Prepping for the holidays is no easy feat. There are decorations to be hung, gifts to be wrapped and so much more that goes into creating that festive feel during this time of year. Luckily, there's a one-stop shop that makes decking the halls a little more effortless (and a little less expensive), and that would be none other than CVS. For our What to Shop This Week series, professional home organizer Janelle Lam stopped by TODAY to share her top picks from the retailer for a season that's merry and bright.
A drugstore might not be the first place you think of to pick up a personalized present, but trust us when we say that CVS delivers. Lam found customized ornaments, a photo puzzle and more starting at just $10. For Christmas and Hanukkah decor, there's an assortment of everything from ceramic trees and metallic nutcrackers to traditional menorahs and dreidel pillows. And don't think we forgot about the Advent calendars! Whether you want to kick off your countdown with beauty for yourself or toys for the kiddos, there's something for everyone to feel that holiday cheer.
Keep scrolling to get holiday-ready with this roundup of Lam's favorite finds from CVS.
CVS holiday picks seen on The 3rd Hour of TODAY
Puzzles are such a fun activity for families to do together during holiday celebrations, and now you can take things up a notch by adding your own photo. They come in a range of sizes and designs, so be sure to check out all of the different options. It’s available for same day in-store pickup at thousands of locations, according to the brand, so it makes an easy and thoughtful last-minute gift. And, if you’re looking for some major savings this season, you can now take 50% with code HOLIDAYS through Dec. 13.
Coated in stunning navy and gold paint, this nutcracker is the perfect addition to elevate your holiday decor. It’s an easy way to add a bright pop of color and charm to any room — and so budget-friendly at under $20.
Editor’s note: Our above pick is currently out of stock, but we found another option below that we’d think you’d like.
If you haven’t decorated for the holidays yet, or simply need a spruce-up to add more cheer around your home, Lam’s got you covered. There are tons of decor options for Christmas, like this battery-operated ceramic tree that actually lights up!
Brighten up any space with this ceramic, hand-painted tree that lights up! It would make the perfect addition to your holiday decorations.
Editor’s note: This pick is now out of stock for shipping, but may be available for same-day delivery depending on your local store’s stock.
There’s no better way to stay excited about the holidays than treating yourself and your loved ones to little daily gifts with a countdown calendar. Lam’s luxury beauty pick includes 12 days of fan-favorite skin care and makeup items from brands like L’Oréal Paris, Covergirl and even Moschino. We’re talking moisturizers, mascaras, hair heat protectants, lip glosses, perfumes and more for just under $40.
We also have a calendar inspired by the beloved “Wicked” movie that includes seven days of bath bombs — or “frizzies.” Just fill up your bath, drop one of these in and watch the water turn pink or green. The brand says these include skin-hydrating benefits and are also great for stress-relief — all for under nine bucks.
Say goodbye to traditional family holiday cards and hello to these fun photo alternatives from CVS. There are so many options to choose from — like mugs, aprons and calendars — but we love these adorable customizable ornaments. Simply go to the CVS website, upload photos, place your order and they’ll arrive in a little as one week, according to Lam. Not to mention, they make for the perfect personalized present, too!
For the kids, we have this calendar from the cartoon “Bluey” that includes 24 items like mini character figurines, accessories and stickers. It’s such a cute way to celebrate with the little ones for less than $30.
Available in different shapes and sizes, these ornaments are a great way to add more life and sentiment to your Christmas tree. Even better, you get to save this double-sided bamboo cube as a keepsake for years to come. Use code HOLIDAYS to get 50% off through Dec. 13.
For Hanukkah celebrations, Lam found this elegant aluminum menorah. It's luxe for less at under $30, and great for adding some sparkle and shine to your dining table or window sill.
Fill your menorah with these navy, blue and white candles from CVS. This box includes 45 candles for all eight nights of Hanukkah.
These hand-dipped candles are pretty enough to gift! The frosted shades of blue will suit any menorah you already have on hand.
We love decor that can be reused year after year, and this pick is a perfect example. Plus, it can easily be layered with other pillows on the couch.
This plush blanket makes the most comfortable gift for anyone — even those who are hard to shop for. Not only does it instantly upgrade the look of any room when thrown on your bed, sofa or office chair, but it's also functional to keep you warm throughout the winter. The brand says it's made of snuggly faux fur that's machine washable and durable, and Lam loves that it's big enough to hug your entire body. Plus, you can save yourself the hassle of wrapping since it comes packaged in ribbon to gift as-is.
Give the gift of an at-home spa experience with this four-piece set (also available in blue) that includes a headband, floral-scented candle and fuzzy socks. Lam notes that the headband is functional enough to slick your hair back during skin care and makeup routines, but also stylish enough to wear during holiday festivities. And, at under $20, it's a steal!
Lam loves the smell of the candle and adds that it’s perfect for a candlelit bath, meditation session or some everyday aromatherapy. The cozy socks are an elevated take on an everyday winter essential and are ideal for wearing under boots.
Editor’s note: This pick is now out of stock for shipping, but may be available for same-day delivery depending on your local store’s stock.
Give the gift of glam with this advent calendar filled with 12 gorgeous cosmetic surprises. This variety is even more affordable, ringing in under $25.
Meet the expert
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team along with Janelle Lam.
- Janelle Lam is a professional home organizer, appearing on The TODAY Show to share organizing solutions for every aspect of your life, as well as holiday organization hacks. She’s also the founder of Straighten Up by Janelle and author of “The Folding Book.”
How we chose the best CVS holiday picks
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers. For paid content, the Shop TODAY editorial team independently chooses products to recommend that are sold by the brand (in this case, CVS). The brand does not review or approve the content. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
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