Women’s History Month is here and what better way to celebrate than to talk about women-owned businesses?! You may be surprised to learn that Amazon has a lot of brands that are owned by women. Today we are going to highlight 7 of our favorites. The brands range from self-care, home decor, accessories, and more.

Birdy Boutique

Birdy Boutique was created in 2014 by two sisters: Joanna Serra and Barbara Kent. The duo were inspired to create their business after being involved in the military. They created Birdy Boutique to provide educational toys, tapestry blankets, and weighted blankets for children and adults alike. Part of the proceeds from each purchase goes towards helping veterans with recovery.

Our favorite items from this brand, include their bright and colorful tapestries with motivational themes. The blankets are super light weight for easy hanging.

Mother’s Shea

Mother’s Shea is a family-run business from the makers of Eu’Genia Shea that specializes in making high-quality shea butter-based skincare products. Intense demand for Eu’Genia led to a push towards affordable luxury and the launch of Mother’s Shea. The company’s main mission is to empower women by providing them with educational resources to thrive on their own. Each purchase donates 15% of the profits to female workers in Ghana. With a max of five all clean moisture-packed ingredients, everything included in their products is made to delight.

It’s tough to narrow down our favorite products to just three! Below are items we’re loving right now.

HereAfter

HereAfter specializes in handmade crafts created using wood cutouts. The original idea began when Yvonne, the founder, wanted to keep a greeting card she received from a loved one. She thought there must be a way to preserve cards and make them something even more special to display. That’s when she got the idea to create cards using wood. After receiving positive feedback from her town, she decided to branch out into even more product offerings, including journals, keepsake boxes, and pins.

A few of our favorite items from Yvonne’s collection, can be found below.

Kasensen

Kasensen is the perfect shop for those who enjoy sticker collecting! They have a variety of stickers that range from different colors, objects, themes, and materials. All stickers are available in packs of at least 50 stickers and go up to as many as 200 stickers. Whether you’re looking for cute designs to decorate your laptop, water bottle, skateboard, or sticker book, Kasensen has the perfect sticker pack for you.

For Spring, we’re loving these stickers:

One Fire Store

One Fire Store specializes in portable night lights and star projectors. This women-owned business has a mission of making your home and workout space more enjoyable and inviting. Their portable night lights have 12 soothing sounds, 7 color changes, and 5 brightness levels. Their Galaxy Light Projector is often used in Yoga Studios to help set the mood for a zen session. What would you use a light projector for?

Ozaoz

Ozaoz is an Amazon shop that features accessories and books focused on cute characters. Their most popular offering is their Kawaii Pencil Case that comes with pins. It’s the perfect size to keep your journaling supplies! They also carry backpacks, ornaments, wall decor, and jewelry.

Angela Nguyen

Angela Nguyen is an independent illustrator residing in the Bay Area. She is best known for her cute illustrations that are inspired by pop culture. She lives for the art world and believes that anyone can become an artist if they want to. This inspired her to release a series of instructional books focused on drawing, illustrating, and painting. Additionally, for those who do not wish to learn how to draw, and instead simply want to color in the characters that Nguyen has developed, they can do so with her line of kawaii coloring books.

By supporting women-owned businesses, we can help empower female entrepreneurs to continue creating and innovating. We hope you opt to support women in business, not just in March, but all year long.

Do you know other brands that should be included on this list? Please share them below!

Contemporary Romance Novels to Try

Curling up under a soft blanket, with our favorite cup of coffee, and a book in our hands is one of our favorite ways to relax. With February being a month of love, we’re finding ourselves interested in romance novels. If you’re looking for a romantic escape, these five books are sure to set your heart fluttering!

• “The Chemistry of Love” by Sariah Wilson

Anna Ellis, a cosmetic chemist, attempts to win the affection of her boss, Craig Kimball. Anna hopes to enlist the help of Craig’s empathetic and handsome CEO half-brother, Marco. As they pretend to be in love, Anna finds her feelings for Marco becoming increasingly real, creating a hitch in the plan.

• “End of Story” by Kylie Scott

Susie Bowen inherits a fixer-upper from her aunt and is surprised to find that her contractor is her ex’s best friend Lars. Lars witnessed their public breakup. When Lars discovers a divorce certificate in the wall with both their names on it, they work to unravel its origins. Furthermore, the intense possibility of a spark between them is hinted at.

• “Lunar Love” by Lauren Kung Jessen

Olivia Huang Christenson is determined to protect her grandmother’s matchmaking business. A new dating app created by L.A.’s most eligible bachelor Bennett O’Brien has proved competitive. Therefore, the two engage in a battle of wits and wills to see who can find a match for the other first. Consequently, the loser has to admit their feelings for the other.

Continued Reading

• “Things We Hide from the Light” by Lucy Score

Nash Morgan, the chief of police, is struggling with the aftermath of being shot. Accordingly, Nash is hesitant to let anyone in. His new neighbor, Lina, sees his shadows and they have an incendiary connection. She has secrets of her own that could ruin their relationship. Despite the danger, Nash is determined to make Lina his and face the danger that nearly killed him.

• “Happy Place” by Emily Henry

Generally, Harriet and Wyn known to be a perfect couple since college, ended their relationship six months ago. Evidently, they continue to keep this news from their friends. They find themselves sharing the largest bedroom at their friend group’s yearly getaway in Maine. Here, they pretend to still be in love while their friends are unaware of their breakup. With the cottage being sold, they must keep up the facade for one last week in front of those who know them best.

Lastly, if you’re looking for an unforgettable escape, or just need a reminder of the power of love, pick up one of the books on this list and settle in for a night of romance. You won’t regret it!

Simple DIY Valentine Cards

This Valentine’s Day give your loved one something that comes from your heart, and your hands, with this simple DIY Valentine Cards craft.

This Valentine Card is not your ordinary gift. The presentation comes in a blush pink box and when your sweetheart opens it, several cards and mementos will pop up – a true explosion Valentine’s experience! You can purchase this explosion box, here.

Ready to craft?! Let’s get started.

First, gather your favorite photos and sentimental items. Think about including movie or concert tickets, a pressed flower from a special date night, or a brochure from a recent trip.

Once you’ve gathered your materials, next organize pieces from this DIY Valentine Card kit and choose which paper cutouts you’d like to use.

Now it’s time to decorate! Start gluing your pictures and mementos to various parts of the unfolded box. We recommend utilizing a few of the envelopes as well so your sweetheart can have multiple items to open.

Once you’re satisfied with your presentation, let the glue dry. After the glue dries, it’s time to fold up your box! Start from the center and fold inward within each layer. Once you get to the last layer, use one hand to fold all sides of the box and the other hand to place the lid on top. The lid is what keeps your box together, so make sure it’s fitted properly.

Add a bow and you’re done! We know your Valentine will feel special by this handcrafted gift. We’d love to see their reaction; tag us on Instagram so we can join the fun.

Further Reading

If you’re looking for additional gift idea, we encourage you to read our recent Valentine Gift Guide. There’s gifts for your friends, family, sweetheart, and more. So if you’re Googling “gift ideas for girlfriend”, look no further. Read here.

10 Must Read Books for Winter – A blend of fiction and non-fiction

The weather is getting colder, the days are getting shorter, and you want to curl up in a cozy corner with a good book. We’ve rounded up 10 must-read books for winter that are sure to keep you warm and entertained no matter what the temperature is outside.

“The Villa” by Rachel Hawkins

Firstly, “The Villa,” is a story about friendship. Emily and Chess, two childhood friends, take a trip to Italy to reconnect. They stay in a villa with a mysterious history, and Emily is determined to investigate it. Tension builds between the two as Emily discovers secrets and betrayal, leading to a story of murder.

“The Things We Do to Our Friends” by Heather Darwent

Clare moves to Edinburgh, Scotland to start a new life and meets a group of wealthy friends. Drawn into their libertine lifestyle, Clare is asked to help with a project that goes against her better judgement. As she starts to realize the depths of her friends’ ambitions, it’s too late to turn back.

“Really Good Actually” by Monica Heisey

Maggie is a Surprisingly Young Divorcée™ determined to make the most of her newfound freedom. With the help of her friends and advisor, she explores who she is meant to be. This includes the world of dating, hobbies, and career ambitions.

“Make a Wish” by Helena Hunting

Harley Spark and Gavin Rhodes reunite after seven years when they both attend a princess-themed birthday party hosted by Harley’s family. Despite her inner turmoil, Gavin suggests they get together for lunch, which could either heal old wounds or reopen them.

“Georgie, All Along” by Kate Clayborn

Georgie Mulcahy, a personal assistant from L.A., returns to her hometown and discovers a forgotten diary she wrote as a teenager. With the help of Levi Fanning, an unexpected roommate and former town troublemaker, Georgie embarks on a journey to fulfill the wishes she wrote in her diary. Along the way, she discovers that the things she truly wants may not be in the pages of her diary, but right by her side.

“The Bandit Queens” by Parini Shroff

Five years ago, Geeta loses her husband and rumors spread that she killed him. This has given her freedom and respect in her remote village, and other women have sought her advice on how to get rid of their husbands. Geeta must find a way to protect herself and the life she has built as her reputation becomes a double-edged sword, and her actions will have a lasting impact on all the women in her village.

“Venco” by Cherie Dimaline

Lucky St. James, a Métis millennial, discovers a mysterious silver spoon that leads her and her grandmother Stella on a journey to New Orleans. Along the way, they face a powerful witch-hunter and the dark money-fueled company VenCo, who are determined to restore women to their rightful power. The final showdown will determine the fate of VenCo and the future of witchcraft.

“The London Séance Society” by Sarah Penner

Additionally, “The London Seance Society” features a girl named Vaudeline D’Allaire, a renowned spiritualist. Vaudeline visits England to help solve a high-profile murder. Lenna Wickes, a skeptic of the occult, accompanies her as an understudy. Teaming up with powerful men of the Séance Society, they soon realize that they may be involved in a crime themselves.

“The Wrong Kind of Weird” by James Ramos

Cameron Carson, a member of GANU, is in a secret relationship with Karla Ortega since the summer. However, when he starts to bond with Mackenzie Briggs, he begins to question his relationship with Karla and wonders if Mackenzie could be more than a friend.

“Weather Girl” by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Ari Abrams, a TV meteorologist, and Russell Barringer, a sports reporter, have been coworkers for awhile. They team up to try to mend the relationship between Ari’s boss and her ex-husband. While working together, they start to develop feelings for each other, but Ari is hesitant to open up to Russell about her true self.

From historical fiction to romance, there’s something for everyone. So grab your favorite blanket, pour yourself a hot drink, and settle in for a long winter’s read.

Cozy Products for Reading Indoors

Find warmth at home with cozy essentials for Winter

This list of cozy essentials for winter, will get you started on a path towards a true Hygge lifestyle. Enjoy!

Pink Weighted Blanket

Find warmth while easing anxiety with a weighted blanket, like this blush pink one. Weighing 20lbs., this blanket helps you fall asleep faster. Enjoy a sound and comfortable night’s sleep.

Squishy Cat Night Lamp

Set the mood of your day or evening, with ethereal and dreamy lighting. We’re obsessed with the cat design of this night lamp.

Colorful Cookie Jigsaw Puzzle

An activity we really enjoy during winter is completing a jigsaw puzzle. Slowing things down helps to clear and challenge the mind. With a variety of different puzzle types, you’re sure to find one that fits your mood and style.

Woven Throw Pillow

To soften the ambiance of your living space, try a modest sized throw pillow (or two, or three, or…). The more pillows the better!

Further Reading

Aside from planning out a more inviting home space for the chillier months, we’d like to encourage you to browse some of our gift guides. It’s not too late to find the perfect gift!

If you’re looking for a gift guide for dog owners, read our blog here!🐶🐾 There’s a pup-icino squeaky toy that we’re particularly excited about. Gone are the days where we must sip our praline lattes by ourselves. Which gift do you like best?

A Guide of Unique Gifts for Feline Friends

Whether you have a pet of your own, most of us have at least one friend who is obsessed with their cat (or multiple cats). This guide has been curated with some truly purrr-fect gifts for cat lovers.

Let’s get to it!

Woven Basket Featuring a Cat Face

Who says storage containers have to be boring? With this woven basket crafted with cotton and feline features, your friend’s living room just got a whole lot cuter. With it’s large size, blankets can be stored conveniently.

Novelty Pet Bed

Next, we are excited to share this banana shaped pet bed from Ganin. With its large size, your friend’s feline will have plenty of room to cozy up for the winter. With a cute design like this, we want to take our nap ourselves!

Cute Cat Succulent Planter

With this succulent planter, featuring cats of various breeds, you can provide a gift for both your friend and their cat. Add catnip seeds to one of the planters, and you will have a fur-ever friend.

Coffee Mug for Cat Ladies

With it’s blush pink coloring, cheeky inscription in gold lettering, and generous size, this coffee mug will warm your friend’s heart. Perhaps opt for a second mug for yourself?

Are there other gifts for cat lovers that you’d add to this list?

Further Reading

Cats are cute and cuddly, but we can’t forget about our canine lovers as well this season.

If you’re looking for a gift guide for dog owners, read our blog here!🐶🐾 There’s a pup-icino squeaky toy that we’re particularly excited about. Gone are the days where we must sip our praline lattes by ourselves. Which gift do you like best?

To kick-off the week, we want to share a few cute news stories that crossed our path. We invite you to take a few minutes for yourself and enjoy this round-up of 7 cute news stories.

Ready for a cuteness overload!? We’ve rounded up 7 things from the week that are truly kawaii!

Cute News Stories Round-Up

Kitties Falling in Love

From artist and illustrator, Take a Look Iti, we see several doodles of cats falling love. This graphic shows several types of personalities, including: ENFJ, ISFJ, INTP, ESTJ, INFJ, ect. The point of this illustration is to show that even those with opposing personalities, can find true love. Have you taken the 16 Personalities quiz before? What is your personality type? We’d love to hear!

Matcha Spread – Asian Inspired Butter Board

Anna Ying and Subtle Asian Baking, created a whimsical butter board featuring a delicious matcha spread with strawberries and kiwis. Add waffle crisps, cookies, fruits, or crackers to additional fun dipping options.

Sheep Running in Fall Leaves

The creators behind Apple Fox Farm, shared an adorable video of Gabby, the baby sheep, frolicking through the fall leaves. We could watch this video on repeat. How about you?

Mom and Baby Pandas

The creators at I Panda Channel, recently captured a loving moment from mom panda bear and baby panda bear. You can see Xi Dou and Chao Tianjiao relaxing together and giving one another a massage.

Festive Gingerbread Mugs

It’s not the holiday season, truly, without hot beverages sipped from festive mugs. We want to collect all of these gingerbread inspired cups from In the Work Place. Which ones do you like best?

Teddy Bear Cookies

From food photographer and recipe creator, Mei, we found a recipe for these cute Teddy Bear Cookies! Their faces are almost two adorable to eat. Almost! Try dunking them in your favorite holiday beverage, for added yumminess.

Self-Care Quote Graphic

We know that carrying around feelings of disappoint and doubt, is not easy. We often try to hide these emotions because it feels safer to do so. Let this graphic serve as a reminder that you don’t have to carry these things alone.

A round-up of our favorite Gifts for Artists

Do you have creative friends in your life? With our Gifts for Artists list, we hope to make the shopping experience stress-free. Whether your friends are artists by profession, or simply enjoy crafting and creating as a hobby, we’re sure you’ll find a truly unique gift.

Unique Gifts for Crafters

DIY Slime Charms – 100 Pc Set

Firstly, this DIY Slime Charms set helps encourage imagination and creativity for individuals of all ages. Comes in an apple shaped container, with several compartments to organize charms by likeness. Sizing differs per charm, based on object design. Charm categories include: fruits, vegetables, sweets, animals, and others. These charms are great for scrapbooking, adding embellishments to various personal items, wine stoppers, and more.

Embroidery Thread Kit – 262 Crafting Pieces

Next, your crafty friend will be blown away by the supplies included in this kit! With a 262 pieces, this crafting kit can be used for several different projects, including: cross stitch, needlepoint, crewel and embroidery, friendship bracelets, hand and machine applique, quilting sets, gifts, and more.

DIY Wood Bookmark Kit

Additionally, for the friend that enjoys crafting as much as they love reading, they’ll really enjoy this DIY Wood Bookmark Kit! This kit comes with 36 colorful tassels and unfinished wooden blank bookmarks as well as plastic geometric tracing tools.

Painting Kit

Lastly, the possibilities are endless with this gift! Allow your friend hours of fun with this painting kit. This kit includes 12 acrylic paint tubes of various colors, 1 painting pad, 1 plastic artist palette, 1 multi-functional easel, 8 artist paint brushes, and 5 canvas panels (8x10in). Watch your friend’s imagination run wild!

Let’s Get Crafty! – Browse additional creative gift ideas.

Fall is a time for Halloween fun, baking apple pie, gathering with friends, watching spooky movies, and enjoying quality time with family. This Fall, we’re looking forward to changing up our routine with a few unique Fall activities. We hope you enjoy our list of 3 at home activities to try this fall.

At Home Activity for Fall – Halloween Bean Bag Toss

Enjoy the cooler weather, the changing colors of the leaves, while sipping apple cider and playing the traditional game of bean bag toss. With its Halloween inspired design, this game is sure to be a favorite this year for children and adult Halloween parties.

Find Halloween and Fall Music – Host a Dance Party

Whether you’re meeting for Halloween or for general Fall fun, incorporating music into any gathering helps guests to relax. Create a playlist of your own, or utilize one from Spotify. Right now we’re enjoying this Halloween Vibes 2022 playlist created by Past’elle Records. For fans of Stranger Things, Nightmare Before Christmas, and Ghostbusters, this is the perfect playlist for you. Let’s dance!

To add more fun to your party, we recommend choosing a spooky theme such as Vampires, Hocus Pocus, or Zombie Apocalypse. What other themed parties can you come up with?

Fall in Love with Yourself – Set Aside Time for Self-Care

Take a moment for yourself this Fall season. Try turning off the lights, lighting a candle or two, and whip up your favorite seasonal beverage. Perhaps caramel apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte?

We’d love to hear what your favorite at home activities for Fall are!

We encourage you to follow along on Instagram for even more fun content. Hope to see you over there!.