Elevate Your Fall Gatherings with These Nonalcoholic Fall Mocktails

Fall is the perfect time to explore new flavors and enjoy the cozy comforts of the season. If you're looking to enjoy the essence of autumn without alcohol, you're in luck. There are several high-quality nonalcoholic alternatives that make it easy to craft sophisticated and delicious fall mocktails. Here are some creative mocktail recipes that will make your fall gatherings unforgettable.

Crisp Autumn Bloom

Featuring French Bloom Blanc, a nonalcoholic sparkling wine, this mocktail captures the refreshing essence of fall with crisp apple and pear notes, complemented by subtle florals.

Ingredients:

- 4 oz French Bloom Blanc

- 2 oz pear juice

- 1 oz apple cider

- 1/2 oz lemon juice

- Fresh pear slices and rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine pear juice, apple cider, and lemon juice. Shake well.

2. Pour the mixture into a glass and top with French Bloom Blanc.

3. Garnish with fresh pear slices and a sprig of rosemary.

Why It Works:

French Bloom Blanc brings a light effervescence and floral complexity to this mocktail, making it a perfect choice for a sophisticated fall drink. The pear and apple flavors add a seasonal twist, creating a refreshing and elegant experience.

Ritual Harvest Spritz

The Ritual Zero Proof Aperitif, with its blend of bitter and botanical notes, is the star of this mocktail. Paired with pomegranate and sparkling water, it creates a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and bitter—ideal for autumn.

Ingredients:

- 2 oz Ritual Zero Proof Aperitif

- 2 oz pomegranate juice

- 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, mixed)

- 4 oz sparkling water

- Pomegranate seeds and orange peel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass, mix Ritual Zero Proof Aperitif, pomegranate juice, and honey syrup.

2. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.

3. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a twist of orange peel.

Why It Works:

Ritual Zero Proof Aperitif’s complex, bitter notes are balanced by the sweetness of pomegranate juice and honey, making this mocktail a rich and flavorful option for fall. The sparkling water adds effervescence, making it a festive choice for gatherings.

Spiced Nightcap

Three Spirit Nightcap is known for its warm, earthy flavors, making it the perfect base for a cozy fall mocktail. This drink combines Nightcap with chai tea and cinnamon, offering a comforting and calming experience.

Ingredients:

- 2 oz Three Spirit Nightcap

- 4 oz brewed chai tea (cooled)

- 1 oz almond milk

- 1/2 oz maple syrup

- Ground cinnamon and star anise for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brew chai tea and allow it to cool.

2. In a glass, combine Three Spirit Nightcap, chai tea, almond milk, and maple syrup. Stir well.

3. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a star anise.

Why It Works:

Three Spirit Nightcap’s herbal and earthy notes pair beautifully with the spiciness of chai tea and the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a mocktail that feels like a warm hug on a chilly fall evening. The almond milk adds creaminess, making this drink a soothing nightcap.

These nonalcoholic fall mocktails are proof that you can enjoy the flavors of the season without compromising on taste or experience. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply winding down after a long day, these mocktails offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional cocktails. Using quality nonalcoholic drinks like French Bloom Blanc, Ritual Zero Proof Aperitif, and Three Spirit Nightcap, you can elevate your autumn celebrations with delicious, mindful sipping.

For more fall-inspired recipes and mocktail ideas, be sure to check back on the blog!

Fall in Love with These Page-Turners: My Top Picks for Your Fall Reading List

Autumn is just around the corner, and you know what that means—sweater weather, pumpkin-spiced everything, and the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book. Whether you’re stealing a few quiet moments while the kids are napping or enjoying a glass of wine after bedtime, these fall reads from Book of the Month are sure to keep you entertained. So grab your coziest blanket, a hot cup of tea (or something stronger), and let’s dive into these literary gems!

1. Hera by Sojourner Kincaid Rolle

If Greek mythology had a modern-day makeover, Hera would be its runway model. Sojourner Kincaid Rolle brings the queen of the gods into the 21st century with style and sass. Follow Hera as she navigates the complexities of divine politics and mortal affairs, all while maintaining her regal poise. This book is a delightful blend of ancient lore and contemporary drama—think "Real Housewives of Olympus." Perfect for when you need a break from your own family squabbles.

2. Like Mother, Like Daughter by Maggie Shipstead

Prepare to be enthralled by this multi-generational saga that delves into the intricate bonds between mothers and daughters. Maggie Shipstead weaves a tapestry of secrets, sacrifices, and the inevitable tug-of-war between love and duty. This book is a reminder that even in the most tumultuous of relationships, there’s always room for growth and understanding. It's a heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching read that will make you appreciate your own family dynamics a little more.

3. The Seventh Veil of Salomé by Jennifer Wilde

Dive into the glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties with The Seventh Veil of Salomé. Jennifer Wilde takes us on a journey through the decadent world of jazz, flappers, and forbidden love. The mystery and intrigue surrounding Salomé's veils will keep you guessing until the very last page. This book is perfect for those who love a bit of historical fiction with a side of scandal. Trust me, it's the cat's pajamas!

4. A Sorceress Comes to Call by Eva Evergreen

For those who enjoy a touch of magic in their lives, A Sorceress Comes to Call is a spellbinding read. Eva Evergreen introduces us to a world where magic is real and danger lurks around every corner. Follow the young and determined sorceress as she battles dark forces to save her village. This enchanting tale is perfect for fans of fantasy and adventure, and it's sure to captivate your imagination from start to finish.

5. Leather & Lark by Marisa de los Santos

Finally, we have Leather & Lark, a spicy but charming story about unexpected friendships and second chances. Marisa de los Santos crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and humorous, with characters you'll wish were your own friends. Set against the backdrop of a quaint small town, this book is a reminder that sometimes, life’s greatest adventures come from the most unexpected places. It's the literary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day.

So there you have it, my fabulous fall reading list, Whether you're into mythology, family dramas, historical mysteries, magical adventures, or heartwarming tales, there's something here for everyone. Happy reading, and may your fall be as delightful as a pumpkin spice latte.

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*Michelle Hadley is a single mom, podcast host, and writer with a passion for empowering women and breaking stereotypes. She loves sharing her thoughts on beauty, fashion, and parenting with her audience.*

Jogging Stroller Round Up, and Why I Picked My Thule

Mama, I know that pelvic floor is hurting postpartum, but hear me out: jogging (combined with daily pelvic floor strengthening exercises) is one of the best ways to get back into shape after baby.

Full disclosure, I’ve been a runner since I was about 14. In high school, I joined the Cross Country team, barely able to run a complete mile. Next thing I knew, I was the youngest varsity runner and one of the fastest girls on the team. Since that time, I’ve run two marathons and kept up with my almost daily running habit. As an abuse survivor, I find it helps my mental and emotional health as much as my physical health.

As Evy approached 6 months when most babies are able to support their neck and heads enough to sit in a jogging stroller*, I started researching options. Thule, Graco, Bob Gear, and UppaBaby often make the cut of round up lists on the internet. I was familiar with UppaBaby and Graco but wanted to do a deeper dive on Thule.

*Disclaimer: I am not a physician. Please consult with your pediatrician and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines before placing your child in a jogging stroller.

My Jogging Stroller Requirements

When I say I run almost daily, I mean it. There’s nothing I enjoy more than putting on my Hokas or APLs and hitting the road with Evy, and she enjoys it too. I knew I needed a jogging stroller that could keep up with my speed, handle some wear and tear, and, since I plan to start doing Southern California road trips with her when she reaches a year old, a stroller that could do double duty if I needed it. I have a “mini” SUV so, while jogging strollers tend to be a bit bulkier than standard strollers, it still needed to fit in the cargo hold. I note these requirements because, as with many things, you need to pick the option that best fits your lifestyle and how you intend to use your stroller.

Thule Urban Glide 2 Single All Terrain Stroller Bundle, $610

Overall: This was the winner for me. With a “lockable” front wheel, this one can transition seamlessly from a walking and shopping stroller to a high speed run when you lock the wheel in place. When the wheel is locked, I find the ride to be incredibly smooth, and the wheels absorb the impact of bumpy terrain well. The position of her seat also reclines just enough so she can see everything (which is very important to her), but is also comfortable enough for napping. This makes for a smoother ride for baby, which is important to me. When Evy is happy, mom is happy.

While some online reviews have noted the brake is a little weak, I haven’t had an issue with the brakes although we do not live in a particularly hilly area.

Extras: The storage below the stroller is so nice when we’re out and about for longer periods. I can throw shopping bags down there, or hide my water bottle. Up top, there is a deep coffee cup holder that perfectly holds my travel mug. In fact, when I seal the top of the travel mug, I can actually run with my coffee in the cup holder without worry of it spilling or falling out. This is wonderful because, on our runs, Evy eventually falls asleep for a little nap. At that point, I slow to a brisk walk, and I like to enjoy a little coffee.

Runners Up

Maybe you’re not a serious runner or you want something a little less “intense.” The Graco Modes Jogger 2.0 is a great, budget-friendly jogging stroller for any mom who wants to get out a couple times a week but isn’t committed to the running lifestyle. It has less shock absorption for baby, but if you’re not putting tons of miles in, it likely won’t be a big deal.

For all of you serious runners who aren’t living in Southern California where the weather is gorgeous 98% of the time, you might want to splurge for the Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer & Stroller. Priced at nearly $1,200, it’s not my pick for first-time runners, and there’s no way it would fit in the cargo hold of my tiny SUV. But if you live in the Northeast and want to run in different weather, this might be the way to go.

Happy running, mamas!

Superfood Sundays: Flaxseed

Great as a source of fiber, protein, and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseeds deserve a place in our Superfood Sunday series. These nutty seeds have been touted for their health benefits - they might help lower risk of some cancers, maintain healthy weight, and reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.

I’ve often loved adding them to my morning smoothies. In my humble opinion, they add a richness and texture that takes each smoothie up a notch.

But there’s another wonderful use case for flaxseed: homemade granola. If you like cereal for breakfast or enjoy adding granola to a healthy bowl of Greek yogurt, you should be all ears. The beauty of homemade granola is its low sugar content - much lower, n fact, than store bought granola - and using honey (might we even suggest Ikarian honey?) makes it all the healthier. This might also be the easiest recipe for a homemade alternative ever.

Homemade Granola Recipe

Rolled Oats (such as Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Rolled Oats)

For every cup of oats, add:

• 1/4 cup of slivered almonds

• 1/4 cup of flaxseed (whole flaxseed)

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

• 1 tablespoon of honey (add more if you need a little extra sugar…we’re not judging)

Lay parchment paper on a cookie sheet, spread granola mixture on it, and bake in the oven for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Once done, let cool and store in airtight container. You’ve just made enough to last for a few servings.

We recommend serving over Greek yogurt with blueberries and a drizzle of honey, but it’s your granola. Enjoy it how you’d like.

Superfood Sundays: Ikarian Honey

After having a baby, my body just wasn’t quite the same: I didn’t digest food the same way. I didn’t have the same level of energy I previously had. Before baby, it didn’t matter so much what I put in my body because I was a well-oiled machine.

Now, I was the 1986 model that had been taken on one-too-many long distance road trips and needed a good tune up. While I don’t think any one diet or lifestyle is the silver bullet to a longer, happier life - and I am certainly not an ideal candidate for an aggressive detox - I believe little tweaks can pay dividends in how we feel on a daily basis. So, drawing on Blue Zone research and a back-to-basics approach to healthy eating, I’m going to bring you a weekly series that explores foods I’m integrating into my diet in 2024 and how I’m doing it.

The Greek island of Ikaria has some of the longest living people in the world, many of whom reached 100 or older with few physical or cognitive impairments. This island produces our first superfood, Ikarian honey.

What makes Ikarian honey so special? If you ask me, it’s the rich flavor. I can eat spoonfuls of the stuff straight out of the jar.

But it’s more than a sweet face: its natural proteins and antibacterial enzymes support gut health and promote healing while antioxidants boost immunity and reduce inflammation. It also happens to be unheated, unprocessed, and unpasteurized, which some believe allows it to retain more vitamins and minerals than honey produced in the U.S.

Where to buy Ikarian honey

There are many online purveyors of Ikarian honey, but I tried (and loved) Klio’s single origin honey.

Klio Ikaria Honey Pine & Wildflower, $25.95

Herbal Tea for Holistic Health

One of my favorite ways to wind down in the evening is with a cup of herbal tea and a great book. I love this small Etsy shop for its hand-made, delicious blends - and I always add honey to my tea.

Bohemian Tea Peddler Flower Garden Herbal Tea, $10.75

Best Nonalcoholic Bubbly for Holiday Celebrations

Dom Pérignon, anyone?

Is it just us, or is alcohol becoming more and more passé? Maybe it’s a function of aging, but lately, I find myself gravitating towards nonalcoholic bubbly when I want to celebrate…minus the hangover. Here’s our roundup of the best nonalcoholic bubbly to enjoy this holiday season.

(P.S. - Read to the end for a holiday mocktail recipe.)

Prima Pavé Rose Brut, $26

Produced in Northern Italy from a blend of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc & Gewürztraminer, this is my top pick for its sophisticated, subtle palette. An easy and relatively affordable go-to for holiday entertaining, it’s a well-balanced crowd pleaser: not too sweet, not too acidic.

French Bloom Le Blanc, $39

We love this beautiful blend of delacoholized organic French Chardonnay wine - it opens with a minerality and accents of pear, the signature of French Bloom.

Oddbird Sparkling Rose, $24.99

A dry sparkling, this classic has notes of summer berries, green apples and citrus, a byproduct of its blend of Syrah and Chardonnay.

Prima Pavé Grand Cuvee, $29

If you love bubbles, this sparkling nonalcoholic wine is the closest to champagne I’ve had. Paired with oysters or a creamy risotto, it’s perfection.

How to Make a “Champagne” Cocktail

I call this one Mrs. Claus’ Night Off. Here’s an easy mocktail recipe for the holiday season. Throw the ingredients in a shaker, mix, and enjoy.

• 4 fluid oz of Prima Pavé Grand Cuvee

• 1 1/2 fluid oz of agave nectar

• 1 jigger of raspberry syrup

Top Products to Combat Postpartum Hair Loss

When you’re blessed with more hair than you know how to handle, you tend to take it for granted. I never thought I would be worried about hair loss, but about 4 months after I gave birth, I began to shed. And shed. And shed some more. First, I panicked. Then, I went into action researching my options. Here are the top products that worked for me.

(P.S. - Nothing in this post is sponsored. But everything has been personally tested by yours truly.)

Zenagen Revolve Women’s Hair Loss Travel Kit, $40

Unlike some of its more chemical-based counterparts, this hair loss shampoo and conditioner system has a proprietary blend (read: black magic because it works!) of nutraceutical ingredients. I noticed a difference in less than a week.

SeroVital Hair Regeneres, $39

These supplements pack a mean punch. You’ll notice a difference within a few weeks of regular use.

Kevin Murphy Body.Mass, $50

I spot treat areas of my scalp that need some hair growth love with this hero product from Kevin Murphy, a natural haircaire line out of Australia. Made from the same technology as eyelash growth serums, this spray also gives a boost to your blow out.