An Ode To Our Brand Partners!

Wednesday, November 30th, 2022

From Disney to Marvel and everything in between, We promise you official merchandise. With customization, you ask? Does a mug, phone case, or pillow sound nice?!

Dr. Seuss, Winnie the Pooh, and Frozen II, Maybe classic super heroes catch your eye? You can add your name to a product with ease, You’ll cherish it forever, we can testify!

Organize a birthday party with Sesame Street invitations, Host a movie marathon with Harry Potter blankets. With brand partners from A - Z, Any celebration can be unique, just wait and see!

We wanted to dedicate an ode to these wonderful products, So you at home can get a slice of the action! Jump right into the multiple realms of your favorite characters, And discover utter satisfaction!

No Time Like the Present!

Tuesday, November 29th, 2022

It’s hard to believe the holidays are just around the corner. November has flown by in a blink of an eye. Although it may be too soon to start decorating (sadly), it's never too early to start shopping. It seems like every year we run out of wrapping paper, so this year take the custom route, and find amazing designs for your gifts. Explore Zazzle's unique wrapping paper suitable for many occasions with thousands of customizable designs.

Let us wrap your head around our customization tool! We understand as soon as you click the ‘Add Text,’ ‘Add Image,’ or ‘Edit Design’ icon and land into our design tool, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options available. With wrapping paper, we believe simplicity is best! In cases where you’ve your own background themes saved, or if you want to use a collection of photos, we would recommend going down the unique route with our custom wrapping paper. Choose between wrapping paper sheets that come in sets of three, or browse our various-sized wrapping paper that includes detailed product information below the main product image. We do have design articles such as "5 Tips for Creating Great Products" and "Design Guidelines" to help you along the way!

The festive season is just around the corner, so maybe our personalized holiday wrapping paper will be of interest to you! A collection of vintage illustrations decorated in winter themes and designs showcasing Santa Claus. Bring their gifts to life with personalized letters from Santa along with many other gift supplies. The smallest gesture can truly transform a gift, so indulge in our unique wrapping paper and more today!

Cyber Savings!

Monday, November 28th, 2022

Happy Cyber Monday, Zazzlers! On the back of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and in advance of Giving Tuesday, it’s time to take your shopping spree online. We’re offering up to 50% off on items sitewide, with a particular focus on holiday cards, invitations, and t-shirts. And if you want a complete round-up of all our current promotions, visit our coupons page to learn more!

Unlike Black Friday, which can be traced back to the 1950s, Cyber Monday is a relatively recent addition to the holiday shopping calendar. It was pioneered by Ellen Davis of the National Retail Federation, who, in 2005, spotted an upsurge in online revenue and traffic on the Monday following Thanksgiving. She even suspected that it may have been led by parents taking advantage of their company’s faster internet connections, placing orders at work while their children weren’t around and getting a head start on Christmas with Thanksgiving behind them!

Since then, Cyber Monday has become an online phenomenon (and our internet connections have sped up significantly, too). Dictionary.com isn’t exactly known for its sage shopping advice, but we can’t dispute its definition of Cyber Monday as “the perfect shopping solution: all the holiday deals with none of the holiday crowds.” Continue to stay tuned to Zazzle.com – along with our Today’s Moments – and you’ll witness some of our best deals of the year!

Money Saving Tips and Tricks for the Holiday Season!

Sunday, November 27th, 2022

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be the most expensive. There's gifts to buy, food to stock, and, for many of us, there are significant travel costs too. It all adds up, and before you know it you’re writing a late letter to Santa asking if a little extra cash might end up in your stocking on Christmas morning. However, it doesn’t have to come to that, because we can show you how to have a special holiday season without relying on the Bank of Claus.

Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, our list of “10 Ways to Save Money This Holiday Season” over at Zazzle Ideas is a must-read. “Before you even begin shopping, take a look at your spending and decide realistically how much you can and want to allocate for gifts,” notes the author. “By designating a total amount right from the start you will be able to further understand how much you can spend on each person before you even get to the mall.” Using a mixture of old-fashioned, homespun wisdom like this and some clever online tips and tricks, we can help you reduce holiday spending in 2022 without taking away from the magic of the season.

As well as helpful money saving advice, Zazzle Ideas is also a great source for gift guides, gift wrapping tips, and even some helpful information regarding gift-giving etiquette. So browse around and discover a wealth of info that will allow you to have a stress-free and happy holiday season!

Gift Ideas Galore!

Saturday, November 26th, 2022

Unless you’re jolly old Saint Nick, chances are you’re already stressing about what gifts to buy for whom this holiday season. However, while the big guy in the red sled is aided in his efforts by detailed letters from kids and, you know, magical powers of intuition, you can find a little help of your own right here at Zazzle.

If you’re in search of the perfect gift, your first stop should be our 2022 Gift Guide. This is a truly wonderful tool, which allows you to select your intended recipient—whether it’s a parent, grandparent, child, or anyone else—and choose a theme from a wide variety of options, such as ‘Sport,’ ‘Science,’ ‘Music,’ and more. Once you’ve made your selections, you’ll be presented with page after page of the most relevant and high-quality gift ideas. Another great resource you can use to find information and inspiration is the ‘Gifting’ category over at Zazzle Ideas. There, you’ll find a host of articles and lists to help you choose a gift for every possible recipient and a variety of occasions—from Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, to Christmas and New Year’s. Check out blogs detailing gifts for dads and gifts for bosses, last-minute gifts and white elephant gifts, and even gifts for people you barely know. You’ll also find guides on gift-giving etiquette and tips on how to wrap odd-shaped gifts.

Sure, Santa’s got a lot going for him—what with the hordes of elves and troupes of flying reindeer—but stick with Zazzle and you’ll give SC a run for his money in 2022.

Give Yourself the Gift of Self-care

Friday, November 25th, 2022

As joyful as the holidays can be, they can also be a little overwhelming. With so much to do and so little time to do it, it’s easy to let stress get the better of you. That’s why practicing self-care is particularly important at this time of year.

One of the key aspects to self-care is mindfulness. If you get too wrapped up in all the hustle and bustle, you can allow the holidays to pass you by—especially on a day like Black Friday! However, you can avoid this by regularly taking a moment to be present and appreciate your surroundings. “Practice mindfulness and meditation,” writes clinical psychologist Dr. David Topor in a list of self-care strategies posted on the Harvard website. “This can include spending a minute or two being present in your environment. Take notice of the smells, sounds, and sights of the holidays. Notice the differences between the holiday season and other times of the year.” Another good tip for looking after your mental health comes from the Health Coach Institute, which suggests that we should all “let go of having the ‘perfect’ holiday and be okay with having an authentic, ‘good enough’ one” in order to feel a bit more relaxed. Of course, it’s also important to take care of yourself physically, especially as this can be a period of over indulgence. Take a water bottle with you on those trips to the mall to make sure you stay well hydrated, and make sure to schedule time for exercise.

If you’d like to read more self-care tips for the holidays and beyond, check out “5 Ideas for Practicing Self-Care.” Here’s to a healthy and happy holiday season! Thanks for reading.

Thank You!

Thursday, November 24th, 2022

Happy Thanksgiving, dear readers, from everyone here at Zazzle!

If you’re reading this, it means you’ve chosen to welcome us into your home—via your phone, tablet, laptop, or some other device—and spend some time with us on one of the most significant days of the year. And that means a lot to us! So, on this day of giving thanks, we would like to express our gratitude to you. We’re so grateful for your custom and support over this past year, and we look forward to continuing our wonderful relationship throughout the holiday season, into the New Year, and beyond!

Wishing you a bountiful harvest of scrumptious food, fun family time, and festivities on this special day!

Travel in Style!

Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022

Right now, millions of Americans are on the move, as folks all over the country make the trip home for Thanksgiving. It’s an exciting time, but travel always has the potential to cause a few headaches, stimulate a little anxiety, and, yes, even dampen the festive spirit. While it’s too late for us to help you have a more relaxing trip home this Thanksgiving, we offer a range of items that can make the rest of your travel this holiday season—and beyond—a lot less stressful.

If you’ve ever left the baggage carousel with the wrong luggage or had your bags taken by a similarly confused fellow traveler, you’re bound to appreciate our range of customizable suitcases and accessories. Our super lightweight suitcases feature 360° double spinner wheels, retractable telescopic handles, and fully lined interiors containing multiple pockets for improved packing. Best of all, however, you can make them easily identifiable by adding your own images, text, and more to the exterior using Zazzle’s wonderful design tool. Combine your new suitcase with a similarly personalized luggage tag and luggage handle wrap, and, rest assured, those baggage claim mishaps will be a thing of the past.

If you’d like to make your luggage stand out, then check out our travel hub, where you’ll also find thermal tumblers to help you stay hydrated throughout your journey, travel bottle sets for your hand sanitizer or lotion, lip balm, compact mirrors, passport holders, and a host of other practical personal accessories—not to mention some wonderful gift ideas for the holiday season! Take some of the stress out of travel today with Zazzle!

It's Time for the Archers to Make Their Mark!

Tuesday, November 22nd, 2022

If you’re suddenly feeling ready for fun and adventure, that might be because the intense, broody vibes of Scorpio season are lifting and giving way to a very different kind of energy. Today, the sun transitions into the ninth sign of the zodiac and Sagittarius season begins once again!

Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign, which is ruled by Jupiter and represented by a centaur archer. According to Cosmopolitan, those born under this sign are the “Tiggers of the zodiac,” and what a great description that is! Just like Winnie the Pooh’s feline friend, Sagittarians are energetic, curious, passionate, optimistic, wild, funny, and unpredictable in the best kind of way. We know, then, that these fun folks will enjoy themselves over the next few weeks—that’s simply in their nature—but we can all take a leaf out of a Sagittarian’s book. Make the most of the upbeat energy of the season by trying new things in your life or by channeling the wanderlust of the Sagittarius and exploring new terrain. Whatever you do, though, just have fun!

Finding a gift for someone born between November 22 and December 21 can be stressful, because these folks won’t spare your feelings if they don’t like your offering. Known for their undiluted honesty, a Sagittarian’s tongue can be even sharper and more piercing than the arrows in the archer’s quiver. However, if you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who just loves being the centaur of attention, we can help. Check our list of “Great Gift Ideas for Sagittariuses” over at Zazzle Ideas, and we’re sure your gift will be a bullseye!

Welcome to Who-Ville!

Monday, November 21st, 2022

“Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot, but the Grinch who lived just north of Who-ville did not!” It’s 65 years since these whimsical words first appeared in print. Since then, “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” has been adapted a number of times for both the big screen and small, captivated generation after generation of kids the world over, and become a bona fide holiday classic. It’s also inspired a wonderful range of Officially Licensed Products that you can find right here on Zazzle!

Whether you’re shopping for a young kid or a nostalgic adult, an especially excited little Who or a grump who empathizes more closely with the Grinch himself, we’ve got some great gifts for you to choose from. You’ll discover everything from mugs to totes, greeting cards to hats, and shirts to phone covers in our expansive collection. They’re all adorned with your favorite characters and quotes, and ready to be personalized. So pack up your sled—or maybe just your cart. Pack it up with the presents! The ribbons! The wrappings! The tags! And the throw pillows! The trimmings! The trappings! And, if you do, we’re sure that you can make even the biggest Grinch in your family feel as though their heart has grown three sizes this Christmas day!

To check out our Grinch-themed gifts, head on over to our Dr. Seuss store and then select “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” You’ll be glad you did!

Santa's Workstation

Sunday, November 20th, 2022

With Thanksgiving only a few days away and Christmas coming in just over a month, it’s time to start decking the halls of your office environment, adding a little magic to a manic period for your employees. We’d encourage you to pop open that dusty box of holiday decorations, bake an army of gingerbread men in the cafeteria, and make holly, ivy, and a Santa hat headband a compulsory part of the dress code.

Still – even with all the goodwill in the world, and there’s a lot of it to go around at this time of year – it can be hard to invigorate your staff during their busiest season. However, with the help of our “How to Get Your Office into the Holiday Spirit” article, their frustration is far more likely to develop into festive cheer. Have you considered hosting a competition to build camaraderie among your teammates? Maybe you could organize a fundraiser, and then everyone will both feel good and do good. You could even run a movie marathon from the comfort of your conference room. It’s all included in this merry mass of morale ameliorators.

Of course, in 2022, your ‘office’ may be a less tangible entity than it previously was; maybe your workforce is spread all across the country, or even across the world. Maintaining the same holiday vibe while working remotely can be difficult, but Cenera has some clever suggestions, including polling your employees on what they would like to do most and sending out handwritten cards and care packages. With all of these ideas in mind, our holiday spirit is at an all-time high, so if you’ll excuse us, we’re about to don our ugly Christmas sweaters.

Don't Worry, Be 'Appy

Saturday, November 19th, 2022

According to Decode, smartphone usage has surged within the last decade; by the end of 2020, there were about 3.5 billion smartphone users worldwide, and an estimated 14 billion smartphones were sold in that year alone. In a similar vein, smartphone apps have increased in popularity in recent years. Glance writes that phone applications appeal “to [a] basic psychological driver of human behavior”: [they] save time; they make it easier and more convenient for us to achieve things, and that’s why we like them.” With both of the above arguments being true, then, it’s reasonable to assume that you’re a human with a smartphone, and that you like apps. Were we right?

Provided we’ve calculated the probabilities correctly, then, you might be interested in downloading the Zazzle.com app, available here. Creating designs, placing orders, and tracking your shipments – in fact, everything that you can do on the web page via your desktop – can also be done remotely via the app, and there are even exclusive offers and promotions that can only be accessed through your phone. The content you’ve come to know and love on the full Zazzle site will be presented as a personalized feed for you on the app, catered to your tastes and shopping preferences. It’s even possible to avail of our Zazzle LIVE service on your smartphone, where you can work on your product with the help of a professional designer.

Regardless of whether you’re using iOS, Android, or a fully decked-out pair of monitors, we hope you’ll shop with Zazzle again soon (or at least check in tomorrow for another Today’s Moment)!

A Disney Deep Dive!

Friday, November 18th, 2022

Oh boy! This year, everyone’s most beloved cartoon mouse, Mickey, turns 94! Not only is he one of the world’s most recognizable characters, but he’s been described as “represent[ative] of the world of animation,” and has been named as “[Walt Disney’s] alter ego.”

Many cite “Steamboat Willie” (1928) as the debut of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, but they actually first appeared in a six-minute silent short, “Plane Crazy” (1928), made six months earlier. According to Romper.com, Disney, while working for Universal Studios in the 1920s, had wanted to create more animated characters following the success of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. His employers refused, however, and rejected Disney’s request for a modest pay rise; this motivated Disney to start an independent animation studio, separate from Universal, where he could draw and distribute anything he wanted (including the aforementioned shorts).

Within 50 years, Mickey had secured a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was the sole owner and proprietor of Disneyland, California. He’s also one of the most popular names on Zazzle, and if you head to the officially licensed Mickey & Friends store, you’ll get to shop and customize products relating to Mickey, Minnie, and all their anthropomorphic pals!

Wreath 'Em and Weep!

Thursday, November 17th, 2022

Seasonal décor – as if there wasn’t enough to think of in that “Ultimate Family Christmas To-Do List” we spoke about a few days ago! But alongside the gifts, cards, and celebrated guests, it’s the little things – the candles, wreaths, and ornaments – that make Christmas, well, Christmas! With the help of Zazzle, you’ll create a warm, attractive atmosphere that will last until at least April.

Since our holiday décor department is practically brimming with clocks, tableware, tapestries, and pillows, it’s no surprise that we’ve written two Zazzle Ideas articles on this subject: “How to Decorate Each Room for the Holidays” and “Holiday Decorating Ideas & Tips for Your Home.” Consistent across these articles – and others we’ve found during our research – is the importance of color, light, and fragrances. If you’re starting to assemble your seasonal décor now, The Savvy Heart recommends using neutral colors, like beige and brown: neither are fall- or winter-specific, making it easy to transform a Thanksgiving hearth into a Christmas-themed home. November and December are also dark months, with fewer hours of sunlight, and thus adding light fixtures – even string lights around your banister or mirror – will brighten everything up.

When you do start putting up your Christmas tree and decorations, why not opt for a New Year’s-worthy mix of blue, gold, and silver, rather than the traditional red and green? And while ornaments are important, cards can also function as ornaments: hang them across your mantelpiece as a garland, or scatter them in unexpected places throughout the house. Finally, don’t forget to swap out those fruity summer scents for cinnamon- or nutmeg-laced candles and diffusers.

The Comfort Zone

Wednesday, November 16th, 2022

Last December, Alex Watt wrote an article for The New Yorker in defense of decorative pillows. Happily proclaiming his love of pillows, Watt did confess to some “overzealous fluffing,” but “highly recommend[ed] living life on the edge of a bed that’s covered in tiny pillows with tassels.” Consider Today’s Moment a follow-up to that article, then, as we similarly expound on our love of pillows!

Of course, given the number of pillow designs our Independent Creators have made, we’re quite content to heap – or, rather, throw – praise on the humble pillow, and to cushion it from the comments of any detractors. On our custom pillows page, it’s possible to add text, logos, photos, and any number of graphics and filters to six types of pillows, which range in size from 13” x 21” (lumbar) to 20” x 54” (body). They’re 100% polyester and are made from a smooth, wrinkle-free fabric, making them a cozy, comfortable addition to your bedroom or living room.

When you’re designing your pillow, be sure to consider the room you’ll be putting it in. According to One Affirmation, accent pillows “are the perfect opportunity to echo the color, texture, or style of nearby accessories, such as drapes.” You could use similar colors to create a cohesive palette, or you could use contrasting colors to make a space more visually dynamic. Before you know it, a pillow fight is sure to break out, with each of your friends and family competing to rest their weary head on your couch, bed, or armchair!

All Part of the Plan

Tuesday, November 15th, 2022

With a little less than six weeks to go before the big day – not to mention Thanksgiving in the meantime, and any other holidays you might celebrate, like Kwanzaa or Hanukkah – it’s absolutely time to stop procrastinating. Yes, we know you’ve been sidestepping the kids’ holiday wish lists recently, and we’re sorry to say that the card shop you go to phoned us, and they said they hadn’t seen you in months. Daunting as it might be, however, it’s time to start your holiday preparations.

Fortunately, Zazzle is about to make your Christmas. No matter how organized you are, it’s still possible to let the holiday season get the better of you; Antonia on Balance Through Simplicity writes that she feels “overwhelmed” when her “diary and to do list are filled with errands, things to remember and places to be.” If you don’t even have a diary or to-do-list yet, however, “The Ultimate Family Christmas To-Do List” details all the food-, gift-, and décor-related objectives you need to complete in November and December. We’ve even separated them into three categories: ‘What to Do as Early as Possible,’ ‘What to Do in December,’ and ‘[What to Do] A Few Days Before Christmas.’ That way, you’ll be able to align each errand with your calendar, keeping you on schedule and breaking the list down into manageable chunks.

Finally, we have two important tips for you. While it’s too late to start this year, Real Simple points out that “leaning into the spirit of ‘Christmas in July’ – yes, a full five months in advance – is a great place to start,” as online retailers, including Zazzle, host some of their biggest sales during the summer. Don’t worry, though, if you didn’t have that foresight this year; our second tip is to stay tuned to our Today’s Moments, as we’ll be sharing some of our best holiday advice in the next few weeks!

Can YOU do better?

Monday, November 14th, 2022

Sadly, bullying can happen to anyone at any time in their lives! The term 'bullying' encompasses racism, homophobia, sexism, ableism, sexual harassment, and many other forms of bullying, in the form of verbal and social harassment, physical bullying, and cyberbullying. We could all fall victim to it, some may even partake in it unknowingly, but what's important is acknowledging and taking action to prevent it. 57 percent of bullying cases end with intervention, so there is evidence that it works. Over in the UK, the Anti-Bullying Alliance organize an Anti-Bullying Awareness Week in November to raise awareness in schools about bullying prevention. They promote many helpful tips adults can learn from and pass on to others.

Despite our best efforts, life is not perfect and we’ve all experienced setbacks in different ways. Growing up is hard and as parents, teachers, guardians, and even friends, we can all do a bit more. It is not uncommon for physical bullying to be more noticeable, whereas cyberbullying is more discreet. 60% of young people have witnessed online bullying, but how many of them have intervened? The internet isn't an age-exclusion zone, so by taking a positive stance and not encouraging hatred online, you can teach others the same. Calling out people online doesn't have to be aggressive; choose your words carefully and act appropriately.

What else can you do to help? This year’s theme is to ‘Reach Out.’ A simple phone call or text message could make a big difference. You can reach out in a positive or negative manner, which in turn can be the beginning of a cycle of change in your workplace, school, community, or own surroundings. Let's start our bullying awareness cycle today and make a positive impact on people's lives.

World Kindness Day 2022

Sunday, November 13th, 2022

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." - Aesop

Today is World Kindness Day! This international day aims to raise awareness of the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world around you.

On World Kindness Day, people, as individuals or in groups, strive to make the world a better place by carrying out both small and large acts of kindness. World Kindness Day, falling annually on November 13th, originated in 1998 and was pioneered by the World Kindness Movement. This year, the campaign hashtag for World Kindness Day is #OneVoiceForKindness.

The World Kindness Movement's greatest wish is for us all to band together and say YES to Kindness! To celebrate World Kindness Day, you could help a neighbor mow their lawn, pay for the coffee belonging to the person behind you in line, volunteer at a charity organization, give a compliment to a friend, or simply hold the door open for a passer-by. Fill your day with random acts of kindness, whatever they may look like to you, and then continue to carry out more kind acts throughout the year.

2022 marks the 25th anniversary of World Kindness Day. Each year, more and more people worldwide observe this global celebration and try their hand at spreading a little more kindness. So, what’re you waiting for? Get out there and be kind!

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Saturday, November 12th, 2022

"In times of crisis, the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers." - T'Challa.

Set after the events of the epic first Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will be the 30th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe! As the nation of Wakanda mourns the loss of their beloved king T’Challa, they must now prepare to fight. This November, put on your vibranium armor and join forces with the brave leaders of Wakanda in their quest to protect their kingdom from intervening world powers.

In this action-packed sequel, you’ll be reunited with iconic characters like Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M'Baku, Okoye, and the Dora Milaje. Watch as these strong Wakandanians band together with War Dog Nakia and Everett Ross to forge a new path for the kingdom of Wakanda! Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will also introduce a host of brand new characters including Namor, the king of a hidden undersea nation, Riri Williams/Ironheart, and Aneka.

We can hardly wait to feast our eyes upon the second installment of this jaw-dropping tale! Did you know that Zazzle is your one-stop-shop for awesome, personalizable Black Panther: Wakanda Forever merchandise? In our officially licensed store, you’ll find apparel, drinkware, stationery, and much more, featuring all of your favorite characters, both old and new.

123 Sesame Street

Thursday, November 10th, 2022

Get ready to recite the alphabet, count to 5, and munch on some cookies, because it’s Sesame Street Day! On Sesame Street Day, people celebrate the beloved, educational TV show that has brought joy to millions of children across many generations.

Premiering first in 1969, Sesame Street is still one of the most viewed children's television shows in the world, with fans spanning all corners of the globe! Since its first episode, Sesame Street has introduced a notable amount of memorable characters including Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar The Grouch, Kermit The Frog, Abby Cadabby, and Count von Count. The creators of the TV show, Joan Ganz Cooney and Lloyd Morriset, theorized that if you can hold the attention of children, you can educate them, and Sesame Street was then built around this premise. Sesame Street was one of the few children's shows at the time to utilize a comprehensive educational curriculum, featuring not only subjects like vocabulary and math, but also teaching children to have respect for others, process their emotions, and how to deal with conflict.

There’s never been a better time to introduce your little ones to this iconic TV show, learn more about the show’s fascinating history, or to simply watch your favorite episodes of Sesame Street! If you’d like to take your Sesame Street Day up a notch, why not try your hand at designing your very own custom Sesame Street merchandise? We’ve got a bounty of awesome, officially licensed designs in our wonderful Sesame Street store!

Friend-Chip Goals!

Wednesday, November 9th, 2022

What could possibly be better than a batch of freshly-baked cookies? An even bigger batch of cookies to share with friends and family, of course! This holiday season, get your loved ones together for a wholesome evening full of fun and delicious cookies.

So, what exactly is a cookie swap? A cookie swap is a festive get-together to which each guest brings their own batch of cookies to share with the group, and everybody ends up with a variety of different, scrumptious treats! Cookie swaps are enjoyed by adults and children alike, and provide an awesome opportunity to try your hand at baking, and learn some great new recipes whether you’re a professional baker or a total beginner. If you’re looking for an in-depth guide to hosting your very own cookie swap party, we think this article by the Speckled Palate is a must-read!

With so many different types of cookies out there, you’ll be spoiled for choice – chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, gingerbread, shortbread, and sugar cookies to name just a few! Whichever recipe you choose to follow, you can give your baking space a new lease of life by shopping our wonderful selection of customizable tea towels and recipe binders. What are you waiting for? Don your trusty apron and get ready to bake some memories!

Cast Your Vote!

Tuesday, November 8th, 2022

“Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, this country, and this world.” - Sharon Salzberg. Today is the day we all come together to cast our ballots for public officials in the local and national elections. Election Day can be a fun and memorable experience, as it gives us all the right to control who makes it into office. Electoral processes are integral to the functioning of any democracy.

Your vote in the local elections is important, not only because you get a say, but also because it could influence the final outcome. According to National Geographic – fewer than 15 percent of eligible voters were turning out to vote for mayors, council members, and other local offices which relatively means, any single vote counts due to the small number of voters. With your voice, you could make a positive difference in your community as there are many social issues affected by the election.

If you’ve never voted before, next year could be the year! Along with having conversations with your friends and family, might you consider doing your own research? Firstly, you'll need to check if you registered to vote, and you can find a helpful guide to doing that here. Secondly, you’ll need to do some research on the candidates; might we suggest nonpartisan online resources to get the full extent of what they stand for and what they are campaigning for? We also recommend taking some time to gather information about legislative and judicial candidates, along with possible questions ballot questions to make an informed decision. The future is in your hands!

Let Us Do It for You!

Monday, November 7th, 2022

Need design help? Lucky for you, Zazzle LIVE has come to the rescue! Zazzle LIVE is expert design help, on demand. We created Zazzle LIVE for many different users: for the busy mom who, although she'd like to design her 5-year-old's birthday invitations, just doesn't have the time; as well for someone who wouldn't consider themselves tech-savvy, and the thought of designing something is a stress not worth having. So let’s get started on how Zazzle LIVE can help you!

Zazzle LIVE can be accessed from the left side of the Zazzle landing page. You’ll then be matched with a professional designer by either text, video, or audio; you choose! The best part is, you have absolutely no obligation to purchase anything at the end of the session (although it’ll be tempting not to)! Each session usually takes 20 minutes or less to complete your showstopping design alongside your designer. You even get to watch the design being made in real time! We want you to LOVE your new design, so take advantage of the text box within the tool and communicate with your designer to achieve your desired design.

Our professional designers can help with products like Save the Dates, business cards, party decorations, and business products, and even help with your holiday card design. However, the most fun designs are from our ‘Masterpiece’ line which includes selfie masterpieces and pet masterpieces. Simply upload a photo of either yourself or your pet, and choose a body – most of which are on an elegant body – for their head to be attached to. Trust us, it’s well worth it for the laugh you’ll get! Try Zazzle LIVE today!

The Greatest Present of All

Sunday, November 6th, 2022

If you’re like so many who just can’t wait for the first Christmas song to hit the radio, for the Christmas movies to arrive on the Hallmark channel, or leave your Christmas lights on year-round (we’re not judging), AND you’re madly in love, well, a holiday proposal might be for you! To get you off that teeter-totter of emotions while wondering if popping the question during the holiday season is right for you, here are some highlights from our Zazzle Ideas article, “Pros & Cons of a Holiday Proposal”!

Let’s start off with the weather! We all know winter can be unpredictable, especially depending on where you live. So take into account road closures, blizzards, or just freezing cold temperatures if you’re asking the question outside. On the other hand, winter can create a truly picturesque backdrop, lined with a blanket of snow, frosted trees, and a sense of serenity. In most cases, Christmas is spent with family, so if you’re planning on having a Christmas proposal, expect it to be busy, and not so intimate. On the plus side, having your friends and family near would eliminate numerous phone calls afterward when spreading the special news.

If you are planning your proposal for the holidays, you’ll be spoiled with different and unique ways to pop the question. Like adding the ring to the inside of a BIG box; you can even line this box with rocks for some added weight. When your significant other picks up the weighted box, the last thing they’ll expect is a ring. Or, how about tying the ring to a string and hanging it on the tree like an ornament? The only thing left to do is wait until they notice! These ideas and many more can all be found in this Zazzle Ideas article. We hope it helps!

Move Over for Men's Health

Saturday, November 5th, 2022

Have you heard of ‘No Shave November'. We’d be more surprised if you haven’t heard, as it's been trending for many years (and for good reason). Most men don’t choose to stop shaving their mustache for just any reason; instead they choose this greasy trend to raise awareness for men’s health – in particular, prostate and testicular cancer, suicide prevention, and mental health. So let’s kick off this November right, with Men’s Health Awareness Month!

There are many ways that you can participate in Men’s Health Awareness Month including the most obvious way to participate: grow your mustache! Not only do you grow your stash during the month of November, but your friends and family can sponsor you. You can choose to walk or run 60 miles over the course of November to raise awareness for the 60 men we lose to suicide each HOUR. This is ideal for men and women to raise awareness! Will you be participating in Men’s Health Awareness Month?

Candlelit Winners

Friday, November 4th, 2022

Picture this: it’s raining outside on a Sunday evening, you’re curled up on the couch with a cup of tea, and to top it all off, a harvest-time aroma is filling the air while the shadow from a flame dances around the room. Well, it doesn’t necessarily need to be a harvest-time aroma, but it goes well with this time of year. And if you haven’t already guessed it, we’re going to be talking about candles. Oh, and matchboxes! Both of which can be found right here on Zazzle!

Candles can be used for comfort while you wind down in the bathtub, they can create a romantic atmosphere when placed around the house, and can be picturesque when they’re lined up along the fireplace. And for anyone who needs a little inspiration on how to incorporate candles into your home, check out this article: “34 Beautiful Ways to Decorate with Candles and Add Style and Warmth to Your Home.” Now that we’ve talked about candles inside your home, let’s talk about taking them outside. You can use candles as centerpieces when decorating for events such as weddings and anniversaries, they can be used to light up your backyard when entertaining in the evening, or they can travel with you on your next camping trip.

You can’t have a candle without something to light it! That’s why you can find both customizable Zippo lighters and matchboxes right here on Zazzle. Our matchboxes come in sets of 50, making them a memorable event favor. Especially with designs like this one, ‘The Perfect Match,’ which would be ideal to include at your wedding.

Count Your Blessings

Thursday, November 3rd, 2022

November 24th is just around the corner! Whether this is your first time hosting Thanksgiving dinner or you’ve been known to host this special dinner a time or two, follow us as we go over some important things to consider when preparing for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving!

Firstly, consider who you’d like to invite. The best way to do this is by sitting down and creating a guest list. Make sure to consider partners, so no one is left out! Now that you’ve got an idea of how many people you may be hosting, you can now determine the menu, including the size of turkey that would be suitable to feed all your guests. According to Martha Stewart, on average, each person consumes 1 ½ pounds of turkey. So if you plan to host 10 guests, prepare a 15-20-pound turkey. Take some time to go through your silverware to make sure you have enough for all your guests. Or, alternatively, if you’d rather have more time to spend with your guests after the meal, opt for paper plates and cutlery. And luckily for you, we have a vast range of Thanksgiving paper plates and paper napkins available on Zazzle!

Another thing we’d recommend for your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving event would be some fitness activities, especially to kick the food coma! Zazzle Ideas has prepared the perfect article just for this! This list includes an after-meal walk with your family and friends, signing up to participate in a turkey trot, and partaking in some active games.

Holiday Spirits

Tuesday, November 1st, 2022

Let’s get one thing straight: Día de Los Muertos is not equivalent to Halloween in Mexico! Now that that’s out of the way, let us share with you what Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead (as it’s also known) is truly about. Día de Los Muertos is a spiritual event where families welcome the souls of loved ones who have passed, and which takes place each year, dating back 3,000 years.

Unlike Halloween, this day is full of feasts, celebrations, and rituals that mark the gates to heaven opening up, allowing families to cross over for 24 hours. An ofrenda, or altar, is built in homes or within gravesites and is used to welcome spirits home. Families will decorate these altars with photos, food, flowers, or even small toys for children to greet their loved ones.

In 2017, Disney/Pixar released the movie Coco, which gives you a great look into the Day of the Dead. And, we just so happen to have a Coco store on Zazzle! Here you can find puzzles with illustrations from the movie, eye-catching travel mugs, and everything you need to throw a Coco-themed birthday party. If you haven’t seen this movie, we would strongly recommend it! Not only is the animation spectacular, but it has some catchy tunes, and you could learn even more about Día de Los Muertos!