HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

Happy Valentine's Day, lovaaassss! After Christmas and Halloween, VDAY is my favorite holiday. You gotta love love, no? Regardless of whether I've been single or dating someone on Valentine's Day, it's always such a fun day for me. I'm a sucker for all of the cute lovey vibes and most importantly, the yummy foods. You don't have to sell me twice on sugar! I'll be back to grilled chicken on Monday but this weekend is fair game on candy, snackies + donuts! I also couldn't resist the KK Valentine lineup this year-how cute are these? The box + presentation is a 10/10.

On a real note, I wanted to just chat and wish you a Happy Valentine's today. I know not everyone loves today and it can be tough if you don't have a special someone (and *want* one, lol) and even more so if you've lost a special someone. This week my thoughts and prayers have been with family friends of mine who lost their husband and father. His funeral service was scheduled for today which is just awful and devastatingly difficult for everyone. Life always has a way of putting things in perspective and reminding you of what's really important. I took a few minutes today to reflect on how grateful I am to be able to spend today with the people I love most. Tomorrow is never guaranteed and unfortunately we never know whether we'll have another Valentine's Day together or not. 

It can be tough but circumstances like these remind me that the little inconveniences and annoyances of my life really aren't important. It's also just way more fun to embrace and focus on what's good and right now that is YOU. The real secret to Valentine's Day is that you always and forever have a Valentine- yourself. Sometimes you may be lucky enough to have multiple but the best and most important is you. That's why I always have the best day no matter what ;) Here's a little reminded that you should take the time each and every day to really appreciate and love yourself and then just add a teeny bit more on Valentine's Day- we all deserve love and to feel special. 

If you're single today, it also just might be your last Valentine's Day alone! How wild is it to think of that? I saw someone on TikTok share today that if you haven't found the one yet, your person's also out there right now wishing and waiting to buy flowers for you- how sweet is that! You've gotta love love, ya'll. 

Now it's time to end the day with a little r&r and maybe a fun rom-com? Robert Palmer's "Best Day of My Life" has also been all over my TikTok this week so now all I can think about watching is A Cinderella Story. Love ya mean it!

How'd you spend today?? LMK!

VALENTINE'S DAY GRAPHIC TEES

Anine Bing Heart Tee // Strawberry Fraise Tee // Queen of Hearts Tee // Sorry Not Sorry Charms Tee // Will You Be Mine Sweatshirt // Feelin' Lucky Tee // Love Arrow Tee // Lucky U Tee 

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I love sharing my picks + hauls with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

WHAT TO BUY YOUR GUY FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

Chocolates // Hot Sauce Gift Set // Dots Pretzels // Valentino Cologne // Button-Down Shirt // Wallet // Boxers // YETI Rambler // UGG Slippers  

If Valentine's Day had a team mantra, it would definitely be the viral "remind me of your gender again- these are for GIRLS ONLY" trend on TikTok. We all know Valentine's Day is all about the girlies, however I think it's nice to buy your guy a little something too. Let's hear it for the booooyssss- they deserve some appreciation on Valentine's too. If you wanna do a little something but aren't sure what to get, here are a few of my favorite gift ideas. 

You definitely don't have to go crazy either-- something as simple as a nice card + their favorite candy is great. All of the men I know love food + snacks so whether you opt for snackies, something homemade or a gift card to their favorite place to eat, that's always a fail-safe. 

When it comes to non-food items, men can sometimes be hard to buy for. I always say this but in my experience, they usually buy most of what they want or need for themselves. They also just want less "stuff" than we do (or ME anyway, hehe). Some gifts that my boyfriend always seems to enjoy are books off of his wishlist, clothes (good if you know size + what he likes), snackies, water bottles or a "need" item that he doesn't want to pick out himself (usually something home related, lol). AKA- if they tell you they need a new shower curtain but don't buy one, that's probably a cue for you to pick one out for them!

Nice accessories also make great gifts if you have an idea of their style + are very fitting for Valentine's Day. Something like a nice wallet, bottle of cologne or a button-down shirt have a sexy date vibe to them that is very on brand. Loungewear, boxers + slippers also just feel Valentine's Day-ish to me too. You can go as affordable or splurgy as you want with these items but regardless of the budget, I think most men would appreciate them + that you picked them out for them. Once again- if all else fails, just go for snackies! 

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What are your plans for Valentine's Day?

I love sharing my picks + hauls with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

WHAT TO BUY HER FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

Sugar Lips Gummies // Tom Ford Lost Cherry // Dash XOXO Mini Waffle Maker // Diptyque Valentine Set // Satin Pajama Set // Amor Mug // Heart Bracelet // Gold Heart Ring // Heart Huggie Earrings // Westman Atelier Duo // Laneige Chocolate Strawberry Lip Set

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I love sharing my picks + hauls with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

VALENTINE'S DAY HOME FINDS

Heart Knit Throw Blanket // EVOO Heart Bottle // XO Pillow // Heart Pillow // Heart Spoon Rest // Heart Wooden Spoon // Heart Wreath // Heart Ice Cube Tray // Lip Juice Glasses // Heart Skillet // Heart Appetizer Plates

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 I love sharing my picks + hauls with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

VALENTINE'S DAY INSPO

Marc Jacobs Daisy Love Eau So Sweet Perfume // David Yurman Diamond Heart Pendant // Sugarfina Valentine Candy Box // Heart PJs // Static Press-On Nails // Le Creuset Heart Mug // Hanky Panky Panties // Venus et Fleur Rose // Laneige Berries' n' Choco Lip Mask Set 

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What are your V-DAY plans?? 

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

WHAT I WANT TO READ: VALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner which means it’s time for chocolates and steamy romance. Ever since college, I’ve loved VDAY. I’m a sucker for the cuteness of it all and will gladly take any opportunity given to snack on Reese cups. For all my peanut butter cup lovers, what’s your go-to? The miniatures are my favorite! I know everyone loves the seasonal shapes but I think the choc to pb ratio on the miniatures is chef's kiss!! 

V-DAY is a must after the holidays are over and that winter depression sets in. I love having something fun to look forward to and whether you’re single or taken, there are so many ways to celebrate and make it fun. Two of my favorite activities (besides candy, obvs) is marathoning my favorite rom-coms and reading a lil' steamy romance novel. Also shoutout to my Target which definitely understood the assignment this year. They have some great book options out in stores right now so ya'll know I couldn't not buy. Here are my top picks for all the V-DAY vibes: 

You can read the synopsis + shop each book by clicking on the title below: 

+ The Chase by Elle Kennedy 

+ The American Roommate Experience by Elena Armas
+ By a Thread by Lucy Score

I'm starting with The Chase by Elle Kennedy first which has been described as an opposites attract, sorority girl likes the "nerdy jock" that's her brother's best friend vibe. I think "nerdy jock" is a new one for me though when it comes to social class? Reminded me of the lunch scene convo from Mean Girls, lol. PS-- always a great pick to watch for Galentine's Day! It sounds cute so I'm excited for it and also By a Thread and The American Roommate Experience. I've been reading The Body Keeps The Score so some lighthearted, fluffy romance is definitely a welcome change right now. It's a wellness/health book about healing from trauma that's really interesting and insightful but it's a pretty heavy topic. Sometimes I have to take a breather when it comes to the self-help books. 

Movie-wise, I always tend to go for the same ones every year. I'll link my post with the Top 10 Movies to Watch on Valentine's Day for you here. It's an oldie but the movies are all still goodies! Let me know if you have a go-to movie/movies that would also be worth watching! 

What are your V-DAY plans this year? 

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

GALENTINE'S DAY GIFT IDEAS

Mini Bundt Maker // Sugar Lips Gummies // Chocolate Bar Duo // Rose Gold Eye Patches // Why Men Love Bitches Book  // Initial Heart Charm Necklace // Lip Scrub + Balm Duo // Mug

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I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

VALENTINE'S DAY INSPO

Candy Box // Eternity Rose // Diptyque Candle // Heart Silk Pajamas // Pave Heart Earrings // YSL Bag // Cozy Heart Robe

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I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

VALENTINE'S DAY FROSTED SUGAR COOKIES

I've been wanting to make frosted sugar cookies since Christmas! I never had the time to do it during the holidays so Valentine's Day was the next best thing. I've of course made sugar cookies before but this was my first time icing them with a piping bag. How do you think I did? By no means are they perfect but I thought I would share them + the recipe I used! Super yummy and the perfect V-Day treat for yourself or your boo. 

Spatula / Cookie Cutters (similar) / Rack

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

You can use any sugar cookie recipe you like-- I used one I found on the back of the heart-shaped cookie cutters I bought (almost exact cutters here). It was super easy to follow! For the frosting, I used the Powdered Sugar Icing Recipe from DesignEatRepeat. Click here for the recipe on her blog!

TIPS + MY TWO CENTS

I listed the recipe below exactly how it was printed, however make sure you use softened butter. I also used an x-large egg but either size works. Something I found helpful is to roll + cut out your dough directly on parchment paper or chill it before rolling. My first batch stuck to my countertop and I had to scrap them + start over. You could also cut them + then chill before removing the edges/excess dough! Chilling makes it so much easier to work with. 

I like soft sugar cookies so I took them out just as the edges started to brown/turn golden. They bake quickly + only took about 6-7 minutes in the oven! Also be sure to let them cool completely before frosting 🤗  

SUGAR COOKIE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS 

(Made about 28 cookies with my cookie cutters)                     

1 cup butter                                   

1 cup sugar                                    

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tsp baking powder 

2-3/4 cups flour  

PREPARATION

Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla. 

Mix all dry ingredients and add slowly to butter cream mixture until incorporated. 

Roll out on lightly floured board to desired thickness. 

Cut out cookies using cookie cutters and bake at 400°F / 200°C

Should be light in color with light browning on the edges. 

FAVORITE BAKING TOOLS 

Mixing Bowls / Measuring Cups + Spoons / Liquid Measuring Cups / Spatulas / Cookie Sheets / Cooling Racks 

FAVORITE BAKING INGREDIENTS 

Flour / Baking Powder / Vanilla (the BEST-- worth the $$$) / Sugar 

These are so so good so I hope you'll try them out! If you do, send me pics! You can find me on IG @TheKristenDiary. Hope you have a Happy Valentine's + Galentine's Day! 

xx,

Kristen

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GALENTINE'S DAY GIFT IDEAS

Valentine's Day weekend is only two weeks away now which includes V-Day + G-Day! I thought I'd bring some great Galentine's Day gift ideas to the blog. I love to celebrate Valentine's with my boo + Galentine's with my mom and sister! It's the perfect time to spread some love-- a little gift goes a long way in making someone feel special. I found some great gift ideas for all your favorite Gals that are super affordable. Let me know which one is your fave!

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

GALENTINE'S DAY GIFT IDEAS

1. Valentine's Day Fuzzy Socks -  I buy fuzzy socks for almost every holiday, lol. These are my favorite-- super soft + plushy. Loving both the white + grey pairs but I also just found these. Which is your fave? They're only $4 per pair so they make a great gift (& everyone loves getting socks!). 

2. Valentine's Day Teddy Bear - Okay the child in me had to include this. I think I'm too old for the stuffed animals (but like am I...?) but how adorable is this teddy bear?? She's a little fancier so I actually think it would make great V-Day decor on a couch or bed. I decorate with blush pink in my room so I'm debating on that... what do you think? Yay or nay if you're over 15? Lol! You can't say it isn't cute! 

3. Hello Gorgeous Mug - Not a Valentine's mug but SO Galentine's to me. It fits the color palette, spreads love + is only $6.

4. Le Mini Macaron Gel Mani Kit - I was given one of these for Christmas and think it's the coolest gift idea. It's an at-home gel manicure kit that comes with a macaron-shaped LED light. You also get the coordinating nail polish + tools. I love the macaron, very Valentine's + you can buy more nail polish colors separately here. **Normally these are $35 but I found on sale here for $24.50!

5. Mini Heart Waffle Maker - I have + love this. My sister bought me the mini heart-shaped waffle for Galentine's last year but I also have the regular waffle + the mini griddle. They work great + are easy to use. Comes in red or pink. 

6. Lighted Heart-Shaped Makeup Mirror - I want this mirror as a Galentine's Day gift, lol. I love that it's lighted + has a tray at the bottom. Only $20 and comes in pink, purple + yellow here.

7. Heart-Shaped Hair Bobbles - Have you guys seen these with the heart shape? I hadn't before! This set comes with three for under $5. 

8. Poo-Pourri Pink Citron Spray - Sure to bring some laughs to your G-DAY! Lol, this stuff is the sh*t if we're being real (pun WAS intended). The Pink Citron smells like strawberries + is cute packaging. Under $10 + a little goes a long way so it lasts a long time! 

9. Sugarfina Valentine's Day Bento Box - Candy is the true hero on Valentine's + Galentine's. I'm partial to Reese's but I love this Sugarfina Valentine's Set for a gift. It's a little bit fancier so it adds a wow factor (gorgeous packaging) + it's a novelty that I think most people would love to try. This one comes with two of their signature candy cubes + is $24. 

Linking everything below for you! Do you have big plans for Valentine's/Galentine's? The bf and I usually grab dinner on V-Day but nothing crazy! PS-- today's my birthday! Can't believe another year has gone by! 😬 Hope you have a great weekend!

xx,

Kristen

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VALENTINE'S DAY INSPO

I love love love Valentine's Day so I had to bring some inspo to the blog! My boyfriend and I never do anything crazy on V-DAY but I live for all of the cutesy hearts + Valentine things. And the candy?? Yum yum. Do you do anything for Valentine's Day or Galentine's Day? Tell me your plans!!

I love sharing my picks with you all. Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

VALENTINE'S DAY FAVES

1. Rhinestone Bobby Pins - I love that bobby pins + hair clips have been making a come back. The rhinestones on these remind me a lot of the boujee Chanel ones but you get all four for under $5! A pretty good deal compared to the Chanel... they sell for $1000-$1500 pre-owned! 

2. Lele Sadoughi Headbands (Red // White) - What do you guys think of the Lele headbands? I haven't worn headbands since I was in middle school but hers are gorgeous!! Anytime I see someone wearing one it immediately catches my eye. Love these heart studded ones for V-Day. I can't decide if I like the red one better or the white? Also love this smaller version that's half the price and this pink one with pearl heartshis pink one with pearl hearts is cute too. 

3. Kendra Scott Druzy Heart Necklace - I can confirm that these make the best gifts! I bought my sister the pink/rose gold one for Christmas and she ended up getting me the star version in black/gold (funny because neither of us asked for them). The metal on these holds up well (I've never had any tarnishing with any KS) + they are great for layering.  

4. Valentine's Day Mug Set - The limit on how many mugs you can own doesn't exist...why haven't we all bought these yet?? You get a set with both for $10! 

5. Heart-Shaped Sunglasses - I feel like these are just a classic at this point? They were definitely a trend a one point but to me they're very retro. This pair is a great dupe for the Saint Laurent ones. They come in several colors + are under $13. If you'd rather splurge-- Saint Laurent ones are here.

6. Valentine's Day Frenchie Pillow - Searching for the frenchie I don't own so I can buy this??? THANKS TARGET. Have you guys seen all of the frenchie videos on Tik-Tok? I love them. Can't get over this pillow either. Look at the glasses!

7. Faux Fur Heart Pillow - Would be great next to the frenchie pillow. I like the blush color but it also comes in ivory. 

8. Tie-Dye Pajamas - These are in my cart right now! They're just Valentinesy enough but would be great for Spring and Summer. What do we think about tie-dye? I love.

9. Heart Earrings - These earrings have a little bit of an edgy vibe which I love. This red color is perfect for V-Day but they also come in multi-color. You can find them here for only $13! 

10. Hanky Panky Valentine's Day Panty Set - Had to include these. They always come out with fun Valentine's sets + patterns (dying over these heart-printed ones). This set comes with 3 pairs + saves some $$$. Sometimes you have to just treat yourself and buy boujee undies.  

If you could only pick one thing, what would it be? 

xx,

Kristen

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