By Jessica Gomez and Kristin Mattern

Do something different for your date this weekend and celebrate the Christmas time by breaking free from the moldy old traditions. We’ve got some nice dating advice! Don’t get us wrong, traditions can be great. However, sometimes, we want to do something out of the usual. Instead of mindlessly watching Christmas movies like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer with your dearest for the eighty-billionth time, get a little creepy this Christmas and watch films like The Nightmare Before Christmas. Get inspired with your sweetie to decorate your place in a non-traditional way and invite your friends over for this eerie NOEL!

Here are some indoor date ideas that will allow you to embrace the Christmas spirit, but also allow you to do something different:

Time to break free from conventions this Christmas and have a ghoulish good time!

Get scary: Take a tip from Tim Burton and incorporate the undead into your uncommon Yuletide celebration. Get cooking with your cutie and make cut out cookies to decorate for Santa. To put a twist on this tradition, decorate the cookies to resemble zombies or skeleton figures. Feel free to use Christmas colors like red, green, and white! Santa will be sure to appreciate your patchwork teddy bears and possessed angels. The two of you should also make a graveyard cake and write the reindeer or elf names on the headstones. Build a ghoul-filled gingerbread house complete with ghosts, broken tiled roof and dripping gumdrops. Stir up some romance as you mix Halloween-themed goodies with Christmas ones. Now that’s out of the ordinary!

Related Link: Date Idea: Create Magic in Your Relationship

Make your own Christmas stockings together: Keep the creative juices flowing as you and your honey make Christmas stockings to hang by the fire. Rather than use ordinary red stockings, buy black or gold stockings to decorate. Using fabric glue, glitter, bows, and any other decorations you can think of. Make each other special stockings complete with ripped ribbons, sparkling spider webs, and tattered toys. This keepsake is sure to bring back fun-loving memories for years to come.

Related Link: Date Idea: Couple Up with Game Night

Throw a Christmas party with a spooky twist: Now that you’re brcarrimming with treats and devilishly delightful décor, invite your friends over for a freaky Christmas costume party. Tell everyone to use The Nightmare Before Christmas as their inspiration, or help your guests a bit by having blank masks ready for everyone to decorate when they get to your place. Play a mixture of Christmas carols, Halloween music, and some intense classical music (Beethoven, perhaps?) to get everyone in the mood. Pretend you and your love are Jack and Sally as you dance the night away celebrating Christmas in a new and innovative way!

Have you ever had a non-traditional Christmas? Tell us all about it below!

By Jessica Gomez and Kristin Mattern

If you forgot to go shopping for your sweetie, no worries! This is a great opportunity for a fun date idea. Grab your babe and tackle the crowds as you take on last-minute Christmas shopping together. Pick out presents the two of you will really appreciate, and share some laughs as you choose gifts for your friends and family.

Here are a few dating tips for what to do on your date night:

Get a little sentimental: Don’t be afraid to do so as you reminisce together over classic toys in kid stores. Nostalgic feelings can be awesome! Also, don’t leave out the feelings of tenderness…and seduction even. Feel the romantic tension build as you wander into the lingerie department together. This unique date is sure to please your inner shopaholic!

Be sure to set a plan of attack with your partner: The two of you can spend some time conspiring together about the best route to take when hitting up the crowded shopping malls and outlets. Decide which stores you’d like to go to, and create a list of items you want. Come up with a silly call that you can yell out when you get separated (you could just call him on the cell phone, but what fun is that?). Play a little. You can also both wear matching Santa or Elf hats with your sweetie to make it easy to spot one another! Adorbs.

Related Link: Date Idea: Make the Perfect Playlist

Overcome shopping stress by making a game of it: Create a naughty and nice column on a piece of paper. Getting frustrated from shoppers snatching the last Tickle Me Elmo just as you reach for it? Remember: for every shopping tantrum one of you throws, you get a check in the naughty column! Enough checks, and you’ll only be getting coal in your stocking this Christmas. Creative and soothing, right?

Chill out in the middle of your shopping extravaganza for a delicious lunch date: Splurge! Go to a really nice restaurant in the area or that high-end spot in the mall you normally avoid. If you can, make reservations ahead of time so the two of you can easily transition from your high energy shopping spree to a relaxing,  romantic meal. Enjoy this calm moment by sharing tastes of one another’s food and chatting about what each of you are most excited about for the upcoming holiday.

Related Link: Date Idea: Couple Up with Game Night

Wrap gifts together: When your cutie and you have bought all of the gifts on your list, head home to continue the date by wrapping presents together. Put on your favorite classic Christmas music and pour some warm deliciousness into your mugs to sip while the two of you keep the holiday magic going. See who can wrap the fastest or the most elaborately as you make all the items you bought Christmas-ready. This is the perfect way to wrap up your last minute shopping date!

Have you gone last minute shopping with your honey before? We want to hear about it! Tell us in the comments below.

By Rachel Sparks

Christmas is less than a week away and with all the chaos and crowds in stores, last minute shopping for Christmas gifts is a nightmare. We’ve got the perfect gifts to help you finish your Christmas list! Read Cupid’s product reviews to help you manage your running-out-of-time holiday stress!

These last minute Christmas gifts will help you ace Christmas!

Drink Tops:

Drink tops are the best parenting tip we have for you! Avoid a crying toddler who spilled their drink, bugs getting into sweet-smelling juices, or the frustration of mixing up cups with these cute, friendly faced cup lids that come in fun colors! BPA-free silicone helps your mind rest easy that what you’re giving your kid is not only good for your anxiety levels, but good for their health, too. With a single tap on the lid, Drink Tops will seal onto any glass up to four inches wide. They keep drinks cooler longer, are reusable, durable, and dishwasher safe.

Groove Life Ring:

The Groove Life ring is a safe ring that keeps comfort at the forefront. Made from low profile silicone and carved with their patented design, the ring promotes airflow for the fingers, keeping moisture out and preventing poor circulation. It’s far more comfortable than the traditional metal ring and doesn’t get stuck on anything like it’s metal counterpart! It’s safe, comfortable, and stylish.

Fire Department Coffee:

Fire Department Coffee is coffee with an admirable mission and that’s tasty for the consumer. Coming in a variety of blends and flavors, their original medium roast is one of the easiest drinking coffees you will ever have. If you like something bolder, their dark roast is made from organic beans and comes from fair trade farms. Their newest flavor: Bourbon-infused. It has the smoothness of Bourbon totally guilt-free. A portion of all sales are donated to military and fire-related charities. Military and first-responders receive 15% off their first order.

Isabella Grace Breast Cancer Bracelet:

With a great mission behind the company, each design supports breast cancer awareness and making women feel beautiful and strong. Isabella Grace bracelets are all about being unique and elegant, with a timeless and effortless look. Made by hand in the USA from recycled materials whenever possible. The bracelets are a symbol of the importance of living with hope and strength. With a sizable celebrity following, such as Katherine Heigl, Courtney Lopez, Alyson Hannigan, and Christina Milian, these bracelets are gorgeous for any woman to wear.

SNL Wine:

The name is exactly what you think. The famous show partnered with winemaker Lot18 and Universal Development to create four unique hand-crafted blends that embody the characters of the show. The four blends include a 2016 California Red Blend, a 2016 Stefon Beaujolais, a 2016 Debbie Downer South Eastern Australia Chardonnay, and a 2015 Californians Monterey County Merlot. There is a limited supply of each, so rush to their site and get your own.

Try out these incredible last minute Christmas gifts to save your holiday! 

By Karley Kemble

With many winter holidays around the corner, you’re bound to have some time off. Sure, you have your normal holiday traditions, but maybe you feel like changing it up this year. Winter is a wonderful time to travel because there are so many places decked out for the holidays!

If you’re feeling adventurous and have been bitten by the travel bug, Cupid has some ideas of where you can go to make the most of your holiday season!

1. Christmas Town, USA: The town of McAdenville in North Carolina transforms into a quaint little Christmas mecca during the month of December – straight out of a Hallmark movie! The city itself is decked out with over 50,000 lights, not to mention that basically every house in the city limits is decorated as well! This is a must-visit.

2. Vienna, Austria: Anywhere in Europe is definitely an amazing holiday getaway, let’s be real. Vienna is known for its quaint holiday markets, filled with delicious foods and gifts galore! There are tons of lights and displays around the city. Advent concerts are also regular holiday events, so look out for those, too.

3. New York, New York: A true and iconic American classic, a visit to New York during the holidays is something everybody should see at least once in their lifetime. The iconic Rockefeller Center tree is truly breathtaking, and most store windows are lavishly decorated for the holidays! Also, if you love ice skating, get over to Bryant Park Winter Village and check out their iconic holiday rink. It’s truly something marvelous.

Related Link: Date Idea: Take a Holiday from the Holidays

4. Boulder, Colorado: If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, look no further than Boulder. In all honesty, you can go anywhere in Colorado during the holidays and it’s guaranteed to be beautiful. Plus, Boulder is famed for its lavish resorts and picture-perfect ski slopes – so if that’s up your alley, you should book a flight ASAP!

5. Copenhagen, Denmark: There are many places to visit in Denmark, but one you absolutely have to check out is Tivoli Gardens. Beautiful throughout other seasons, the gardens transform into a holiday oasis with festive lights and decorations! Another noteworthy location is Kronprinsensgade street – known for its “blanket” of Christmas lights that hang above the buildings.

6. Nuremberg, Germany: Get yourself in the holiday spirit with some Nuremberg gingerbread and take a stagecoach tour around town. Germany is a perfect holiday destination that will surely amaze you. Shop around for unique and magnificent ornaments to bring home for all your loved ones, or stop by the iconic Children’s Christmas Market and check out the merry-go-round!

Related Link: Date Ideas: Holiday Couple Fun

7. Disneyland or Disneyworld: There’s something about visiting the Disney Parks during the holiday season that is so timeless. Disney really works their magic and decks out their parks – there is no nook or cranny left undecorated. There are also special seasonal events and shows that are totally worth checking out, and yummy holiday themed concessions. Definitely check out any of the resorts for a happy holiday getaway – after all, these parks are called some of the happiest places on earth for a reason!

Where are your favorite places to go during the holidays for a winter getaway? Share below!

By Marissa Donovan

Bad Moms was the just beginning for the hilarious mom squad. A Bad Moms Christmas is the follow-up feature that shows the lives of Amy (Mila Kunis), Carla (Kathryn Hahn), and Kiki (Kristen Bell) during the chaotic winter holiday. The friends decide to rebel against the tradition of coordinating the holiday for their families and new love interests. Plans to relax during the holiday seem to go haywire once their own mothers stop by for a visit.

This holiday movie can provide us with relationship advice for the holidays!

Should you see it:

If you laughed over the crazy shenanigans from the last movie, you are bound to giggle over the raunchy humor and relatable mom jokes this film will provide.

Who to take:

This is definitely a girls’ night out movie. Take a break from shopping, and go with your friends! Due to the adult humor in this film, it’s best to let someone watch your kids instead of bringing them to the theater with you.

Cupid Advice:

In A Bad Moms Christmas, Amy’s love interest Jessie Harkness (Jay Hernandez) has his children celebrate Christmas with Amy’s kids. Amy tries to juggle looking after their children, getting ready for the holidays, and maintaining a relationship with Jessie. Like Amy, the holidays can be stressful for anyone in a new relationship. Here are some ways to keep your family and new partner happy during the holidays:

1. Take two large shopping trips separately: Shopping with your partner and your family can be stressful. Between secretly buying gifts for each other or losing each other in large crowds, it can make you want to pull your hair out! Instead of going together, plan two shopping trips. One trip can be spent with you and your partner, and the other trip can be spent with your family. It will be less stressful and you get to surprise each other with the gifts that you get!

Related Link: Date Ideas: Holiday Couple Fun

2. Decorate your home together: Bring out your holiday decorations, and let your partner and family bond over getting into the spirit of Christmas! You partner can help your children put a star or angel on the top of the tree or wrap the tree with lights. Everyone will enjoy getting festive as a family!

Related Link: Get Ready to Celebrate the Holidays with ‘A Madea Christmas’

3. Prepare a meal as a family: Instead of leaving all the cooking up to you, let your partner and family help. They can join in on creating christmas cookies or even mashing the potatoes. You will be less stressed out and your partner will get to know your family traditions when it comes to food!

What do you plan on doing with your family and partner during this holiday season? Let us know in the comments!

By David Wygant

Ho ho ho, merry Christmas…politically incorrect as that might be. To tell you the truth, I miss the days when Rudolph and Santa reigned and everybody wasn’t as PC by saying “happy holidays,” but it’s the perfect season to put the focus back on your relationship and love. Even though the magic might be fading in your LTR, I have some great date ideas and relationship advice that will wake up the romance and bring the naughty and nice back into your sleepy, long term relationship.

Relationship Advice For The Holiday Season

1. Nothing’s sexier than dressing as his sexy little elf. A little bit of lingerie and Santa’s cap will go a long way. As a relationship expert, I strongly suggest surprising him with very naughty red lingerie and a red Santa’s cap, letting him play Santa to your naughty little elf.

Related Link: This Holiday Season, Stop Dating Your iPhone!

2. Go for a walk together and take in the holiday spirit. Considering that most of the country is bathed in balmy spring weather right now, it’s nice to go out at night and just walk around and see the Christmas lights. They will bring back romance from yesteryear and today. It’s almost like visiting the ghost of Christmas past and seeing the ghost of Christmas future. Hold hands, reminisce, get new ideas…then go home and have some fun!

3. Hot chocolate.  Nothing is more fun than sitting by a fireplace with your honey and drinking some hot cocoa. Find a little cafe where you can sit, watch the fire, sip on hot cocoa, and people watch. You will quickly realize how grateful you are to still be a team. It’s wonderful when you can reminisce and remember how great things are and can be.

4. Bedtime stories. Read him a Christmas bedtime story and it’ll remind you just how magical the night can be. Couples need to reconnect, and when you reconnect to your youth, you reconnect to easy feelings of when things were fun and open.

Related Link: Relationship Advice: Four Reasons To Be Thankful For Your Partner

5. Take a sleigh ride. Even in Southern California, there are places that you can go sleigh riding. Once again, doing something that children love to do will awaken that spirit in you. These are the most exciting things to do when it comes to dating during the holidays. So take a sleigh ride together.

6. Go caroling. It might sound cheesy, but my relationship advice is to go caroling because of the closeness you’ll feel with your partner. Singing songs in a group of people enables the inner child to come out and play. When a relationship gets stale, it’s like old bread, or even old cookies, that even Santa’s reindeer would reject. It’s wonderful to just go and sing and be a kid all over again.

7. Watch A Christmas Story together. One of the best holiday movies out there. It’s a movie that will remind you of when things were fun and easy. It’s also a little spooky and life affirming. Great for cuddling.

Related Link: Expert Dating Advice: How to Rebound from a Solo Holiday Season

8. Watch some holiday movies. What would Christmas be without A Wonderful Life? So get some good holiday movies, watch Harry Met Sally and Sleepless In Seattle. Movies that will remind you of Christmas, maybe Home Alone. Have a marathon and make some popcorn.

9. Get a Charlie Brown Christmas tree and bring it over to her house. Or if you’re living together, bring it home one day and decorate it with Christmas songs playing in the background. Wrap a little blanket around the tree and put up those ornaments.

10. A gift a day, goes a long way. There are 12 days of Christmas. Everyday give each other a little gift. A gift that reminds you of how much you love one another. Make it something simple and fun, even if it’s just a card or a candy cane.

David Wygant is an internationally-renowned dating and relationship expert, author of the book Naked, and speaker. Through his boot camps, personal coaching, and his website, his love advice has transformed the relationships and love of hundreds of thousands of people from every corner of the globe. 

For more expert dating advice from David, click here.

Of all the roles she’s played, Lori Loughlin is most proud of the one she takes on at home: that of wife and mother. Of course, it’s not always easy to balance her busy career with her family life. “One day at a time – you do the best you can,” she candidly shares in our celebrity interview. “Some things fall through the cracks, but you know, I have a wonderful husband, and he’s always on board… Somehow, we make it work.”

“We’re a tight knit family,” she adds of husband Mossimo Giannulli, daughters Olivia and Isabella, and stepson Gianni.

Related Link: ‘Full House’ Actress Candace Cameron Bure Talks Motherhood

Now that her girls are older, the family dynamic has changed. “That’s a whole new chapter – teenage daughters,” Loughlin says with a laugh. “It’s great. For the most part, my girls are really good girls.”

Sharing a piece of parenting advice, she encourages you to always communicate with your kids, saying, “I think it’s important to keep talking to teenagers, and somewhere in there, it’ll sink in.”

On Friday date nights, the celebrity couple, who has been married for 18 years, likes to keep things simple, often eating at restaurants close to home. “It’s so funny: You can be married and live in the same house with somebody, but life can be so busy that you feel like you don’t get to have a conversation with that person,” the actress shares. “It’s important to take the time to stop, sit down, have a meal together, and have a conversation – keep communicating.”

Lori Loughlin Shares Her Best Tips for Holiday Gift Giving in Celebrity Interview

This holiday season, the actress is teaming up with Walgreens to help you check everyone off of your gift-giving list. “It’s one of my favorite places to shop. They’re doing incredible gifts this season, just thoughtful gifts that will bring unexpected joy to a lot of people in your life,” she explains in our celebrity interview. “It’s one-stop shopping.” She particularly likes the customizable photo gift options, including ornaments and coffee mugs.

Related Link: Celebrity Interview: Candace Cameron Bure Says “Dance Parties” Are Her Favorite Family Activity

Fans went crazy when the Full House revival Fuller House was announced earlier this year. The 13-episode series, which will premiere on Netflix in spring 2016, wouldn’t be complete without an appearance from Aunt Becky. “We already shot it, and we had the best time,” Loughlin shares.

You can keep up with Loughlin on Twitter @LoriLoughlin and www.facebook.com/loriloughlin. Check out Walgreens.com for all of your gift-giving needs!

By Debbie Ceresa for Divorce Support Center

Does Christmas have you singing the blues? The holidays are supposed to be about good times with family, friends, and traditions. Yet, many of us dredge up old feelings from divorce, job loss, money, or even the death of a beloved pet. December has more stimuli than other times of the year, sparking memories that are both happy and sad. The many holiday sounds, traditions, and smells take us down memory lane, but often that road runs two ways, lined with both cherished and painful memories of what once was part of our lives.

Dating Advice for Rebounding From a Solo Holiday Season

While the sparkling lights, decorations, and songs may leave you with an emptiness that magnifies your new single status, here are three pieces of expert dating advice to help you avoid an unhealthy rebound relationship and love and bring the ring back into the holidays and throughout the coming New Year.

Related Link: Moving On After a Divorce

1. Follow your heart: We all need a connection with someone. However, before beginning a new relationship, make sure your heart is telling you it’s right. If you can’t fully commit emotionally to moving forward, you may still be grieving over a previous loss. Resolving feelings following a failed partnership or divorce takes time.

Instead of getting involved with someone, step back and evaluate your unresolved grief. Many of us don’t give ourselves credit when it comes to our instincts. The pain of loss is sharp and lingering, but awareness of your feelings can help you avoid a rebound relationship that will surely complicate your ability to move forward and hurt the other person involved.

2. Take your life on a vacation: That’s right. Take a vacation. Instead of thinking and rethinking your new marital status, start planning a life vacation. Think about how motivated you are while planning a trip! Most of us have so many tasks to get done before leaving, so try looking at your life this way.

Social psychologist Erica B. Slotter, Ph.D. calls it looking for the silver lining. “Focus on the good things that may come out of the end of your relationship and love. Perhaps now you feel you can cook foods your partner never liked or finally take that pottery class,” she writes in the article, “3 Ways to Take Care of Yourself After a Breakup.” “Maybe you can simply feel grateful that a painful relationship is over, and in the future, look for a better one.”

Focus on a to-do list of how you can improve your situation, however small or large, and write it down. Look at your list daily, and promise to check off one item each day. Channel thoughts from past trips that improved your well-being and feel confident about taking this emotional vacation.

Related Link: Dating Advice: Create the Person You Want to Be

3. Love yourself: You are a wonderful human being! Take a few minutes every day to remind yourself of the many good things you’ve done in your life. “When relationships end, people tend to be very hard on themselves,” writes Slotter. “Stop it. Self-compassion involves viewing yourself with kindness and acceptance, not being overly focused or identified with negative emotions, and acknowledging that many others in the world have likely been where you are now at some point in their lives.”

If you want to listen to my expert dating advice, you should add meditation to your to-do list. It works wonders for your well-being. Along with meditation, a great daily exercise is to tell yourself you’re a good person and deserve to be happy. Think about the many things that would make you feel whole again and concentrate on the positive.

By following your heart, using personal accomplishment and growth to help heal, and remembering to love ourselves, we can all have beautiful views in our lives, one needs only to step back and look.

Debbie is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist® and the author to the #1 bestselling memoir A Beautiful View, available on amazon.com. A Beautiful View documents her journey through her husband’s battle with cancer, which ultimately ended with his death. She has experienced grief firsthand and is well equipped to aid others in the recovery process, whether with death or divorce. For more information about Debbie and how to recover from your loss, please visit debbieceresa.com.

For more information about and articles by our Divorce Support Center relationship experts, click here.

By Rebecca White

Don’t fret about what to get your friends this holiday season! This weekend, offer to babysit and give them a kid-free date night. Holiday seasons can be tough on families because there are so many preparations to be made. The gift of alone time is just what your friends need. Plus, you’ll get to see what your partner will be like as a parent! This date idea is sure improve your relationship and love life as you play house for a few hours.

Give the Gift of Babysitting to Improve Your Relationship and Love

For this weekend date idea, call up one of your married friends and tell them to take some time off and plan a night out with their spouse. Next, it’s time for you to decide how to entertain their kids! Depending on the ages, you can play games, watch a movie, or plan a bigger activity like making crafts, writing a story, acting out a musical, or putting on a fashion show. For more ideas, check out PBSKids.org for advice and ideas on how to babysit for any age.

Related Link: Matthew McConaughey & Camila Alves Enjoy Some Alone Time

This date idea will you some insight into what your significant other will be like as a mom or dad. Is he the disciplinarian? Is she nurturing and maternal? These are things you’ll want to know to determine if you’re truly a match made in heaven. Make sure you know who is in charge of enforcing punishments, who is in charge of making dinner, and who is in charge of cleaning up the house so your friends don’t come home to a disaster. By delegating responsibilities, you’ll find out if you make a good team and if you can handle the surprises that kids have in store for you.

Babysitting will also help you learn if your partner is even comfortable around kids. They should be able to channel their inner dork and play silly games, but that may be a challenge for them. Maybe they’re easily grossed out or get frustrated at the smallest thing. If so, that may be a bad sign. After all, kids are messy and require a lot of patience. This gift to your friends is a gift to yourself too. Who knows what you’ll discover about your sweetheart!

Related Link: Single in Stilettos Show: What Makes a Man See You as Marriage Material

If you’re nervous about babysitting with your honey, then set aside some time to chat about it. This could even be another date night before your babysitting adventure! Communication is key to succeeding as babysitters and parents (someday). After babysitting together, your relationship and love life will be thriving. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow even closer together!

Have you babysat with your beau before? Share your stories below!

By Katie Gray

This is country superstar Jason Aldean’s kind of party! Aldean recently celebrated Christmas Eve with his fiancée Brittany Kerr and his daughters, Keeley and Kendyl. They enjoyed the holidays at the performer’s home outside of Nashville, Tennessee. It was their first holiday season together as a family, and the foursome shared a picture of their happy times on Instagram. According to UsMagazine.com, the “Dirt Road Anthem” singer said, “This year has been a good year for us. All of this… now [Brittany] can come out to shows and be normal. All the craziness around us has died down, and that’s been the coolest thing about this year.”

How do you introduce your kids to your new partner?

Cupid’s Advice:

Introducing your kids to your new partner can be a touchy situation. Cupid has some tips:

1. Evaluate everything: Introducing your new partner to your children is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Consider your situation and your new relationship carefully before you take this next step. If you are really serious with your love interest and are committed, it’s a good idea to be honest to your children.

Related Link: Heidi Klum Protects Her Kids from Public Split

2. Be somewhere neutral: When you initially introduce your children to your new significant other, it should be somewhere neutral. It should be done in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. Make sure you consider the childrens’ ages first. Perhaps a zoo or amusement park is a good option, somewhere they can have fun after having a “grown-up” talk.

Related Link: Celebrity Couples That Waited to Have Kids

3. Keep it simple: When your children are first getting to know your new flame, make sure everything stays light. Try to limit the public affection in the very beginning and then slowly ease into it. Make sure you give your partner details about your kids and share their likes and dislikes. This makes the bonding process much easier.

What are some ways you have introduced your children to your new partner successfully? Share your stories below.

By Katie Gray

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! On December 24th, former Olympian Bruce Jenner joined his daughters Kylie and Kendall at his ex-wife Kris Jenner’s annual Christmas Eve party. The Jenner/Kardashian clan partied the night away, and they even had festive photobooth fun. According to UsMagazine.com, Kris Jenner said of their divorce, “You just have to be grown-ups. And say, ‘We’re better apart than we are together.’ At the same time, we have children together, and we have memories and holidays and traditions. I don’t want to give that up. I don’t want him to take that away from me, and I don’t want to take that away from him.”

What are some ways to remain amicable with your ex around the holidays?

Cupid’s Advice:

Remaining civil with an ex is always a challenge, but it becomes even more important when you have kids and are set on making the holidays a happy time. Cupid has some tips:

1. Negotiate: It’s extremely important to remain amicable with your ex around the holidays if there are children involved. It’s a special time for family to come together, and even if you’re separated, you are still connected through your family. This means it’s a good idea to learn how to enjoy the company of one another during holiday celebrations. You don’t have to spend a ton of time with your ex, but you should at least tolerate being around them for the sake of everyone else involved. Plus, it’s not good to be bitter and hold onto negativity. You will be much happier when you forgive and are at peace.

Related Link: Kris Jenner Officially Files for Divorce from Bruce Jenner

2. Set an example: Traditions are a crucial part of the festivities this time of the year. Whether it’s making a gingerbread house, seeing the lights, attending midnight mass, decorating the Christmas tree, or visiting Santa, you should keep these traditions alive! Your kids want to be surrounded by you both, so don’t make them choose and don’t suffer by being alone. Put your differences aside.

Related Link: Find Out Why Kris Jenner is ‘Livid’ at Bruce Jenner

3. Just smile: Don’t worry; be happy. No matter how you may be feeling, push through it and stay strong for your family. Put on a happy face because your kids and family want to see you that way. It will not only make them feel better, but it will help you as well. This is the time of year when we are thankful for our blessings and are grateful for the relationships we have with loved ones. Look around and see how fortunate you are. There is so much to smile about in life!

What are some ways you have remained amicable with your ex for the holidays? Share your stories below.

By Courtney Omernick

This week, UsMagazine.com reported on the interesting Christmas traditions that actress and mom-to-be Blake Lively partakes in each year. Lively said that her family spends the whole day in the house with one another. And, at the end of the day, they all pile into the same bed. Talk about a close Christmas!

What are some ways to make new traditions with a new partner?

Cupid’s Advice:

It’s almost time to ring in the new year, and if you have a new partner, it can be a great time to create special and fun Christmas traditions. Below is a suggested list of ways to come up with these new traditions:

1. Blend ideas: Seeing as how you both came from different families, you might have a few different traditions. You and your new partner can take ideas from the old traditions that you both have and “reformat” them into a new tradition that you celebrate together.

Related Link: Hugh Hefner and Crystal Harris Debut Cute 2014 Christmas Card

2. Consult the Internet: Thanks to Buzzfeed, articles that incorporate lists have become extremely popular. Even a simple Google search of “Christmas traditions” can help you and your partner come up with unique ideas.

Related Link: Blake Lively Proclaims Pregnancy is What She Always Wanted

3. Be spontaneous: The great thing about traditions is that they continue because of something awesome that happened one year. Why not wait and see what activities you two can spontaneously come up with together this year? What makes it a tradition is repeating it the next year, so there’s no limit to what you can do.

What are some other ways you can make new traditions with a new partner? Comment below!

By Molly Jacob

Carols, presents, and mistletoe! Christmas is one of the best times of the year…and it can be the most romantic. What are some ways to spend this festive time with your loved one? While the 12 days leading up the Christmas are fun, it’s time to have an even better time getting into the holiday spirit with these 12 “dates” of Christmas:

12. Decorate your tree: The best way to get your home ready for the holidays is by putting up a tree. Decorate it with your honey and spend time reflecting on the special meaning of each ornament that you hang on the branches.

11. Shop for tacky Christmas sweaters: Hit up the local thrift store with your love, and go hunting for the craziest Christmas sweater you can find. The two of you will laugh at how silly you look, and now, you both have a great ensemble to wear to those ugly Christmas sweater parties.

10. Go Christmas shopping: The holiday season is one of the biggest shopping seasons of the year, so the stores go all out. Not only will you be able to enjoy all the beautiful storefront decorations, but you’ll also be able to see what catches your partner’s eye. You can get some inspiration for their gift and surprise them on Christmas morning.

9. Wrap presents: Put on a little holiday music, find your scissors and tape, and get out the ribbon. Get some creative wrapping ideas from your significant other when you wrap your gifts with him or her. Lend a finger where necessary!

8. Check out holiday lights: From the house down the street to the National Zoo, everyone’s putting up lights for the holidays. Grab your babe and head over to a Christmas lights display so you can enjoy the sights and get into the holiday spirit together. Extra benefit: This date is free!

7. Go ice skating: One of the most classic winter activities is ice skating, so go visit your local indoor or outdoor rink. If you or your partner trips on the ice, the other one can catch the more clumsy skater in their arms! Afterwards, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa for two.

6. Make a gingerbread house: Buy a pre-made kit at the store or make your own gingerbread house together from scratch. Better yet, each of you can make your own house and have a competition to see whose is more creative. The loser buys dinner!

5. Go sledding: If it snows this month, grab your loved one and a sled! Find the nearest hill and go sledding, just like you both did when you were kids. If you don’t have a sled, a garbage can lid or lunch tray will do just fine.

Related Link: Budget-Friendly Tips for Holiday Weddings

4. See a holiday play: Take the money you would spend at a nice restaurant and go buy tickets for a local performance, such as The Nutcracker put on by a kids’ ballet class. You’ll be supporting your community, and you’ll also have a great time seeing a classic show.

3. Volunteer at a soup kitchen: Christmas isn’t just about getting gifts; it’s also about giving back. Take your honey to a local soup kitchen and give some of your time back to your community.

2. Make holiday goodies: Treat your sweetie to some sweets! Find out what types of cookies your partner loves and look up some delicious recipes online. After baking them, wrap them up in cling wrap and holiday ribbon and then give them to your loved ones.

1. Watch Christmas movies: Transform your living room into a movie theater. Check out Netflix or Redbox for some of your favorite Christmas movies, including It’s a Wonderful Life, Santa Claus, and Love Actually, and snuggle up under the glow of the Christmas tree while sipping hot chocolate. There’s no better way to enjoy the holiday spirit.

What other holiday dates do you plan on going on this season? Share in the comments section below!

If you want to celebrate the holidays with your honey in a wholesome, sentimental way, then you’ve got to ditch your addiction to your phone! Dating coach David Wygant hilariously depicts the struggles of a couple with one partner stuck on their touch-screen device throughout every moment of the day. Watch and learn how detrimental it can be to your relationship. If you want to give your significant other the best gift this season, get off your iPhone and live in the moment!

Related Link: Five Ways to Get Your Partner to Put Down the Phone When You’re On a Date

For more articles from David Wygant, click here. 

For more videos from CupidsPulse.com, check out our YouTube channel.

By Maggie Manfredi

It’s a furry Christmas for these two! According to UsMagazine.com, Hugh Hefner and wife Crystal Harris debuted their 2014 Christmas card, which includes two of the smaller members of the mansion: their dogs! Charlie and Lady were shown in the snuggly photo and again under the couple’s signatures. These Playboy pros will have their two year anniversary as husband and wife on New Year’s Eve.

What are three creative Christmas card couple scenes? 

Cupid’s Advice:

Don’t get stuck with a generic card this holiday season. Instead, let your personalities shine through:

1. Pick a theme: Your theme could range from something classic like Santa hats or kissing under the mistletoe to something more unique like a beachy vibe or a party scene.

Related: Justin Bieber Confirms He’s ‘Super Single’ 

2. Make it personal: Use your home as the backdrop or include elements that are sentimental to you both as a couple. For the Hefner’s, this meant including their sweet puppies!

Related: Angelina Jolie Gushes About 2014 and Says, ‘I Married My Love’ 

3. Use movie magic: If you have time and patience, the world really is your oyster. Use Photoshop and other fun tools to create a truly special card the highlights the best moments of the year.

Would you include your pets in a Christmas card? Share your thoughts below!

Dating Expert from E!’s Famously Single  Talks About Breaking Up During the Holidays

Related Link: Heartbroken? Heal and Move On…Like I Did

In this week’s dating advice video, relationship expert and E!’s Famously Single dating coach, Laurel House discusses breaking up during the holiday season. Sure, the holidays are all about kissing under the mistletoe, snuggling by the fire, and walking hand-in-hand as the snow falls. But that’s not all: “From now until Christmas, breakups are steadily on the incline,” dating coach and Screwing the Rules: The No-Games Guide to Love author Laurel House reveals. “In fact, it’s the most popular time of year to breakup. Thankfully, on Christmas, that number actually plummets and picks up again in March.” So why does heartbreak happen so often over the holidays? We want to be surrounded by the people we love; if you don’t truly have those feelings for your partner, it’ll become even more apparent during this busy and stressful time. Listen up for the other reasons that House shares and find out why it’s important to say goodbye now instead of waiting until the new year.

For more information about our dating mentor, click here.

For more videos from CupidsPulse.com, check out our YouTube channel.

Have you ever dealt with a breakup during the holidays? Share your best advice below!

By Courtney Omernick

Is Justin getting a girlfriend for the holidays? It was recently reported by UsMagazine.com that Justin Bieber is back in the dating game. But those rumors were quickly shot down by the singer this week when he said that he’s “super single” and that, if he were dating someone, the public would know.

What are some benefits to being single around the holidays?

Cupid’s Advice:

With Christmas being a popular time for engagements and moments with loved ones, it can feel a bit frustrating if you’re single. However, it does have some benefits. Check it out:

1. You can spoil yourself: Because you don’t have to shop for an elaborate Christmas gift for your significant other, you can spend that money on yourself! Need a massage? Want a pedicure? Merry Christmas to you!

Related: Ashton Kutcher And Mila Kunis Explain Why They Don’t Have A Nanny

2. You don’t have to compromise: When you’re in a relationship, it can be tricky when it comes to planning where you’ll be during the holidays. After all, you don’t want to disappoint his family by spending Christmas with your own. But if you’re single, you can use the time how you see fit. You make the rules!

Related: Leonardo DiCaprio and Longtime Love Toni Garrn Call it Quits

3. You can kiss who you want: Perhaps best of all, you can pick and choose your mistletoe partner — or partners! — this holiday season.

What are other benefits of being single during the holidays? Comment below!

By Marni Battista

The holidays are always an awkward time to start a relationship. There are few people who proclaim to be great gift givers and can wander through stores to pick out the perfect presents for everyone on their list. It’s difficult enough to give thoughtful gifts to close family and friends and not be swayed by the latest and greatest gadgets that everyone wants but aren’t necessarily thoughtful.

So how do you go about buying something for the “special” person whom you may not know so well? People are often so intimidated by gift giving that it may be a better idea to decide not to exchange gifts. Expressing how you feel about presents early in the relationship can help gauge what’s an appropriate gift, if any gift at all!

Related Link: 10 Rules for Couples Gifts

If your partner is practical and hints at something that isn’t too extravagant, it’s probably best to listen. However, there are “big” gifts, such as jewelry, watches, and pricey electronics, that should be left for future years of dating or marriage. If you’re unsure about what your significant other would like, here are five ideas that are thoughtful but not too overthought:

A relevant book is for the brave dater. Listening to your partner about books they liked in the past or things that they may be interested in learning more about can help you decide what kind of book is appropriate.

Art never goes out of style and never depreciates. Therefore, it works for anyone. It’s finding the kind of art — a sculpture, oil painting, graffiti canvas, mosaic, etc. — that may be the most troubling. Listen to what kind of art your partner compliments or thinks is “cool.”

Something comfy and comforting is always nice. If you’re going to go this route, a really soft and plush robe, sweater, or slippers are great ideas for someone who finds comfort in the finer things in life.

A DIY gift from the heart, such as a photo book or personalized frame, is a crafty and cute way of showing your appreciation for that person.

Related Link: Our 2014 Holiday Gift Guide

Experiential gifts are a great idea because let’s face it: It’s fun for both of you! Planning a camping trip, a day at the museum, or a concert date shows that spending time with your significant other is the most important gift of all!

Although it may seem like gift giving for that new special someone is intimidating, knowing their likes and dislikes can help you decide what is appropriate without going overboard. Plus, starting a relationship with more thoughtful gestures can lead to an easier gift giving experience in the future!

Happy holidays…and happy dating!

Marni Battista, founder of Dating with Dignity, is an expert dating and life coach with a 10-step system to manifesting love for your self and others. You can contact Marni at marni@datingwithdignity.com.

By Sarah Batcheller

We know their names from those famous lines in Clement Clarke Moore’s poem A Visit From St. Nick: “Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donner and Blitzen!” Since the writing of this poem — 1939, to be exact — Rudolph joined Santa’s team, and they were complete. Each of these reindeer have very unique personalities, and here at CupidsPulse.com, we couldn’t help but wonder what men would be like if they were reindeer. Would you want to date a strong leader like Comet or an affectionate lover like Cupid? Read on to figure out what reindeer you would choose.

Dasher: Dasher is known for his speed and energy — it’s in his name, after all! He is the most excited reindeer when the time nears to load up the red sleigh. His quickness makes him a very valuable member of Santa’s team. A man like this would be the same in terms of efficiency and speed. He’d be a natural-born athlete and a busy-bee at heart. Everything about him would be fast! You’d have to remind him to slow down and make sure he’s not out the door every time you you want to relax and snuggle by the fireplace.

Dancer: Dancer is popular among the other reindeer for having the most flare and elegance. He is extremely extroverted. Dating a man like this would mean putting on your best dress and heels and going out quite often. He would surely be the most fun date, but you’d have to remind him to share the limelight with his lady love.

Related Link: Top Ten Most Romantic Holiday Getaway Spots

Prancer: This reindeer likes to look his best at all times. Pulling the sleigh is important to him, and he never knows who he’s going to meet! His impeccable posture contributes to his high performance on Christmas Eve.  A man like Prancer would be very put-together and would make an exceptional impression on your friends and family.  Be careful, though: This kind of man may become a little too obsessed with what’s on the outside.

Vixen: The flirt and comedian of Santa’s team is loved greatly for his positive attitude and talent of performing magic tricks. Vixen can really brighten up the night (metaphorically speaking, unlike Rudolph) and keep the other reindeer entertained while they wait on the rooftops. Dating a man like Vixen would mean lots of jokes and laughter, but he may have a difficult time taking some things seriously.

Comet: The leader of the team is the most looked up to by children. Although he can be quite stubborn and strong-willed, he’s got his team’s best interest at heart and always makes good decisions. Men like Comet tend to be the most loyal and dedicated to their lovers; just make sure that he lets you take the reins every once in a while.

Cupid: Cupid is the most loving and affectionate of all the reindeer. He sees his team as his family and loves to give and receive lots of hugs and kisses. Cupid can really warm a heart during the holiday season! The romance is unforgettable with a guy like Cupid, so long as he doesn’t become too needy.

Related Link: Do THIS When Meeting His Family Over the Holidays 

Donner: The most confident and proud of all the reindeer, Donner has always loved what he does. His name comes from the German word for “thunder,” which is fitting because of his strong presence. A man like Donner will make you feel safe in any situation. He’ll also be very proud of his relationship with you, but be sure his confidence doesn’t spiral into cockiness.

Blitzen: This reindeer loves a good challenge. He is the most savvy of all the reindeer and loves to outsmart his friends. You could learn a lot dating a man like Blitzen, as guys like this are usually the most interesting. You’ve just got to remind him to have a little fun every once in a while!

Rudolph: The most famous of all the reindeer, Rudolph is known for his bright red nose that helps him guide his team through the night. He has really proven himself to the other reindeer since his days of being teased and now earns the most credit for helping Santa get to every single child on Christmas Eve. A partner like Rudolph would always provide you with insight and advice to guide you and loves lending a helping hand to his community. Just remind him that it’s okay to focus on himself sometimes too!

If men were like reindeer, which one would you choose? Tell us in the comments below!

This post is sponsored by Signature Sole Socks, American Born Moonshine, Gaiam, Lovebook Online, LoveyourBling, Mënaji, Play From Scratch LLC, Pish Posh Baby, and Lulu DK. Note that all images were provided by publicists. 

By Emily Meyer

Is the holiday season sneaking up on you? Are you still unsure about what to get those special people in your life? Look no further! Here at CupidsPulse.com, we know how stressful this time of year can be, and we’re here to help. For our 2014 holiday gift guide, our team found some amazing products to make everyone on your list happy. Take a look below for some of our favorite items:

Signature Sole Socks: If you’re searching for that must-have gift for a mom-to-be who needs to relax or a co-worker who always seems stressed out, we’ve got just the thing! Signature Sole Socks are cozy, warm, and fashionable. Not only can they be worn when lounging around the house, but they can also be worn with tall boots, short boots, and rain boots.

Signature Sole Socks are designed to fit everyone with sizes running from small to large for both males and females. These versatile socks come in a range of colors, including pink, orange, and even leopard and zebra print. Depending on the style, the socks will cost you between $25 and $35. You’ll be giving more than just one gift when you purchase a pair of Signature Sole Socks: A portion of each sale goes towards a sock donation to children in the hospital. This low-priced gift is sure to make everyone’s holiday season a lot more cozy!

American Born Moonshine: We know shopping for that special guy in your life can be nearly impossible. But fear no more, we have a gift that he’s sure to love! After all, what man doesn’t enjoy some good old-fashioned moonshine? Lucky for you, American Born Moonshine has released an Apple Pie flavor that is perfect for the holiday season. Even if American Born Moonshine isn’t available in your state quite yet, you can still order it by printing a form found on their website and taking it to your local liquor dealer.

Our favorite drink for the holiday season is the Ginger Snap, which is two ounces of American Born Moonshine in Apple Pie mixed with four ounces of ginger ale. It’s the perfect treat to warm you up after a chilly day spent playing in the snow with your loved ones! That special guy in your life will love adding this unique liquor to his bar selection.

Gaiam: Just in time for chilly days, Gaiam has released their latest DVDs and apparel line. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s often hard to fit in a workout. Thanks to the 900 Calorie Burn DVD with Ashley Borden, exercising each day just got so much easier. With four 25-minute routines, there’s no excuse not to break a sweat!

If you’re looking for new workout gear, Gaiam’s clothes are not only comfortable but lightweight and warm too. Their apparel is breathable and quick-drying with the softest fabric possible, making these items perfect for your winter workout. The Curve Leggings hug your curves and follow every movement of your body — an ideal choice for your daily yoga session. The Petal Back Racer Tank is flattering and has also been designed to stay in place with every bend and stretch. Even better, both of these items are reasonably priced for under $100.

LoveBook Online: This unique, personalized gift is sure to please that special someone (or someones!) in your life. LoveBook Online is a website that lets you create a custom gift book that lists all of the reasons you love someone. They even print it, bind it, and ship it for you! Not only is this sweet book sincere and heartfelt, but it’s also super easy to make. There are a ton of fun pages with cute quotes like “I love cooking with you” or “I love going on adventures together.” They also have humorous stick-figure pictures to go with each phrase. You can include an unlimited number of pages in your hardcover or softcover book. This unique gift idea starts at just $34.95 and lasts a lifetime. Any hopeless romantic is sure to fall in love with this precious idea!

LoveYourBling: Still struggling to find a present for your boss? LoveYourBling, a California-based handcrafted jewelry company, has amazing items for both women and men. The company is a member of the Artisan Group, which is an organization that is on a mission to introduce Hollywood to the best handcrafted products.

Some of our favorite pieces of jewelry for the holiday season are the Topaz Teardrop Briolette earrings and the Filigree Dangle earrings in rose gold, which are both under $30. These earrings are dainty and feminine — a nice addition to any Christmas outfit. The site also features gorgeous cufflinks, a great gift for any man. These presents will impress your boss without breaking the bank.

For 20% off of anything at LoveYourBling, use the coupon code: CP2014. Happy shopping!

Mënaji: Mënaji, a skincare line for men, recently released new products to help your beau get ready for the day ahead. Their Clear Shave 3-in-1 Formula will let him shave anywhere, anytime, even without a sink. This product uses a revolutionary unique “dry shave” experience that allows him to get rid of his scruff in one simple step. The CAMO Stick Concealer helps to reduce dark circles and hide scars, bumps, and blemishes. With the holiday season here and so much traveling going on, they have a product to beat those jet-lagged eyes too. The 911 Eye Gel is perfect for any man struggling to look good during this busy time of year. These affordable products are sure to make that guy in your life feel like he can conquer the world!

Play from Scratch, LLC: Play from Scratch, LLC is a great place to look for unique gifts for little ones. The toy company keeps even the most creative kids busy through imaginative toys and games made from sustainable materials. The YOXO To Go inspires children to build amazing 3D creations, while the YOXObot Orig comes with everything they need to build an 18-inch tall robot. These items, which have won numerous Creative Child Awards in 2014, will entertain any child age four and above.  

Pish Posh Baby: If you’re looking for something for new parents, Pish Posh Baby is your one-stop-shop for revolutionary baby and kid products. They offer items like the BabyZen YoYo stroller, which is incredibly compact, lightweight, and versatile. This fashionable stroller, which comes in a variety of color combinations, is perfect for everyday use and holiday traveling. Both new parents and their little ones won’t be able to resist this holiday gift!

Another great item is the Blooming Baby Bath, which is handmade from incredibly soft materials and hugs any child to create a safe bath time experience. This hassle-free product makes your kitchen sink an easy bathtub alternative. With the four bright colors to choose from, it will keep even the fussiest baby happy during bath time!

Lulu DK: We all have a friend who is a wild child at heart, loves being the center of attention, and can be a bit hard to shop for. Luckily, we have a gift that’s sure to impress her: Lulu DK tattoos.  They have two new gorgeous henna collections: Indigo and Desert Blue, both of which are Indian-inspired. They’re even more beautiful, detailed, and intricate than any of their other designs and make for a unique accessory at any holiday soiree.

GIVEAWAY ALERT: One lucky reader will get the chance to win many of the items listed above! The holiday gift guide bundle includes: a pair of Signature Sole Socks; a 900 Calorie Burn DVD from Gaiam; a promo code for LoveBook Online; a pair of Filigree Earrings in rose gold; Mënaji Clear Shave, CAMO Stick Concealer, and 911 Eye Gel; and a YOXO To Go and YOXObot Orig from Play From Scratch. Note that these items will be sent separately. To enter, head over to our Facebook page. Good luck, and happy holidays!

Giveaway is now closed. Thank you to all who participated!

By Melanie Mar

This winter, some lucky couples will be cuddling up next to fireplaces, warming up with hot chocolate and marshmallows, and, depending on their location,  riding in horse-drawn carriages and  hitting the slopes together…all in the name of love. The holidays often bring out a softer, more romantic side as established pairs get nostalgic and newbies want to create magical memories. What better way to beat the winter blues and heat up your relationship than getting away for a fabulous rendezvous with your mate?

Pictures of celebrities often grace the covers of magazines at the most desirable locales, so it’s no surprise we look to them when choosing a vacation spot. Make your fantasies a reality and become the star yourself with the following destinations. Not only are these celebrity-visited locations glamorous, but they’re also some of the most romantic places on the planet. You don’t have to break the bank to live your dream. Scour the internet for special offers and packages, and enjoy these top ten most romantic holiday getaway spots.

Related Link: Cupid’s Weekly Round-Up: Make Your Holiday the Best One Yet

1. Aspen, Colorado is by far the ultimate romantic dream winter getaway, thanks to its breathtaking ski slopes, steamy hot tubs, high-end shopping, and endless fine dining. The Colorado Chamber of Resorts even called Aspen the “Rocky Mountain Playground for the Rich and Famous.” Aspen mountains are a favorite, as celebs don’t stand out as much and can maintain their privacy. Stars that frequent the snowy town include longtime lovers Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell and hot new parents Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis.

2. Following Bridget Bardot’s lead, tourists and celebs visit St. Tropez, France all-year round. The beaches of this small town are the perfect place to achieve that Victoria’s Secret-like bronzed tan while getting close to your lover, so pack your colorful swimsuit and gear up for some snorkeling! It is no surprise that A-list stars frequent this coastal city, including Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka as well as the lovely Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber. St. Tropez will leave you never wanting to return home!

3. The Eiffel Tower lit up at night, carousels that spin around in delight, bunches of flowers in the marketplace, and balloons come to mind when I think of Paris, France. The City of Lights is one of the most heart-stopping, romantic vacation spots on the planet. How many movies do we see that whisk the couple off to Paris for a secret rendezvous? Take a stroll along the famous bridge and seal your love with a special lock and key, or set up your own lovely picnic along the river Seine and enjoy the magic.

Related Link: Dating Someone New During the Holidays

4. Lake Como, Italy is now a popular destination, thanks to stars like Brad Pitt and George Clooney. The view alone is a postcard-like vision and enough to make anyone get dreamy-eyed. With the castles, lush gardens, giant cathedrals, and quaint shops, you’re sure to find many places to reignite that romantic spark! Lake Como is a fairy-tale getaway for many celebrities including David and Victoria Beckham as well as Matt Damon and his wife Luciana Barroso.

5. The coastal towns Carmel and Monterey, California are both fabulous places to visit with someone special. The many cozy inns located here provide the perfect place to keep warm. Beaches, golf courses, upscale shopping, phenomenal spas, and many other beautiful outdoor spots will leave you feeling rested and refreshed. The wooded area near the Coastal Cruise on Highway 101 is the perfect place to stroll with a coffee before hitting the spa. End your day with a glass of wine at Pacific Edge Grill.

6. Mallorca, Spain is the largest island in the Balearic Islands along the Mediterranean Sea. This gorgeous location is a lover’s favorite, so much so that recently a friend of mine decided to move there after falling head over heels in love with a man from the area! Have a glass of wine and snuggle up in a secluded restaurant, take a bike ride along the beach, or even scuba dive in the clear waters. Most celebrities choose this luxurious spot for a break from their fast-pased lives and for its cultural appeal. Frequent visitors include hot couple Justin Theroux and Jen Aniston as well as power pair Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, who own a home there.

Related Link: Ashley Hebert and J.P. Rosenbaum Celebrate Holiday Traditions

7. This past summer, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian jetted to Punta de Mita, Mexico and shared Instagram pictures of the magical sunsets, delightful spreads of food, and infinity pools in this romantic town. Punta de Mita is a beachfront village that offers high-end places to stay like the Four Seasons Resort or the private retreat built by mogul Joe Francis. This is a wonderful spot to escape to this year, as it is both private and posh and will certainly bring new passion to your relationship.

8. Maui, Hawaii is not only a great place to visit in the summer, but it’s a hotspot during the winter months as well. Just ask sweet couple Brian Austin Green and Megan Fox, who got hitched on the island. Maui offers its visitors breathtaking hikes, eye-popping volcanoes, and a variety of private beaches.

9. While most vacationers think that Rio De Janeiro, Brazil is a destination for the summer months only, celebs have long been fans of this tropical paradise. Sunbathe on the beach of Ipanema, take a bike ride through the village, or visit the many gardens and museums. Javier Bardem and his beauty Penelope Cruz and handsome bachelor Gerard Butler have been known to vacation here. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, get closer to your partner, and enjoy a new culture all at the same time.

Related Link: Adam Levine Marries Behati Prinsloo in Mexico

10. Celebrities love to head to the beaches of Los Cabos, Mexico. One frequent famous guest, Jennifer Lopez, enjoys staying at the luxurious Mexican resort, Las Ventanas. This private getaway is a romantic vision with enormous suites and private bungalows, each with private Jacuzzis on their balconies. You will be enamored with your choice as you overlook the magnificent waters of Mexico.

Winter is the perfect time to escape from the stress, the cold, and the city, and there is nothing quite like finding the perfect place to unwind and just relax. Whether you choose a chillier climate to snuggle up in or a warmer one to throw on your swimsuit and show off your tan lines, these holiday hot spots are sure to make your winter sizzle!

Melanie Mar is a relationship and life coach as well as co-owner of the Millionaire’s Club International Matchmaking Agency for the U.K. and Europe. She is certified by the WANT Institute in Androgynous Semantic Realignment and a Transaction Analysis practitioner certified by the United States America Transaction Analysis Association.

This post is presented by DSW.

By Emily Meyer

Shoe lovers rejoice! Nothing makes a woman happier than a new pair of shoes. This year, picking out that perfect pair of heels or boots for your mother, best friend, or wife may not be as hard as you think, thanks to the DSW Gift Guide!

DSW has something for everyone on your list this year. They offer a huge selection of all types of shoes, including flats, heels, boots, and booties. DSW also has great deals on other accessories, such as handbags, scarfs, and jewelry. This holiday season, they are offering the most perfect gift guide with items under $25, $50, and $75. You will be able to make DSW your one-stop-shop for all the shoe and accessory lovers in your life.

So what do you get for your partner who seems to have everything she could possibly want? No one can ever resist a new pair of shoes! Whether it is the new cute Pink and Pepper Pearl Bootie for her or the Sperry Top-Sider Boat Shoes for him, everyone is guaranteed to love something from the DSW Gift Guide.

Not only are the shoes to die for, but the Gift Guide also includes amazing accessories! With items such as the Kelly & Katie Leopard Twist Cowl Scarf, the Columbia Canvas & Leather Belt, and the stylish Moda Luxe Woven Clutch, you will definitely get that special someone’s attention this holiday season.

Whether you are looking for shoes, boots, heels, or accessories this holiday season, DSW is the place for you! Check out their Gift Guide to find great deals on all things fashionable this season.

To find out more about the DSW Gift Guide, follow @DSWshoelovers on Twitter and like DSW on Facebook. Visit their website too!

This post is presented by Jergens.

By Sarah Batcheller

What is beautiful about the holidays is that it gives everyone in love a lot of moments in the spotlight with their beau — moments ranging from office parties to family gatherings to alone time by the tree. This can be a problem, though, if you haven’t prepared your skin for all of that attention. Luckily, Jergens is here to help you achieve flawless skin with just one perfect product.

Picture this: You’re standing under the mistletoe, and your man comes and wraps his arms around you. You’ve been waiting for that perfect holiday kiss, but now, all you can think of are those dry spots right around your elbows. Or maybe, you’ve finally pulled out the sparkly mini-dress that you’ve been anticipating wearing to your honey’s holiday get-together, but the open back exposes dark spots on your skin that don’t match your outfit. Your old BB cream didn’t go on sheer, so you were afraid to use it on these noticeable areas of your body. Ladies, put down that product (better yet, toss it in the trash) and pick up Jergens® BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream instead!

Jergens® BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream will not only hydrate and illuminate your skin as soon as you put it on, but it will firm, even, and correct it after only five days of use. Plus, it dries quickly, so there’s no need to adjust your usual morning routine to avoid staining your clothes. Better yet, this BB cream goes on sheer and adjusts to your skin tone, so you won’t look like you just tried to rub pudding on yourself before that holiday party. Instead, the combination of shea butter, skin-smoothing emollients, and Jergens Firm Perfecting Complex combine to give you luminous, smooth, and firm skin.

Celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff swears by this product, so much so that she uses it on her own clients in order to prepare them for the red carpet. Celebrities, including Dakota Johnson, the star of 50 Shades of Grey, have been turned on to this product by Dubroff. At an InStyle event on October 28th, the beauty guru discussed this fabulous product with the guests.

Jergens® BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream can be found at your local Target or CVS. You can Like Jergens on Facebook and discover even more information about these fabulous products!

By Michele Sfakianos, RN, BSN for Hope After Divorce

It doesn’t have to be difficult.

A stepparent who has different holiday traditions from the rest of the family, especially a stepparent with no child of their own, can feel left out of the celebration. All family traditions matter, and it’s vital for everyone to be considered when planning holidays.

Actress Megan Fox is stepmom to hubby Brian Austin Green’s son, Kassius. Word has it that she is a stepmother to the fullest extent. She has happily looked after Kassius since he was three years old. Fox is a good example of a stepparent who most definitely includes her stepchild in all holiday celebrations as well as every aspect of their family’s life. It should be this way for all children in blended families.

As a stepparent, here are a few things you should consider when planning holidays:

Related Link: Reinventing Home for the Holidays

Who is going to spend the holiday where? Holiday plans can be predetermined by custody or shared parental agreements. If you have the flexibility of options, discuss them with the children and keep their desires in mind. Some families split up the holidays each year: “I’ll take Halloween and you take Thanksgiving.” Or some try to do both: “I’ll take Christmas Eve” (Mom) and “I’ll take Christmas Day” (Dad). Several people celebrate twice, once with each parent.

Where will the gifts be opened? Parents who purchase presents for their children like to see their reactions when the child is opening the gift. How would you feel if you didn’t get to see their surprise? Make sure you think of all parties involved when making plans.

Watch out for trouble on the stepsibling front when the kids have other plans. Stepchildren can feel left out if there are “whole” kids in the picture. Try to keep the presents even and have the major festivities take place when all the childrenare present.

Don’t expect holidays to be as you had in the past. Be aware the loss of the old ways of doing things is a disappointment for the kids and for you. Discuss how holidays were for each of you and have each person define which rituals are most important to them. This can be hard to hear, but it’s important. Incorporate a few of these old rituals into your new holiday.

Create new holidays. If all the holidays seem to be taken up with stress and other people’s claims (“But Thanksgiving is mine!”), you can always select another day (Cinco de Mayo, Arbor Day, Stepparents Day) to become an annual blow-out holiday. Acknowledge you are starting from scratch. There is a new excitement about having the opportunity to create holidays as you would like them to be. Aim for creating your own holiday spirit (with additions) and welcoming kids into it.

If you won’t have the children for the holiday, create an alternate festivity for yourselves. Don’t stay home and mope. Don’t force false cheer. Make new memories. Get creative. Plan ahead and don’t let yourself feel lonely or disappointed.

Related Link: How to Cooperatively Co-Parent After Separation or Divorce

Here are a few more simple tips to keep in mind as well:

— The first few years, try to lower your expectations.

— Don’t assume holidays will be calm and peaceful if daily life is full of conflict. There is no holiday from mixed feelings, and you cannot force fun, laughter, and family spirit.

— The winter holidays are traditionally a time of family togetherness. You and your partner can have private time too, but always take the children and stepchildren into consideration.

— Take into account the religions of those involved. It’s important to keep family traditions alive with certain cultures.

— Be flexible and encourage flexibility.

— If things are tense, do not force get-togethers or minimize the amount of time spent together.

No matter the holiday, remember to celebrate. You are a real family!

For more information about Hope After Divorce, click here.

Michele Sfakianos, RN, BSN, is a Registered Nurse, Life Skills Expert, Speaker and Award Winning Author. She is the owner of Open Pages Publishing, which includes her series of “The 4-1-1” books on Life Skills, Step Parenting, and Surviving Teenhood. Michele is a contributing expert for HopeAfterDivorce.org, DivorceSupportCenter.com, FamilyShare.com, and CupidsPulse.com.