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Buzz Feed
27-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
These 31 Pieces Of Decor Will Have Your Home Looking Bougie Without Having To Break The Bank
Some velvet throw pillowcases — they'll make you say, "Yup, this is the good life," because of how luxe they look and how soft they'll feel against your skin. Plus, they're all so darn vibrant, they'll add the loveliest pop of color to your home. And a set of two buttery-soft satin pillowcases that'll make your bed look so inviting. Like, don't you just want to lie on this luxurious, silky pillow for hours!? Not only does it help to reduce frizz and breakage to your hair, but it also helps keep your skin from drying out overnight *and* can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles because there's way less friction. PLUS, reviewers rave about how these keep 'em cool at night! A set of amber soap dispensers to give your sink that rustic look instead of having to stare at the half-empty bottle of Softsoap you got from the dollar store. A cute set of glass coffee syrup dispensers so you can finally have that stunning coffee bar that you've been dreaming of. You'll be able to fill 'em up with your fave flavors and concoct your world-famous caramel macchiato. A wireless library light to draw attention to your beautiful wall-hanging decor and portraits that may have been overlooked. It'll turn your home into an art gallery and have your guests oohing and ahhing at your ~curated~ collection. A candle that radiates luxurious vibes without even being lit because of the gorgeous jar and bold scent. When you light this bad boy up, it'll give off a captivating aroma of jasmine, oud, and sandalwood — making your home even more bougie. A faux sheepskin to add some *oomph* to your barren floors. It's so soft, fluffy, and chic, you may even be tempted to just lie on it for hours. Welcome to your new ~mid-century modern~ home. A bunch of faux tulips because trying to keep real flowers alive and/or buying new bouquets every week is such a hassle. Just plop these babies into a vase, and you'll always have, well, the facade of fresh flowers. They look JUST like the real deal, so you may be able to trick your guests into thinking they're from your tulip garden out back! Velvet room-darkening curtains to transform your window game and make you feel like you're living in a palace. They'll also reduce the light that enters your home so you'll be able to get a few more hours of shuteye instead of the sun rudely awakening you at ungodly hours. 😒 A set of tall jars because these are, without a doubt, the best way to store small kitchen items instead of keeping them in their beat-up cardboard packaging. You'll want to leave these jars out on your countertop because they're absolutely stunning! A Bodum pour-over coffee maker that looks like it should be sold at Williams-Sonoma. You'll be smiling every morning while you pour out a cup of joe, knowing that you didn't drop hundreds on this (in fact, it's under $20). A set of stunning vintage-looking glass coffee mugs because everything tastes better in an aesthetic cup, even water. Sip on your morning latte in this gorgeous piece of drinkware and feel like you're THAT person! Plus each glass comes with a golden spoon so you can stir in your sugar cube — hey Alexa, play "Fancy" by Iggy Azalea. A marble board wire cheese cutter that'll not only be your go-to when you're constructing a charcuterie board but will also look so *goud-a* sitting on your kitchen counter. It's un*brie*lievable how easily it slices through any block of cheese #satisfyingtok. Sorry for the puns, I know they were *cheesy* — OK, I'll see myself out now. A crystal jewelry box because there is no better place to store your fave earrings, necklaces, and bracelets than in this charming, bedazzled box. A glass chess set that looks like it could go for hundreds, so not getting it at this price would be a *rook*ie mistake. It's the perfect centerpiece for your coffee table because you'll be able to play a game if you're feeling bored — or just stare at it because it's gorgeous. An under-cabinet wineglass rack so you don't have to store your fab glasses behind closed doors and it'll be extra easy to access 'em if you need wine ASAP. A decorative vintage mirror if you love the Victorian era aesthetic and want to turn your home into the royal palace. A set of luxe velvet slip covers that'll turn your couch from drab to ~faaab~ — you'll feel like royalty anytime you plop down to take a nap. Bonus: It'll also hide all those tears and stains that make you go "yeesh 😬" every time you lay eyes on them. And! If you happen to spill something or your doggo has an accident on the cover, you can just toss it into the washing machine! Some hanging glass lights here to elevate your lighting game, especially if you pair them with some Edison bulbs for a vintage vibe. Or an acrylic chandelier lampshade that'll turn your overhead lighting ~deluxe~. It'll transform your entire room and probably make you belt out 🎶 "I'm gonna swing from the chandelieeer" 🎶 every time you see it. A set of weather-resistant accent magnets if you can't stand to look at your barren garage door anymore. These are way, waaay cheaper than replacing the entire thing, and it'll give your garage that classic carriage house look. When people drive by your home, they'll be thinking to themselves, " looks *so* nice." A blissfully plush checkered blanket that is EXTREMELY soft and fluffy, perfect for cozying up on the couch. Just imagine settling in for a Dance Moms marathon and throwing this baby on top of you — ahhh, pure bliss. Plus, reviewers say it's comparable to the pricier Barefoot Dreams throw! A set of chic and snazzy brass drawer pulls to immediately zhuzh up your bathroom or kitchen cabinets and add a more modern vibe to them. And a set of gold metal feet so you can make your dressers, couch, and bookshelves look way more luxe instead of splurging on new pieces. They're super sturdy and screw on easily! A vintage coquette tray that'll be the perfect addition to your nightstand so you can store your jewelry before you hit the hay. The bows are just so darling and give it such a fem vibe — eek, I'm obsessed! And an antique-inspired decorative mirror tray if you love that vintage aesthetic. You can put your finest jewelry, trinkets, and candles out for display on this lovely piece of decor. And! A vintage-style makeup brush holder that's absolutely stunning, marvelous, dazzling, and every other synonym out there. It comes with faux-pearl beads that look like they came straight from Audrey Hepburn's iconic necklace — ooh-la-la, so fancy! A waterfall faucet because let's be so honest, these make you feel way bougier than all the other ones. A set of itty bitty vintage-inspired spoons, perfect for stirring your coffee and tea or indulging in a sweet treat after dinner. When they're not in use, they definitely make for a gorgeous piece of kitchen decor. A pair of super fancy wineglasses because you deserve to sip on your not-so-expensive vino in some luxe-but-affordable glasses. With golden rims and rhinestones plastered on the stems, this may just be the definition of bougie on a budget. A sleek bamboo charcuterie board because nothing screams "I'm bougie" more than a platter of olives, meat, and cheese! It's perfect for hosting a lil' party or wine night because your guests will definitely be impressed.
Forbes
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Father's Day Tech-Tastic Wish List
The Buff LED Face Mask Buff I'm going to be honest… none of what I write about below is anywhere close to what I'll actually get on Father's Day. My kids' school put on a Father's Day 'store' and my wife sends them in with $10 each, which usually (always) results in me getting socks and a coffee mug to unwrap on the big day. But this isn't a reality list. It's a wish list. The clue is in the name. However, even with that disclaimer thrown in, I still have to set a few boundaries. I couldn't just include a super yacht, a sports car or (the ultimate dream) Oasis reunion tickets. So this is a 'realistic' wish list. Sort of. Good luck to all the Dads out there. SHARP OSAKA DR-P520(GY) Portable Digital Radi Sharp Okay, this is a proper 'Dad' inclusion. Following the big power cut in Spain earlier this year, that wiped out not only electricity but the mobile networks too, one of the most common things that people said they found useful during the chaos was a battery-powered FM radio. Not only is this Sharp radio that, but it also has DAB+ smarts too, along with Bluetooth streaming and 10 hours of battery life; which you can charge with the same sort of power pack you'd use to charge your phone in such an emergency. It's available direct from Sharp, costing $60 Stateside, £60 in the UK. The Bodum Bistro smart coffee maker Bodum With its 24-hour programmable timer, this Bodum clever coffee machine will get your morning brew set to go exactly when you need it… and will keep your coffee warm for 25 minutes after brewing while you inevitably have to sort out some sort of breakfast emergency with the kids. It's also top-end filter coffee on offer, as it features a unique shower head design that evenly saturates your coffee grounds, meaning a more balanced extraction. The good news is you can also ditch those wasteful paper filters; this eco-conscious design features a fine-mesh, stainless steel filter. You can buy one now, direct from Bodum, for $110 / £139. Beats Powerbeats 2 Pro Apple Given that the latest Powerbeats are positioned as the ultimate workout partner, with real-time insights into your exercise performance and built-in heart rate monitoring, I should say I want them to help me get fitter. But they also feature Active Noise Cancelling, Adaptive EQ and Personalised Spatial Audio… so they'll be ideal for drowning out whatever (terrible) music the kids insist on playing on my home speakers. With a whopping 45 hours of battery life thanks to their smaller, wireless charging case, re-engineered earhooks, and powered by the Apple H2 chip, the Powerbeats Pro 2 build on the original's success and still look super cool; so I can keep up the pretence that I'm still young and trendy. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are $250 / £250. AirFly Pro 2 Twelve South And I want those Powerbeats to team up with this nifty gadget, which bridges the gap between your Bluetooth headphones and those pesky wired-only systems on planes or gym equipment. You simply have to plug the AirFly Pro 2 into any 3.5mm headphone jack, pair your wireless buds, and boom – instant audio freedom. The AirFly Pro 2 lets two sets of headphones connect at once, have over 25 hours of battery life, and have support for high-quality audio codecs. They cost $60 in the US, £61 in Blighty. Buff LED Face Mask Buff A bit of a left-field one this, but I've been secretly jealous of my wife's SharkNinja CryoGlow mask for a while now (and she doesn't share)… but now we have an LED mask that's targeted at men specifically, and promises to help smooth fine lines, soften wrinkles, and slow visible signs of ageing. Buff's LED Face Mask harnesses different light wavelengths to address a variety of skincare concerns. Blue light works to combat breakouts, red light encourages collagen production to improve skin texture, near-infrared light helps soothe inflammation, and yellow light supports a brighter, more even complexion. Given that I look like an extra from The Last of Us most mornings, I think I'll need the full spectrum. It's £180 direct from Buff.
Buzz Feed
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
Practical, Crowd-Pleasing Graduation Gifts
If you think about it, there aren't that many occasions in life, other than birthdays and maybe promotions or new jobs, that folks get to celebrate an individual. Sure, weddings and babies are big milestones, but they're a group achievement. Graduations offer up the perfect moment to tell someone special in your life that you're proud of them. Often, along with graduations come big life shifts – think moving, new jobs and new routines. You can help ease the transition with these practical gifts that will set the grad in your life up for success. We combed Target to find the best options that will actually delight the matriculating student in your life. Their new emotional support water bottle It's not just about hydration. Water tumblers have taken on an elevated status as emotional support objects. Next time you stroll around a campus, or heck, really anywhere, take note: more folks than not are bustling along bottle in hand. Hydro Flask's 40-ounce travel tumbler is a favorite for good reason. It keeps drinks cold for hours thanks to the double-wall vacuum insulation and the lid is leak resistant. Customer Sydney affirms in their review that 'it keeps my water cold' and that it's 'so easy to clean.' Choose from eight different it from Target for $39.99. A French press set Coffee and grads go hand in hand. We all need a little caffeine boost to get our day going and in this economy, paying $5 ($6, $7, $8!?!) for a cup of coffee every day just isn't practical – especially for new grads on a budget. This 8-cup French press set from Bodum is the perfect way to set your grad up for success. Bobsyouruncle confirms in their review that the set 'works perfectly and the accessories are a nice touch.' It comes with a scoop and sand timer that's pre-measured to run out at 4 minutes, which is roughly the perfect brew time. Once the timer's out, it's time to press. The included battery-powered milk frother is a nice touch to help you one-up your it from Target for $24.99. A weighted blanket Graduation often means embarking out on your own — and sometimes leaving the nest can feel a little daunting. This weighted blanket is the perfect gift to quell anxieties. At 12 pounds, it's just the right weight to keep you cozy on the couch or safe while snoozing. Adirana's review affirms that they had the 'best night sleep [because] it did its job' adding that they weren't 'tossing or turning all night long' anymore. Get it from Target for $25. A happy light You need more sunlight than you'd think to keep happy and healthy. Whether you're stuck in June gloom on the West coast or short winter days in the East, an extra dose of light can really (excuse the pun) brighten your outlook. If your grad is moving somewhere new, the little extra boost can make a big difference. This full spectrum LED light delivers up to 10,000 lux at three different brightness settings. It's fully portable and shown to improve sleep, boosts mood, increases energy, and enhances focus. WeavingQueen confirms in their review that their 'days are much happier with more energy' thanks to this LED it from Target for $39.99. A great self-help book After graduating you're expected to find a job and in turn, your place in the world. Sometimes, getting to know yourself can be tougher than expected, especially if you're a perfectionist. Give the grad in your life a little extra encouragement with psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler's new book The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control. The book is 'an invitation to every 'recovering perfectionist' to challenge the way they look at perfectionism, and the way they look at themselves.' Shan says 'this fresh perspective on perfection went above and beyond' in their review adding that it will leave 'you with the tools to begin to reframe your perfectionism into your very own superpower.' What grad couldn't use a new superpower?Get it from Target for $19.67. Some fancy earbuds Apple AirPods make a particularly nice gift. Whether you need to make calls, score your morning commute or watch your shows in privacy, these premium wireless earbuds have you covered. The latest version boasts added noise cancelling technology, clearer calls and can even function as a hearing aid (perfect for sitting in the back row of the lecture hall). Arguably the creme de la creme of personal listening, these headphones are on sale now for just under $170. PaolaH21 confirms in their review that 'they're worth every penny" and that 'the noise cancellation is a game changer.'Get them from Target for $249.99. A personal blender Grads are frequently on the go. Whether it's studying for finals or starting the job hunt, certain obligations make their time is a precious commodity. Why not gift them with something practical to help them save a little time and money and get breakfast or a snack in a snap? The Nutribullet is a 'powerful and effective blender,' according to Hegesh's review, its 'large capacity cup and strong blades' make it the perfect smoothie-making companion. Get it from Target for $69.99. A hybrid digital Polaroid camera With new life milestones on the horizon post graduation, this hybrid camera is the perfect gift for creative grads. The Instax Mini Evo combines the fun of traditional Polaroid prints along with the predictability and technology of modern digital cameras. Just like the classic, it spits out prints in a snap, but with this camera you can preview images before printing, apply filters or print directly from your smartphone. It's like 'Polaroid reimagined for today's time,' Neville F says in their review, adding that it's a 'great way to combine today's digital cameras with the ability of Polaroids to get some really fun pictures that can become part of a physical album.' Film isn't included, but a built-in selfie mirror is (!!) as is a charger and camera strap. It's an investment at $200, but is sure to build memories or years to it from Target for $199.99. An easy-on-the-eyes e-reader After years of toting around heavy textbooks and notebooks, a Kindle is the perfect break for a recent grad. Give them the gift of reading on the go without the distractions of news, notifications and apps. The Kindle replicates a 'real' reading experience thanks to its glare-free paper-like screen. With instant access to over 15 million books in the Kindle store, you can rest assured that they'll find something up their alley. 'This is such a beautiful device' pavlinad1_2715 writes in a review. '[It's] paper-thin and so light, the screen quality is amazing, it doesn't hurt my eyes, it's just a perfect product.' And, the perfect gift!Get it from Target for $159.99 (available in two colors). A cheerful carry-on suitcase You want them to explore the world and come back home for long weekends, right? Luggage is a great way to gift a new graduate. This hardside carry-on suitcase is the perfect travel companion thanks to its expandable side zips and easy roll wheels. Kimmy calls it 'great for a weekend getaway' in their review and Ldodd421's review concurs, saying their suitcase 'holds enough for a week and is expandable.' With six stylish color choices and a price point under $100 ($89.99 to be specific), you can't go it from Target for $89.99. An iconic cookbook When you're in student mode, cooking can go the wayside. Between classes, working and studying, who has the time? Welcome them back to the world of cooking with a culinary icon: Martha. Celebrate their graduation with Martha Stewart's 100th (!!!) book, "Martha Stewart's 100 Favorite Recipes." It's the ultimate collection of her all time favorites. This cookbook is a great place for a new cook to start their collection – and, hey, maybe they'll even invite you over for dinner as a thank it from Target for $22.54 (originally $28).
Buzz Feed
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Keep Your Arm And A Leg And Buy These 35 Affordable Alternatives Instead
A cult-favorite luxury-scented candle reviewers love for its intoxicating and long-lasting smell (think: Le Labo's Santal 33). It has an impressive throw, meaning you can actually fill your home with its calming jasmine, oud, and sandalwood scent instead of having to stick your nose right up to the flame. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks offering a Laneige-like experience for just a fraction of the price. The berry extract and vitamin C work to moisturize lips as you go to bed, proving that beauty sleep is a real thing. Glue-on foam ceiling tiles providing a quick, fancy refresh to your kitchen or living room. Gotta love an easy way to add a "wow" factor without having to splurge on carpentry or remodeling. A Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired moisturizing body wash offering an affordable solution to your dependence on that beloved (but pricey) fragrance. Thanks to the notes of white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber, shower time has never smelled better. A set of glittery gel nail polishes to help you master the coveted cat eye look. You can make your nails look like gemstones or faraway galaxies with the right technique, all without dropping $100 at the salon! A pair of stylish teardrop earrings similar to the popular Bottega Veneta ones, but for a fraction of the price. They're lightweight and gold-plated, meaning that even those with sensitive ears can enjoy them. Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume that'll smell familiar to any fans of YSL's spendy Black Opium scent. If you're not in the know, it has a dedicated following thanks to its unique blend of mandarin, vanilla, pink pepper, jasmine, and cedarwood. Just like its pricier cousin, this fragrance has staying power, so expect some "you smell fancy" comments throughout the day. A baroque-inspired mirror for anyone who has been eyeing the gorgeous Anthropologie mirrors but can't quite rationalize the hefty price tag. This piece of decor is pretty similar and comes at a fraction of the cost. A super-soft longline sports bra some have compared to Lululemon's Align tank top for an Equinox-level workout look at a Planet Fitness price. Reviewers say it offers a little less compression, so you can wear it on casual days, too. And high-waisted leggings that have also been compared to Lululemon A LOT, like over-600-reviewers lot. They're buttery soft, pass the squat test, and have the perfect stretch-to-hug ratio. A 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels you can score at a major steal: less than $1 per cloth. They work just as well as the famous Makeup Eraser, but 20 TIMES less expensive. A Bodum kettle with the same aesthetic sensibilities as the pricey Fellow Stagg Gooseneck Kettle but at a fraction of the price. While the Bodum doesn't have to-the-degree temperature control or regulation, it still has a large capacity, precise spout, and rapid boil ability (around two minutes!). An 18-karat gold-plated cherry keychain because dropping almost $100 on the one from Coach is honestly kind of ridiculous. Reviewers say this one is almost identical! E.l.f.'s Hydrating Core Lip Shine in the "Ecstatic" shade, which reviewers say works as a very good, affordable replacement for Clinique's "Black Honey," the $25 "universal shade" that has a Shakira-level of fame and adoration. This $7 alternative is nonsticky, moisturizes with vitamin E, and melts onto your lips like buttah. Also from E.l.f., their Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara, which creates tubing around your lashes to make them appear longer, thicker, and darker. The lightweight "extensions" won't smudge or weigh down your actual lashes and — best of all — they fall right off when you wash your face. No one likes having to scrub their eyes raw trying to get off waterproof makeup. :( A cold brew coffee maker that lets you make your java at night (when you're actually awake), so all you have to do is stumble to the fridge in the morning. Just pour coffee grounds (or tea leaves!) into the pitcher and let them steep overnight, and you'll forget aaalll about paying $8 at your local coffee shop. A trendy bamboo-style frame you might have thought came from Framebridge or Aerin, but nope! Amazon. This affordable frame will help you score beach house or tiki vibes even if you're in a 1BR in a landlocked state. A pair of Cushionaire cork-bottom sandals not only supremely comfortable but also an affordable alternative to Mayari Birks. The similarities go past just looks: They also have 100% genuine suede soles, so your feet are still treated to the best. Foam sponges similar to the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster to help you expertly clean blinds, glass, baseboards, vents, railings, and more. The ridged U-shape helps it get into tight corners and scrub away dirt that's been caked on for so long, it was around for the Peanut Butter Jelly Time song. A midi corset dress if you love the House of CB Carmen dress but not the price. ($225?!) You can still enjoy a cinched back, front tie, and all the compliments of the real deal. A set of wrist and ankle weights to add some resistance to your workout or brisk walk around the neighborhood. They're arguably just as cute as Bala Bangles, but without the eye-watering price tag. A set of wildly popular "hotel" pillows so you can feel like you're falling asleep at the Ritz. Reviewers rave that these are the perfect balance of fluffy and firm, meaning you can prop yourself up for a good in-bed TV binge. Plus, they're breathable and cooling, so you won't overheat while wrapped in all those blankets. And a set of extra soft cooling "hotel" bedsheets with so many 5-star reviews (almost 250,000!) you'd think they could only be found in a 5-star hotel. No promises, but some people are saying they never want to get out of bed. A Skin1004 Zombie Pack to bring your skin back to life in a good, non-horror movie way. The mask tightens as it dries, creating a fun undead look (just like the more expensive Hanacure). When you wash it off, you might be pleasantly surprised to see bouncier, more hydrated skin. A spandex-blend slip maxi dress that's the closest you can get to wearing a nightgown outside while still looking ready for date night. Reviewers say that this fabric is not only comparable to a certain Skims dress, it might actually be even better. And a scoop-neck tee offering the same buttery softness as the beloved Skims top. Bonus: This one comes in more colors than it costs. A Renpho percussion massager reviewers say offers just as much relief as the $300 TheraGun. There are five speeds and five different head attachments, so you can target different muscle groups. Sore muscles and deep knots don't stand a chance against this massager. A Revlon hot air brush for when you wanna look like you have an in-home stylist at your beck and call. It'll detangle and blow out all types of hair (including type 4 curls and coils) in what feels like the blink of an eye. Glossy, effortless waves are just a few brushes away! An Overmont cast-iron Dutch oven if you love the charm and function of Le Creuset, but not the price. This durable pot can still provide for all your stewing, boiling, roasting, and frying needs: It's oven safe up to 500 degrees F, cooks evenly, and cleans up like a dream. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener to expertly conceal and brighten dark circles under your eyes just as well as the $33 Becca version. The lightweight, color-adapting formula is designed to blend seamlessly — check the drastic difference in the review photo! A classic bubbly paperclip chain that could easily be mistaken for a Tiffany HardWear necklace. The 14-karat gold-plated piece is so convincing, your friends might start expecting you to pick up the check at dinner. A set of satin pillowcases offering the same level of luxury as Slip and Blissy, but for way less. Like silk, satin pillowcases stay cool, prevent hair breakage, tangles, and frizz, and absorb less moisture from your skin overnight. Beauty sleep is a thing! Peep toe mules that'll support you through brunches, weddings, and baby showers, all without foot pain or a scary bill from Gucci. Reviewers say the chunky heel allows for all-day wear. A set of square stemmed wineglasses pretty darn close to the beloved spendy Crate & Barrel version, but with the added bonus of being a little more durable, according to reviewers. Clumsy people and gesticulators rejoice! A set of lovely silk tulips that look like the real deal but, unlike live flowers, can stick around for many years to come. Keeping a regular rotation of fresh flowers can be pricey! Spritz 'em with a little perfume and guests won't even be able to tell they're imposters.
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
A Few Pro Tips For Newbies Trying To Navigate Costco
Thinking about joining the club? Here's some sage advice about making the most of your shopping experience at one of the the world's biggest wholesale warehouses. Costco is the go-to warehouse wholesaler across the globe, but some find this membership-only ... More experience daunting. (Photo by) I love the idea of Costco, but the thought of shopping in a massive warehouse kind of freaks me out. The vast aisles crammed with giant packages, those hard-to-navigate carts, the ginormous crowds. And that's just in the parking lot! Yes, I love in-store grocery shopping, but Costco has always been a mystery I've yet to solve even as friends and family sing its good-deal praises. So, I hit up a friend whose family has been members since the Northwest-based global force debuted in 1984. 'It was a wholesale only warehouse back then,' said Sonja Groset. Sonja's probably the most organized person I know – she's a project manager in the tech sector – so I asked her if she'd be willing to show me the ropes. Sure, she replied, and we set a date. Weekdays are best, late morning, around 10 and you'll likely miss the biggest crowds, she advised. I've been meaning to join the club – shopping at Costco requires a membership – since the company stood firm on its pro-DEI policies, even doubling down on its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. That stance was rewarded by a flood of new memberships. So, yes, sign me up! But wait, will I use my membership if the shopping experience triggers the kind of stress I felt when I got lost at the San Francisco airport when I was a kid? Where the heck am I? Calm down and follow me, Sonja reassured. Shopping at Costco can be stressful for newbies, but there are some sound strategies for making the ... More experience less daunting. We vowed to walk up and down every aisle of the vast store in Seattle's industrial neighborhood known as Sodo. (Which stands for south of the dome, though the Kingdom was leveled more than 20 years ago.) By the end of our journey, we had logged more than 1,000 steps, and Sonja had a cart full of staples from her list and a few impulse buys. Because Bodum mugs are cool. Oh, and that ham was a screaming deal at $3.99 a pound. When I first began contemplating jumping on board the Costco juggernaut, I posed the question on my Facebook page asking: What are your go-to purchases? The responses ran deep and wide: That torrent of positive energy fired up a serious case of FOMO, so I guess I'd better give it a shot, right? The $1.50 Costco hot dog and soda combo has remained the same price since the 1980s. (Photo by ... More Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) When I stepped up to the membership desk just inside the door, a friendly dude whose name tag read Tay Tay ('my friends thought they were being funny') explained the different levels of membership. Sign on for the basic at $65 a year or bump it up to the executive level and go for a Costco Visa card and get cash back on purchase at the end of the year, plus a $50 bonus for signing up. Tay let me know that if I was dissatisfied, I could cancel at anytime. He was friendly and efficient and just like that, I was a card-carrying Costco member. Costco stocks an ever-changing inventory, including Bodum mugs. Sonja expertly guided the cart up and down the aisles. No, we're not in the market for new appliances, mattresses or a water filtration system, but should the need arise, the price is right. 'When you see prices that end in 7, you'll know those are going away soon,' she advised, adding that sometimes those made for the best kind of deals. Here are a few more general tips for Costco newbies from Sonja: She led me through the chilly room dedicated to produce and pointed out some good deals in the bakery, where I spotted a cute rainbow-themed happy birthday cake. Right on. In the meat and seafood area, the season's first halibut was priced way lower than most supermarkets and pulled barbecued pork looked legit, as did other ready-to-heat-and-eat meal options. It's just that those packages were so huge. 'You can always split them up among friends or family,' Sonja advised. Costco's Kirkland brand rotisserie chickens are just $5, which is cheaper than the ingredients used ... More to produce it. As much as I appreciated Sonja's assist, I was still nervous about going on my own, so my husband got on board. He'd already been in and ordered prescription sunglasses and was thrilled with the results, so he didn't need much convincing to join me. This trip, the store seemed downright chill and we easily filled our list. The cart still felt clunky, but fellow shoppers were gracious when I mistakenly strayed out of my lane. This visit, I also noticed a number of moms with kids and friends casually browsing together, snacking on the many samples. Like this was something fun to do, not a frenetic version of Guy's Grocery Games. (Which is now in its 38th season!) I also overheard a worker offering advice to another newbie: 'You just have to dive in," he said. Word. By the time I checked out and pushed my purchases out to the car, the lunch rush was heating up and there were drivers anxiously waiting for me to load up and get the heck out of the way. By that time the line for gas was twice as long as the very long line for hot dogs, so I hit the road. But I'll be back soon.
