I’ll be honest, I used to go shopping almost every day during my lunch break from my job as a Studio Producer. I’d browse Target, pick up a few things at the mall, maybe hit the craft store for some art supplies. Part necessity, part entertainment — I think we can all agree … shopping is fun! Then, 2020 happened and we all entered the dreaded quarantine. Womp, womp. But, I didn’t let it get me down. I did what any 30 something, shopaholic, would do in this situation … I turned to Amazon! My Amazon purchases range from basic household items to self-care products to books and more. Here are some of my favorite purchases to show up on my doorstep over the past 6+ months (and some hidden gems from the past).
The Perfect Summer Maxi Dress For a Backyard BBQ
I’ve gotten so much use out of this dress! It’s adorable, but also comfy enough to wear around the house. The fabric is thin, flowy, and incredibly soft. My favorite part about this dress is the length. At 5’5″ it’s a huge gamble for me to buy maxi dresses online because they’re generally way too long – but not this one. The Yidarton Women Summer Strapless Boho Maxi Long Dress hits right at my ankle while wearing flat sandals. I will definitely be ordering this in other colors.
Treat Yourself To an At-Home Spa Day With This Neck and Back Massager
I can’t recommend this massager enough … it’s the closest thing you’ll get to a massage chair in your home. I was able to snag this RESTECK – Massager for Neck and Back with Heat when it was on sale for half-off, but after using it for a month now, I know I would pay full-price if I ever wanted another one. The arm straps allow you to adjust the pressure and move it up and down your back to wherever you need it most. The best feature of all? It has a car adapter! Make your friend drive during that next road trip while you sit back and relax.
The Microfiber Spray Mop That Will Make You Actually Want to Clean Your Floors
While I love the look of our faux-wood, vinyl flooring … it does not mix well with dog hair! Sweeping and mopping is a daily routine in our house just to keep the dog hair under control. Ever since getting this HOMTOYOU Spray Mop I can honestly say that I don’t mind mopping. It’s very satisfying to spray your water or cleaner on the floor and see beautiful results as you mop. Bonus points: I enjoy the environmentally friendly aspect of washing the microfiber pads as opposed to the throw-away versions I’ve seen from other brands.
The Best Training Treats For My Spoiled Pup
Zuke’s Naturals Training Treats are my favorite treats for training and beyond. They are small, so you can easily stash a few in your pocket during a walk … and not feel guilty about over-feeding. My crazy mutt loves to bark at bikes and other dogs, so treats are a MUST when he’s on his leash. If you have a dog, you know how quickly the food and treats seem to disappear, so it’s clutch to use Subscribe and Save.
Where’s Warhol? Is a Fun, Artsy Spin on the Beloved Classic
I bought this book as a birthday present for a friend of mine (yes, she’s an adult!) and I loved it so much I’m considering one for myself. The book looks similar to any Where’s Waldo book, but with unique pages dedicated to Studio 54 and the Bauhaus School, etc. Where’s Warhol? would be a great present for a child, to start conversations about art movements throughout history, or as a coffee table book/conversation-starter.
A Trip Down Memory Lane with Taxi: The Complete Series
With the internet and countless streaming services, you can get your hands on pretty much any TV show at any time. But there is just something about having a complete series in your hands, ready to binge in succession. I actually bought Taxi: The Complete Series as a gift for my dad to watch up at his mountain house where they do not have WiFi. I didn’t anticipate enjoying it so much that I’ve already watched multiple seasons!
Get These Workout Tanks in Every Color of the Rainbow – You Won’t Be Disappointed
I work out most days of the week, which makes for a lot of laundry. I was searching for an affordable workout tank top that I could purchase in multiple colors to have at-the-ready for my afternoon workouts. This Bella Ladies Flowy Racerback Tank is exactly what I was looking for! It’s loose, but not baggy — soft, comfortable and most importantly, very affordable.
This Magnetic Screen Door Gives My Dog All the Freedom He Craves
Now that we’re working from home, my dog thinks he rules the roost. OK, he actually does! He wants to come in and out from the backyard a thousand times a day, and now he can. He pushes right through the Flux Phenom Reinforced Magnetic Screen Door to come in and out, and it quickly snaps back together keeping the bugs outside. I would recommend this to any dog owner with a backyard.
Collect Your Thoughts and Spread Your Creativity with the Moleskine Art Watercolor Album
Even quick sketches and paintings feel like a masterpiece when they are living in this beautiful, sturdy, hard cover album. I love the thick, ivory paper which enhances a variety of art mediums. Sometimes I have trouble taking the time to sit down and be creative, but a journal like this one is just begging to be filled.
Organization Meets Style – This Is the Planner of My Dreams
I have done a LOT of research on planners, maybe too much. But this one really takes the cake! With weekly and monthly pages, you can collect all your daily to-do lists along with upcoming events. Aside from the functionality, I’m obsessed with the cute poppy floral design. The 2020-2021 – Academic Weekly & Monthly Planner would be perfect for any student, busy parent or professional.
This Natural Bronzer Adds Sunshine to My Life No Matter the Weather
I’m always looking to add more natural products to my beauty routine, and this Mineral Fusion Sparkle Bronzer fits the bill. While it has “sparkle” in the name, it’s not overwhelmingly glittery like some other bronzers I’ve tried. It has just the right amount of daily “glow” – without the chemicals!
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Where The Crawdads Sing is the Summer Beach Read You’ve Been Looking For
I absolutely flew through this book, unable to put it down until it was finished. A novel by Delia Owens, Where The Crawdads Sing takes place in the swamps of North Carolina. It follows a young girl, abandoned by her family, navigating life and love on her own. If you want to curl up and completely lose yourself in a story, this book is the perfect choice.
Skinny Peltz – No Stuffing Dog Toys are the Perfect Alternative to Traditional Plush Toys
My dog loves nothing more than to get a brand new toy and promptly destroy it. I want to give him that satisfaction, but I don’t want to clean up stuffing from all corners of the house. These no-stuffing dog toys are the ideal alternative. They have squeakers inside and are a great size for a rowdy game of tug-of-war.
These Snow Scrapers with Fleece Lined Gloves Make Snowy Mornings Tolerable, Almost Enjoyable
Waking up in a winter wonderland is beautiful, right up until you realize you’re late for work and there is a sheet of ice on your windshield. Every time I slip my hands in these, I’m so thankful for this purchase. For under $15, I’ve bought these scrapers as stocking stuffers for every driver in my family. I can’t quite say these will make your cold, snowy morning fun, but certainly more tolerable!
This PERLESMITH UNIVERSAL TV Stand is Sturdy Enough to Hold a 55inch Without Worry
Our 55 inch TV was mounted on the wall in our old home … AKA we of course threw away the stand. Fast forward to moving into a new house. We wanted our TV on a stand instead of on the wall and at 55 inches, I was very nervous about it being sturdy. I am so happy with this stand, not only is it extremely stable, but I was able to put it together myself in under 30 minutes!
I Had So Much Fun Customizing These Canvas Tote Bags For My Friend’s Bachelorette Party
These canvas bags are perfect for personalizing! I was helping to plan a bachelorette party and decided to paint the girls’ names on these cute totes. I used puff paint, which adhered nicely and dried quickly. The price for a 12 pack is super affordable, making these a great craft at any camp or party.
SPF, Gloss, AND Hydration! This Neutrogena Lip Gloss Is a Staple In My Bag
When I’m carrying a small purse, I don’t have room for Chapstick, lip gloss, lipstick and SPF – that’s too much product! This Moisture Shine lip soother from Neutrogena is like a 4-in-1. I love that it gives your lips just slightest tint of color, while also providing a ton of moisture and shine.
Get Peace Of Mind With The SentrySafe Lock Box
Not only do I get security in knowing my valuables are behind lock and key, but I also always know where they are! This box is a great organization tool, plus an added level of protection against burglary. It’s lightweight and would make a perfect cash box for a farmer’s market or garage sale.
iPhone Screen Protection Without The Bulk of a Huge Case
The iPhone is specifically made to look sleek and pretty, so it makes me sad when I feel like I have to cover it with a bulky case. These amFilm Glass Screen Protectors have provided top-notch protection, without covering up any of the Apple aesthetic. I’ve dropped my phone several times and ended up with cracks in the screen protector (but not my screen), which is exactly how it’s supposed to work!
Homemade Freeze Pops are My New Favorite Party Addition
I can’t believe I didn’t find these sooner! These bags, along with the silicone funnel make popsicle-making a breeze. Of course, being able to add alcohol to your pops doesn’t hurt either. I’ve taken boozy pops to countless parties and BBQs and they are always a huge hit. I’ve also made regular pops with low-sugar fruit juice for a healthier alternative to store-bought popsicles. The Ozera 150 Pack Ice Pop Mold Bags are an incredible deal to boot.
This Mesh Beach Bag Is Your Best Friend on Hot Days
I loathe dragging tons of stuff to the beach, but I also want to have cold drinks and snacks available when needed. This bag has been a great solution to that problem. The top part is mesh to let the sand drain out, but the bottom zipper portion is a lined cooler. It’s the perfect size for a few bottles of water and a small snack (or wine bottles if you want to be fancy). I’ve used this at the beach, picnics, and outdoor concerts. It’s also small enough that you don’t feel like you’re lugging a suitcase.
I Lived In These Ipanema Sandals All Summer Long
I have these Ipanema Women’s Bandeau Flat Sandals in several colors and I can’t recommend them enough
They are lightweight, comfortable and can easily be dressed up or down. The t-strap and back strap make them feel more secure than the typical rubber flip flop, so you can wear them comfortably on all sorts of terrain. I got my first pair over 3 years ago and they’re still holding up!
These Drawer Liners Keep My Shelves And Cabinets Clean And Dry
We recently got new kitchen cabinets and knew I wanted to line the drawers and shelves to avoid any moisture on the wood. Gorilla Grip Original Smooth Top Slip-Resistant Drawer and Shelf Liner to the rescue! I chose the “Stripe: Black/White” pattern which made it incredibly easy to cut down to size… the stripes are basically a built-in ruler. No more funky edges and uneven lines. If you’re indecisive like me, you’ll love that they’re not adhesive, which means you can change up the pattern any time you like.
If You Have a Dog And a Car, You Need This Pet Seat Cover!
I’ve seen pet seat covers for triple the price of this one, and I can’t figure out why. This cover has been everything we need and more for under $20. It creates a hammock in your backseat, so your dog won’t fall down between the seats. The material is tough, and easy to clean – which mean no more dog hair on your seats. I seriously couldn’t live without the BarksBar Original Pet Seat Cover now that I’ve used it for over 2 years.
Finally! This Lighted Travel Mirror Solves The Dark Hotel Room Conundrum
Has anyone else noticed how DARK hotel rooms seem to be? I hope it’s not because they’re covering up the
dirt, yikes! If you’re sharing a hotel room and trying to get ready at the same time, this KEDSUM Upgraded Rechargeable LED Light Mirror is a lifesaver. I was a little surprised by the size and weight of it (it’s definitely not made to throw in your purse) but it’s completely worth it when you see how much light it gives off.
Overnight Oats Taste Great in These 16oz Wide Mouth Ball Jars
I’m a big fan of Ball jars for drinking glasses, storage, jam, etc. But this size/shape is my favorite for making overnight oats. Just add oats, almond milk, peanut butter or fruit and let your oats sit in the fridge overnight. In the morning you have a delicious, healthy breakfast! The wide mouth makes it easy to eat straight from the jar.
If You’re a Wes Anderson Fan, This Book Is Everything You Could Ask For
This Wes Anderson Collection book is a work of art in itself. An overview of the filmmaker’s filmography, it shows behind-the-scenes photos and artwork from his movies including, Bottle Rocket, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and others. Just like his movies, you’ll feel the whimsy and playfulness in this book. It’s the perfect gift for any fan!
One Of My All-Time Favorite Books – Dress Your Family In Corduroy and Denim
If you’ve never read anything by David Sedaris, now is the time to start. This is one of the first books I can remember where I actually found myself laughing out loud. These essays are snippets from Sedaris’ life, all with his signature twist of sardonic humor. Because of the essay style, this book is easy to pick up and put down at any time.
The Nail Color to Match Your Entire Fall Wardrobe
Sally Hansen Commander in Chic has been my go-to nail color for several years. It’s neutral enough to go with everything, but bold enough to be interesting. I’d consider it a mix of gray, plum, and purple. Aside from the gorgeous color, this nail polish really holds up. As long as you take your time with application, and add a top coat, it will realistically last you a full week.
I’ve Gotten So Many Compliments On My Teeth Since Using Crest White Strips
I’ve heard mixed reviews from other people on how well at-home whitening kits really work, but I have to say I’ve been so happy with the results from the Crest 3D Whitestrips! They’re affordable, easy-to-use, and the results are clearly evident after just one box. You do have to be consistent with your use, and make sure to complete the full 10 days if you want noticeable results.