A beginner’s guide to tree greatness

Navigating tree season shouldn’t feel like a group project nobody prepared for. From picking the perfect fir to decorating without emotional collapse, this guide walks you through it—lights, needles, mild chaos, and all.

Trim the tree

No pine needles, no regrets

If you want festive vibes without a living-room pine needle graveyard, these faux trees deliver. Stylish, sturdy, and so realistic your relatives might try watering them.

Go faux, go pro

Last week, my friends and I had a board game night, which—as usual—turned into a showcase of hidden skills and, uh, “friendly” competitive energy.

We tried some new ones, returned to old favorites, and learned who has the worst poker face (spoiler: it was me). These are the games that had us…

1) Question the color of potatoes

2) Debate heavily on ice cream

3) Attempt to lie with a poker face

Tree lights: the price reality check

Tree lights shouldn’t cost more than the tree itself, but here we are. We break down what you should pay, where the deals hide, and how to skip the holiday markup nonsense.

Light it right

"Think ~~big~~ tall" this holiday season

Shopping for someone who’s always head-and-shoulders above the crowd? The American Tall Gift Guide is packed with pieces designed specifically for men 6'–7'1" and women 5'9"–6'6", with multiple tall lengths to match real proportions—not just added inches. Every style is engineered using measurements, feedback, and careful design work so the vertically gifted can finally enjoy clothes that fit the way they should. Order by 12/15 for holiday delivery, or choose a gift card for an always-right choice.

Stand tall & shop it all

The unsung heroes of tree season

Tree stands aren’t glamorous, but neither is waking up to your tree face-down on the carpet. These sturdy picks keep everything festive—and firmly in place.

Stand tall