A Festive Weekend Recap: Girls’ Night Out, Holiday Parties & Family Christmas Fun

There is something magical about the last few weekends of December—when the parties are in full swing, the twinkle lights glow a little brighter, and every minute feels full of connection and celebration. This past weekend was exactly that: filled with laughter, great food, thoughtful gifts, family moments, and holiday sparkle.

Friday Night: Girls’ Night Out

I kicked off the weekend with the sweetest little girls night with my girlfriend Bri. We went to The Industry in Green, Ohio, a spot I always love—good energy, cozy lighting, and that buzzy holiday vibe in the air.

We ordered crispy onigiri to share (so good!) and each had a glass of wine to start. For my dinner, I ordered the lobster bisque and a Caesar salad, and Bri got the scallops with a beet salad. Everything was delicious. It felt so good to just unwind together—chatting, laughing, catching up about everything and nothing.

For my outfit, I styled my Good American leopard print jeans with black booties, a black bodysuit, and a black Chloe denim blazer. Comfort meets chic, and perfect for a casual night out.

Saturday Morning Shopping + Cozy Start

Saturday morning started slow and cozy. Ali and I grabbed coffee and she made eggs for breakfast while I waited for a local boutique to open for some last-minute Christmas and hostess gifts. The boutique was Laura of Pembroke, one of my favorite stores locally. They carry everything—from furniture and home decor to clothing and accessories. I found the cutest little Christmas trees and a Nest holiday candle, all 50% off during their holiday sale. I left feeling accomplished and festive.

When I got home, I wrapped a few gifts, and then Jimmy surprised me by giving me one of my Christmas presents early… a Swarovski tennis necklace! I had been wanting one forever and I’m obsessed. I knew immediately that I would wear it to his sister’s Christmas party that night. Later in the afternoon, I went to get my hair done at Sarah Delaine Brides in North Canton. Cadence worked her magic and gave me the most gorgeous updo—elegant, festive, and perfect for the night ahead.

Saturday Night: Gilbert Christmas Party

Jimmy’s sister hosted her annual Gilbert Christmas party on Saturday night, and as always, it was stunning. She knows how to create the perfect festive atmosphere—beautiful décor, a photo backdrop, delicious food, and the best company.

Some of our out-of-town friends made it this year which made the night extra special. We stayed late, talked, laughed, played games, and soaked in the holiday cheer. I was so excited to gift her the faux floral Christmas arrangement I made—it looked beautiful displayed right by the entryway.

For my outfit, I wore the Meshki faux fur knit maxi dress in black + white, styled with black suede pumps, a silver clutch, and silver jewelry. I got so many compliments! Jimmy looked sharp in black dress pants and a velvet emerald green sport coat from Express with a bow tie—my favorite holiday menswear look. Sadly my dress is sold out but they have it in plum which is so cute as well!

Sunday: Christmas at My Mom’s

Sunday morning we drove to Toledo to spend the day celebrating Christmas with my family. My brother flew in all the way from California, so having everyone together felt extra special. My mom had the house decorated beautifully with cozy holiday touches everywhere. This year, she went with a pink and gold tree and it was so stunning. We had a delicious breakfast: sausage and ham egg casserole, fresh blueberry muffins, and later a spread of snacks and desserts—cheese and crackers, cheese ball, sausage wrappers, scotcharoos, and more.

Because my 100 day challenge wasn’t over yet, I took some of the desserts home to freeze and enjoy on Christmas Day once I’m officially done! Only a few days left!! After exchanging gifts and laughing together all afternoon, I left feeling full (in my heart and belly). I received so many thoughtful gifts I had been eyeing, including pajamas, slippers, and the cutest pink Nike P-6000 sneakers from my sister. My mom gifted me the Caroline Espresso Freja bag—something I’ve wanted forever—and a pink Swarovski tennis bracelet and matching ring. I’m obsessed!

We gifted my mom a pink Mackenzie-Childs kitchen canister, UGG gloves, and a coach bracelet and she loved everything.

By the time we left, we were exhausted and decided to skip the second Christmas gathering we originally planned to attend. Instead, we played cards and called it a night. Cozy and perfect.

Looking Ahead

It truly was the perfect holiday weekend filled with friends, family, delicious food, beautiful gifts, and festive celebrations. My heart feels full and grateful. And the fun is far from over—this week we have Christmas Eve dinner at Jimmy’s parents, Christmas Day at his sister’s house, and then a Christmas gathering at the Millers.

Wishing you all the happiest holidays and hoping your days are full of joy, warmth, and togetherness. 🎄❤️✨