100 Must-Have Black Friday Bargains From TV Personality and Shopping Expert Monica Mangin (EXCLUSIVE)
The ‘LIVE with Kelly and Mark’ lifestyle pro on her TV journey and what to buy this Black Friday!
‘Tis the season to kick off holiday shopping for friends, family—and yourself! In this week’s issue of Woman’s World, shopping expert Monica Mangin, as seen on ABC’s LIVE with Kelly and Mark, is sharing 100 exclusive Black Friday deals on a variety of must-have products at rock-bottom prices. And if you spend $40, shipping is free. From fluffy robes to electronics, sauna blankets and more, there’s something for everyone on your list. Pick up this week’s issue of Woman’s World to shop all her essentials—and snag a deal before they’re gone!
How it works: To snag each of the deals listed below, head to our exclusive shopping page where you’ll find them all listed. Hurry before they run out!
Alternatively, if you have this week’s issue of Woman’s World, you can shop our exclusive 20-page bargains straight from the pages of the magazine. When you see something you like, aim your smartphone camera at the QR code and click on the link to place your order. You can get this exclusive content by picking up a December 2nd issue of Woman’s World at your closest retailer, ordering it online at the MagazineShop.us or subscribing to Apple News+.
How to shop: With your smartphone, scan the QR code in the magazine to visit our Woman’s World Black Friday Bargains website. There, you can fill your shopping cart with any of the featured products. If you spend $40 or more total, shipping is free! All will be delivered before Christmas and deals are valid 11/22 through 12/8, while supplies last.
Home
Festive Tea Towels DEAL: $14 (30% off)
Monica says: “Personalized, adorable and oh-so useful, these 100 percent cotton Bunnies & Bows Kitchen Tea Towels are extra-absorbent yet soft and strong. And their festive holiday designs add instant charm to any kitchen!” (Retail: $20)
Sweet Dreams Sheets DEAL: $169.50–$234.50
Monica says: “Soft, sumptuous and breathable, this Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set ensures a great night’s sleep! It comes in a canvas tote (perfect for storing) and is made with 100% premium viscose from bamboo, which regulates body temperature to keep you cool. And the moisture-wicking fabric gets softer with each wash.” (Retail: $339–$469)
These sheets are the gift that keeps on giving! Cozy yet elevated, they’re considered by many to be the ‘softest sheets in the world.
Snuggly Blanket Bliss DEAL: $70 (41% off)
Monica says: “Snuggling up with a Softies Marshmallow Blanket feels like enveloping yourself in a heavenly cloud! Made with unbelievably soft, lightweight, lush ribbed fabric, it’s a living room and bedroom staple. The blanket is also oversize—it makes the perfect cozy companion during a chilly winter weekend spent lounging inside.” (Retail: $119)
Easy Knife Sharpener DEAL: $11.50 (50% off)
Monica says: “Not only is this AnySharp Pro Chef Knife Sharpener a cinch to use, but it’s small enough to tuck away in a kitchen drawer. And with its suction-cup base, it’s super-sturdy and easily turns dull knives (even ones with serrated edges) into razor-sharp cutting tools after just a few strokes.” (Retail: $23)
Your New Favorite Cozy Hoodie DEAL: $49 (50% off)
Monica says: “This Snug Blanket Hoodie from Sunday Citizen is a dream! It’s like wearing a comfy, plush blanket while you read, relax or watch holiday movies, and it’s available in three gorgeous colors.” (Retail: $98)
Eye-Catching Kitchen Essentials DEAL: $11.50–$15.50 (35% off)
Monica says: “These reusable products from Supra Endura are lifesavers in the kitchen! 1. The set of 3 all-natural Beeswax Wraps make it a cinch to keep bowls of fruits, veggies, cheese, bread or leftovers fresh. 2. And the three-pack of vibrant Swedish Dish Cloths is a money-saver: One cloth can replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels. Use them to clean up spills, wash dishes, wipe down surfaces or polish appliances.” (Retail: $18–$24)
Beautifying Satin Pillowcases DEAL: $25–$30 (50% off)
Monica says: “Lately, I’ve been taking beauty sleep to the next level, thanks to these smooth-as-butter Satin Washable Pillowcases from NIGHT. They come in a two-pack and feel silky and luxe to the touch, plus they help protect hair from breakage while sleeping!” (Retail: $50–$60)
An affordable way to bring a bit of luxury and self-care into your life! They’re great at preventing fine lines too.
Jewelry
Mixed Metal Wow! DEAL: $38.50–$46 (up to 32% off)
Monica says: “You’ll serve up some serious earring envy with these Smith & Co. Gold and Mixed Metal Hoops! Ranging from small huggies to larger showstoppers, these earrings are must-buys! Kissed with sparkling crystals or silvery studs, the 14-carat brushed gold hoop styles are set in either coordinating brushed gold or silver matte. A nice added bonus? The earrings are nickel-and lead-free.” (Retail: $55–$68)
Gorgeous Cross Jewelry DEAL: $17–$19
Monica says: “Gifting someone a piece of cross jewelry from Daniela Swaebe will inspire hope and faith. From the stylish Gold Paper Clip Chain to the elevated 3-Tier Necklace Stack and the Silver Charm Bracelet, they all look high-end without the hefty price tag.” (Retail: $59–$74)
‘Ouchless’ Stainless Steel Stud Earrings DEAL: Starting at $19.50 (40% off)
Monica says: “These cute Linny Co. Flat-Back Earrings feature a screw back with a flat ‘no poke’ feel—so they’re comfy enough to sleep in! Plus, the stainless steel is safe for sensitive skin and the waterproof design ensures no tarnishing! 1. Butterfly earrings make a great gift for yourself, your daughter or granddaughter. Plus, the neutral gold pairs well with anything! 2. These pink-and-gold heart-shaped studs will add a sweetly stylish touch to any outfit.” (Retail: $32)
Lovely, Lightweight Hoops DEAL: $20–$24 (36% off)
Monica says: “Who wouldn’t love a new pair of hoops for their earring collection? And these Hoo Hoops are sure to collect compliments. I love how lightweight they are—that’s hard to come by in hoops! Pick from two sizes—chunky or thin—and various styles, from gold and silver sparkles to acrylic and more!” (Retail: $32–$38)
Dazzling Diamonds DEAL: $162.50–$472.50 (50% off)
Monica says: “Everyone deserves to be spoiled once in a while! So treat yourself—or someone you love—with these Clean Origin Lab-Grown Diamond Studs. Set in a white-gold four-prong basket, they’re beautiful enough to be worn alone or paired with another pair of earrings.” (Choose from .5 to 1.5 total carat weight.) (Retail: $325–$945)
Diamonds are not only a girl’s best friend, they are also the most classic and timeless accessory! And these unique lab-grown diamonds are absolutely stunning, while still remaining very budget-friendly.
Luxe Rings for Less DEAL: $16–$17 (up to 70% off)
Monica says: “These gorgeous Sterling Forever rings are sure to garner oohs and ahhs! Both rings are available in a variety of metals and can be mixed and matched with your other favorite jewelry. They also carry a lifetime guarantee! 1. This Galette CZ Signet Ring will turn heads in the best way. Its sparkling textured detail and signet design elevate your everyday look instantly. 2. Not one for sparkle? Opt for this simply elegant Plie Textured Statement Ring. It’s the perfect finishing touch to any outfit!” (Retail: $35–$54)
Striking Pendant Necklaces DEAL: $39–$44
Monica says: “Amelia Rose creates lovely everyday necklaces that will make you feel like a million bucks! 1. The turquoise beads on the Gemstone Sunburst Necklace add a pop color, and the cubic zirconia pendant brings just the right amount of sparkle. 2. This sweet Paper Clip Heart Necklace features a 14-carat-gold–dipped sterling silver heart on a 14-carat-gold–filled paper clip chain, which offers a unique touch.” (Retail: $78–$88)
Earrings for Every Occasion DEAL: $16–$25 (up to 72% off)
Monica says: “You can’t go wrong with timeless earrings, like these stunners from Sterling Forever. 1. Turn heads with these chunky silver Bobine Statement Studs, which add pizzazz to any ensemble. 2. Dainty gold hoops, but better! These delicate Threader Hoop Earrings are super lightweight, modern and go with everything. 3. These Graduated Tube Hoop Earrings are thick and sleek—suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions!” (Retail: $45–$64)
From classic to modern to personalized…this impressive collection of jewelry ensures there’s something for every style and preference!
A Gift That Pulls at the Heartstrings DEAL: $11 (40% off)
Monica says: “Give an uplifting gift that symbolizes perseverance and strength with these The Prayer I Share Cord Bracelets featuring well-known Bible verses. Choose from a variety of encouraging, faithful messages inspired by Scripture, from ‘You Are Loved’ to ‘Be the Light.’ The durable cords also have an adjustable slide, so they won’t fall off.” (Retail: $18)
Perfect Layering Pieces DEAL: $20–$40
Monica says: “These beautiful necklaces are simple enough to wear alone or as a stack, and they’ll have everyone asking, ‘Where did you get that?’ 1. What’s not to love about Starlette Galleria’s Dolly Necklace? The 4-carat oval-cut stone sparkles just like a real diamond, and its 4-prong design will help ensure the stone doesn’t fall out. 2. Nissa’s Letter Flower Necklace features a hand-carved 14-carat-gold–dipped letter adorned with a simple flower. Pretty!” (Retail: $58–$70)
Bright and Shiny Things DEAL: $17–$34
Monica says: “Shinery’s Radiance Wash and Jewelry Care Gift Set will restore the sparkle to your favorite pieces in seconds. And this isn’t just any regular cleaner! It’s designed to clean rings and bracelets while you’re wearing them—no extra steps of removing all your jewels required! Bonus: The plant-based cleaner contains skin-softening glycerin. The gift set also includes a brush to scour intricate settings. Say so-long to dull jewelry!” (Retail: $28–56)
Accessories
Double-Duty Fashion Find DEAL: $25 (56% off)
Monica says: “This savvy and stylish two-in-one wallet by Malibu Skye doubles as a purse with a long, detachable crossbody strap and a wristlet! The deep front pocket with a button closure is designed for quick and easy access while the zippered compartment secures valuables like cash, cards, keys and the like.” (Retail: $58)
Playful Holiday Socks DEAL: $7 (53% off)
Monica says: “Good things come in small packages, like these Pudus Ornament Socks. They’re available in several festive holiday designs, from buffalo plaid (‘Lumberjack’) to Nutcracker, Santa, Gingerbread and more, plus they offer arch support and terry cushioning. They’re the perfect blend of fashionable and functional. The best part? They’re packaged inside a clear ornament!” (Retail: $15)
Updo in an Instant! DEAL: $19.50 (40% off)
Monica says: “Ooh la la! The L. Erickson Luna Jaw Wheel Set offers a variety of 8 hair clips. These chic French-inspired clips have a strong spring clasp and elevate any hairstyle in no time.” (Retail: $32)
Small but Mighty Wallet DEAL: $28 (26% off)
Monica says: “Never worry about losing your credit cards or IDs again, thanks to this Em John Mini Zip Wallet. Its small size makes it a breeze to fit in just about any purse or bag without taking up too much space. Believe it or not, it can hold up to 10 cards.” (Retail: $38)
Clever Hat Helper DEAL: $28.50–$33 (40% off)
Monica says: “These ingenious TopTote hat clips (in leather and vegan leather) boast powerful magnets that attach to any bag strap and then to the brim of your hat—so you can travel hands-free!” (Retail: $48–$55)
When it comes to gift-giving, it truly is the thought that counts—gifting a loved one something they need or something they’ll be so excited about shows you care.
Kids
Hours of Entertainment DEAL: $25–$34
Monica says: “STEM has never been more fun! Kids (and kids at heart) will spend hours creating thousands of buildings, castles and other objects with these 60-piece Tytan Magnetic Tiles building block sets. Choose from Frozen, Red, White & Blue and Glow in the Dark kits.” (Retail: $50)
Sparkly, Shimmery Fun DEAL: $20 (50% off)
Monica says: “The only thing little girls like more than dress-up clothes? Sparkly dress-up clothes! This Sweet Wink Cape and Bow set is made of no-itch tulle and shed-free glitter that won’t end up all over the house. That’s a win-win!” (Retail: $40)
Mealtime Miracle DEAL: $35 (up to 51% off)
Monica says: “Keep kids entertained during dinners at home (and at restaurants!) with these Imagination Starters Chalkboard Place Mats. The set of 6 place mats comes with chalk crayons and is easy to clean with a baby wipe or damp cloth!” (Retail: $72)
Super-Soft Lovies DEAL: $10–$16.50 (50% off)
Monica says: “These cute, cuddly Stephen Joseph Plush Dolls each come with a fun backstory. 1. The 11.75″ Flatsies are a cinch to pack in a suitcase and work great as a travel pillow. 2 & 3. The Super Plush Dolls in large (16″) and small (11″) are sure to become a beloved friend for the little one in your life.” (Retail: $20–$33)
Crafts
Plant Holiday Joy! DEAL: $20 (60% off)
Monica says: “This unique gift will impress! These festive Seeds the Day Growable Greeting Cards are also seed packs! Each holiday card in the 5-pack set contains seeds to plant lavender, rosemary, cacti and more.” (Retail: $50)
Artwork Made Easy! DEAL: $28 (30% off)
Monica says: “Whether you’re enjoying an evening at home solo or with loved ones, this Coloready Paint By Numbers Kit provides everything you need to create a lovely 12″x19″ painting, from nylon brushes to 6 custom paints and a paper template.” (Retail: $40)
Create Your Own Tote Bag DEAL: $52 (20% off)
Monica says: “Invite friends over for a night of wine and crafting with these fun JOYN Block Print Tote Kits! Each kit includes one plain tote, one set of wooden block stamps, a guide to block printing, a paint roller, 5 nontoxic block printing inks, an acrylic ink plate and a paintbrush to make your own block-printed tote bag!” (Retail: $65)
Stitch Up Some Fun DEAL: $27
Monica says: “Embroidery is such a soothing downtime activity, and these kits from And Other Adventures are perfect for beginners. The preprinted cotton fabric makes it super-simple to create a beautiful design—and each kit includes all the essentials to get started, including a stitch guide and online tutorials.” (Retail: $36)
Electronics
Roadside Hero DEAL: $85 (46% off)
Monica says: “You can Instantly jump a drained vehicle battery with the Limitless JumpSmart Portable Vehicle Jump Starter. It’s powerful enough to start most cars, SUVs, lawn mowers and more. Bonus: JumpSmart also includes a compass, thermometer, reflector strip and emergency audible alarm—ideal for hiking, camping and the like!” (Retail: $160)
Memory Makers DEAL: $48–$90 (up to 65% off)
Monica says: “It’s now easier than ever to back up and store precious digital photos and videos, thanks to Ultimate Backup 4-in-1. Just plug in your phone, tablet or computer and press ‘start backup’—no internet required!” (Retail: $120–$260)
Light It Up! DEAL: $20
Monica says: “I love lighting candles, and these USB Lighter Co. electric lighters are must-haves. They’re windproof, butane-free and rechargeable, providing 200,000+ uses!” (Retail: $40)
Safe and Sound Alarm DEAL: $15–$20
Monica says: “With an alarm that can be heard 1,000 feet away and a bright LED light, Spartan Defense Alarms offer peace of mind. Pick from 3: pocket-size, 3.5″ rechargeable or a battery-run 2-pack.” (Retail: $30–$40)
The best technology makes everyday life just a bit easier—or, in this case, safer! Our collection of gifts covers all the bases.
Family & Fun
Mini Arcade DEAL: $49
Monica says: “The old-school video games we love—in a collectable tabletop version from Arcade1Up! Standing at 13″ tall with a 3.2″ screen and powered by 4 AA batteries, retro gamers will appreciate this Pac-Man Collectorcade with 16-bit versions of Pac-Man, Galaga and Galaxian.” (Retail: $99)
Game Night Upgrade DEAL: $799
Monica says: “The Arcade1Up Infinity Game Table is incredible! It features free access to digital versions of more than 50 iconic games like Scrabble, Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit and Candy Land—all in one coffee table–sized device! With a 32″ touchscreen and a growing selection of downloadable games, this is sure to become a family favorite!” (Retail: $999)
Uncork the Fun DEAL: $20 (31% off)
Monica says: “Game night gets a boozy upgrade with this wine-themed card game for four or more players. Sippin on Somethin’ makes it fun to improve your wine vocabulary while learning about food pairing, tasting notes and more.” (Retail: $29)
Good Times for All DEAL: $80–$150 (up to 51% off)
Monica says: “Fun and decorative games for all ages with Brouk and Co.! 1. Backgammon Set comes in a chic pink case, beautiful for display. 2. Enjoy a fun game night with the Rummikub Set in these bright colors. 3. Play the Mahjong Set with family or friends.” (Retail: $140–$300)
Learn a Language! DEAL: $89 (70% off)
Monica says: “With lifetime access to lessons as short as 5 minutes, travel tips and feedback on your pronunciation, the Rosetta Stone Learning Program is a no-brainer way to master a new language—and you can do it on your phone or computer. So easy!” (Retail: $299)
Spa
Comfiest Robes Ever DEAL: $49.50 –$59.50
Monica says: “A cozy robe is an essential! And FluffCo is offering two elevated hotel-style options! 1. The plush lounge robe. 2. The lighter-weight waffle-textured robe. Both are per fect for relaxing in bed, reading a good book by the fire or at-home spa days. Bonus? Both have two oversize pockets!” (Retail: $99–$119)
Glowing Skin! DEAL: $174.50 (50% off)
Monica says: “Red light therapy is all the rage right now because it actually works! And this hands-free Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Full LED Face Mask delivers red light via LED to quickly stimulate collagen production for a radiant, youthful glow.” (Retail: $349)
Silky Smooth Feet DEAL: $17 (50% off)
Monica says: “Bring the full spa experience into your home with the Baby Foot Spa Bundle. Complete with a foot scrub, soak and peel, this set has everything you need to get the softest feet— ever!” (Retail: $34)
Soak Away Stress DEAL: $13.50 (50% off)
Monica says: “Give the gift of serenity to a loved one (or yourself!) with Sow The Magic Holiday Bath Salts Trio. Just pour the salts into the bath to dissolve, then soak for 20 minutes to maximize all the calming benefits. This trio comes with rosemary, peppermint and marshmallow salt soaks.” (Retail: $27)
Portable Massager DEAL: $90
Monica says: “It’s time to sit back, relax and give your feet, calves or forearms the ultimate deep-tissue massage with LifePro’s RelaxaTilt X Foot Massager. It boasts four compression pads, four massage rollers, two optional heat levels, two massage directions, three speeds and three preset programs for enhanced blood circulation and decreased pain and inflammation.” (Retail: $180)
At-Home Spa Experience DEAL: $200 (50% off)
Monica says: “Get the benefits of a sauna session on your couch with LifePro’s RejuvaWrap Infrared Sauna Blanket. Its far-infrared heating technology makes it easy to sweat out toxins and relieve muscle tension. Heat settings range from gentle, warm and comforting to intense heat for fat loss and muscle recovery.” (Retail: $400)
So-Plush Slippers DEAL: $42 (40% off)
Monica says: “You’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds in these cozy Western-inspired Jory Slippers. Their sherpa fur interiors are just what the doctor ordered for cold winter days, and they have a cushioned and sturdy outsole for extra traction. They’re both stylish and supportive!” (Retail: $70)
These cozy and stylish sherpa-lined slippers from Jory will be your best friends this winter!
Beauty
Get Your Glam On DEAL: $7–$9
Monica says: “These PUR Beauty goodies are a surefire way to upgrade any makeup collection! 1. The Eyes For You Makeup Trio (mascara, eyeshadow and liquid eyeliner) creates a lovely holiday look. 2. Double Charged Mascara Set makes lashes look longer than ever. 3. And the 5-piece Brush Set promises a flawless application and finish!” (Retail: $22–$36)
Softest Lips DEAL: $16 (50% off)
Monica says: “Between the icy outdoor air and steamy indoor heat, chapped lips are common in winter. To the rescue: this LIPSMART Lip Balm. It hydrates even the driest lips in just 60 seconds, and even helps visibly plump and smooth fine lines.” (Retail: $32)
Say Bye-Bye to Puffy Eyes! DEAL: $19.50 (35% off)
Monica says: “Soothing eye patches are my go-to for a quick self-care boost. And The Good Patch 6-Pack Under Eye Patches are, well, too good! The Brighten Up Eye Patches use niacinamide, vitamin K and pine leaf extract to brighten dark circles. And the De-Puff Eye Patches have caffeine, aloe vera and gotu kola to make eyes look lively.” (Retail: $30)
Luminous and Lifted in No Time! DEAL: $15–$20 (50% off)
Monica says: “Preventing and treating fine lines has never been so easy with SiO Beauty! 1. Lift and smooth brows, lip, mid-brow and eye + smile lines with SiO Silicone Skin Care Patches. 2. These SiO Silicone Patches smooth chest, neck and under eyes. 3. Good skin starts with a cleanser! Try SiO Hydrating Facial Cleanser.” (Retail: $30–$40)
We all deserve a little bit of pampering and self-care. And this selection of spa and beauty products promises the best of both!
One-of-a-Kind Gloss DEAL: $17 (31% off)
Monica says: “CAREN PAINT! Light Up Lip Gloss is truly unique, thanks to its light-up wand and convenient side mirror that makes application a breeze—no matter where you are. Even more, its aloe vera, jojoba and grapeseed oils won’t dry out lips—leaving behind a silky-smooth and moisturized pout!” (Retail: $24.50)
Skin-Brightening Essentials DEAL: $45 –$253.50
Monica says: “FOREO’s impressive light therapy and radio-frequency technology works wonders to give skin a glow and minimize wrinkles! 1. FOREO LED Light Therapy is simple to use and minimizes pores while it smooths, brightens and evens skin tone. 2. Make the experience even better with FOREO Manuka Honey Primer to soften and boost elasticity.” (Retail: $69 –$390)
Stocking Stuffers
Sparkling Accessories DEAL: $18–$20 (37% off)
Monica says: “Take hoodies from drab to fab with Charmed Kollective Hoodie Charms. Slip them over the hoodie’s strings for a touch of glam!” (Each set comes with 2 charms.) (Retail: $29–$32)
Outsmart Identity Theft DEAL: $20
Monica says: “No shredder? No problem! Simply roll the Guard Your ID Identity Protection Kit stamp over documents to hide private information and protect your identity. Use it on bills, bank statements, mail, pill bottles and more. Choose from 3 sets of varying sizes.” (Retail: $42–$56)
Ornament Upgrade DEAL: $23 (52% off)
Monica says: “Give a plain ornament a stylish upgrade by simply clipping on a chic Maya J Ornament Charm. The silver and gold accessories bring a splash of sparkle that will truly elevate any Christmas tree!” (Retail: $48)
Chic Wireless Charger DEAL: $18
Monica says: “Super-fast Hang Accessories Wireless Charging Pads make it easy to keep devices at 100%, and the stylish designs deliver a pop of fun. Simply place your phone on the plugged-in pad, charge and go!” (Retail: $35)
Ponytail Perfection DEAL: $13.50 (40% off)
Monica says: “These L. Erickson Grab & Go Ponytail Holders are everything you want while putting your hair up: They’re thick and sturdy, and they won’t crease or damage thin strands. Plus, the decorative oval bead adds a little hit of extra flair.” (Retail: $22)
Wearable Scripture DEAL: $17–$20.50 (40% off)
Monica says: “Lenny + Eva Faith Jewelry comes on an uplifting Scripture card. 1. This simple yet elegant Cross Pendant Necklace will be your new everyday piece. 2. Faith Over Fear Bracelets feature semiprecious gemstones and a gold-plated cross charm—pretty and unique!” (Retail: $28–$34)
Food
Spice Things Up DEAL: $35 (50% off)
Monica says: “Tacos have never tasted better, thanks to Saltopia’s Taco’clock Infused Sea Salts. From the garlic and onion flavor to zesty corn and chiles, these five spice mixes add authentic flavor to any dish.” (Retail: $70)
Coffee Creations DEAL: $42 (63% off)
Monica says: “Make hot or cold coffee instantly with Javy Coffee Concentrate 3-Pack! Choose from tasty caramel, mocha or original coffee flavors. Simply add water and creamer. Each bottle makes 35 cups, and the set comes with recipes and a tumbler too!” (Retail: $115)
Delectable Caramel Candies DEAL: $16.50–$24.50
Monica says: “These handmade McCrea’s Caramels are all about slowing down and savoring the moment. Made with real ingredients like fresh cream, milk and vanilla, they’re then cooked in copper kettles and hand rolled in Hyde Park, MA. They’re a decadent gift for any sweet tooth—or yourself! Opt for the Flavor Family Tube with 18 candies in 9 unique flavors or the Advent Calendar (below) with 24 handmade caramels in multiple flavors.” (Retail: $23–$40)
Keep reading to learn more about the shopping special and Monica in our exclusive Q&A!
Who is Monica Mangin?
In 2010, Monica Mangin was working as a teacher when she decided she wanted to fill her creative cup while her four kids were in school. She and her best friend started a DIY lifestyle blog—and she was surprised by how quickly their audience grew. But, really, it was an email that changed it all.
“We got an email from The Nate Berkus Show, asking us to be on,” she recalls. “We thought it was a friend pranking us—we almost didn’t respond!” What followed was a slew of successful on-air lifestyle and DIY segments, then Mangin landed her own home-renovation show on ABC called Knock It Off, where she created high-end DIY looks for less. “From the beginning of my career, affordability—whether it was affordable home projects or affordable purchases—has been a part of my journey. From bargains to budget-savvy tips, it’s always been my passion!” Now CEO of her own production company, East Coast Creative, Monica has been scouring deals online and bringing them to millions of viewers on LIVE with Kelly and Mark as their resident bargain hunter and lifestyle pro.
And this holiday season, Monica is teaming up with WW for this exclusive Black Friday shopping extravaganza! “I’m so excited to tell WW readers about these 100 items that will bring joy and delight,” she says. “Some of these products are going to make people’s lives easier. Some will make women feel more confident in their own skin. Some of these must-haves will make them feel safe—and we handpicked each one,” she says. “I hope you love them all as much as I do!”
Pick up this issue of WW on newsstands today and start the festive shopping fun!
Exclusive Q&A with Monica Mangin
Woman’s World: Monica, can you tell WW readers how you became a bargains expert?
Monica Mangin: My backstory is a bit of a wild one, and I hope it is a reminder that you never know what’s right around the corner, and it’s absolutely okay to dream very big. I feel like little girls aren’t told that enough, and I think it’s so important! My degree is in English education. Yep, I was Mrs. Mangin.
When I started that home DIY blog with my friend, we thought we’d just casually share projects we were doing around the house. The thing I forgot about myself is that I don’t do anything casually. So within six months, the blog had exploded—it went from literally our mothers reading it to hundreds of thousands of readers. And we were still just blogging and sharing, and then we got the email from The Nate Berkus Show.
WW: What was it like for you when you first starting working on TV?
MM: The Nate Berkus Show was our first TV experience, and we were asked to do one segment, and the day that segment aired, they emailed and asked us to do another run, and then another run and another. So it very quickly went from, ‘This is once in a lifetime,’ to ‘Okay, what’s happening, this is amazing.’
WW: What’s the experience been like working on LIVE with Kelly?
MM: As soon as I started at LIVE, I knew I was in the right place. I said to myself, ‘Wait—this thing I never even thought of in my whole life feels very right.’ I’m a big believer that when you’re working within your skill set, it feels very right. For me, this is being on air and especially live TV, the mix of adrenaline and excitement hits a sweet spot.
After almost a decade with LIVE, I’ve done hundreds of segments—from bargains to Halloween to holiday DIYs and honestly, every single one of them still feels very energizing to me. It was a nice transition from being on camera for years giving home recommendations and suggesting ways to make your life better.
WW: What’s the best part about recommending great products to viewers?
MM: I don’t ever feel like I’m ‘selling’ an item. It’s more like your friend or family member who’s not gatekeeping something great. It’s like, ‘oh my gosh, I found this thing, and you need to know about it.’ My transition into a bargain expert is so natural because I also love a good sale and bargain. So when you have the opportunity to share with people and say ‘Guys, these things are awesome. Here’s It doesn’t feel like sales. It’s more like hooking up your very large audience of millions of friends and family with what you would tell your girlfriends anyway!
WW: Do you have any Black Friday traditions or holiday traditions you look forward to each year with your family?
MM: Traditions are very big for me! One of my biggest pride points as a parent is that my kids also love traditions. So for me, the fact that I’ve instilled that in them is such a win. Sometimes people feel like traditions need to be a big thing, but it’s not the case! Traditions, especially holiday traditions, can be as simple as using the same decorative plates every Christmas morning. It can be having a go-to playlist that plays every Christmas morning. One of my family’s biggest traditions is that we go all in on Christmas music—starting on Halloween! Any time I’m having a rough day I turn to Christmas music—and this could be during any time of the year to be honest! To kick off the season, we would also always go cut down our tree on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. [She has 4 children from 15 to 22 years-old]
Santa was the highlight of my parenting journey. I took it so seriously. And for me, Santa and gifting traditions was my way of teaching my kids the joyful act of giving—even if no one knows you’re the one doing it. Selfless and joyful giving, for me, that’s what Santa represents. I still get that feel-good jolt when I’m pulling and curating items together for all these women. I still feel like Santa a little bit—or maybe now I’m Santa’s little helper or elf. It’s fun to help someone else create magic in their lives around the holidays.
WW: What about Black Friday? Was that always a big tradition for you?
My obsession with Black Friday bargains started many years ago! I used to do Black Friday shopping with my aunts every year growing up. Every Thanksgiving we would do the 2am shopping. It was super special to me and something I looked forward to year round! We’d shop all night, and then we’d go to a diner in the morning, at 7am, eat a big breakfast, then go home and take a nap.
WW: Let’s talk gifting! What do you think makes a great gift? Is there a secret to being a great gift giver?
MM: The core of being ‘a great gift giver’ comes down to listening to people. Like, you don’t think about a gift just in the gift-giving months—it’s not just a December date. It’s listening and knowing what they want, what they like and what they need, throughout the whole year. And then the gifts will seem obvious! I know it’s so trite, but it really is the thought that counts. Like, you could give me something super small, like a hair tie, because you know I always need them, wear them and lose them. And it shows such care! It was just something that made you think of me—that thoughtfulness piece to gift giving and just the knowing, like really being known by someone, that matters so much more than we realize.
WW: In your experience on LIVE with Kelly, do these bargains sell out fast? In other words, should our readers race to shop them?
MM: Absolutely, run—don’t walk! It’s one of the phrases that I always say on LIVE—and I am saying that here for WW readers! It’s always a fun race to get it, too. We have dozens of thoughtful essentials and must-haves so you can get everything for everyone on your list. These bargains are definitely not something you want to sleep on. Some of the best things will go very quickly!
Pick up your copy of Woman’s World with Monica on the cover today! For more information, follow her on Instagram @monicamangin.
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