If the idea of swimsuit season makes you tense up, stick with us. We know it’s not always easy to fully embrace our bodies, but times are a-changin’! Social media, fashion websites, even store mannequins have gotten with the program and are showcasing a wide range of body types. Now more than ever,  it’s much easier to find models and influencers that represent our own bodies. And although there’s definitely a lot of work still to be done as far as size inclusivity goes across the board, there’s progress in the air. The body positivity movement isn’t going anywhere, so the perfect mom swimsuit is out there. We promise.

Let’s remember, no matter how you feel about your body, every body is a beach body. Our kids just want us to put on the bathing suit and spend the season creating memories with them. Not only do they not care about your oh-so-human “imperfections”, they likely don’t even see them. We can guarantee that no one sees what you consider to be flaws the same way that you do. At the end of the day, we want to set an example for our children. Showing them that their own bodies are perfect just as they are starts with us learning to love our own. We aren’t saying it’s that simple; but we are saying that the first step in getting comfortable at the beach or pool is just doing it. Putting on the swimsuit and getting out there. And we’re here to help.

These mom swimsuits from Amazon are totally mom-friendly. They’re flattering, confidence-boosting, and downright cute. We’ve made sure that they’re also supportive, offer various levels of coverage, and include a wide range of sizes. These are some seriously adorable and wearable suits that we’re confident you’ll feel great in. Get ready to flaunt that hot (yes, hot!) bod this spring and summer in one of these mom swimsuits, all snaggable from Amazon!

SweatyRocks Monokini

SweatyRocks

This little number is like a bikini without the commitment. It also comes in a ton of colors so you may want to pick up more than one!

Amazon Review: I have an athletic build (with a few extra winter pounds in this pic ;) but love the suit for the most part. I wish it was a little less cheeky / narrow cut in the back and the off shoulder side was a little higher for a little more chest coverage. Overall very happy with it. Quality fabric and stays in place. I returned L because it was too small and the XL fits well. I usually I'm somewhere between a medium and large both for top and bottom. —SavvyStagerAndHomeMaker

SweatyRocks Monokini ($29.99)—Buy Now!

CUPSHE V-Neck Tummy Control One-Piece

CUPSHE

You've probably heard of CUPSHE, and with good reason. They're famous for creating cute and flattering swimsuits that are supportive and flattering, and this v-neck one is no exception! It comes in 19 colors and prints.

Amazon Review: First of all, I am just under 5’9” and it’s very difficult to find a one piece that not only fits correctly, but is also flattering. The color is beautiful and I can’t wait to wear this on my upcoming vacation. Buy the suit. It really does look good on everyone. —Scott Christensen

CUPSHE V-Neck Tummy Control One-Piece ($33.99)—Buy Now!

High-Neck Plunge Mesh One-Piece

Tempt Me

Our Shopping Editor actually owns this one in 3 colors. Yes, 3. It's incredibly flattering, a little flirty, and comes in a bunch of colors and patterns!

Amazon Review: All I can say is, oh my gosh!! I have a REALLY hard time finding one piece swim suits. I have a long torso and suits usually only reach my boobs. So frustrating. I took a chance with this one, hoping it would work. I’m going on a cruise on April and wanted something cute. This one is stunning! I got the white and the wine color. It makes me look good!! —Melissa

High-Neck Plunge Mesh One-Piece ($33.99)—Buy Now!

Retro Halter Ruched One-Piece

When retro-style swimsuits are this cute, we wonder why we ever changed them! This one also comes in lots of colors (are you spotting a trend here?).

Amazon Review: This suit is so flattering. I have a new baby and really wanted something cute that would make me feel confident even with my mom bod. Highly recommend —LauraWelcher220

Retro Halter Ruched One-Piece ($34.99)—Buy Now!

Flowy Tankini Two-Piece

Aqua Eve

If you like the retro silhouette but prefer a two-piece, this tankini will be right up your alley!

Amazon Review: I bought this for my 16 year old daughter. She is bustier on top and makes it hard to find a swimsuit that will hold those girls in. She absolutely loved this swimsuit and the shorts as well. Bought size 16 and fits her perfectly. She is 5’4” and weighs about 190lbs. —Sara

Flowy Tankini Two-Piece ($40.99)—Buy Now!

CUPSHE Ruffle Lace-Up

Yep, it's another CUPSHE suit, but we obviously couldn't resist these ruffles and flattering plunging neckline!

Amazon Review: After three babies, I’ve struggled to find something I’m comfortable in swimsuit-wise. This suit is perfect. I never write reviews, but felt a fellow momma needed to know this suit is great for covering the mommy tummy due to the ruching and good support. Buy it! I got a size large and am 5’6”, 175lbs. Fits perfect. —Jennifer B.

CUPSHE Ruffle Lace-Up ($36.99)—Buy Now!

One-Shoulder Tankini

Tempt Me

Although this one comes in a lot of colors and patterns, we're crushing on this nautically-inspired navy one.

Amazon Review: I needed a new swimsuit for a trip and took a chance on this one. I couldn't be happier with the pattern, fit and detail with the one-shoulder bandeau! I am 5'3 and 128 lbs. and the Large fit so well. It showed on chart that LARGE is a 10-12 and I am usually a size 8-10 but this fit perfectly. I chose the Red Leaf design and love it. —Amazon Customer

One-Shoulder Tankini ($29.99+)—Buy Now!

Ruched Halter One-Piece

RXRXCOCO

We're firm believers that ruching is really flattering and the Amazon reviews agree.

Amazon Reviews: LOVE THIS BATHING SUIT MORE THAN LIFE! I like many women have a hard time loving their body; I'm not a mother, but I'm 5'8" with a short torso, and super long legs (about 190lbs). This suit made me feel SO good and confident. It's super comfortable & flattering, and I felt completely tucked in and adorable. I really am so glad I purchased after buying suit after suit that made me hate looking in a mirror. —angelica

Ruched Halter One-Piece ($21.49+)—Buy Now!

High-Waisted Two-Piece

American Trends

Another suit our Shopping Editors swear by! We love a high waist, too.

Amazon Review: Love this swimsuit! I am so glad I ordered this swimsuit. I had lost 50lbs so wasn’t sure what size to order. It fit perfectly and is true to size. It was comfortable and coverage was great. I can’t wait to order more in different designs —Amazon Customer

High-Waisted Two-Piece ($26.99)—Buy Now!

Crossover Strappy One-Piece

Hilor

Strappy is so on-trend and the negative space at the waist creates an hourglass figure!

Amazon Review: I have a very long torso so finding one piece bathing suits are difficult. I’m 57, 125 LBS and the suit fits perfectly, very flattering. Looking for a suit that has a full coverage on the bottom is also a plus. —pickyshopper

Crossover Strappy One-Piece ($26.59+)—Buy Now!

High-Waisted Bikini

Yonique

Looking to soak up a little more sun? This bikini shows some skin while still keeping you feeling secure.

Amazon Review: This came today and I ran to try it on. I have to say it is quite flattering for a woman of my size. I am a mom of 4 , twins included. It is plus and of very good quality, but it is nice. I wear 2 pieces all the time but I make sure they cover me and cinch me and I have very large DD cups or may even go to specialty stores and go up to an F or G. I am impressed that it offers support for me. That said I’m ready to hit Cancun in this 2 piece! —MBakerpsych

High-Waisted Bikini ($35.99)—Buy Now!

Rash Guard Bike Shorts Two-Piece

LALAGEN

Prefer some extra coverage? This set offers additional modesty while making it so easy to run or swim after your kiddos without having to adjust!

Amazon Review: Fit great and very comfortable on. As a plus size woman, I personally am uncomfortable wearing swimsuits in the public eye but I LOVE this suit. The shorts come down to just above the knee and are really comfortable. The top is not so low cut that I spill out, and the fit was GREAT. Not too tight anywhere. The top is long enough to cover my belly without riding up constantly and it dries fairly quickly. Definitely glad I bought it! —Aja Collins

Rash Guard Bike Shorts Two-Piece ($36.99)—Buy Now!

Cutout One-Piece

Daci

The little cutout and bow add a little something extra to this classic style!

Amazon Review: BUY IT! I am curvy! I HATE buying suits! Nothing ever fits right from very expensive to cheap! This suit is absolutely amazing! Hitting all the right spots and you wrap the top as tight or as loose as you want!!! After this first purchase I literally bought three more! —Nikki Vidal

Cutout One-Piece ($38.99)—Buy Now!

Yonique Cutout Swimdress

Yonique

Cutouts are clearly having a moment, and if you prefer some extra hip coverage, this swimdress checks all the boxes!

Amazon Review: Just BUY it! You have to try this bathing suit. Now I have never, like ever, worn a bikini and typically not thrilled with my stomach exposed, but I tried this suit due to all the positive reviews and pics of women of all sizes wearing it. It is so comfortable and flattering. I also liked it because it was one piece vs. a bottom underneath a swim dress. Perfect! —Melissa

Yonique Cutout Swimdress ($37.99)—Buy Now!

Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece

Blooming Jelly

The ruffle sleeves really make this suit even cuter and really unique!

Amazon Review: I felt so confident in this bathing suit, and that doesn’t happen often. Beautiful color, fit great in all the right places. Obsessed with the ruffles!! —Laura Osofsky

Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece ($35.99)—Buy Now!

Avanova Bow-Back Bikini

Avanova

The feminine bow in the back and adjustable straps mean that you can customize for the perfect fit.

Amazon Review: I LOVE this bathing suit, and it’s been a LONG time since I have felt good in a bathing suit! I’m 185lbs, 5’9”, where a 38 DD, don’t have much of a butt and I ordered an XL. By far a great buy! Probably will buy more soon! —Amazon Customer

Avanova Bow-Back Bikini ($26.99+)—Buy Now!

SUUKESS Wrap Push-Up Bikini

SUUKESS

We've very into bust support when it comes to our swimsuits, and this wrap top/high waist combo bikini is an easy fave.

Amazon Review: Bought for my 15yr old. Perfect color and fit. She's xl and larger on top. Held her well. Great suit, I was shocked to find one we both agreed on! Will buy more —Heather Joubert Bearb

SUUKESS Wrap Push-Up Bikini ($33.95)—Buy Now!

Blooming Jelly Lace Front Swimsuit

Blooming Jelly

The lace detail gives the illusion of an hourglass shape (and is really darling, too!).

Amazon Review: It has the vintage look with the elegance. Not the typical bathing suit you find at the store. Got a lot of compliments. —A.R.

Blooming Jelly Lace Front Swimsuit ($31.99+)—Buy Now!

Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece

Tempt Me

Adjustable and removable straps, lots of colors—what more could you ask for?

Amazon Review: Often i have issues feeling comfortable in a bathing suit other than black. I am 5’2/ 165 lbs. I wear a size 36 DDD and i am on the curvy side. I would highly recommend this swimsuit. It makes me feel comfy & cute and covers up in the back. It is also hard to find a bathing suit that fits me correctly but this suit really holds the girls in. I am a size L for most stores and i ordered a large here. True to size- for me. —Kristina

Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece ($30.99+)—Buy Now!

Yonique Blouson Tankini

Yonique

A blouson top is blousy and flowy, so if you prefer a less fitted option, this is a great way to go.

Amazon Review: Love the boy legs & blouson top. Better than I expected! —Skinner

Yonique Blouson Tankini ($37.99)—Buy Now!

Zip-Front Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swimsuit

woman in pastel printed rash guard swimsuit
AXESEA

This suit is pretty much the definition of "secure". You don't risk exposure from carrying kiddos or big waves, plus it's really comfortable!

Amazon Review: I ABSOLUTELY love this product and rave about it to everyone. It’s modest and chic. This swimsuit is easy to put on, unbelievably comfortable, lightweight, padding is so comfortable, beautiful pattern. —Patience

Zip-Front Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swimsuit ($38.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

This year, around 175 million Americans will celebrate Halloween. On a Tuesday. As a parent of two children, I can tell you that a weekday Halloween is very tough for families with young kids. As a CEO in the celebrations industry, I can also tell you that when October 31 falls on a weeknight, fewer people celebrate the holiday.

Sometimes I like to ask obvious questions and challenge the way things are done. When people say, “That’s the way we’ve always done it,” I perk up and question their assumptions. I want to know “Is there a better way?” and “Will more people be served with a different solution?”

When it comes to Halloween, I believe there is a better way. The time is long overdue for a cultural change that will benefit society: the official observance of Halloween should be on the last Saturday of October.

Why does Halloween have to be on the 31st of every year? There are many other holidays that aren’t tied to a specific date. Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November. The same is true for Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) and Labor Day (the first Monday in September).

Related: Let the Teens Trick-or-Treat

Halloween is mostly a kids’ and family holiday, and it should fall on a day that is best for kids and families! Not convinced about #SaturdayHalloween? Here are five reasons Halloween should be observed on the last Saturday of October.

It’s healthier for kids (and parents)

Halloween is arguably the most kid-focused holiday of the entire year, and we observe it on a school night eight out of every 10 years. Who wants to get home from work, stress about dinner, try to wrangle kids into costumes, and then be out trick-or-treating way past normal bedtime? It’s all too chaotic for most families.

The next day is a mess, too. Kids wake up the next morning overtired, and parents drag themselves to work. When Halloween is observed on a Saturday, not only will it be better for kids, but it will also be better for the sanity of parents.

It’s better for schools and teachers

When October 31 falls on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, students lose not just one, but two days of productivity. Halloween itself is full of distractions, but the next day is even more challenging.

Teachers have to manage a classroom of kids who have been out all night trick-or-treating and eating candy for lunch. The combination of lack of sleep and dealing with sugar-infused children is difficult. Halloween on a Saturday solves all of this. Plus, schools can schedule their Halloween parades and events on a Friday afternoon, which will help teachers better manage their class schedules. Saturday Halloween is the right thing to do for schools and teachers.

It’s safer

Halloween is a family holiday. Its most important cultural ritual is trick-or-treating. In my own neighborhood in Massachusetts, hundreds of families flock to the most popular streets downtown that are full of cars returning home from work.

If we observe Halloween on a Saturday, trick-or-treating could begin earlier in the evening before nightfall. Local authorities could block roads to protect the busiest neighborhoods. Accidents and fatalities would be reduced. It’s time we reduce possible danger and celebrate Halloween on a Saturday.

Families can celebrate together

The majority of parents work outside the home, and a weekday Halloween makes it difficult for families to celebrate together. A weekend holiday would suit working families and enable celebrations for the whole family. Extended family could gather as they do for other major holidays, and special memories can be made.

At Punchbowl, we have the data: there are more Halloween parties on Saturday than on any other day of the week. Let’s enable even more get-togethers and family celebrations on this important, memorable holiday.

Related: Halloween Brings Us Together Like No Other Holiday Can

It benefits the economy

When Halloween falls on a Saturday, it generates more revenue for the economy than weekday Halloweens. More costumes are purchased, more parties are planned, and more food and beverages are consumed. This means more jobs and higher wages, too.

Party City reported $22 million less in sales when comparing 2016 (a Saturday Halloween) to 2017 (a Monday Halloween). The impact extends to local businesses as well. If we move the official observance of Halloween to the last Saturday of October, it would not only bolster local business, but it would also provide predictability from year to year.

There are many more reasons that Halloween should be moved to the last Saturday in October and very few we should continue the old tradition of October 31. The time has come to move our national celebration of Halloween.

This post originally appeared on MattDouglas.com.

I’m an entrepreneur, investor and startup advisor with 20+ years of experience in product management, marketing and software development. Currently, I’m the founder and CEO of Punchbowl.com.

This three-ingredient crock pot sweet pork recipe is so simple you can make it with your eyes closed. At least, that’s what Erin at Table for 7 claims she loves most about this dish. Depending on how much spiciness your tastebuds like (or don’t like), you can switch up your salsa choices to best suit what your picky eaters enjoy most. Serve this pork on top of a bed of rice and dig in.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Sweet Pork: 

2 lbs boneless pork
2 c salsa
1 c brown sugar

Method:

1. Spray crock pot or line with crock pot liners/parchment paper. Add pork into crock pot.

2. In a separate bowl, mix salsa and brown sugar well. Pour over pork.

3. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.

4. Shred/cut pork before serving.

recipe and photo courtesy of Erin at Table for 7

Keeping a chronicle of her cooking exploits on her site Table for 7, Erin says her site is all about her cooking and baking experiences; the good and the not so good. Erin’s not a professional baker, cook, or photographer but honest about what she prepares at home. Along with her plain-eating husband, her family consists of a couple of picky eaters (and one very picky eater). She creates recipes that aren’t fancy, flashy, or cost you a small fortune to make.

For more easy crock pot dinner recipes click HERE

The Mayor and Oogie Boogie are getting in on the action

With fall on the horizon, that means two things: whipping out the autumn decor and cueing up your favorite movies of the season. But here’s a thought: Why not combine the two by adding to your decoration collection with some of Build-A-Bear’s brand new updates from its Nightmare Before Christmas line?

The customer fave lineup is expanding to include a tan Oogie Boogie and the Mayor, which are both lovable and spooky at the same time. Oogie Boogie has green fur with stitches, has creepy crawlers around his mouth, and is carrying his signature dice. The Mayor has a reversible head so he can express himself in two ways, along with a sewn-in hat and suit.

 

Build-A-Bear Workshop

All plush bears can be accessorized with their signature Nightmare Before Christmas outfits like Jack’s suit and Sally’s patchwork dress, as well as songs. Choose from options like “This Is Halloween,” the “Oogie Boogie Song,” and “Sally’s Song” to make your creations come to life.

Both the new Oogie Boogie and The Mayor bears are available exclusively online for $36 and $45, respectively. But the good news is that you can order them unstuffed so you can have the experience of bringing your bears to life in your local Build-A-Bear Workshop. Options to order stuffed and ready-to-play bears are also available.

If you don’t have any bears from the OG collection, fear not. Jack Skellington, Sally, Zero, Scary Teddy, and green Oogie Boogie are still available and shoppable below.


The Nightmare Before Christmas The Mayor

$45 BUY NOW

The Nightmare Before Christmas Tan Oogie Boogie

$36 BUY NOW

The Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington

$30 BUY NOW

The Nightmare Before Christmas Sally

$30 BUY NOW

Zero

$24 BUY NOW

The Nightmare Before Christmas Vampire Teddy

$30 BUY NOW

 


The Nightmare Before Christmas Oogie Boogie

$32 BUY NOW

 

Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a leisurely day at the pool or even an afternoon outing to the local splash pad, you’re going to need the right gear (and accessories!). The good news? You don’t have to go far to stock up. From a beach towel that doubles as a cover-up to a portable mini bonfire you can take to the beach, these DC companies will have you summer-ready in no time. Scroll down for the best products from local DC companies to fill your summer tote with.

Get Pool Side Ready with a Mani & Pedi

Get your pedi pool-ready with Black woman-owned nail polish company Janet & Jo. Named as one of the top nail lacquers on the market by beauty magazines like Allure, Nylon and Cosmopolitan, this DC-based business boasts bright, vivid colors perfect for the pool or beach. You can purchase Janet & Jo at The Wharf’s Shop Made in DC shop.

Online: JanetandJo.com.

 

Wear Your Towel to the Beach or Pool

Beach cover up, beach towel, beach tote…. roll those all together and you get the Go Go Towel, the original wearable beach towel. Created by the same DC company that brought you the Dad Vest and the Dad Hoodie, the Go Go Towel is made of a quick drying, odor resistant and sand-free microfiber that comes in both kid ($29.95) and adult ($39.95) sizes so the whole family can match!

Online: gogotowel.com

Bust Beach House Boredom

Rainy days at the beach can be a drag! Bust beach house boredom with an illustrated educational game by DC company Little Likes Kids. These picture puzzles come packaged in their own cardboard tote so you can easily pack an activity for your beach rental or Airbnb pool house. Splash Park is a 24 piece set perfect for kids 3 & up featuring everyone’s favorite summertime activities: the playground, splash pad and ice cream truck.

Online:amazon.com

Bring a Bonfire to the Beach

Make bonfires kid-friendly with Maryland-made City Bonfires, a portable, reusable candle-sized bonfire you can take on all of your outdoor adventures. These small bonfires, created from a non-toxic soy wax, are perfect for making s’mores even if you don’t own a firepit.

Online: citybonfires.com

Toast to Family Time

Clink, clink… it’s summer! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ with a baby on board or you just want a refreshing drink everyone can drink (we’re looking at you, Shirley Temple crew) check out DC-based Mocktail Club. Mocktail Club is sold at local Whole Foods and served in some restaurants so look for it in the wild.

Online: mocktailclub.com

Summers in the Haus

Suit up for summer fun at Kinder Haus Toys in Arlington, VA. Kinder Haus is a one-stop shop for all your beach-bound needs. Pick up whimsical swimsuits from Tea Collection along with summer basics like brightly colored shovels and pails, water toys, bug nets and rainy day musts like puzzles and games.

Online: kinderhaus.com

These Booties Were Made for Lounging

Protect little feet with these Montessori-inspired footwear by DC’s Auggie Froggy. This company specializes in “cool stuff for creative kids” with handmade products featuring pops of color and bold, fun prints. Auggie Froggy products are available online and at Shop Made in DC stores.

Online: auggiefroggy.com

 

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The Best Gear for a Day at the Beach with Babies & Toddlers

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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


With the holiday season comes an onslaught of (unavoidable) events like school performances, family dinners, Christmas parties and more. The last thing you need is to try and squeeze shopping for fancy clothes into your hectic schedule. The good news? We went ahead and did it for you. From holiday dresses to the sweetest baby boy Christmas outfit, we’ve found the sweetest holiday clothes for your little ones, all of which are available to buy online, right now. Keep reading to see them all.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


Herringbone Jumpsuit

$20 BUY NOW

For your kid who doesn’t do dresses, opt for a jumpsuit. This herringbone design pairs perfectly with the bright cardigan topper.

 


Dress & Sweater Set

$23 & up BUY NOW

If it’s chilly where you live, this combo is the epitome of adorable holiday clothes.


Baby Suit Set

$25 BUY NOW

For a kiddo who isn’t quite a toddler, this adorable set that includes a onesie with a bowtie and suspender pants is perfect. You can even choose six different styles!


Newborn Christmas Outfit

$24 BUY NOW

It’s baby’s first Christmas! This adorable newborn outfit will ensure that they are the best gift of the season.


Ruffle Shoulder Ballet Dress

$43 BUY NOW

This adorable ruffle shoulder dress from Tea Collection is not only twirl-worthy, but the floral print is perfect for wearing the rest of the winter.


Toddler Boys 3-Piece Outfit

$25 BUY NOW

Don’t let your older kids have all the holiday fun! Toddlers can also get fancy when they don this adorable outfit you can find at Target.


Tailored Mod Suit

$170 BUY NOW

For your especially dapper little person, this tailored mod suit from Appaman is a real treat. The best part is that it comes in almost 20 colors and prints, so there’s a look for every kid.


Holiday Tartan Collection

BUY NOW

Janie & Jack always has something special for this time of year, and 2021’s offerings don’t disappoint. Choose from holiday dresses, blazers, baby outfits and accessories that all perfectly coordinate with one another.


Color Block Knit Dress

$11 BUY NOW

For your tween who doesn’t want to get into the spirit with festive clothing, this chic color block knit dress is a perfect fit.


Smocked Velour Jumpsuit

$27 BUY NOW

The rich green of this jumpsuit is a nice change from all the red you usually see around the holidays.


Knit Sweater Dress

$25 BUY NOW

Whether you’re looking for Thanksgiving dresses for girls or just want a sweet holiday dress, this handmade knit version comes in four seasonally-appropriate tones.

—Gabby Cullen

 

RELATED STORIES:

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Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, all items were available for purchase.

 

Struggling with costume inspiration this year? Spirit Halloween to the rescue! The retailer just dropped 2021 costume trends that are wickedly good for both trick or treating and adult work parties.

Get the whole crew in on the fun with the Creepy Families theme, featuring broods from popular franchises. Spirit forecasts that Beetlejuice, Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Pocus, Corpse Bride and the Addams Family will be on trend this season.

Speaking of throwback entertainment, the ’90s are coming in hot! Specifically the shows of your childhood, like Teletubbies, Space Jam, Care Bears and Killer Klowns from Outer Space. It might be tricky to suit up in a full-blown Teletubby costume, but you might also win the night at your office party. Worth it?

But if there’s one thing the whole family can agree on, it’s that snacks are life. Why not put the “treat” in trick or treating? Spirit suggests searching out the Cheetos Flamin’ Hot costume, or you could dress up as an avocado, pickle, banana, PB&J or milk and cookies!

You can find all these looks online (or in store) at Spirit Halloween, the largest Halloween specialty retailer in the country. There are more than 1,425 locations nationwide and more opening every spooky season. The countdown is on to October 31!

—Sarah Shebek

Feature image courtesy of Spirit Halloween

 

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Are you planning a Nightmare Before Christmas movie marathon this Halloween? Build-A-Bear has the perfect stuffed friends to snuggle up with. The new Oogie Boogie and Zero plushies will be available exclusively on the Build-A-Bear website

Oogie Boogie

Roll the dice and gamble with Oogie Boogie. He even comes with a sound chip featuring the “Oogie Boogie’s Song.”

Jack Skellington’s beloved canine companion Zero is sure to bring lots of spooky snuggles all year long.

Zero

Build-A-Bear also sells Jack Skellington and Sally plush bears which can be accessorized with their signature Nightmare Before Christmas outfits, Jack’s suit and Sally’s patchwork dress, as well as songs. For Jack, you can select a song chip featuring “This Is Halloween” and for Sally, you can choose “Sally’s Song.”

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Build-A-Bear

 

RELATED STORIES

Isabelle & Tom Nook Have Returned to the Build-A-Bear Animal Crossing Collab

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Build-A-Bear Just Announced a Baby Yoda Plush Is Coming

So, for my little monster’s second birthday she got a MONSTER (shocking) pajama party.  Complete with monster paper dolls, sock monster favors, and, of course, a monster cake!  It couldn’t be a monster party without a monster cake.

What you will need to create your own monster cake:

  • a round cake pan
  • a cake mix or a homemade one frosting, dyed to your desired color
  • sixlets, in your chosen color/s
  • paper eyeballs
  • wooden skewers
  • hot glue gun & glue stick

For my eyeballs, I used Photoshop Elements to create what I was looking for.  I created one orange and one pink, those were our party colors.  I went with only two eyeballs for my monster; but you could definitely add or subtract from this, there are no rules when it comes to monsters!

Once I was done I printed them out, glued them to some grey cardstock to make them sturdier, and then hot glued them to two wooden skewers.  With them attached to the skewers, I can just poke them into the finished cake wherever and however I choose.

I used a 7 inch round cake pan, you can use whatever size or shape suits you and your monster needs.  As I said with the eyeballs, there are no rules when it comes to monsters!

I used box cakes and store bought frosting because baking is not always my strong suit, and, honestly, it is just simpler.  I first dyed my frosting a light pink so that the bits that could be seen would match. Then I baked, I cooled, I frosted, I stacked, I frosted the rest and then the real fun began.

I got out my massive amount of orange and pink sixlets and started covering the cake.  I started in the middle of the top and worked my way out and then down the sides.  I picked the two colors at random, just reached in and pulled out.  You could easily make a pattern out of it if that’s what you want.

It was tedious; but, eventually, the cake was covered in the sixlets and looking like a scaly, bumpy, pink, and orange monster.  I situated it on the platter, poked the eyes into place, and voila!

There was singing, wish-making followed by cake slicing and eating!

I also made cupcakes, as the cake was not very big, and I always love to make too much.  I made smaller eyeballs and hot glued them to toothpicks for the cupcakes.  The cake ones would have been oddly huge on the cupcakes.

 

I'm a stay-at-home mother of three amazing kids.  My days are filled with bus stops, cleaning food off the walls, changing diapers and tackling the perpetual mountain of laundry.  And I wouldn't trade it for anything!