Bricks 'n Blooms Weekly 255

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I hope you had an amazing week!

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Random Things Happening Behind the Scenes at Bricks ‘n Blooms

In the Garden

It’s been a week of clean ups and re-evaluation in the gardens. I moved my blueberry and blackberry bushes to the potager garden and cut back some perennials, like hostas, to spruce up the beds.

I don’t cut everything back, but hostas get kind of mushy and can harbor those slimy slugs so best to clean them up now for fresh growth later!

I’d say the leaves are about 85% down now. We still have a ways to go but it’s starting to look more winter here.

A wooden table with wicker chairs sits on a patio surrounded by autumn trees and flowers, with a bicycle nearby. A cobblestone path leads to the patio, and the sky is pink at sunset through the trees.

Book Club

One of my favorite times of the month is getting together with my good friends at book club at the Old Mill in Chester, New Jersey. This month, we read the book, The Book of Names. When I say we, I mean not me…this is one book I did not get to as I’ve been finishing the manuscript for my third book. But I did finish reading Verity and It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover. Have you read them? Next month my book club is reading Comfort and Joy if you want to read it with us!

November Birthday Dinner

I also got together with my besties to celebrate some birthdays (mine included!). We went to the recently renovated Black Horse in Mendham, NJ and had a seriously amazing meal! They made these Asian Nachos that I thought was really very good! Must replicate that recipe sometime.

Eight women sit and stand around a wooden table at a restaurant, smiling at the camera. Drinks and utensils are on the table, and a sign reads "Literary Ladies." Framed art and a TV are on the maroon walls behind them. — Book Club November 2025

A woman stands in a cozy, well-decorated living room, taking a mirror selfie. She wears a floral cardigan, teal top, layered necklaces, light blue flared jeans, and brown shoes, and she is smiling. — OOTD – Cozy Boho Vibe for Book Club

Shop my cozy boho look here!

Quick Trip to Vermont

We also took a very brief trip to Vermont to get things put away before the snow truly arrives. Our patio furniture, grill, etc. were still on the deck and needed to be put away and stored for winter. It’s that time!

Hosting Gift Ideas for the Holidays

The Ultimate Kitchen Sink Upgrade: Instead of a single item, this gift is pure functional luxury! This gorgeous set includes dish soap, hand soap, and a surface cleaner, all arranged on an elegant tray. It instantly upgrades their kitchen or utility sink and has a lovely, light scent. It’s a complete, high-end treat your host wouldn’t buy for themselves but will absolutely love receiving.
The Touch of Luxe: This is the perfect gift to thank a host as they transition to holiday decorating. These burgundy velvet ornaments feel expensive and bring that classic, cozy luxury to any tree or wreath. It’s a small, beautiful gift that they can use the moment Thanksgiving is over.
The Simple Luxury: Instead of a fleeting consumable, give a small luxury that lasts. This gorgeous hand soap looks beautiful next to any kitchen or powder room sink and has a lovely, light scent that isn’t overpowering. It’s a treat your host wouldn’t buy for themselves but will absolutely love receiving.
The Unbelievable Steal: This is my best budget find right now and I would get two as a gift! I found this beautiful neutral Christmas Flour Sack towel that is perfect for draping over the host’s oven or using in the kitchen. The best part? It’s UNDER $5! It’s such a simple, lovely gift that every host will actually use (and it makes you look like a thoughtful pro).
The Signature Brass Candle: If you’re going to give a candle, make it a keeper! This scalloped brass candle is one of the prettiest I’ve seen. The beautiful vessel and subtle scent make it a decor item the host will want to leave out long after the wax is gone. I love to reuse these as plant saucers when they’re done because it is pure cozy charm.
The Easiest Winter Bloom: By the time the holidays are packed away, your house needs a lift. Amaryllis bulbs are ridiculously easy so literally anyone can grow them. The blooms are absolutely unbelievable and will brighten up your decor for weeks long after the chaos of the holidays ends. It’s the ultimate low-effort, high-impact winter cheer. Gift kits, bulbs, or plant it for them. Shop Amaryllis Gifts Here.
The Personalized Mug: This is my go-to gift for a touch of personalization! This Bistro Tile Monogram Mug is beautiful, feels substantial, and is perfect for their first, much-needed coffee the morning after hosting. Getting a mug with their initial shows you planned ahead, and it’s a gift they’ll use all year.
The Elegant Table Accent: Your host has the napkins, but they might not have a great set of rings! These gorgeous napkin rings are such an elegant, practical gift. They elevate any holiday table setting and are something the host will use for every special occasion, making them think of you every time.
The Genius Solution: This is the anti-clutter gift your host secretly needs! These magnetic cord holders are simple, subtle, and solve the messy problem of charging cables and kitchen appliance cords getting everywhere. It’s the kind of practical item that makes life easier long after the guests leave.
The Statement Piece: This is the ultimate hosting gift. Your host always needs ice, and this stylish ice bucket looks fantastic sitting on a bar cart or serving station. It’s a true statement piece that elevates the serving area immediately and will be used all season long.

I hope this list saves you a trip (or two) to the store! This year, choose a gift that truly reflects your gratitude and adds a little cozy charm to their home. You’ll make your host feel loved, and you’ll cross a major to-do off your list.

Author stacy ling with her husband christopher d ling aia on thanksgiving 2024. She is smiling with him and posing with a roasted turkey on a wooden board. The woman wears a floral blouse and apron, while the man sports a plaid shirt. They appear proud of their meal preparation. — Thanksgiving 2024

What I’m Shopping For This Week

Other Random Things I Bought This Week!

I am hosting a wreath-making party in December for my friends and ordered a bunch of ribbon from Michael’s! Here are a few of the 2.5″ ribbon that I bought so guests can make bows for their front door wreaths. This plaid, and this tartain plaid and this festive plaid. I bought a few others too, but these are a few of my faves on the supply list.
This red and white toile dinnerware is perfect for a festive holiday tablescape or decorating my dining room hutch with simple decor.
Or this everyday set is gorgeous to use all year round. I am in the market for a new set.
This classic candy cane wrapping paper – I’m into the reds this year for the holidays!
This cozy pullover sweater.
This adorable sweater dress for those holiday parties.
These slouchy socks for those leggings and sweatshirt days.
Speaking of sweatshirts, I bought this sweatshirt a few weeks ago and let me tell you – it has become a cozy favorite for chilling around the house or running errands. It fits true to size (I bought a medium) and has thumbholes, which I love. I am a huge fan of the deep forest green. It has a solid waist band so its more fitted than an oversized sweatshirt.
The softest sweatshirt ever that is a bit oversized. I would size down if you want a more fitted look. I have it in the cherry color and wear it all the time! Super super comfy!
This festive wreath for my family room.
This gorgeous holiday wreath for my dining room mirror.
I had to have this vintage gold santa candle holder.
Considering these jingle bells for my porch!
Snagged these gorgeous block floral stockings for my holiday mantel in the formal living room.

A person with shoulder-length brown hair wearing a maroon sweater and light blue jeans takes a mirror selfie in a cozy, well-lit living room with vintage decor and patterned rug. — OOTD – Coziest Sweatshirt EVER

Seriously, the coziest sweatshirt ever – get it here!

What’s Happening at Bricks ‘n Blooms

It was a fun week on the blog!

How to Host a Friendsgiving Potluck: Tips, Decor, and Tablescape Ideas

Get simple tips for hosting a perfect Friendsgiving potluck, plus ideas for easy decor and a stunning DIY tablescape.

close up of friendsgiving brunch or thanksgiving table setting with gold charger, lenox dinner and salad plate, mustard linen napkin and pumpkin with centerpiece of flowers and pumpkins with candles

Stress-Free Friendsgiving: Easy Brunch Menu Ideas for a Crowd

Get simple, delicious, make-ahead Friendsgiving brunch recipes and sweet & savory options for your fall gathering.

A collage of four photos showing Friendsgiving brunch menu ideas: prosciutto crostini on a wooden board, a bowl of orange soup with herbs, pie with ice cream, and spinach quiche slices on plates.

Everything You Need to Know About Growing Paperwhites Indoors

Get stunning paperwhite blooms in weeks! This simple tutorial shows you how to force bulbs indoors, keep the blooms upright, and style them in your space.

White paperwhite flowers in focus with a blurred, festive living room background. A softly lit Christmas tree with glowing lights is visible, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere.

Painting Upholstery: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide & FAQ

Need the A-Z process for painting upholstery fabric? This is the definitive guide on supplies, mixing ratios, and general FAQs to get you started.

Real vs. Fake Christmas Tree: A Full Cost & Headache Comparison Before You Buy

I switched from real to fake Christmas tree after 25 years. See my full cost vs. headache analysis to find out which Christmas tree is right for you!

A beautifully decorated Christmas tree stands in a bright room by two large windows. It is adorned with red and white ornaments, ribbons, and lights. Two large lanterns and plaid-wrapped gifts are placed at its base.

The BEST Easy Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Shhh…don’t tell the tortillas! These Mexican-inspired stuffed peppers are quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

close up of mexican stuffed peppers on a plate

How to Create a Stunning Winter Planter (The Ultimate Guide)

If you’re starting from scratch, this is your complete, step-by-step primer for creating winter planters. Find out what materials you need, which containers are frost-proof, and my full guide to building a budget-friendly arrangement that lasts straight through to spring.