

The annual White House gingerbread house is made of 20 sheets of sugar cookie dough, 30 sheets of gingerbread dough, 30 pints of chocolate, 100 pounds of sugary pastille, and 40 pounds of royal icing.

The post Jill Biden Unveils 2022 White House Holiday Decorations with “We the People” Theme first appeared on Dornob.

Below are some of our favorite new Target holiday decor items you won’t want to miss. Be sure to peruse the rest at Target’s Holiday Shop (preferably with a hot cocoa in hand).

Hearth & Hand x Magnolia

Joanna Gaines has shared her personal picks from the new Hearth & Hand x Magnolia holiday collection. They include everything from wintery plaid dog bandanas to mailboxes for letters to Santa, but one major standout is this Toy Apartment Building ($129.99), which can either be used as a dollhouse for kids or as a contemporary addition to your tabletop Christmas village. We also love the Fair Isle Stoneware Milk & Cookies Set, which can be enjoyed by everyone in the family after Santa’s done with it.

Threshold x Studio McGee

You can always expect relaxed elegance from the Threshold x Studio McGee home decor collab, and their 2022 holiday collection is no different. It’s full of natural materials and neutral color palettes that are easy to integrate into your existing decor, like a Woven Tree Skirt Rug ($50) made of jute, a Set of Three Glass Botanical Ornaments ($15), and a lush-looking Extra Large Long Needle Pine Wreath ($60).

A trio of tiny beige ceramic LED Tea Light Holders shaped like Christmas trees ($40) will add lots of ambiance without creating any additional fire hazards. A pale Wood Tree Topper ($25) is just the right touch for a minimalist tree, and it goes perfectly with Threshold x Studio McGee’s laid-back stockings, available in various knitted colors and a demure plaid ($15).

Opalhouse x Jungalow

Always extra bright, colorful, and full of cheer, Target’s Opalhouse x Jungalow collection brings in designs and motifs from cultures around the world. The fun, youthful vibe of this year’s seasonal items includes some seriously cute additions to your home decor. The Velvet Star Garland ($15) features gold velvet stars, shimmery moons, and tinsel pom accents, and you can even pair it with a matching wreath ($25).

The Set of Five Boiled Wool Icon Ornaments ($25) brings some characters you might not expect to your holiday tableaus, like two mermaids and a camel. If you’re celebrating the holidays in a warm winter climate, how can you resist? We also love the Star-Shaped Sweater Knit Throw Pillow, which is so cozy you might start wondering how to keep it in rotation after the holidays are over. The Dove Menorah ($30) might just be the cutest version of a menorah you’ll find anywhere, though the Carved Clay Menorah ($35) comes in a close second.

Wondershop

This year’s Wondershop collection has themes like Yuletide Fable, Snowy White & Warm Metallics, Modern Merry, and Santa’s Coming. How is it possible to pick favorites out of over 2,900 items? Just do your best to exercise some control, but we don’t blame you if you go a little crazy. We’re loving the three-foot fabric “Feliz Navidad” Garland ($10), a snowy white version of the 17.5” Lit Ceramic Christmas Tree ($60), and the Animated Candy Striped North Pole Antique Telephone ($25) that looks like it came straight out of Whoville.

If sweet little woodland creatures are more your vibe, there are plenty to choose from. Check out the 3 Piece Mini Fabric Winter Bird Figurine set ($10), the 3 Piece Mini Fabric Gnome Figurine Set ($10), and a Faux Fur Standing Reindeer Figure ($20) standing over 13 inches tall.

The post Target’s 2022 Holiday Home Decor Collections Bring Tidings of Comfort and Joy first appeared on Dornob.

Hummingbird Feeder

Talk about a gift that just keeps on giving. The right hummingbird feeder doubles as a sculptural work of art, and it provides endless entertainment year after year. Help mom hang it outside a shady window for bonus points. This adorable set of three blown glass hummingbird feeders is available at Gardener’s Supply Company for $69.95.

Oversized Knit Blanket

There’s just something extra cozy about these oversized knits, and Etsy is full of options to choose from. This honeycomb pattern is a fun twist, and Michigan-based crafter Becozi can make it in a variety of sizes and a rainbow of colors so you can tailor it exactly to your mom’s tastes.

Drinking Glass Set

Anthropologie is a great place to find dishes and glassware in the cutest prints and the prettiest shades. If your mom is into entertaining, it would be easy to go overboard and curate a whole new kitchen’s worth of beautiful goods. How gorgeous are these Fiorella stemless wine glasses, for instance? They’re $56 for a set of 4.

Silk Pillowcase

Real silk pillowcases are a beautiful luxury, protecting skin and hair from friction damage as you sleep. Brooklinen currently offers some cool limited edition prints as well as pleasing solids, and these $59 pillowcases are made of 100 percent OEKO-TEK certified mulberry silk.

Digital Gallery Frame

If your mom is always begging you to send her photos of your life, she’ll love this Wi-Fi-enabled digital picture frame that lets you surprise her with updates on a regular basis, no matter how far away you live. There are lots of options to choose from, all rotating through a gallery of uploaded photos. The Mason photo frame by Aura ($179) features a nine-inch display, adjustable slideshow speed, and even a built-in speaker that lets you hear the sound in videos.

Stylish Toaster

Does your mom love vintage style? UK-based company Haden has some seriously stylish toasters (often available with a matching electric kettle) in a variety of models, colors, and prints. Their collaboration with London-based designers Poodle & Blonde has a fun Tottenham Dalmatian print and peach accents, as well as four extra-wide, self-centering slots and digital browning control. It’s available at Crate + Barrel for $99.95 with a price match guarantee.

Wooden Bath Caddy

The therapeutic value of a hot bath can’t be overstated. Put together a kit with soothing bath salts, a candle, and a bath caddy like this live-edge solid wood creation by Etsy seller Gifts with Cherry on Top. You can customize the width and add drink holders (for that all-important glass of wine), a book slot. and a tablet stand.

Personalized Candle

Got a funny inside joke, a saying your mom loves, or a heartfelt message? Put it on a custom candle by Etsy seller Perfect Match Shop. Choose a size from four ounces ($12) up to 16 ounces ($27) and your mom’s favorite scent, with options like hazelnut coffee, pumpkin soufflé, cranberry apple, and cucumber melon.

The post Give Mom the Gift of Stylish Luxury with These 8 Mother’s Day Gifts first appeared on Dornob.

The listing reads: “Mister Grinch, here. As we are all painfully aware, the most miserable time of the year approaches. Caroling, candy canes, and, of course, that constant, contagious Christmas cheer. Yuck. I myself, unlike every other Who, am getting out of town this year — far away from all the holiday hoopla with its fanatical, fantastical fa la la la la, la la la la-ing. Am I stealing Christmas again? Maybe. Am I visiting my Florida beach home? Don’t worry about it. “

“Either way, good news for you. While I’m gone, you can stay in my cave. That’s right, the legendary rocky residence of the world’s most famous Who-villain can be your very own holiday hideaway. The halls of my entire cave are decked with all my favorite things — and Max’s, too, of course. Vacasa will take care of everything (because I have no interest or time for that).”

Requirements: absolutely don’t put on the Grinch’s Turkish custom-tailored green fur pants, or his fur shoes, or anything else for that matter. And if you’re the sort of person who likes the company of others, or, even worse, likes to host holiday gatherings (ugh), be prepared to bring the food you’ll need, because this location is very remote. So remote, in fact, that you can’t get here in any ordinary vehicle. You’ll need “at least a Crossover” to manage the rocky road. P.S., there’s no cable or internet in the cave.

There is, however, a paltry selection of questionable pantry goods like roast beast, Who-pudding, Who-hash, and Whamble-Bramble Crunch cereal, along with a coffee maker. You’ll be terribly tempted to put on the Grinch’s robe and settle into the library, at the table where the Grinch usually plays chess with his dog or at the telescope to spy on Whoville residents and watch for trespassers creeping up the mountain. The pipe organ, with its chaotic profusion of brass, and Max’s drum set will also be alluring.

Gaze at the Grinch’s villainous plans laid out on a drafting table, and perhaps try on his Santa hat disguise. When it’s time to go to sleep, a spacious bed is waiting for you beside a glass wall gazing out at the stars. There’s an additional bedroom and two fully functional bathrooms as well (because, as the Grinch explains, “I’m not an animal, you know.”)

Alas, the grotto is fully booked for this holiday season, but all those who aren’t able to travel there in person can still get a feel for the dramatic, festive space with an online 3D tour. Costing just $19.57 per night (in honor of the Seuss book’s release date in 1957), the spots fully sold out as soon as booking opened on December 3rd, and guests stayed there from December 17th through December 23rd.

The post The Grinch’s Rocky Lair Opens to Guests in Utah for Christmas first appeared on Dornob.

“Gifts from the Heart,” as explained by the White House website, is “inspired by the small acts of kindness and experiences that lifted our spirits this year and throughout the pandemic.” Rooms throughout the White House are decorated to reflect themes like gratitude, service, friendship, family, nature, peace, unity, the arts, community, learning, and faith. In total, there are 41 Christmas trees, 6,000 feet of ribbon, more than 300 candles, and more than 10,000 ornaments used in the displays, all put up by 100 volunteers.

This year’s decor is significantly scaled back compared to the 2017 to 2020 Christmas displays. While Melania Trump preferred to fill every space with lights, fake snow, branches, and other decor, Jill Biden’s tastes appear to be more low-key, perhaps out of respect to the effects of the continuing pandemic and the fact that tours of the White House are still canceled. The Christmas trees are smaller, the decor a little more spread out. Also notably missing are the dozens of life-size “snow people” first installed in the garden by Michelle Obama in 2015 and moved inside in 2016, which President Obama memorably called “creepy,” saying “There’s a whole kind of Chucky element to them.”

In the Blue Room, the official White House Christmas tree is adorned with peace doves holding white ribbons bearing the name of each state. Celebrating “the gift of peace and unity,” the display is the centerpiece of all the holiday decor and features the tallest tree, an 18.5-foot Fraser fir from North Carolina. The room’s chandelier even had to be removed to accommodate it.

Other elements of the decor include purple and fuchsia orchids woven into the mantel in the Green room, trees made of shimmering purple ornaments looking out onto the Washington Monument, and a Gold Star Tree honoring lost members of the military in the East Colonnade. Stacks of books, along with butterflies and birds made of recycled newspapers, decorate the Library in reference to the “gift of learning,” and in the East Room, the “gift of gratitude” is symbolized by handwritten notes full of grateful reflection.

The official 2021 gingerbread house celebrates a theme of gratitude for front-line workers, and features a gingerbread hospital, fire station, schoolhouse, gas station, police station, grocery store, post office, and warehouse outside an edible replica of the White House. Five people worked on the 350-pound gingerbread village for several weeks. Jill Biden, herself a schoolteacher, placed the final element on the scene: a gingerbread schoolteacher holding an English book and a bag full of apples with the label “#1 teacher.”

The Bidens added some personal touches, as well. In the State Dining Room, the “gift of family” is expressed with a row of family stockings embroidered with the names of the Biden grandchildren, and two large trees trimmed with framed photos of the Bidens and other first families. Some of those photos include a snapshot of the Bidens’ German shepherd dogs Champ and Major, as well as a family photo taken before Beau Biden’s death from brain cancer in 2015.

Since so few people will see the decorations in person, the White House has released interactive and augmented reality features on its digital platforms and social media. That includes a virtual tour on the official White House website.

The post How Does Jill Biden’s Christmas Decor Measure Up to Melania’s? first appeared on Dornob.

Today’s gingerbread houses go way beyond the simple creations many of us attempted in school. We’ve scoured the internet to find some of this year’s best, and there’s festive holiday inspo to draw from every single one. Who knows? You may even feel moved to create a modern gingerbread marvel of your own.

Classic Christmas Cottage

Who needs a gingerbread house when you can have a full-blown gingerbread cottage? This one from @ellagracebakes is both festive and fanciful, creating a lovely holiday scene. Bonus points for the brickwork detail and edible patchwork entryway.

The Devil’s in the Details

Is it still a classic gingerbread house if it’s not entirely edible? If it looks as good as this stunning house from @mygingertable, the answer is a resounding yes. While the house itself is all gingerbread, the other details are painstakingly recreated using a variety of other materials. No matter how you look at it, the result is a gorgeous and impressive edible delight.

Simple Yet Elegant

Many of today’s best gingerbread houses are eschewing the kitschy (and sometimes gaudy), colorful candies of yore and instead focusing on the elaborate construction of the structure itself, and this is certainly true of this creation from @bakerloocakes. Intricate icing deliciously highlights the details, while the height and design of the gingerbread is imposing without being overwhelming. A perfect pairing!

It Takes a Village

What’s better than one gingerbread house? An entire gingerbread village, of course! This one from @sanna_hederstedt is the real deal, complete with adorable detailed interiors. Look closely and you’ll see tables in the café, miniature baked goods, and even a tiny gum ball machine. This super-impressive offering definitely proves that it’s what inside that counts, even in the world of gingerbread.

Life Imitates Art

Sometimes gingerbread houses are inspired by real-life architectural marvels, and these are some of the best.

The Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco is lovingly recreated in edible splendor in this model by @grownasswomenwithdinosaurs.

Check out this uber-impressive St. Louis Arch made out of gingerbread by @justinwirick88.

This gingerbread version of the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh is epic, and we’re glad @tajulian25ca decided to share it with the rest of us!

These famous D.C. sights rendered in gingerbread give all new meaning to the phrase “White Christmas.” Photos courtesy of @princessintraining_colleen.

Whether you’re a gingerbread house traditionalist or have an affinity for more avant garde creations, these tasty treats are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Grab some graham crackers and get building to create your own edible holiday masterpiece.

The post ‘Tis the Season for Instagram’s Epic Gingerbread Houses first appeared on Dornob.

Wayfair

No matter how picky you might be about your artificial Christmas tree, Wayfair probably has something right up your alley given their massive selection. Shop thousands (seriously… thousands) of options in a wide range of prices ranging from just $30 for tabletop trees to $650 (down from $1300) for ultra-realistic ten-footers. This five-foot-tall green spruce is just $41.99.

Kohl’s

Cyber deals are ongoing at Kohl’s, where you can often stack promo codes and other offers for mega savings. Their holiday decor section currently includes items up to 50 percent off, like the entire St. Nicholas Square kitchen and dining line. Check out these adorable gingerbread salt and pepper shakers for just $7.99.

Macy’s

If you’re the type who likes to go all out for holiday decor, including seasonal bedding like the Martha Stewart collection pictured here, Macy’s has you covered. Nutcracker figurines, tartan pillows, holiday dishwater from Lenox, miniature Christmas villages, and more are currently available for truly great prices in the holiday Sale & Clearance section.

Balsam Hill

Cyber Monday deals can still be found at Balsam Hill, and you’ll get free shipping, too. This is where you want to check for truly unique, high-quality items that’ll last for generations, like handmade tree toppers, ornaments, and tree skirts. This one is the 72-inch Elizabeth Beaded Tree Skirt in silver for $139 (down from $179).

Target

Target will be continuously updating its Holiday Best Deals section throughout the season. Some of the items you’ll find include wreaths, string lights, artificial Christmas trees, outdoor holiday decor, and flickering faux candles. Best of all, this seven-foot pre-lit white Alberta Spruce Christmas tree is 30 percent off at $192.50.

Walmart

Walmart is offering hundreds of Christmas decor deals, including some pretty serious savings. You’ll find things like flannel stockings adorned with gnomes, inflatable lawn decor, tree skirts, the Elf on the Shelf, and decorative signs by The Pioneer Woman.

Amazon

Items in Amazon’s holiday decor clearance section include everything from sets of Christmas throw pillow covers as low as $10 to limited-time deals for life-size snowmen to place in the front yard. The deals change frequently, though, so be sure to check back often.

Grandin Road

Looking for a holiday wreath or garland that’s both reusable and highly realistic? Grandin Road is offering a huge selection of them, with many items marked down as much as 30 percent. This six-foot cascading evergreen garland is a mix of Fraser and Balsam fir tips wrapped with 70 mini bright lights for just $69.95.

Big Lots

Big Lots is secretly the place to go for basics like LED light strings, wrapping paper, and decor storage bins at incredible prices. But they also have an ever-changing selection of great decor, from full-sized faux Christmas trees to pop-up snowmen and reindeer for the front lawn. Currently, lots of their items are on sale, like this two-piece decor set.

The post Ho-Ho-Holiday Decor Deals to Score Now at 9 Major Retailers first appeared on Dornob.

The best way to get your home holiday-ready is to exercise your own creativity, and that’s where these DIY projects come into play. Giving your decorations a personal touch is the perfect way to welcome friends and family into your home during Thanksgiving. With the help of these inventive ideas, there will be plenty for everyone to be thankful for.

Creative Corn Wreath

Nothing says “fall” like this corn husk wreath. Simply peel back dried corn husks to reveal the vibrant colors beneath, secure the corn around your choice of craft ring (available at stores like Michaels) with a glue gun, and voila! Your home is instantly transformed. Want to make it even easier? Grab this cute kit from Etsy, which includes mini corn, supplies, and easy-to-follow directions.

Spruce Up Those Pumpkins

Don’t get rid of those Halloween pumpkins just yet! Put them in Thanksgiving mode with a little DIY magic in the form of metallic paint. Grab some at your local craft store to glam up your Turkey Day table. Not into metallics? Add in some floral branches instead (in fall colors, of course!). Want to make it extra? Purchase some colorful fall blooms to weave among your pumpkins for the perfect eye-catching centerpiece.

Gorgeous Gingham Touches

Want to think a little bit outside the box with a different color palette than the traditional burnt oranges and deep reds? Opt for stylish gingham touches like this table runner from Target or these cute cloth napkins from Etsy.

Want to add an elegant hint of fall? Work in some faux corn husks or a touch of green, or make those colors pop with some white pumpkins from Amazon for a distinctive autumn table. A DIY holiday centerpiece is so much better than a store-bought one, and your guests will be loving that personal touch.

Succulent Touches

Succulents are very on-trend right now, and for those looking to spruce up their Thanksgiving decor, these hearty houseplants certainly fit the bill. Want to add a touch of your own creativity here but don’t know where to start? Check out this tutorial from Succulents and Sunshine on how to create a cute succulent-topped pumpkin that will be sure to wow.

Not into succulents? Keep the fall vibes going by filling an artificial pumpkin with colorful blooms like pansies or chrysanthemums.

Custom Place Settings

Nothing shows off that personal Thanksgiving touch like homemade place settings. These mini wreaths courtesy of Spoon Fork Bacon are super easy to make and add a classic, homey touch to pretty much any table they’re on. Looking for something a little different and distinctive? Opt for a painted stone instead. Simply paint on your guests’ names with a paint marker and decorate them as you wish, place them atop some seasonal fall napkins, and you’re good to go.

Looking to work some of your unique personality into your Thanksgiving decor? All you need is a little creativity and some simple DIY projects to help steer you in the right direction, and you’ll be on your way to creating Turkey Day decorations that are super trendy and from the heart.

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The post 5 Trendy DIY Thanksgiving Decorations That Will Wow Your Guests first appeared on Dornob.

Deals Available Now

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet – $74.99

Amazon’s newest, largest Fire tablet features improved performance, a redesigned body, wireless charging, and an extra gigabyte of RAM compared to the previous model. On top of that, you can also choose to boost the storage capacity to 64GB. It’s definitely worthwhile to pay the $15 to eliminate ads on the device, but now’s the time to snatch it up at a base price of $74.99 (originally $149.99).

Amazon Fire 7 Tablet – $34.99

If you don’t mind a smaller tablet that was originally released in 2019, Amazon’s Fire 7 is currently available at a truly impressive discount – just $34.99 (compared to its usual $49.99 price). That’s probably the cheapest you’ll see a new brand-name tablet this year.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro Tablet – $69.99

This full-featured tablet is designed for kids ages 6-12, offering a web browser and video call capability. It also comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, which unlocks over 20,000 age-appropriate apps, games, books, videos, songs, and Audible books. Get it for $69.99 (original price $139.99).

Amazon Kindle with Built-In Front Light – $49.99

Amazon’s beloved e-reader, the Kindle, now features a built-in front light with adjustable brightness so you can read comfortably day and night, indoors and out. It’s currently available for $49.99 (original price $89.99) with three free months of Kindle Unlimited (or not, if you prefer).

Kobo Libra H2O 7-Inch Tablet – $149.99

Want a non-Amazon brand instead? The Kobo Libra H2O is a well-reviewed alternative to the Kindle with similar capabilities, featuring a 7-inch HD E-ink Carta glare-free touchscreen, 8GB of storage for up to 6,000 ebooks, long-lasting battery life, and built-in OverDrive for free library book borrowing. It’s now $149.99 (original price $169.96).

Android Tablet for Kids – $47.99

This alternative to Amazon’s tablet for kids is a 7-inch Android in a cute frog style with a built-in stand. It features dual cameras, 2GB RAM, iWawa learning software, and the ability to download many of the same apps. Watch for an upcoming Lightning Deal putting the price at $47.99 (original price $69.99).

Black Friday Deals

TECLAST M40 Gaming Tablet – $149.99

The 10-inch Android TECLAST M40 Gaming Tablet comes with 6GB LPDDR4 plus 128GB RAM storage, dual-band Wi-Fi and GPS for fast speeds, navigation abilities, and surprisingly smooth gaming. Grab it on Black Friday for $149.99 (original price $209.99).

HUION KAMVAS Pro 12 Drawing Tablet – $183.99

If you’re seeking a gift for the artist in your life, the HUION KAMVAS Pro 12 drawing tablet offers lots of great features for less than many comparable items. It features Chromebook, Mac and Windows support, a fully laminated anti-glare screen, and a battery-free stylus. Expect a price drop to $183.99 (from $229.99) on Black Friday.

TEKFUN LCD Doodle Board Tablet – $10.39

And finally, for the littles that aren’t quite ready for a real tablet, this is a great stand-in that will keep their grubby fingers away from your expensive screen. The LCD doodle board draws in a rainbow of colors with the included stylus. Get it for $10.39 on Black Friday, compared to the normal $15.99.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commissions at no cost to you.

The post Catch Amazon’s Black Friday Sale on Tablets and E-Readers While You Can first appeared on Dornob.

Home improvement goods are always top when it comes to Black Friday. As many of the year’s most popular and trendy items go on sale, that appliance or home good you’ve been eyeing all year suddenly seems worth the splurge. Below are some of the online mega-retailer’s best home improvement deals for this year’s two-day event, taking place on November 25th and 26th:

Wireless Doorbell Camera

For those who have been thinking of installing one of these home security superstars but have been waiting for the right moment, the time is now. This Geekee Wireless Video Doorbell Camera comes with all the goods, including night vision, motion detection, and wireless capabilities. Best of all, it’s over $20 off on Black Friday.

Now: $89.99

Black Friday: $68.50

Cable Management Set

Looking to get organized and finally tame those unruly cords? Tidying up your tech is a great way to refresh your home, and an easy way to extend the life of your much-used gear. With the help of this Cable Management Set complete with clips and organizers, you’ll be tidied up in a flash.

Now: $36.49

Black Friday: $28.04

Air Purifier

Air purifiers are an essential item for any home, especially for those who are sensitive to allergens. This Airthereal Air Purifier is perfect for larger spaces, boasting a HEPA filter, smart controls, and a super-quiet sleep mode for the ultimate air purifying package.

Now: $129.99

Black Friday: $84.99

Bamboo Sheet Set

Sheets can be expensive even at the best of times, but if you’ve been looking for a bedroom refresh, Black Friday is the time to upgrade. This Hotel Direct Bamboo Sheet Set is super soft, comfy, and the ultimate in quality. Perfect for both those hot summer nights and cool winter evenings.

Now: $89.99 (King)

Black Friday: $54.99

Cold Brew/Iced Tea Maker

Cold Brew is all the rage right now, and with this Ovalware Cold Brew Maker, you can whip some up at home whenever you feel like it: fresh, flavorful, and a lot cheaper than that expensive cup from the local coffeeshop. Even better, this beauty can make tea, too (hot and cold), making it a real one-stop shop for your favorite beverages.

Now: $34.99

Black Friday: $23.99

iHome Robotic Vacuum

Now’s the time to jump on the robo-vacuum bandwagon, and this i-Home AutoVac 2-1 Vacuum is the perfect place to start. Complete with self-charging, super suction, mopping, and wireless pairing capabilities via the iHome Clean App, this robo-vac is also $100 off for Black Friday.

Now: $249.99

Black Friday: $149.99

Sous Vide Cooker

Speaking of trendy, sous vide cookers are a must-have in the kitchen arena right now. An alternative to slow cookers and even instant pots, sous vide cooks your food in a kind of hot water bath, and this Greater Goods Kitchen Sous Vide is complete with all the bells and whistles, allowing you to control your temperatures to a tee and get dinner on the table in a snap.

Now: $94.88

Black Friday: $81.29

Air Fryer

Air fryers have been some of the hottest kitchen items around for the last couple years, and they only seem to be getting better with additional features and capabilities. Take the OMMO Air Fryer Oven for example. A Rotisserie/Dehydrator/Air Fryer (and more) all in one, this beauty can bake, roast, and grill pretty much anything you throw at it – and it looks great on the kitchen countertop.

Now: $169.99

Black Friday: $124.98

Smart Pet Camera/Treat Dispenser

Black Friday wouldn’t be complete without a treat for your canine (or feline!) best friend, and this Wopet Smart Pet Camera/Dog Treat Dispenser is the prefect way to show them you care. With a full HD camera to livestream and monitor your pet, this dispenser also pairs with your phone so you can talk to your buddy and give them delicious treats no matter where you are. Genius!

Now: $129.99

Black Friday: $103.99

Toothpaste Holder/Dispenser

This holiday season, give your bathroom the upgrade it deserves. With this sleek VNYIFAN Toothpaste Dispenser and Holder, you can get organized and look hi-tech at the same time. Multi-functional, stylish, and efficient, this wall-mounted beauty is also a great way to cut down on waste, saving you some serious cash in the process.

Now: $26.99

Black Friday: $12.74

Other Hot Deals to Look For

Don’t forget to be on the lookout for these five bonus deals this Black Friday!

The VIMGO Mini Projector takes movie night to the next level, and on Black Friday, its $178.95 price tag dips to $142.87.

The WLIVE 9-Drawer Fabric Dresser makes storage look oh-so-good, and its going to be just $76.49 on Amazon this Black Friday, down from $114.99. Talk about a great deal!

Everyone needs a Pendrajec Foldable Wireless Charger in their lives, and on Black Friday, it can be yours for only $29.99.

Lapurete’s Alexa Smart Bulbs use voice and app control to turn your lights on and off remotely and even set a timer and schedule — talk about smart! For Black Friday 2021, their price dips from $25.99 to $20.39.

Who doesn’t want the trendy and efficient COOKLEE Stand Mixer on their countertop? It also comes with a bevy of useful attachments, and, best of all, it’s down from $215.99 to $144.49 this Black Friday.

While Amazon started early this year with a host of pre-Black Friday deals, their official two-day Black Friday event on Thursday, November 25th and Friday, November 26th is definitely the best time to score some really unbeatable bargains. And if home improvement is on your list this year, now’s the perfect time to pick up those upgrades you’ve been eyeing. Get ready to fill your cart this week with some of the most amazing sales of the season!

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commissions at no cost to you.

The post Upgrade Your Home with Amazon’s Best Black Friday Deals first appeared on Dornob.

Hot tip: Don’t take a listed sale price at face value. Some retailers like to make it look like you’re getting a better deal than you really are by inflating the list price during the “sale.” To get an idea of how much of a discount you’re really getting, bookmark your favorite items now and take a note of the current price. Then compare when the sale goes live.

What Major Retailers Offered Last Year

AllModern usually has some of the best Black Friday furniture sales on the internet, with up to 50 percent off products like stylish sofas, rugs, chairs, bookshelves, and more. Check out the gorgeous Lark Reversible Sofa & Chaise Sectional in lush green velvet and a range of other colors, which is already 29 percent off at $900.

Amazon will have its traditional Black Friday bonanza, which always features some furniture and decor items. And if you’re impatient, guess what: they’re already offering some early deals like the Christopher Knight Home Isaac Midcentury Modern Arm Chair for $262. Keep tabs on their Black Friday page for more in the weeks to come.

Anthropologie has some of the most unique items you’ll find on the internet, and last year, they offered 30 percent off everything — along with a flash sale that took an extra 50 percent off sale items. The beautiful four-poster Rosalie bed is one statement piece to keep an eye on.

Ashley Furniture cut prices in half for certain items in 2020, and tacked on an extra 10 percent discount with the code CYBERDEALS. All that savings definitely adds up. Among the items already on sale is the Odium Counter Height Dining Set for just $184, perfect for small spaces.

The Company Store offered a special discount code to save 40 percent on specials, 30 percent on orders over $300, and 20 percent on all other items last year, and they’ll likely do something similar for Black Friday 2021. They have some of the best bedding in the business, so don’t miss a chance to save on items like their signature voile quilt, which comes in 22 color options.

Etsy is the place to go for handmade, one-of-a-kind items you just won’t find anywhere else, and it’s not unusual for shops to offer as much as 60 percent off for Black Friday. How about this handcrafted round coffee table by KaneyStore, which is already marked 25 percent off?

Joss & Main usually offers up to 50 percent off everything from curtains to beds. You might want to use this year’s sale as an opportunity to bring some beautiful wall art into your home, like this “Before Night Falls II” landscape print.

Rugs.com is one store that goes all out for Black Friday, with prices sometimes slashed by as much as 80 percent. So if you’ve been looking for something that really ties the room together — like the understated Beige Starlight Rug — don’t miss the chance to save big.

West Elm marks some items down by as much as 70 percent for their Black Friday home sale, and you can get free shipping on orders over $79, even for big purchases. The Rosanna Ceravolo Media Console is an especially popular pick.

The post How to Snag the Best Black Friday Furniture Deals in 2021 first appeared on Dornob.

Belkin Boost Up Charge Wireless Charging Stand 10W

For a dad who’s ready to ditch all the cords, this wireless phone charging stand is a great solution. Compatible with both Apple iPhones and Android Qi-enabled smartphones, it provides some of the fastest charging speeds out there. The phone can be placed on the stand in either portrait or landscape mode, too, allowing for continued use while soaking up more battery life.

Apple Airtag or Tile Pro

If your dad is notorious for losing his keys, he might appreciate an Apple Airtag or a Tile Pro (if he’s an Android user). These tracking devices can be attached to a key ring or any other frequently-lost item and pinged from a phone. Accompanying smartphone apps will allow dad to navigate his way to his hidden car keys or even the remote control.

Arlo Video Doorbell

Your dad can get great home protection with this video doorbell. It’s wire-free, battery-powered, and easy to install. This model is especially impressive with its high-resolution HDR video and its ability to pair with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice-control options.

Logitech G502 Lightspeed Gaming Mouse

For all those gamer dads out there, this mouse gets extra high ratings when it comes to low click latency and a wide CPI range (he’ll know what those terms mean). Fully compatible with both Windows and MacOS, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed has an outstanding, consistent sensor and lots of programmable buttons.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat

If you want dad to stop complaining about his electric bill, you might want to get him a smart thermostat to maximize his home’s energy usage. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat uses AI to automatically adjust to the user’s preferred temperature and schedule. Dad can change the heating and cooling settings from anywhere using his phone, and he can check the accompanying app to monitor how much energy is being used and why.

Apple Watch – Series 6

While it is one of the priciest smart watches on the market, the series 6 Apple Watch beats out the competition with a fast new processor, great third-party app selection, and fitness tracking capabilities. It can measure dad’s blood oxygen saturation on demand, track real-time elevation on long runs or hikes, and even keep tabs on his sleep. With a large selection of new colors and band options, there’s sure to be an Apple Watch prefect for your papa.

JBL Flip 5 Portable Speaker

For a dad who likes to spend his time outside, this powerful portable speaker lets him enjoy his tunes anywhere. Packing a strong audio punch, the JBL Flip 5 also has an IPX7 waterproof rating, making it perfect for music by the pool or while floating down the river.

Moment Tele 58mm Lens

If your dad is a photography junkie, he can up his smartphone picture game with the Moment Tele 58 mm lens. It can attach to the latest iPhones, Galaxies, and Pixel devices and provide 2x optical magnification with a single lens phone and up to 4x magnification with the iPhone telephoto lens. That will allow dad to get up close and personal to his subjects without having to digitally zoom and decrease the image quality.

Make your dad’s life easier with one of these smart gadgets and give him the gift of a very happy Father’s Day this year.

The post 8 Cool Tech Gifts to Get Your Dad This Father’s Day first appeared on Dornob.

Jewelry with a Purpose

While jewelry is a perennial go-to for Mother’s Day gifting, this year give mom the gift of style and wellness, all in one package. These Philip Stein bracelets tune into your body’s natural frequency to help lower stress, improve sleep, and increase energy. Plus, they’re super stylish and functional. Win-win!

$195.00 – $290.00

30 percent off with promo code MOM30

Breath of Fresh Air

What better way to show mom you care than by giving her the ability to breathe pollutant and allergen-free air? (Dig that poetry). This Molekule Mini air purifier has patented PECO tech to help anyone breathe easier during allergy season — and all year long. Bonus for its super cute look and sleek design.

$399.00

Beauty and the Beach

After being stuck inside for so long, your mom will definitely want to catch some rays and ocean views this summer (safely, of course!).This Sunflow Beach Bundle has everything she needs to hit the beach. With an easy-to-carry chair that doubles as a carrier for all the bare necessities, this set is bound to make her smile.

$296.00

Picture Perfect

It’s been a long year, but we can preserve the moments that matter with the magic of digital picture frames. Curate a slideshow yourself, or simply give mom a blank canvas for uploading her most treasured photos. With models like Nixplay’s best-selling Smart Photo Frames, the possibilities are endless! The 10.1 inch wood-effect frame is our absolute fave.

$154.99 and up

Fashion Forward

Sure, Mom is caring, loving, sweet…but she’s also trendy, fun, and chic! Here are some great ideas to keep your favorite lady looking her best.

Madewell always keeps it fresh, stylish, and affordable. And these Belgrave sunglasses are no exception. Perfect for those sunny, lazy days of summer.

$65.00

Nap dresses are easy, breezy, and super comfy! Show Mom you care with a sweet, flowy Ellie nap dress from Hill House.

$125.00

In Vino Veritas

Does your mom like wine? Of course she does! Give her the gift that keeps on giving with a hip wine subscription from Eater Wine Club. With fun, unique choices curated by Eater’s editors and wine pros, she’ll be able to kick back with a quality glass anytime.

$70.00 and up

Tea, Anyone?

Is your mom less into wine and more into a soothing cup of tea? This pour-over electric tea kettle from Fellow Stagg marries form and function to make the perfect cup with ease. Best of all, it comes in a variety of colors (including warm pink) to match her kitchen aesthetic perfectly.

$149.00 and up

Mother’s Day is almost upon us — and after a grueling year, all moms deserve a treat. Show yours you care by going off-script with any of these amazing gifts that will warm her heart and appeal to her unique sense of style.

The post 8 Stylish Mother’s Day Gift Ideas We Love first appeared on Dornob.