We’ve got a busy weekend coming up in Los Angeles— Valentine’s Monday, Galentine’s Saturday, Palentine’s (Is that one?)… and some big football game in town.

This quick V-Day post goes out to Mel in OC. And thanks for the question:

“I have plans with my husband Monday but am invited to a Galentine’s potluck on Saturday. I know what I am getting him but am not up on cute gal gifts. Any ideas?”

Okay, here goes! Without knowing the crowd or their ages, I’ve got a few suggestions that could work for a range of beauty styles.

IDEA: Pick up a few mascaras and tie them in a red or pink cellophane bag with some candy at the base. Cute, simple!

With the exception of my sister, most women will always welcome a new mascara. Lately I’ve been wearing Ilia’s Fullest Volumizing Mascara. The color is a really deep and rich black, but the natural formula is weightless on your lashes—It also layers easily without flaking. You can also opt for full or travel-sized, which I appreciate.

Same candy bag idea, but with…

BLUSH

Cheek color is huge for 2022! Most women can always use a compact blush that travels well. Check out all the fun shades of Fenty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush. They pat on easy with fingertips and can build from a sheer wash of subtle color to a happy popping cheek. Speaking of popping, Petal Poppin is my favorite shade – with Cool Berry and Rosé Latte close behind.

LIP COLOR

I couldn’t get my hands on the Makeup by Mario Moistureglow Plumping Lip Serums fast enough. And I can honestly say they didn’t disappoint! Sadly, they keep selling out on his site and at Sephora. If you can find them, I highly recommend grabbing a few for your friends–and yourself!

But if you find empty shelves, a great alternative is the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm. It’s a hybrid balm, gloss and color treatment in one good-sized vegan tube. They don’t plump as much as Mario’s, but they make up for it with a buffet of antioxidants and vitamin-packed nutrients. The colors will work on all skin tones, so just tie a few up and gift with confidence.