Are You Coco-nuts for Macaroons?

Tuesday, May 31st, 2022

It’s National Macaroon Day! It’s time to celebrate the coconutty, crumbly, flavorful cookie that is the macaroon. Today, treat yourself to a delicious macaroon, whether you like your macaroons dipped in chocolate, with added almonds, or like them simply plain!

Made primarily from shredded coconut, almonds, egg whites, and flavoring, this unique cookie has long been a favorite of many! Did you know that macaroons are believed to have originated in Italian monasteries as far back as the 8th century? Macaroons seemed to be especially popular across Italian Jewish cultures due to the lack of leavening, meaning they could be eaten during Passover. These treats were then introduced to other European Jews, and became popular as a year-round sweet! Esther Levy popularized the macaroon nationwide in 1871 when she published The First Jewish American Cookbook. Nowadays, macaroons in many different varieties, styles, and flavors can be found in a wide range of bakeries and stores.

So, if you’re going to try your hand at making your own macaroons for the first time, or if you’re already a macaron-making pro, we’ve got customizable items like aprons and kitchen towels to add a little extra to your home-baking set-up!

Join Us in Honoring Our Fallen Heroes!

Monday, May 30th, 2022

On this very day in 1868, the nation first honored the fallen soldiers of the U.S. Civil War with a day of remembrance and a state ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. In the 154 years since, Decoration Day, as it was then known, has evolved to become Memorial Day and now honors all those who have died in U.S. military service down through the years.

The seeds of Memorial Day were actually sown a few years prior to 1868, although it’s still unclear exactly when and where. The government recognizes Waterloo as the official birthplace of the holiday, as local residents of the small New York village decorated the graves of soldiers and held a community-wide day of remembrance there since 1866. However, according to History.com, some records suggest that commemorative events were held in other towns even earlier than 1866. Whatever the holiday’s origins, Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1971 and is now one of the most important dates on the U.S. calendar.

Today, Memorial Day weekend is viewed as the unofficial beginning of the summer and is often marked by sun-kissed family barbecues. If, however, you’d like to get more into the original spirit of this day, consider visiting the gravesides of our servicemen and women, donating to a veterans’ organization, or helping the troops of today by sending care packages.

BBQs and Brews!

Sunday, May 29th, 2022

This weekend, all over the country, trusty grills will be emerging from storage for their first big cookouts of the year to mark Memorial Day and the unofficial beginning of summer. There’ll be tasty corn on the cob, there’ll be delicious ribs, there’ll be juicy burgers, and there might even be a few brews too. If you’re hosting, or simply attending, a cookout in the coming days and you’re looking for the perfect beers to complement traditional BBQ food, we’ve got a few tips to help you get summer off to a brewtiful start!

Crisp and refreshing lagers are, of course, an ideal style for an occasion such as a summer BBQ. They are great for sipping on warm days and also pair well with BBQ stalwarts like sausages, potato salad, and corn on the cob. Sam Cruz of the Against the Grain brewery recommends classic Czech lager Pilsner Urquell for cookouts, but we think that Firestone Walker Pivo Pils is also an excellent choice. Pivo Pils is just one of the beers featured in our list of “6 Craft Beers You Should Know About” over at Zazzle Ideas. There, you’ll also learn about other great beers like: famed Belgian thirst-quencher Saison DuPont, which pairs well with grilled chicken; Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, a true American classic that is a great buddy to any burger; and the divine Pliny the Elder, which Peter Hoey of Urban Roots Brewing & Smokehouse pairs with “thick steaks and sauce-laden ribs.”

Now that the beer is sorted, why not take a visit to our Beer Glasses section to find the perfect vessel for your new favorite brew?! Here's to a great weekend, and a wonderful summer! Cheers!

The Real Patty’s Day!

Saturday, May 28th, 2022

It may not be quite as American as apple pie, but the hamburger is the next best thing. Despite having a name that refers to a city half the world away, the dish is inextricably linked to the United States and has become a cultural icon on these shores. That’s why, today, we’re urging you to pick up some ground beef, onions, lettuce, fresh buns, and your favorite condiments, and join us in celebrating National Hamburger Day!

Determining the true origin of the hamburger is tricky. Louis Lassen of Connecticut, Charlie Nagreen of Wisconsin, and Fletcher Davis of Texas are just a few of the people credited with creating the hamburger, but it’s unlikely we’ll conclusively identify the person responsible or pinpoint the exact site of their epiphany any time soon. What seems clear, however, is that the “Hamburg-style” chopped steak was the likely predecessor of the hamburger. This steak was served on a plate and became popular following the influx of German immigrants in the mid-19th century. At some point thereafter, it was incorporated into a sandwich, which reached a wider audience at the 1904 World’s Fair and subsequently exploded in popularity with the emergence of White Castle, McDonald’s, and other fast-food chains in the mid-20th century.

Whatever its origins, the hamburger has become one of America’s most beloved dishes, with nearly 50 million hamburgers eaten in the United States every year! If you’re planning to add to this number by hosting a burger-filled BBQ later this summer or on National Hamburger Day 2023, you’ll find a mouth-watering selection of BBQ invitations right here at Zazzle!

Protect Yourself!

Friday, May 27th, 2022

We’re sure you don’t need to be told that today is Friday, but you might not know that it’s also Don’t Fry Day. That might sound like a facetious name for an occasion, but Don’t Fry Day is actually dedicated to raising awareness about a very serious issue: sun safety and skin cancer prevention.

It was the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention that first designated the Friday before Memorial Day as Don’t Fry Day back in 2008. With summer just around the corner, the event acted as a timely reminder to people to protect their skin whilst enjoying the great outdoors and the warm weather. According to the council’s website, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and one American dies every hour from melanoma, so it’s very important to take measures to protect your skin when you’re out in the sun. Remember to wear protective clothing, a hat (preferably with a wide brim), sunglasses, and sunscreen, and seek shade.

If you’d like to learn more about sun safety, skin cancer, and Don’t Fry Day, visit SkinCancerPrevention.org. You can also access a Don’t Fry Day toolkit to aid in the promotion of the event and help raise skin cancer awareness within your community or organization.

It’s Time To Steal Away!

Thursday, May 26th, 2022

With almost all COVID restrictions now in the rear-view mirror, you may be looking to take advantage of your newfound freedom by jetting away to some far-off land this summer. However, if you’re not quite ready for all the hustle and bustle of busy airport terminals or the recycled air of cramped airliners, perhaps now is the time to finally explore this great country of ours and exercise that wanderlust with a road trip for the ages.

For years, Hollywood has paid tribute to the romance of the open road. Movies like Thelma and Louise, National Lampoon’s Vacation, and, later, Little Miss Sunshine captured the public’s imagination and helped to establish the road trip in our minds as the ultimate American adventure. It’s easy to understand, too, why fiction writers have found such a wealth of inspiration in our highways and the majestic countryside through which they wind. Road trips, after all, offer an incredible sense of freedom and there are so many wonderful options for the intrepid traveler to choose from, including short jaunts like that from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and epic odysseys like Route 66.

If you’re considering a road trip during the summer, or beyond, browse Time Out’s list of “The Best Road Trips in the US” for inspiration, visit RoadTrippers to get the best planning tips, and browse our travel gifts to discover an array of customizable accessories that might come in handy along the way!

It Takes Two

Wednesday, May 25th, 2022

Uh-oh. We’re experiencing a cosmic shift! The sun is entering the bubbly Gemini season, leaving the grounded Taurus phase behind, and Mercury is even beginning to slip into retrograde (as we once explained in our “Everything You Need to Know About Mercury Retrograde” article). But what does this celestial realignment mean?

Geminis, those born between May 21 and June 21, are excellent communicators: one of the best among all the zodiac signs. They often possess an intellectual curiosity – as well as a natural interest in people – and this makes them suited to roles in journalism, broadcasting, teaching, and PR. The Gemini symbol is a pair of twins, after all, and as a result, Geminis rarely like to do anything alone! As we enter Gemini season, all other signs can benefit from the social, chatty energy associated with the air sign, making it the perfect opportunity to pursue new relationships and revisit friendships.

If you’d like to know more about what to expect during Gemini season, then take a look at AnyTime Astro’s article on the subject. And, if you’re a funny, intelligent conversationalist – the very essence of a Gemini, AND might I say, you look very well today, too – then you should treat yourself to one of our “Great Gift Ideas for Geminis”!

Wedding Season Is Upon Us!

Tuesday, May 24th, 2022

It’s May, and that means wedding season is underway. That’s right, according to the 2021 Real Weddings Study, a whopping 80% of weddings happen between May and October each year. Chances are then, dear readers, that you’ll be attending one or more weddings in the coming months. Or, you might even be preparing to exchange vows yourself! If you’re tying the knot this year, Zazzle is the place to be for everything from invitations and stationery to décor and favors—and even tips on planning the big day itself.

Over at Zazzle Ideas, we have a wide range of articles offering advice on every element of your wedding. Find out how you can enhance your décor and keep everything running smoothly with our comprehensive list of essential wedding signs. Learn how you can use cool cocktails, clever scheduling, and programs that double as hand fans to help you and your guests survive a hot summer wedding. Or read about what ingredients you need to create the ultimate wedding welcome bag or box.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, baby shower, birthday bash, or graduation party, there’s so much to discover over at Zazzle Ideas. Visit today, and get inspired!

Sun’s Out, Guns Out!

Monday, May 23rd, 2022

Summer is almost upon us, so it’s the perfect time to browse through Zazzle’s stylish selection of tank tops and pick yourself up some lightweight, sleeveless apparel for the warmer days ahead!

Did you know that tank tops are so named because of their resemblance to a type of one-piece bathing suit popular in the early 20th century? Yes, the tank suit was commonly worn in swimming pools and tanks in the 1920s and was known for its characteristic shoulder straps. We’re sure, however, that the tank suits of yesteryear were rarely customizable, unlike the tank tops you can find on Zazzle today! We have an incredible selection of designs to choose from and personalize, including officially licensed merchandise from the likes of Disney, Marvel, DC, and a host of other big brands! And, of course, in the unlikely event that you don’t find anything you like in our collection of tops, you can always create your very own design from scratch!

Discover wonderful garments for your own summer wardrobe and awesome gift ideas for your friends by shopping tank tops at Zazzle today!

Zazzle's Got You Covered This Father's Day!

Sunday, May 22nd, 2022

Father’s Day is less than one month away, so it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll mark the occasion and celebrate all the dads in your life—whether it’s your own pops, your bonus dad, the father of your children, the new dads in your circle of friends, or dear old Grandpa. Lucky for you, Zazzle is here to offer you some tips about gifts, activities, and more ahead of June 19. Now, take a seat tiger, because we’re about to dispense some fatherly advice.

Dads are notoriously hard to shop for, but over at Zazzle Ideas we love to make gifting easy, and we’ve put together a thorough and enlightening list of Father’s Day gifts for you to peruse. You’ll also find a DIY guide on how to make a wonderful candy jar sure to satisfy his sweet tooth. However, gifts and treats are only part of what it means to truly spoil the big guy on Father’s Day. It’s also important to organize activities that are related to his interests and allow him to spend quality time with the family. For inspiration, check out our list of “Father’s Day Activities for Every Type of Dad,” or treat him to a fun and relaxing day indoors by picking a couple of entries from our compilation of the “Top 40 Greatest TV Shows & Movies to Watch with Dad.”

Make sure there’s little time to spare for any ‘When I was your age…’ stories or cautionary lectures about touching the thermostat this Father’s Day, by planning a packed schedule of events with the help of Zazzle Ideas!

Thank You for Your Service

Saturday, May 21st, 2022

Armed Forces Day was originally conceived of by the government of President Harry S. Truman in the late 1940s. It was designed to honor ALL sections of the armed forces, as well as “to expand public understanding of what type of job [was] performed and the role of the military in civilian life.” Established in 1949 and made into an official holiday in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, it now takes place on the third Saturday of May, and is marked by parades, exhibitions, lectures, and rallies.

The United Services Organization (USO) also recommends volunteering with, or donating to, their charity, or another organization committed to protecting and supporting active-duty service members. Either way, be sure to express your gratitude to any member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard that you come across!

The Kind of Day We All Knead!

Friday, May 20th, 2022

It’s the third Friday of May, and that means it’s time to sample a real Italian dish—pizza—in a real Italian way—surrounded by friends and family! That’s right folks, it’s National Pizza Party Day once again!

Today should serve as a little reminder to us all that dinner parties don’t have to be formal, stressful, or complicated. Throwing a pizza party, you see, can be fun, relaxing, and really quite simple. In fact, if you want to keep things super simple, there’s nothing wrong with just rounding up some friends and ordering in a couple of pies from your neighborhood pizzeria. However, in the purest sense, a pizza party involves people preparing dinner together—what you might call a ‘DIY Pizza Party.’ Though this kind of event requires a little prep from the host, it’s minimal. As TheKitchn.com suggests, it’s a good idea to prepare your dough and chop your toppings in advance. Broma Bakery also recommends that you group your toppings into categories such as sauces, cheese, and fresh toppings, to make navigating the generous selection of ingredients easier on your guests. With everything laid in front of them when they arrive, your guests can get straight down to making their pizza. After that, all that’s left is to enjoy the good food and great company!

If you’d like to learn how to make the perfect pizza dough from scratch ahead of your next pizza or dinner party, check out this guide by An Italian in My Kitchen. And to create an even more authentic experience for your guests, pick up a classic pizza serving tray from Zazzle! Buon appetito!

I Never Promised You a Rose Garden

Thursday, May 19th, 2022

In between writing Today’s Moments and producing high-quality customizable products, we at Zazzle like to potter around our gardens, priding ourselves on self-sufficiency, environmental consciousness, and delicious, home-cooked meals.

It’s all down to our selection of yummy veggies, you see, and on Plant a Vegetable Garden Day, we’d urge you to think about sowing the seeds of your own greenhouse, allotment, or slice of edible Eden. But if a lack of space is a thorn in your side, you don’t necessarily need a huge plot of earth, either; patios, balconies, apartment rooftops, and simple pots and trays will also work, as The Gardeners’ Network suggests. The benefits of having a garden are also immense: you’ll save money on organic produce, as you’re growing it yourself; you’ll reduce the strain on the environment by avoiding the use of chemicals; and you’ll be pursuing a relaxing, outdoor activity that improves your physical and mental health.

Plant a Vegetable Garden Day only began in 2019, when author and lifelong gardener Bob Matthews established the day “to help feed a hungry planet, and [to] encourage people to join in the fun and enriching hobby of gardening.” With all that said, we won’t beat around the bush: take a look at our gardening gifts and turn your green thumbs to our design tool if you want to grow – sorry, create – your own produce – I mean, products!

The Host with the Coast!

Wednesday, May 18th, 2022

Imagine sunning yourself on a tropical island or seaside resort. The sea breeze is cool in your hair; the golden sand feels warm beneath your feet; and the combination of blue skies and rolling green hills nearby is positively divine. You’ve reached cloud nine; it’s as good as you hoped.

Now, imagine all of the above, but in your own home. That’s the aim of coastal chic interior design: a decorating style that evokes the earthy, muted tones of life on the coast. Instead of bold, unnatural colors like red and purple, you’ll opt for blues, grays, and whites. Instead of incorporating glass and leather into your décor, you’ll introduce wicker, wood, and terracotta. And rather than focusing on warm, cozy spaces, you’ll want to bring in lots of natural light and space.

Notably, as TidbitsandTwine.com points out, coastal chic is a style, and not a nautical theme. In other words, you’re trying to inspire a sense of the ocean, rather than actively hanging anchors on the walls or captaining a boat through the back entrance. Luckily, here at Zazzle, we have both: coastal chic stationery and décor, and nautical-themed gifts!

Catch You on the Flipside!

Tuesday, May 17th, 2022

Did you know that, when you take flip-flops in hand and march to the pool, beach, or gym, you’re participating in a tradition that’s existed for almost 6,000 years? Not that the ancient Egyptians had weightlifting machines and aerobics classes, of course; but they DID have flip flops, and we’re in love with those ever-comfortable summer staples here at Zazzle.

The earliest known usage of flip flops WAS in Egypt, around 4,000 BCE, but they were also worn by the Romans and Mesopotamians (with each civilization placing the strap around a different toe; the Romans favored the second toe, for example). Flip flops are a kind of sandal, but the distinguishing feature is that Y-shaped band that sits between your toes, as well as the characteristically lightweight material. Indeed, because flip flops are often made of waterproof rubber or foam, they’re ideal for plodding around poolsides and sandy beaches.

Flip flops have been popular in the U.S. since the 1940s and 1950s when soldiers returning from World War II brought home Japanese sandals, similar to flip flops, that were known as zori. Decades later, we at Zazzle have helped to popularize the customizable flip flop, however; choose from thousands of sandal and flip flop designs, or strap yourself into our design tool to create your own flip flops from scratch.

Good Things Come in Trees

Monday, May 16th, 2022

There’s a lot to love about trees: those verdant branches, their deep-rooted trunks, and, of course, the ability of trees to provide life-sustaining oxygen during the process of photosynthesis, thus ensuring our continued survival on this planet. Man, do we love trees!

With all that in mind, there’s never been a more evergreen holiday than National Love a Tree Day, which takes place annually on May 16. According to the U.S. Forest Service, about 766 million acres of forest exists in the United States. That’s a lot of trees to appreciate in one day, but you can start the celebrations in your own backyard or local park. You could prune their branches and clean away dead foliage; water their roots – and not just their leaves – making sure that the ground beneath is completely saturated, or you could even plant a new tree altogether!

Trees are essential to a clean, healthy living environment: they absorb pollutants from cars, power plants, and other sources, and provide shade and shelter in hot areas. They can even bring people together, as Blue Water Baltimore notes, because when we plant trees in an area, we partner with local residents, community leaders, and corporate groups. Finally, if you’re still stumped for ways to mark May 16, take a leaf out of Celebree’s book with their “5 Ways to Celebrate National Love a Tree Day!”

Raising the Steaks!

Sunday, May 15th, 2022

We hope you like your content well done, because we’re about to serve up another thought-provoking, conversation-starting, and mouth-watering Today’s Moment. May is National Barbecue Month, and we’re practically salivating at the prospect!

The Barbecue Council started National Barbecue Month in 1963 to encourage outdoor cooking, but the origins of barbecue itself are unknown. Some speculate that Christopher Columbus witnessed natives slow-cooking meat when he arrived in the Americas; others suggest that the practice only gained traction in the 1800s with the proliferation of cattle drives (and hungry cowboys). Barbecued food is some of the most popular in the U.S., though the type of food that’s cooked varies between regions. In the Southeast, pork is the meat of choice, whereas on the West coast, people like to grill chicken and seafood.

If you’d like to sample our barbecue accessories, equipment, and themed apparel, simply lift the lid on our grill gifts at Zazzle.com. With only two weeks left in May – although with a long summer to go, admittedly – we’d also urge you to get caught up in the heat of the Moment, and embrace the satisfyingly meaty recipes at The Food Channel.

Fun Wedding Reception Activity Ideas

Saturday, May 14th, 2022

After the buzz of the ceremony, it’s important to keep your beloved guests entertained! However, you might be finding it hard to come up with some different and fun ways of engaging your guests at your wedding reception. Well, don't worry, because we're here to help!

We’ve written an article on “45 Fun Wedding Reception Activities & Wedding Games” to help take some of the weight off your shoulders! Whether you’re hosting an indoor or outdoor wedding, these tips will help you curate a perfect day filled with love, joy, and non-stop laughter. Wedding toast bingo is a great way to get guests giggling! You can provide custom bingo cards for the guests during the toasts so they can mark off clichés or stock phrases during the speeches! Another great idea is to have a photo booth with fancy dress outfits, cool hats, and funny eyewear. Design a custom social media style photo booth frame for a trendy touch! A game of Cornhole or ‘Bags’ is a fantastic idea for an outdoor game, and you can even personalize your cornhole set to really impress your guests!

Our article above contains many more creative wedding reception activity ideas aside from these, so feel free to read on further if you’d like to see them! Make your special day extra unique and totally unforgettable with these awesome wedding reception games and activity ideas.

An Unlucky Day?

Friday, May 13th, 2022

A Friday that falls on the 13th of the month occurs approximately one to three times each year. As you may know, in many countries around the world, there’s superstition surrounding this date and it’s considered unlucky! But where did this superstition come from in the first place?

While it’s difficult to isolate the exact origin of this superstition, it’s apparent that both Friday and the number 13 have been viewed as unlucky in different cultures all throughout history. Author and physicist Charles Panati traced this superstition back to Norse mythology, and believes that the story of Loki, the god of mischief, gate-crashing a banquet of gods in Valhalla may be the root of this ‘curse.’ In the tale, Loki’s arrival brought the number of gods in attendance to 13, and Loki then tricked the blind god Hodr into shooting and killing his brother Balder, the god of light, joy, and goodness. Other sources believe that this superstition has strong Christian associations, as it relates to various things like the story of the Last Supper, and the crucifixion, at which there were 13 people present.

However, contradictions to this superstition arise when we dig deeper. In pagan times, we can see evidence that both Friday and the number 13 were regarded as harbingers of good fortune! So don’t get too worried!

Con-grad-ulations!

Thursday, May 12th, 2022

It’s that time of year again! You, or someone you know, has studied hard, passed their exams, and is now ready to graduate! Whether you’re celebrating a high school graduation or a college graduation, it’s important to recognize this milestone event in a special way.

Where did the tradition of graduation come from? Well, university graduation ceremonies have been happening for over 800 years! Graduations stretch back to the establishment of the first universities in Europe, in the 12th century. Graduation caps, often called mortarboards, are believed to have developed from the biretta, which was a cap worn by the Roman Catholic clergy and academics. Did you know that the graduation cap toss tradition was started by the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912? Before 1912, graduates of the naval academy spent two years as midshipmen, so needed to keep their midshipmen hats. However, in 1912, graduates were instead immediately commissioned as officers, and so their old caps were thrown into the air after the commencement ceremony!

Nowadays, people celebrate their graduations in many different ways! Some people like to throw large parties, and others prefer to keep it more low-key. However, all celebrations require planning! At Zazzle, we’ve made it easy to create your own personalized graduation cards and graduation décor in just a few clicks. We also offer an extensive range of custom graduation items for all your celebratory needs!

Forget Everything That You Think You Know…

Wednesday, May 11th, 2022

Dr. Stephen Strange made his first appearance in the Marvel comic Strange Tales #110, released in July 1963, and has since been many Marvel fans’ favorite hero! Dr. Strange is also known as the Sorcerer Supreme, with his role being the primary protector of Earth against mystical threats. While he started out as a revered, but quite arrogant neurosurgeon, Strange’s hands were seriously damaged in a car accident, causing him to lose the ability to operate. On a quest to cure himself of this ailment, he became a student of the Ancient One, the previous Sorcerer Supreme, and mastered both the mystical and the martial arts.

As of May 6th, 2022, the second installment in the tale of Doctor Strange, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is now in theaters! This action-packed, extraordinary story takes place a few months after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), and follows Dr. Strange and his allies as they travel into the epic multiverse to face an ominous new adversary.

If you, or someone you know, is a fan of the mighty Marvel hero Dr. Strange, you’re in luck! We’ve got a plethora of officially licensed Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness merchandise featuring Wanda Maximoff, Wong, Strange himself, and many other intriguing characters you’ll see in this new movie.

The Great Outdoors!

Tuesday, May 10th, 2022

With the warmer weather and longer evenings approaching quickly, there’s never been a better time to spruce up your outdoor décor!

If you’re stumped for some creative ideas, don’t worry, because that's where we step in! At Zazzle, we offer a wide range of garden and outdoor items, which can be easily personalized using our design tool. Add extra comfort to your outdoor chairs or seating with some custom outdoor pillows! You can add your own initials, choose a design or pattern you love, or even write the name of your house. Add some fun to your glass or plastic surfaces, windows, and walls with some of our waterproof kiss-cut stickers! Think pretty flowers, cute animals, or modern art-deco shapes. You could also design a brand new doormat for your porch! Pick a funny phrase, a cool motif, or add your own custom pictures and text to create a one-of-a-kind entrance. Another great idea for your front or back yard is a personalized sign or garden flag!

With Zazzle, you can create a space you’re truly proud of, and get ready to wow your guests! Treat your front yard, back yard, porch, or deck to a delightful summer makeover, and add some unique touches to the space.

You Better Bull-ieve It

Monday, May 9th, 2022

It’s time to work hard, and play harder, because we're in Taurus Season! Taurus Season usually takes place from April 20 to May 20, and offers us all a chance to feel grounded, stable, and strong. Taureans, who are represented symbolically by a bull, are known to be intelligent, dependable, hardworking, dedicated, and (sometimes) stubborn! Taureans definitely have a taste for the finer things in life and know how to relax.

The Taurus zodiac sign is ruled by the planet Venus and is an earth sign. According to Greek mythology, the constellation of Taurus honors the story of the god Zeus transforming himself into a bull to win over princess Europa! Did you know that the Taurus constellation is visible in the southern sky during the winter months in the northern hemisphere? It’s located northeast of the Orion constellation, and if you follow the line of Orion’s Belt, you’ll be able to see the stars that form the face of the Taurus bull.

With Zazzle, you can treat the special Taurus in your life to a custom gift featuring their zodiac sign! Choose from tote bags, mugs, posters, and many more Taurus-themed items that can be personalized with our handy design tool for an extra touch.

Take a Mom-ent to Celebrate!

Sunday, May 8th, 2022

"Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." - Unknown

It’s Mother’s Day! Today, people across the nation honor their mothers, grandmothers, step-mothers, and any other motherly figures they may have in their lives. On Mother’s Day, we remind ourselves how selfless, patient, nurturing, and loving our mothers are, and strive to express our gratitude for them.

Did you know that celebrations of mothers and motherhood can actually be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans? In the U.S., however, Mother’s Day has been celebrated since the late 19th century. A woman named Anna Jarvis began campaigning to establish Mother’s Day in the U.S. following her mother’s death in 1905, as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children. Her efforts paid off, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially made the second Sunday in May Mother’s Day!

This year, show your mother just how much you truly appreciate her with a beautiful custom Mother’s Day card or Mother’s Day gift that comes straight from the heart! Whether she’s a new mom, a step-mom, or a dog mom, we’ve got something perfect for everyone here at Zazzle.

Kentucky Derby Day

Saturday, May 7th, 2022

“And down the stretch they come!” There’s nothing better than hearing these words being blared into the microphone. The dirt then starts to kick up, as hooves of thoroughbred horses race to the finish line. A crowd of more than 150,000 people go wild and you can clearly tell who bet on the winning horse by their excited cheers. Welcome to Kentucky Derby Day!

Fun fact: the Kentucky Derby is the longest-running sporting event in the United States with the first race dating back to 1875. Throughout the history of almost 150 years, the Kentucky Derby has only been postponed twice: once in 1945, as horses were preserved for military use during World War 1; and again only a couple years ago, in 2020 due to the pandemic. And although the Derby DID take place in 2021, it was attended by only 51,000 spectators due to the COVID-19 restrictions in place. This year, however, attendance is expected to return to pre-COVID numbers.

For the best insider information when planning your trip to the Kentucky Derby, we recommend this article: “Kentucky Derby Tips: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Derby Guide (by a local)!” Here you’ll learn how much tickets cost, the schedule of events, and how to save money at the races. On top of all this, it even provides a list of things to bring to the Derby, which include a rain poncho, sunscreen, phone charger, and if you’re in the infield, a collapsible camping chair.

National Nurses Week Begins

Friday, May 6th, 2022

Nurses Week has officially begun! Each year, from May 6th to May 12th, nurses are recognized and celebrated for the role they play in helping others. These courageous individuals have stepped up and been through imaginable challenges, especially over the course of the pandemic. Some of these obstacles include being short-staffed while caring for a large number of COVID-19 patients, a lack of personal protective equipment, and the unknown of when the pandemic would finally come to an end. It’s for these reasons, and many more, that we encourage you to thank a nurse – National Nurses Week has now started!

Florence Nightingale is a well-known British nurse, who, back in the 1800s established St. Thomas’s Hospital and the Nightingale Training School for nurses during the Crimean War. It was Nightingale and her team who helped reduce the death rate from 42% to 2% by introducing techniques like hand-washing and various other hygiene-friendly practices while nursing wounded soldiers. National Nurses Week first took place in the U.S. in 1954 to mark the 100th anniversary of Nightingale’s pioneering work in Crimea. And it just so happens that Nurses Week ends each year on May 12th, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday.

Here are some ways to participate in National Nurses Week, even if you aren’t a nurse! Simply say thanks! Do this by posting a ‘thank you’ post on social media, text your friend who’s a nurse, or send a letter to your local hospital. Nurses like the rest of us: they love coffee and nothing says ‘thank you’ like dropping by a ‘Coffee Traveler’ from Starbucks! And for an extra-special, well-deserved offering, choose from one of our popular nurse gifts on Zazzle!

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

Thursday, May 5th, 2022

Load the table with all your Mexican favorites; tostadas, enchiladas, fresh mole, guacamole, and of course, tacos! While you’re filling your plate with some of Mexico’s finest foods, be sure to have a mariachi band playing in the background. And after dinner, take a break to twirl around in traditional Mexican dresses. Doesn’t this sound like an exciting way to spend Cinco de Mayo? Well, before you start mashing up the avocado, let’s dive into the history of Cinco de Mayo and other fun ways to enjoy it!

Believe it or not, Cinco de Mayo is actually more popular in the U.S. than it is in Mexico. While Mexico chooses to celebrate the victory over France during the battle of Puebla, the U.S. celebrates Mexican history and traditions. Throughout the U.S., celebrations are held every May 5th, especially in areas with large Mexican-American populations. Washington, D.C. is even known to host the ‘Running of the Chihuahuas,’ where many Chihuahuas, which are a Mexican dog breed, race to the finish line in a fun race.

You better believe we wouldn’t leave you on your own to host your own Cinco de Mayo party! So without further ado, here are some of our most popular Cinco de Mayo party decorations! Start with this beautifully created invitation, this festive t-shirt, or this eye-catching banner. And for even more party supplies, see our Cinco de Mayo page!

National Teachers Day

Tuesday, May 3rd, 2022

Who helped you tie your shoes and count by 2s? Chances are, it was your teacher! They are the ones that helped you prepare yourself before going out in the big world, pushed you to succeed, and maybe added some life lessons along the way. Give the teachers in your life some well-deserved recognition today, on National Teachers’ Day! Yes, we believe teachers deserve much more than one day out of the year, but we’re here to make the most of it, and to show you how to do the same!

So where did it all begin? It all started back in 1953 when Eleanor Roosevelt went to Congress with the determination to convince them to introduce a day for teachers. However, it wasn’t until 1980 that a day was adopted. The first National Teachers’ Day was March 7th, but it was soon changed to the first Tuesday of May in 1984. Today, National Teachers’ Day is still celebrated with kind words, teacher gifts, and through social media.

We want your teacher to feel special and to be smiling from ear to ear. One way to achieve this is by giving a small gift. Anything from a teacher's card and a photo of the two of you together to a teacher tote bag or teacher mug. Teachers are known to get a lot of mugs throughout the year, so even a gift card would be a great way to say thank you!

Yes, You May Party!

Monday, May 2nd, 2022

With the weather warming up outside, you might feel the urge to get your close friends and family together, and PARTY! After all, you’ve missed out over the last couple of years as a result of restrictions that were put in place due to the pandemic. Although you shouldn't need an excuse to let loose, we’ll provide you with some fun party ideas to host during the month of May!

Golf Party (May 6th) We can hear the excitement from golfers around the country who have pulled their golf bags out of storage and started brushing off a layer of dust formed over winter. Now before you head out to the fairway, gather your golfing buddies and toast to the beginning of golf season. And before you send your guests home, treat them to customized golf balls, golf head covers, or ball markers from Zazzle.

Cocktail Day (World Cocktail Day, May 13th) You don’t have to go to a bartending school to host a cocktail party, and yes, there is a school for this! Instead, invite over a few friends, choose some cocktail recipes, and have some fun! To get you started, here is a list of 24 different recipes.

These May-themed parties and many more can be found here, “Best May Party Themes (22 Ideas You’ll Love to Celebrate)”!

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month

Sunday, May 1st, 2022

The month of May is known to some as the heart of Spring, when flowers are blooming and the sun is shining, but to others, May is so much more. Especially to Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) as it marks their heritage month! This annual celebration shines a light on, and acknowledges the contributions made by, both individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent within the U.S.

The term AAPI covers the 22.9 million people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent living in the United States, making up 7% of its overall population. According to History.com, the fight to recognize AAPI and their heritage first started in the late 1970s. This process took over 10 years before they saw a permanent month-long celebration. Throughout the month of May, you can participate in various online events and lectures for more insights on the many contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Did you know that Marvel’s 1st Asian superhero can be found on Zazzle? Well you better believe it! The officially licensed store for Shang Chi and the Legend of the 10 Rings features none other than the expert martial artist himself. Find t-shirts, stickers, posters, and so much more, right here on Zazzle!