Joanna Gaines, the Magnolia co-founder and design icon, recently shared a relatable holiday predicament and her ingenious solution on Instagram. Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to bake festive treats for guests, Gaines confessed to skipping the baking altogether and cleverly hiding the unused ingredients.
Gaines humorously documented her “trick” in a selfie video taken in her Texas kitchen. She pointed out various countertops and the floor, initially covered in baking supplies. Instead of baking, Gaines opted for a quick cleanup by loading containers of peanut butter, peanuts, crackers, marshmallows, and other goodies into her dishwasher. “Thanks to modern technology… dual-purpose dishwasher,” she joked.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Chip-Gaines-Joanna-Gaines-110723-c8e75e4e0e0041f59eb60913a680c401.jpg)
The resourcefulness didn’t stop there. Gaines revealed further hiding spots, including her utensil drawer filled with walnuts and pecans, and the space under her sink overflowing with almond bark, rice cereal, and other treats. “Thank goodness for extra storage under the sink,” she quipped, assuring viewers that “no one will ever know.”
Gaines’s Instagram followers responded with amusement and admiration for her creative solution. Many commented on their own similar experiences, finding solidarity in her relatable holiday chaos. One commenter declared themselves a “master stasher,” while another praised Gaines for her “impeccable taste” and relatable personality.
This isn’t the first time Gaines has offered glimpses into her family life and personal values. In a previous interview with PEOPLE, she discussed the importance of family traditions and her children’s contributions to their home décor. Her son Crew, 6, frequently gifts her with natural treasures found outdoors, creating unique collections of acorns, shells, and flowers displayed throughout the house.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/Chip-Gaines-Joanna-Gaines-110723-c8e75e4e0e0041f59eb60913a680c401.jpg)
Gaines’s candid approach to holiday stress resonates with many who find themselves overwhelmed during the festive season. Her humorous kitchen hack offers a lighthearted reminder that perfection isn’t necessary and that embracing imperfections can be both relatable and endearing. Her story underscores the importance of finding joy in the simple moments and connecting with loved ones, even amidst the chaos of the holidays.
