IllustratorsGarden on LTK

Vacation travel always teaches you something you forgot to pack. For me, the big one this trip was bug spray. I don’t usually get bites, but my husband and kids do—and they ended up with plenty. If you’re traveling to Mexico, especially Cancun, bug spray is a true vacation necessity. The mosquitos come out fast at dusk, and you don’t want bites ruining your evenings. This bug spray has amazing reviews and works just as well as the one I bought at a resort shop for almost 400% more. Such an easy item to toss in your suitcase, and it saves you a lot of stress. Don’t forget—pack it before your trip and you’ll thank yourself later. Perfect for Cancun, beach resorts, or any warm weather vacation spot. LTKTravel LTKSwim LTKFamily

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My fave multi use tray 😍 I’ve been using it everywhere in my house: ring holder by my bed or in the kitchen, candle tray, drink coaster, candy dish.. the list goes on and on!

I never posted this 🤣 (felt abrasive?) but florist hydrangeas can be grown all summer beautifully. I grow mine in full shade.

No I don’t care what the tag says. If you are a friend or a garden client, I will tell you I can’t even do 15 minutes of sun at my own house.

I’m a busy working mom and they need full shade to thrive for me.

Comment shop if you want planter links like the kind I’m using here.

this planter has a water reservoir in the bottom and a lot more space to have hydrated soil to help my hydrangea thrive.

Also these pics are my hydrangeas in Sept.

And just remember when the Costco hydrangeas are gone, they are gone for the whole season until next year. 💚

I planted mine with @provenwinners tiara pink or purple petunias, sweet Caroline sweet potato vine, and not pictured in this reel but James brittania safari dusk was also stunning.

2022-2026 ambassador @olsons_greenhouse_gardens 🌱

curb, appeal, patio, hydrangea, queen, hydrangeas, hydrangea, growing, beginner gardening

I plant all of my ceramic pots this way, and I have never had any problems.

@Alice Lane Lane has an AMAZINGGGG SALE going on right now so be sure to shop the website!

They just got in multiple garden planters that are heirloom classic favorites for any home.

My spring planters are looking so stunning and I cannot wait to style them again for summer and fall too!

Of course, they will look just as good with something classic like a boxwood perennial that would grow year-round .

I was warm at a sports lacrosse game for the first time in my life ever! Thanks to Tricia and Daphne for all of the recommendations

A few favorites from my garden lately

My garden arbors make everything feel a little more finished in spring.
They add height, structure, and that cottage garden look I always love.

Sharing some of my favorite spring plants, along with a few clothes I’ve been reaching for too.
A mix of garden inspiration, spring flowers, and easy outfit finds all in one place.

If you’re shopping for spring garden ideas, arbors, pretty plants, or comfortable spring clothes, these are some of my current favorites.

Who has a lovesac sactional? I need to know all the things about the @lovesac sactional?! do I need one in my life? Because I am feeling more and more confident that I do???

#LTKHome

I recently bought the greatest ottoman I’ve ever owned and now I only wish I had gotten it sooner. It has a full zip-off slipcover so you can actually wash it, which already makes it a win in my house. They also offer tons of fabric options and even custom slipcovers so you can change the look later without replacing the whole piece.

The size is perfect because it works as an ottoman but also doubles as a little stool when you need extra seating. I’ve already pulled it up next to chairs a few times and it’s exactly the right height.

One of those simple living room pieces that ends up being surprisingly useful every single day. If you like cozy, classic living room furniture with washable slipcovers, this one is really good.
@lovesac is winning with this one FOR SURE

Mine is “wombat phur” color

#LTKSpringSale #LTKHome

Buying Easter, Mother’s Day, or Valentine’s hydrangeas for your front porch? These gift hydrangeas can absolutely grow in containers and planters all season long, but the pot you choose matters more than the plant itself.

For porch hydrangeas, I always use large outdoor planters with real drainage and enough weight to handle spring wind. Small decorative pots and foil-wrapped gift containers dry out fast and are the number one reason hydrangeas struggle or fail in containers.

I’m linking my favorite hydrangea planters, porch containers, and outdoor pots that work for spring flowers, flowering shrubs, and mixed porch planters — the same styles I use every year for container gardening

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHome #LTKValentine

Picked this up for spring and fall sports when the bleachers are cold.
I haven’t tried it outside yet, but I like that it’s heated, folds flat, and looks easy to carry from game to game.

Early mornings and evening games get chilly fast, so I’m hoping this helps without needing heaps of blankets.

Sharing in case anyone else sits through cold games like we do.

Dance mom recital outfit that still feels like me.

These are the comfy, casual pieces I reach for constantly, not just for recital days. Easy layers, neutral tones, and nothing fussy when I’m in and out of the theater, running errands, or sitting through rehearsals.

This purse is my favorite everyday style. Compact but surprisingly roomy, with enough pockets to stay organized without feeling bulky.

Fit notes
Jacket – size M for an oversized, cozy fit
Pants – true to size, 0 regular
Shirt – size small

Perfect dance recital outfit, everyday mom outfit, casual mom style, and comfortable outfit ideas you can actually rewear.

Great for date night ir the movies too.

#LTKOver40 #LTKmomlife #LTKSeasonal

We’re testing popping boba drink recipes! This one is amazing

My favorite compact grow tent + greenhouse setup for keeping plants alive indoors during winter AND for starting seeds before last frost.
If you’re looking for an indoor gardening solution that works in a hallway, laundry room, small basement corner, or even a guest room without taking over your entire house, this is the combo I’ve used for years. It keeps humidity steady, gives consistent light levels during dark winter months, and protects plants from drafts.

I use this to overwinter houseplants, store tender plants I don’t want to lose, and start seeds early so I can transplant healthy seedlings outside as soon as spring weather allows.
The adjustable LED grow lights are bright enough for seedlings, herbs, and cut flowers, and the tent material keeps light contained so it doesn’t spill into the whole room. It also keeps heat and moisture stable, which helps prevent legginess when you’re seed starting indoors.

If you’ve had trouble keeping plants alive through winter or getting seeds to grow strong instead of floppy and weak, this setup fixes most of those issues by giving them controlled light, airflow, and temperature. The greenhouse structure is lightweight, zips fully closed, and fits standard grow shelves. The lights are full spectrum, linkable, and have timers so you can automate the whole process.

Perfect for:
indoor gardening
seed starting and seedling trays
winter plant storage
herbs and vegetables
cut flower seedlings

My favorite winter festive outfit this year: a classic red coat with the prettiest gold buttons and the sweetest black knit top with belle sleeves and a little bow detail.

It feels timeless and a tiny bit trendy at the same time — the kind of outfit that works for an office party, a Christmas party, or even a cozy winter church Sunday when you want to look put together without trying too hard.

The red coat is such an easy statement piece for December. It looks gorgeous with denim, black pants, or even a simple skirt if you’re heading somewhere dressier. And the black bow knit top is one of those pieces that instantly makes an outfit feel polished in a very French-girl-winter way.

If you need something festive, classic, and not over the top, this combo is perfect for the whole holiday season.

#LTKHoliday #LTKCyberWeek #LTKGiftGuide

This has been the easiest way for me to take care of the many plants I grow for the Christmas holidays. I love my poinsettia decor.

#LTKHoliday #LTKGiftGuide

Affordable Walmart and Amazon faves for the winter season, and everything is actually cute and budget friendly.

The ugly Christmas sweaters this year are hilarious in the best way and they’re such an easy win for holiday parties, school events, or family photos. Super affordable, easy to throw on, and they feel festive without feeling itchy or heavy.

And the flannel pajama pants. These are perfectly festive for the Christmas season and they just restocked. Soft, warm, and cozy without being too thick. I love pieces like this because they’re comfortable for winter mornings, matching family pajamas, or just staying warm around the house.

If you’ve been looking for affordable holiday outfits, cozy winter loungewear, or cute Christmas pajamas that don’t break the bank, these are truly such good finds from Walmart and Amazon this year.

#LTKHoliday #LTKCyberWeek #LTKGiftGuide

Best affordable, easy travel iPhone mic I’ve found — and I use it for everything.

If you make content, create Reels, film YouTube clips, or just want clearer audio on your phone, this little mic is perfect. It’s lightweight, super portable, and plugs right into your iPhone with no complicated setup. Great for creators, influencers, or anyone filming family videos, interviews, or family history recordings with grandparents.

The sound quality is so much better than the built-in iPhone mic, and it works indoors, outdoors, on trips, or anywhere you want clean, reliable audio. One of the easiest upgrades you can make to your content setup, and honestly such a good affordable gift for the holidays too

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKCyberWeek #LTKHoliday

Affordable Walmart and Home Depot finds I’m loving right now.

The cute pajama pants just restocked and they’re such a good affordable gift idea for the holidays. Soft, comfy, and perfect for winter mornings or cozy movie nights.

Holiday sweaters are back too — classic patterns, warm, and easy to dress up or down for Christmas parties, neighborhood gatherings, or family photos.

And my favorite professional iPhone mic is finally in stock again.
If you ever record your kids, grandparents, or loved ones… or if you make content at all… this makes your audio sound so much clearer and more professional. One of my most-used items and a great budget-friendly upgrade if you’re filming on your phone.

Perfect for Walmart holiday shopping, Home Depot seasonal finds, and anyone looking for affordable, quality pieces this Christmas season.

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday

Christmas pajamas for mom — and these might be my favorite holiday pajamas I’ve ever worn.
They’re a soft flannel Christmas pajama set with the prettiest dainty gold stripe running through the fabric.

It’s subtle, sparkly, and feels classic for Christmas morning photos, holiday baking days, or cozy winter nights at home.

The front has a satin bow, but the waistband is fully elastic,
so you get the cute detail without having to tie and untie anything all December long.

They also have pockets (the best part), and the flannel is warm, breathable, and perfect for winter loungewear or holiday travel.

For sizing: I normally wear an XS and went up to a small, but I honestly didn’t need to — these women’s Christmas pajamas already fit relaxed and cozy.

If you’re looking for cute Christmas pajamas, cozy winter pajamas, or a classic set that photographs beautifully for family Christmas traditions, these are the ones I’d recommend every time.

Starting to decorate my Christmas kitchen and this red cast-iron pot is already earning its keep.

I use it for slow-roast recipes, winter soups, and easy weeknight stews, and it looks so pretty sitting out as holiday decor too.

My kids get new Christmas pajamas every year,
so this season I finally grabbed new Christmas pajamas for mom.

The gold stripe on these is subtle and sparkly — so pretty for holiday loungewear and Christmas mornings.

And because it’s not Christmas at my house without them…
my live poinsettias are back.

They last so much longer in my kitchen, and the tray underneath is the secret to keeping them looking fresh through the whole holiday season.

Cozy Christmas home decor, kitchen favorites, and festive pajamas — all linked. #ltkchristmas

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKmomlife #LTKSeasonal

Classic Christmas outfit, Thanksgiving outfit and ski season style — this cozy fleece set with a traditional Fair Isle print is everything I want for winter.

The fabric is incredibly soft and warm, with that plush fleece texture that feels like being wrapped in a blanket. The Fair Isle pattern gives it that timeless, ski-lodge-in-the-mountains look that never goes out of style. It’s festive enough for Christmas morning but subtle enough to wear all season long — from November through snowy January weekends.

I love that it works just as well for lounging at home as it does for layering under a puffer jacket for travel or ski trips. Think cozy cabin mornings, hot cocoa by the fire, or wrapping gifts with twinkle lights on. It’s also perfect for those cold winter days when you still want to look pulled together but stay ultra-comfortable.

If you’re into classic holiday prints, cozy matching sets, or après-ski style, this fleece Fair Isle outfit is a must. It’s one of those rare finds that’s both practical and adorable — easy to pack for winter vacations and cute enough for Christmas photos.

#fairisle #fairisleprint #christmasoutfit #holidaystyle #holidayfashion #winteroutfit #cozyfashion #fleece #skioutfit #apresski #winterwardrobe #cozyseason #ltkwinter #holidaytravel #christmaspajamas #winterstyle #skiresortstyle #loungewear #cozyset #fleeceoutfit

#LTKmomlife #LTKootd #LTKHoliday

Soft, cozy, and perfectly matching — this lounge and travel set is my go-to for airport days, Thanksgiving travel, or cozy Christmas mornings.

The fabric is buttery soft, lightweight but warm, and the cute winter botanical print makes it feel festive without being over the top.

Perfect for lounging at home, long drives, or flights when you still want to look pulled together.

#traveloutfit #holidaytravel #airportoutfit #cozyset #winterstyle #loungewear #thanksgivingtravel #christmasoutfit #matchingtravelset #botanicalprint

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKTravel #LTKgrwm

If you know you know. 🎄 I take care of the little poinsettias on the bookshelf by giving them a deep soak and letting them drain before popping them back up again.

2022-2025 ambassador @olsons_greenhouse_gardens 🌱 poinsettias starting to ship now to some @homedepot and @walmart stores 👏

🎤 @imkbfool
#christmasgrinch #introvertproblems #christmastime

My favorite Christmas garlands!

They come out with slightly different variations every season and every single one is gorgeous.

I love mixing them together so you get that layered, collected look without having to hunt all over town.

They’re lightweight, easy to hang, and they drape beautifully without shedding glitter everywhere.

If you’re decorating your porch, mantel, or staircase… these are the ones I keep reaching for.

#LTKHome #LTKSeasonal #LTKFamily

I’ve been learning to cook on cast iron cookware for the last few weeks and I’m officially hooked. There’s just something about a perfectly seasoned cast iron skillet that makes everything taste better — from crispy potatoes to fluffy pancakes and even deep-dish pizza.

I’ve actually had this cast iron pizza pan for about ten years, and it’s still one of my favorite kitchen tools. I just added this new cast iron skillet to my collection, and it’s quickly become my go-to for weeknight dinners. It holds heat beautifully, gives that golden crust on everything, and transitions right from stovetop to oven.

If you’re getting into cast iron cooking, a few accessories make all the difference. The silicone handle grippers are amazing — I can move the pan easily without worrying about burning my hands. The chain mail scrubber is honestly a lifesaver for cleaning; it gets off every bit of stuck-on food without damaging the seasoning. And these cast iron scrapers (I keep one by the sink and one in a drawer) are perfect for loosening bits after searing or baking.

Whether you’re just starting out or already love cast iron skillets, these tools make it so much easier to cook, clean, and care for your pans. They’re simple, affordable, and they’ve made me actually enjoy cooking again.

Affordable non toxic cookware

#LTKFamily #LTKHome #LTKSeasonal

Seed starting setup with grow lights 🌱

This is my favorite affordable and neutral grow shelf and tent setup for starting seeds indoors. The grow lights make such a big difference—my seedlings stay strong, compact, and healthy without getting leggy.

It’s super compact, attractive, and takes up a very small footprint, which makes it perfect for any corner of your home or garage.

If you’re curious about how to set up your own seed starting station with grow lights, I have a full YouTube video showing this exact setup.

Maybe the season is just perfect right now, but I have never had a better apple in my life and I buy a ton of Honeycrisp apples

#LTKHome

All of my green tomatoes froze, so I picked every last one and chopped them up with this handy chopper—it made the job so fast and easy.

I ended up turning the whole batch into homemade tomato chutney, and it turned out amazing. Sweet, tangy, and perfect with grilled chicken or over rice.

If your garden’s wrapping up for the season and you’ve got a pile of green tomatoes too, this little chopper is a total game-changer. I’m already planning to make another batch this winter.

6 cups frozen green tomatoes, thawed and chopped
2 cups onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 medium tart apples, peeled and chopped (optional but adds sweetness)
1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients in a large pot.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Cook 45–60 minutes, stirring often, until mixture is thick and glossy.

Taste and adjust sugar/vinegar for balance.

Cool, then store in jars in the fridge (keeps 2–3 weeks).

Serve on burgers, sandwiches, grilled chicken, or with cheese and crackers..

#LTKSeasonal #LTKFamily #LTKHalloween

“Can you take a week off of work” 😆 yes. I planted my heart out before leaving home last week and can’t wait to see my flowers

#LTKSeasonal #LTKTravel #LTKFamily

Mom can you take a week off work for vacation? Yep! Got my hours in early and family is a core value of the company I work for

#LTKFamily #LTKTravel #LTKGiftGuide

Mom, can you take a week off of work to go on vacation? Haha yep. I put in all my hours early and I am so excited to see how things look when I get home!

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKFamily #LTKTravel

This two piece swimsuit is one of my travel favorites. It’s affordable, comfortable, and perfect for vacation wear whether you’re at the pool or the beach.

I’m also obsessed with this beach bag. It’s lightweight, made for the sand, and still has a secure zip pocket inside plus tons of handy pockets on the outside.

The best part? It folds up tiny in my carry-on suitcase, so I always have space for it when I pack for vacation. Perfect for Mexico, Cancun, or any beach trip.

#LTKSwim #LTKFamily #LTKTravel

Good news for vacation travel—I found our go-to sunscreen in Mexico! Walmart carries the exact one we all use and the only formula my whole family isn’t allergic to.

I grabbed another bottle while we were here, but honestly, it’s so much better to buy it before you go anyway. Prices are higher at resort spots, and you don’t want to waste time hunting it down once you’re on vacation.

This sunscreen is affordable, easy to pack, and a total travel necessity for Cancun, Mexico, and any sunny getaway.

#LTKFamily #LTKTravel #LTKSwim