Photos By Emily Williams Photography
When I shared my new Miele coffee machine on Instagram a few weeks back, I didn’t expect to get such an overwhelming response from you all – apparently there’s an equally as passionate crowd on Nutrition Happens about coffee as I am! I’m sharing all the reasons why I chose the Miele CM Countertop Coffee Machine and the common questions I get about it. This is in no way sponsored even though Miele, if you’re reading this – I’m a fan!
Another year, another set of *fantasic* candles and candle brands discovered. Last year I share this list of 32 small candles companies to support and I’m back sharing more of what I’ve discovered throughout the last year. As much as I love a classic Diptyque candle, there are so, so many small candle businesses across the country that equally fantastic. I shared a good mix here of prices, small brands and larger companies with the classic “you can’t go wrong here” candles, but a majority of the companies are local, female, and/or BIPOC-owned.
Growing up with family all in the small business industry, I hold an appreciation for the hustle and heart that belongs to locals that do everything they can to create a product or service that brings joy to their customers. That part of me will always favor small businesses and as much as I love Nordstrom like the next person, these past handful of years I’ve chosen to shop with more intention to support local business as much as possible when buying gifts. And as you know – I love Chicago. It feels like home (kinda a big statement since I was raised in the South…where it’s warm year round ha) and I have loved every single person that runs the small businesses I’ve shopped at in this beautiful city I get to call home. Whether you are local or not, here are some of my favorite small businesses in Chicago. I think you’ll be able to find something for everyone on this list! Again – I don’t do any affiliate links (except for the Caraway Pans, found here in my curated kitchen post if you use the link – you’ll get an automatic discount in cart) so this is all just to share with you – I don’t make a commission on anything else!
It’s no secret that I love all things curated in the kitchen – if you can name it, I’ve most likely tried it! Which is why I want to share the best kitchen items I’ve personally tried and curated (and a some wishlist items), just in case you’re looking for a gift idea – especially for someone looking to upgrade their kitchen items with quality items that are built to last. My philosophy is that high-quality, efficient, and beautiful kitchen tools are worth the investment. Especially if you enjoy cooking – but even if you’re new to curated your own kitchen, having the right tools can honestly make that whole experience much more enjoyable. I don’t do any affiliate links (except for the Caraway Pans, found here if you use the link – you’ll get an automatic discount in cart) so this is all just to share with you – I don’t make a commission on anything else! Here’s my list of the best of kitchen items:
I’ve rounded up 32 different candle brands for you to support this season as you purchase gifts for yourself or someone special. These candles are all tried by yours truly because I’m that scent-obsessed. Plus, now more than ever small businesses are looking for our support so if you think a candle would be the perfect little gift, consider ordering from one of these small businesses. They’re such a special way to make even the smallest moments a little more special.
Do you ever associate a scent to a memory? I definitely do and each scent reminds me of a different season in my life – just like how people associate songs or homemade meals with memories. I always light a candle when I end the workday to make that transition from work mode to relax mode a little more official.
