Buy or Bye: This Just In (And Out)

Trends come and go, but not everything deserves your attention. Lately, I’ve been paying closer attention to what I’m saying yes to—the rituals, purchases, and perspectives that actually make my life feel more like me. Not just what looks good online, but what feels good in real life. And on the flip side? I’m gently letting go of the things that no longer fit—whether it’s settling for “just okay” or spending money on moments that don’t deliver. Here’s what I’m buying into lately… and what I’m saying bye to.

5 things I'm buying into... or saying bye to

Buy: any excuse to host

I’m saying yes to any excuse to host—whether it’s: 


  • a casual backyard BBQ
  • a girls’ night in
  • or an impromptu movie marathon...

It’s not about the perfect tablescape or a five-course meal. It’s about creating space for connection, for laughter, for those in-between moments that end up meaning the most.


I’m learning to romanticize the everyday—because while the big moments are exciting, it’s the small, quiet ones that shape our lives. I want to cherish the in-between. And what better way to add magic to the mundane than by turning it into an occasion? A low-key dinner party, a glass of something bubbly in hand, music humming in the background, mismatched plates and all. In the end, it’s never about perfection. It’s about presence.


For your next dinner party:

A perfect way to let your personality shine through:


Anthropologie Glaze Stoneware Side Plates


Add a playful twist to any pour:


Squiggle Glass Straws


Buy: filling your own cup


I’ve been thinking more about what it actually means to show up for myself—beyond the aesthetic version of wellness we see online.


It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short if your routine doesn’t include:


  • a 15-step skincare regimen
  • a specific workout
  • or a 5am wake-up.

But lately, I’ve realized that true wellness looks different for everyone. The routines that actually stick are the ones that feel good. The ones that fill you up, not wear you out.


For me, that’s been small shifts that make my day feel softer and more intentional—swapping mindless scrolling for a few minutes of journaling, sitting outside with my morning drink instead of rushing out the door, or cooking something nourishing just because it sounds good.


At the end of the day, you’re the one who’s with you through it all. The least we can do is make that relationship a priority.


My favorite wellness finds:

Light, wearable weights that make daily movement feel intentional—not intense:


Bala Bangles


For a grounding morning or evening ritual:


The Five Minute Journal 


Buy: redefining travel


Travel is always a yes from me—but maybe not in the way you’d expect. It doesn’t have to mean international flights or an elaborate itinerary. We tend to associate travel with something big, far away, and out of reach. But it doesn't have to be. Sometimes it’s:


  • a 45-minute drive out of town
  • a spontaneous detour
  • simply stepping outside your usual routine just long enough to see things differently.

It’s about elevating the small moments. Turning a basic economy flight into a tiny luxury moment (my go-to: an  in-flight strawberry mimosa ). Making a road trip playlist that makes you feel like the main character. Travel doesn’t need to be extravagant—it just needs to feel like an experience. And the best part? You get to decide what that looks like.


Extra help:

TSA-friendly and perfect for turning any flight into a luxe moment:


Champagne Cocktail Mixer Kit


Pretty, portable, and ideal for bringing your favorite sip on the go:


Ceramic Mug


Bye: over priced café drinks


Don’t get me wrong—I love a trendy café moment. Grabbing a drink, soaking in the vibe, and pretending I have absolutely nowhere to be? Yes, please.


But what I don’t love? The price tag. And honestly, there’s no worse feeling than being so excited for that first sip… only for it to fall completely flat. At home, I know I have the ability to make my drink exactly the way I like it—no surprises, no letdowns. That said, if I’m not getting the full café experience, I need something to make the at-home version feel just as special.


I’m not saying ditch cafés altogether, but maybe it’s time to start investing in elevating the alternative. For me, that means romanticizing the little things—cute mugs, glassware I actually love, maybe a mini bar cart situation. Creating the vibe is half the fun, plus I know I won’t get caught in a never ending line.


For your at home café moment:

Minimal, chic, and perfect for elevating your everyday sips:


Resin Coaster Set


Everything you need for a cozy, barista-level moment:


Cafe Dolce Cafe Set


Bye: "that'll do" purchases


I’m officially done settling for things that are almost right because it was on sale, convenient, or close enough. The sweater that doesn’t fit right, the mug that’s not quite my vibe, the random home decor I grabbed just to fill space.


I want to love the things I bring into my life, not tolerate them. If it’s not a full yes, I probably don’t need it. I’m being more intentional with what I buy, and holding out for the pieces that actually feel like me and have the quality to match it. The ones I’ll reach for over and over—not just because they work, but because they reflect me.


Recent purchases:

Quirky and cute in the best way:


Dachshund Ceramic Ring Dish


What better way to express yourself than with an item always with you:


Airbrush iPhone Case


What I'm buying into:

Embracing any excuse to turn an every day activity into an occasion

Prioritizing wellness that works for you

Letting go of the idea that travel has to be big or far to be impactful

Trading café letdowns for luxe at-home moments

Choosing quality purchases over settling for the first item available 


At the end of the day, it’s not about doing it all or getting it perfect—it’s about choosing what works for you. The small choices that reflect who you are and support how you want to feel. Whatever season you’re in, make it yours.

What are you buying into?

 

Bentlea Schwartz

A Teaspressa creative who believes in sipping with intention and celebrating the everyday. You can find her savoring her morning tea, hunting down vintage gems, or planning her next weekend escape.


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