In Partnership withMacy's Backstage

We Gave Our Social Media Manager $100 — Here’s What She Bought at Macy’s Backstage

Courtney BalestierSenior Writer, Creative Studio
Courtney BalestierSenior Writer, Creative Studio
Courtney Balestier is the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio Senior Writer. She holds a master's degree in magazine journalism from NYU and lives in Pittsburgh, where you'll find her doing DIY projects in her new house with her dog and cat (who are not being very helpful).
published Oct 28, 2025

Season’s greetings — hosting season, that is. If you love to entertain, this time of year is extra exciting: There are so many opportunities for bringing folks together.

Apartment Therapy Social Media Manager Sam O’Brochta likes to stay ready for those impromptu gatherings with a stash of servingware and decor that reflects her whimsical, colorful style. And she stocks up at a special store that shares her fun and spontaneous spirit: Macy’s Backstage.

Credit: Haley Rodriguez

A hidden gem tucked inside select Macy’s department stores, Macy’s Backstage has fresh finds daily: all hand-picked by dedicated buyers and sold at can’t-beat prices. With an ever-changing inventory, from tableware and candles to decor and fashion, Macy’s Backstage is the place to go for all those hosting extras you didn’t even know you needed.

On a recent visit, Sam found an eclectic mix of cookware, tableware, decor, and even a new outfit for her next soiree.

Credit: Samantha O'Brochta

Can’t-Beat Prices for On-Trend Items

At Macy’s Backstage, delightful accents come with delightful price tags, so you can set the scene without breaking the bank. Sam got two trendy flower-shaped candles for just $7.99 each. Their playful shapes and pastel hues fit right in with her decor. She also stumbled on a great stocking stuffer for her sister: an adorable cat-themed mug for just $4.99.

“When you’re shopping on a budget and can actually fill your cart, it’s an incredible feeling,” Sam says. “I appreciate not having to worry about overspending while exploring the aisles.”

Credit: Samantha O'Brochta

Dinner Party Essentials Under $25

Your next great dinner party starts here — even if you’re starting from scratch! With essentials like cookware and tableware, Macy’s Backstage makes it easier and more affordable to host with style. And with new arrivals daily, you never know what you’ll find. Sam snagged a lavender frying pan, whimsical floral placemats, and even a new outfit for her next dinner party. All that’s left to buy is the food.

Credit: Haley Rodriguez

“Not knowing what you’ll find makes it even more thrilling when you spot the perfect object — even if you didn’t know it existed. Sometimes, the best items are the ones you least expect.”

Samantha O’Brochta
Credit: Samantha O'Brochta

Back home, Sam set a cozy table with her new placemats and candles, which coordinate perfectly with her colorful dinnerware and glassware. The final result is unique, unexpected, and utterly affordable — just like Macy’s Backstage.

Sam’s Full Macy’s Backstage Haul

  • Blouse, $21.99
  • Skirt, $9.98
  • Placemats, $9.99
  • Pan, $12.99
  • Candle holder, $3.98
  • Candle holder, $2.98
  • Mug, $4.99
  • Flower candle, $7.99
  • Flower candle, $7.99

Total: $82.88