September 2016 – user's Blog!

September 27, 2016

Fabulous Fall Sweaters Under $30 You Can’t Live Without

Summer is coming to a close. Now we have colorful leaves, spiced drinks, and cool weather to look forward to. Those chilly days out in the sun are perfect for wrapping up in a warm, comfy sweater and rocking that fall fashion look. But you want to do more than keep from shivering – you want to keep from breaking the bank before the holidays roll around.

Fashion can be frugal. Here are a few of the absolute must-have fall sweaters – gorgeous, spunky, and all under $30.

V Neck Batwing Sleeve Loose Sweater

Some looks never go out of fashion. With its extremely warm wool look matched to a style perfect for reclining under a tree with a good book or setting out on the town to see some unexplored parts of the city, this sweater is sophisticated, casual, and most of all – comfy! The airy sleeves are perfect for keeping you mobile with an extra bit of flair, and the neutral color will go with any outfit. Just pull it over your blouse when you want a bit of extra style and warmth, and you’re ready to go for just $23.99. You can get it at an even more frugal price by using coupons from Ebates plus Cash Back.

Longline Button-Down Cardigan

Something airy, easy to throw on if you’re in a hurry, and most importantly, something comfy to tug around you when the autumn chill catches in the air, this cardigan is slimming, soft, and super fashionable. The warm wine color is a perfect addition to any of your light colored outfits, and when you feel like curling up in your favorite nook with a book or Netflix, pull up the full hood to complete the cozy picture while keeping your ears toasty. With a price of $14.90 at Forever 21, it’s easy to match this up with a new pair of ankle boots without cutting into your Christmas savings thanks to Cash Back at Ebates.

Grey High Neck Cable Knit Sweater

Nothing beats those really chilly days or those windy weekends when you cuddle up with a warm drink and low lighting – and for those days, this sweater will keep you extra warm and extra cozy. With a thick, wool-like knit design, it’s all the classy and cute you can find in chic gray color. Featuring braided patterns up the arms and the front, it’ll keep you looking classic while the warm, high collar provides a lean, prestigious look. Perfect for a formal event or for meeting up with friends, it’s a great savings option for its price of $24.17 and for its ability to keep you warm in both fall and winter!

Sweater Tank

If you’re looking for double the sweater for double the combo options and warmth, then this tank-top style sweater is perfect for a customized outfit. With its slim design, it’s great on its own if the weather isn’t too chilly or if you’re hanging out indoors by a warm fire. It comes in both blue and white at a frugal price of just $29.99, so you can buy it in both colors, or order a jacket to achieve that layered look. Ultra soft and extra warm, if the sun comes out and the breeze stops, you can slip off your sleeves and let your shoulders take in some rays without getting too cold or too warm. As an added bonus, if you use a coupon from Ebates, you can save even more on the tank or get a great price on a second, heavier sweater.

Draped Tassel Sweater Shawl

With free-flowing sleeves and more than a touch of elegance, this light design will really catch people’s attention. The dusty rose color is a perfect transition from summer to fall. It’s soft, it’s airy, and it’s especially ideal during those not-quite-cold and not-quite-hot days where you want the perfect sweater to look great when you’re not sure about the weather. Whether you choose to use it as a wrap or a scarf, this is a perfect grab-and-go piece that will make you look effortlessly cool. At just $15.90 from Forever 21, it’s irresistible as both a fashion statement and a deal.

Keep warm and stay fashionable this fall by adding these beautiful sweaters to your wardrobe, all for under $30.

September 23, 2016

9 Native-Owned Etsy Stores to Shop on Native American Day

Festival season is coming to a close and Halloween is right around the corner. What do these two things have in common? They both increase the likelihood that you will see a non-Native person donning a headdress and face paint in an egregious act of appropriation. Native American culture is something to celebrate. What better way to do that than supporting Native artists and makers? Native American Day is observed every fourth Friday of September, which makes today the perfect day to treat yourself to Native American jewelry, art, accessories and more at these nine Native-owned Etsy stores. Discover quality, handmade Native American goods all with Cash Back at Ebates.

Seeworks

A handmade guitar strap is the perfect gift for the musical genius in your life. The best part is they’re one of a kind, which always makes gifts extra special.

ThunderKin

Native American jewelry is knowN for it’s silver and turquoise but detailed beading like this is its real staple.

AuthenticNativeMade

These gorgeous baby moccasins are hand beaded and one of a kind. You can go with a traditional pair like the one above or pairs featuring your favorite superheros like Batman or Wonder Woman.

RavenSongStudio

Opal is also a traditional Native American material and this minimalist rings are as elegant as they are stunning.

cherokeewhisper

Give your home a Southwestern flair with this hand painted jug, a unique and authentic mantelpiece.

ATouchofNativeBeauty

This bracelet and ring set is simple while making a statement. Pair these pieces with your fall outfits for just a touch of color.

NativeHorizon

Fringe is in! This shoulder bag is of higher quality than anything similar you would find in department stores.

UnrestrainedArts

Add some color to your wall decor with this painted wood-slat installation.

Highway66Treasures

Jewelry is one way to make a statement but an edgy watch like this is quite another.

Which of these stores is now on your Etsy favorites list? Let us know with a comment below!

September 22, 2016

9 Ways to Look Your Best for Less at Ulta Beauty

The kids can have their candy stores. Ulta Beauty is where grown-ups find the real treats. Ulta.com offers a proverbial rabbit hole to explore the endless array of goodies to protect, cover and treat yourself from head to toe. From shampoos and oil treatments to nail polishes and callus removers, the minds at Ulta Beauty Supply have thought of it all. While you’re filling your shopping cart and making a wish list of all your wants and needs, be sure to make the most of all of the incredible ways to save at Ulta Beauty.

1. Sign Up for Ultamate Rewards

Ulta Beauty loves to spoil its Ultamate Rewards members, so why not earn rewards on the wonderful Ulta Beauty products you’re already purchasing? A membership grants you access to the best savings, discounts and deals Ulta Beauty has to offer. You’ll get top-secret offers and the best opportunities to save sent directly to your inbox, so you’ll never miss out on a great deal.

As a member, you’ll earn points on every purchase, which you can redeem for anything your heart desires. You’ll have the opportunity to earn up to five times the points on every purchase. Ulta Beauty has you covered for your birthday too. To help you celebrate, Ulta offers a special free gift as well as double points for your entire birth month.

2. Save When You Buy Multiples

Throughout the year, Ulta offers special promotions to give you fantastic savings when you buy multiples of your favorite hair-care, skin-care and beauty goods. There’s no need to choose between two perfect nail colors when you can have them both!

3. Free Gift With Purchase

Bring home a little something extra with the goodies you’re getting. Ulta Beauty offers an ever-changing selection of items with all kinds of freebies as long as supplies last. You can stock up on your favorite shampoo or sign on for a new fragrance, and you may very well find yourself with a special treat.

4. Make the Most of Sales

Ulta Beauty offers its customers incredible savings throughout the year. From heating irons to big-name cosmetics to salon-quality hair care, you’ll find Ulta spoiling its customers with incredible savings. Scroll through Ulta’s ultimate sale section to find the savings that best suit you.

5. Keep an Eye Out for Online Ulta Coupons

Toting around a binder full of printable coupons may not be your thing, but there’s no reason to skip out on savings when there’s so little effort required. You can use Ulta’s coupons online, and maximize your savings with Cash Back at Ebates. These special Ulta coupons may be for specific products, such as lip glosses or lotions, or they may be valid for any single item or applied toward your overall purchase.

[ebatesads id=”in-post”]

6. Free Shipping Right to Your Doorstep

Bargain-hunting shoppers love a good shipping deal, and you can’t get much better than free. Ulta Beauty often offers free shipping on orders with a minimum purchase. Spend as little as $50 to get free shipping, and you could find your beauty goodies at your doorstep without spending a dime to get them there.

7. Get the Ulta Goods

Ulta Beauty knows about beauty products, which is why it offers its own ULTA Collection. These tried-and-true products offer the high quality you love from your big-name cosmetics without the big-name prices. Best of all, Ulta often offers special savings and deals on these exclusive products that you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Try Out a Free Sample

Ulta Beauty offers free samples with every online order. You’ll be able to try out a wide range of products, and you may just find a new favorite that you can’t live without.

9. Last-Minute Holiday Gifts

If you put off your holiday shopping to the last minute, don’t worry. Ulta Beauty has you covered! From stocking stuffers to the ultimate beauty gifts, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. Get your goodies in an easy gift box or hand select the perfect items for everyone on your list. Give them their favorite brands or introduce them to the latest products that are sure to win them over. Not only will you find a great selection of last-minute holiday gifts, but you’ll also find gift cards that’ll get the smile you’re after.

Ulta Beauty is all about offering you the best savings on high-end beauty products so you can walk out the door feeling beautiful. With Ulta coupons, you’re sure to find the best prices on your favorite beauty products. So go ahead and shop Ulta’s amazing assortment of products, spice up your routine with a dash of color and save on the hottest looks that leave you radiant.

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Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

How to Create the Perfect Fall Office Wardrobe

We spend about one third of our lives – and up to 50% of our total waking hours – at work. By comparison, we spend about the same amount of time on meals, social events, entertainment and household activities combined. The silver lining of this is that when you have a strong work wardrobe centered around multi-purpose pieces, you set yourself up to look fabulous all day, every day.

Just like a balanced work life, a balanced office wardrobe can be the key to being happier and less stressed overall. You can do this by dedicating your wardrobe to five simple categories. Read through our what to wear to work guide to find our top tips on building a great wardrobe of work outfits that is also full of play-friendly pieces. Follow our shopping tips to find out how to save big on fall office wear items from our top stores and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you shop.

30% of Your Work Wardrobe: Work Only

No matter where you work, there are sure to be certain unspoken dress code rules. From the office to the workshop to the classroom, each job has its own kind of must-have clothing. Whether you need a stable of suits or hard-wearing washables, those pieces that are the foundation of your professional outfits should make up close to a third of your closet. These items should be exclusively work wear and you should try to keep them separate from your casual, exercise or around-the-house clothes. This way, when a piece wears out, you don’t create a gap in your whole wardrobe. A tailored no-iron dress shirt from Lands’ End is the perfect addition to your fall work clothes wardrobe because of its classic styling and ease of care.

10% of Your Work Wardrobe: Transitional

There are two kinds of transitional clothing: one kind made for changing weather and one kind made for changing circumstances. Weather-transitional pieces like medium-weight sweaters, cotton twill pants or accessories like scarves can be worn as temperatures fluctuate. Event-transitional pieces like cardigans or mid-length dresses can be worn from work to play and back again. Give a tenth of your work wardrobe to these types of purchases to give your look flexibility. It’s important to be able to choose an outfit that helps you feel ready for whatever surprises come your way. A light short-sleeved cardigan from LOFT is fit for both warm weather and cool and will fit in to any scene, from professional to casual.

10% of Your Work Wardrobe: Seasonal

Every time of year has its staple wardrobe items that are specific to that season. Winter has boots, spring has sundresses and summer has beachwear. You may be sad to see summer go, but fall does have the widest range of seasonal wear. Fall clothing trends range from cold-weather outerwear to sunny day sandals. Stock up on fall work fashion trends with a fall business casual promo code from Ebates and add flexibility to your whole wardrobe for less. An October sweater could come in handy on a cool evening in April or a long-sleeve layering tee could be useful on a warm winter afternoon. A neutral-tone animal print sweater by Bloomingdale’s made with a mid-weight cashmere for a lightweight layering piece is a perfect seasonal pick for autumn weather.

VIA SPIGA Women’s Prim, $194.95 (Shoes.com)

30% of Your Work Wardrobe: Personal

It’s important to be able to express your personal style at work. Dedicate a sizeable portion of your fall wardrobe to letting people know just what style you love. The most fun and affordable way to do this is with accessories and shoes. When your personal accents are not seasonally dependent, like earrings or a handbag, you can keep your personal sense of style clear and strong throughout the year. Signature shoes can always spice up your favorite cute work outfits and business clothes for women can get a personal flair with items like belts and pins.

20% of Your Work Wardrobe: Annual

Although a good wardrobe can be timeless, part of the fun of the season is shopping for the newest trends in fall office wear for this year. It’s crucial to keep 20% of your fall work outfits fresh and on trend each year. Get your hands on the most on-trend items for 2016 to keep your workday look up to date. Newly arrived at Ralph Lauren are on-point wool-blend herringbone jackets that are a must-have piece for 2016.

Wendy Williams Perforated Faux-Leather Skirt, $54.95 (HSN)

Which Trends to Wear at Work

You don’t have to replace the basics you already have to be on-trend this year. Just add a flash of this season’s colors. The fall color palette for 2016 is full of rich earthy colors accented with jewel-tones and metallics. A classic blue trench coat can be made chic with the addition of a silver statement pin or oversized eggplant purple scarf. Even your favorite old jeans can be on point when paired with a red belt or yellow flats.

Mixing the traditional with the unexpected is another trend for this fall. Try classic silhouettes in unusual fabrics like an A-line or skater skirt in perforated leather and top it with a blazer or cardigan. Spice up an office wear staple, like the mid-heel pump, by choosing an eye-catching color like a deep autumnal orange.

The fall look for 2016 is all about layers and volume. Don’t be afraid of volume-adding cuts like bat-wing sleeves or skater dresses. Keep your look balanced by wearing fitted foundation layers like body-hugging tees and tailored tops. With a sleek look underneath and billowing outer wear, your look will be breezy, cozy and fashion forward.

September 17, 2016

How to Throw an Epic End-of-Summer BBQ

Summer is almost a wrap and everyone is sad to see it go – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t throw it a goodbye party! As the last few days of summer will soon be here, now is the perfect time to throw an end of summer BBQ for your friends and family. Check out this simple list of BBQ tips and summer BBQ party ideas and get ready to get the gang together for one last summer shindig. As an added bonus, you’ll get Cash Back at Ebates with your purchase at any of the mentioned stores. Happy party planning!

1. Plan Your BBQ Menu Around Summer Favorites

Your final summer BBQ is a great time to feature everyone’s favorite summer BBQ food. Grilled shrimp, lobster, chicken and burgers are all premium choices. Make sure you don’t forget about those summer BBQ side dishes that you’ll miss the rest of the year, too! Veggie skewers, portobello burger bites, grilled corn, watermelon and a classic coleslaw will round out the meal. This is no time to skimp on your summer favorites! Throw a checkered tablecloth on those tables and live up the summer fun for one more day with a summer BBQ menu before fall officially arrives. Looking for fun summer BBQ ideas? Consider doing a BBQ sauce tasting! Cost Plus World Market has a great selection of sauces available online for your summer BBQ along with a ton of other great supplies to make your BBQ ideas come to life.

2. Consider the Temperature When Planning Your Party

Depending on your region, the end of the summer can mean cooler days and even cooler nights. Take your area’s climate into consideration and either plan to host your BBQ during the day or pick up some outdoor heaters from Walmart to keep your guests comfortable outdoors at night. Be sure to keep an eye out for an outdoor heater or lighting promo code as the summer comes to a close!

3. Prep Your Food Early and Offer Pitcher Perfect Drinks

Don’t miss out on your last party of the summer by spending the whole time cooking or mixing drinks – plan ahead! Make any food and drinks you can ahead of time to save your energy for the day of the party. You can make a big batch of your favorite summer drink ahead of time and put into it into a festive punch bowl from Crate and Barrel.

4. Live it up With Some Summer Fun

Don’t forget about the games when it comes time to throw your end of summer BBQ party! Make it a party people won’t forget until next summer rolls around with great summer games like bag toss, volleyball, badminton or other summer classics. Set up some games, like an awesome horseshoes set from Rakuten.com, and be sure to keep an eye out for an end of the season promo code.

5. Pack Away All Your Summer Stuff as You Pick Up

You can plan your party décor and activities around all the stuff that will need to be packed away at the end of the summer season. If the arrival of fall means the end of your outdoor party season, get your storage containers ready for the end of the party. You’ll tackle two tasks in one when you pack up your summer party supplies and tuck them away until next year. If you need storage bins, check out the amazing supply online at The Container Store and get everything you need to keep organized so you’ll be ready to launch the next epic bash next summer!

September 16, 2016

Here’s How to Rock 10 NYFW Trends for Less

New York Fashion Week is almost over and if you’ve been paying attention, you’re probably knee-deep in fall fashion inspiration. But if you’re worried about scoring designer and celebrity looks for less, fret not. We’ve rounded up some NYFW trends you can grab with Cash Back at Ebates for as little at $15! From shoes and accessories to must-have fall dresses, these pieces will easily complete your closet without busting your budget. Look like a star without the Hollywood paycheck with these 10 affordable celebrity style and designer-inspired staples.

The Sheer Paneled Blouse

White Sheer Lace Blouse, $14.90 (Choies)

One of the most-seen New York Fashion Week trends was sheer garments and paneling for a sexy accent.

The Rose Coat

Alice Boutique Silky Duster, $52 (Boohoo.com)

Pink and rose gold are still super hot colors for fall, making this duster your go-to statement piece of outerwear.

The Silver Shift

Eva Metallic Plunge Neck Shift Dress, $18 (Boohoo.com)

The runways saw their fair share of silver dresses in a loose, basic cut for a glam-meets-edgy aesthetic.

The Floral Maxi

Free People Printed Maxi Dress, $109.99 (Macy’s)

A bright, long-sleeve maxi brings a little summer sun into your fall wardrobe with some extra coverage to protect you from the cold.

The Lace Bomber

Nikibiki Floral Lace Bomber Jacket, $42.99 (Overstock.com)

Bomber jackets are very popular but lately they have been given an ultra-femme twist with florals and lace.

The Retro Handbag

Honeycomb Chenille Bag, $70 (Etsy)

With cutesy floral prints and chunky wooden handles, these 60s-inspired bags will add a little flower power to your fall looks.

The Geometric Shades

Le Specs ‘Savanna’ 51mm Sunglasses, $69 (Nordstrom)

Round lenses and square frames make for one head-turning pair of shades for those occasional bright days ahead.

The Belt Bag

Wendy Belt Bag, $58 (Rebecca Minkoff)

Belt bags aren’t going anywhere and are even getting bigger and bolder for a serious throwback to 80s style.

The High Waist Corduroy

Sammie Pant In Corduroy, $89.50 (J.Crew)

Colorful cords with a straight, boyfriend cut and high waist are a 70s-meets-90s trend you definitely want to try out.

The Orange Slingback

NINE WEST Slingback Pumps, $23.70 (Lord and Taylor)

Orange is the new red when it comes to pops of color for fall, making these sleek slingbacks a must-have.

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change

September 14, 2016

The Best Fall Fashion Trends Hot off the Runway

High fashion runways may seem too far removed from everyday style to really inspire your own closet. But this season has a bevy of easy-to-adapt trends to take your fall looks up a notch. Before you start shopping for your fall outfits, take a look at our favorite designer trends and head-turning pieces you can get in all price points with Cash Back at Ebates. From dresses to shoes and accessories, we’ve got the most important fall styles all in one place. Here’s our complete guide to Fall 2016 trends hot off the runway.

Velvet has been a holiday style staple for as long as we can remember. However, wearing velvet from top to bottom is a new statement maker. Push the envelope with your fall outfit ideas and add some of these stylish pieces to your collection.

FRENCH CONNECTION Dilyla Velvet Booties, $165 (Bloomingdale’s)

You can literally pair a velvet bootie with anything, from jeans to a sassy leather skirt.

Lauren Ralph Flared Velvet Pants, $115 (Macy’s)

These pants evoke some serious 70s style with a flared leg that’s perfect with block heels.

Pleated Velvet Wrap Dress, $74 (Topshop)

You won’t have to leave this velvet dress hanging until holiday gatherings. Its simple wrap style is totally office-appropriate.

Puffer jackets are a cold-weather necessity for many. Now, designers have turned them into a fall trends staple for all climates. From full-length fabulous to cute and cropped, check out these must-own puffer coats.

S13 ‘Kylie’ Quilted Jacket with Removable Hood, $200 (Nordstrom)

Metallic outerwear is one of the most popular fall fashion trends in and of itself. So this coat is completely on point.

Rampage Faux-Fur-Trim Puffer Coat, $61.99 (Macy’s)

Fear not the bulky silhouette. This belted piece won’t hide your waist while keeping you warm.

Cropped Puffer Jacket, $ 348.00 (Brooks Brothers)

A cropped style like this is perfect for maxi dresses and high-waisted pants.

Hello 80s! 90s nostaligia may still be riding a high wave but 80s trends are peeking through in the form of one-sleeved and -shouldered cuts. What’s more, these styles are not just for evening. You can find asymmetrical styles for everything from brunch to band practices.

Asymmetrical Top, $19.90 (Forever 21)

Rock it as a dress or a tunic with leather-look leggings to really commit to this throwback style.

David Meister Patterned One-Shoulder Dress, $249.99 (Saks OFF 5TH)

For evening, go bold with black leather and a pattern or texture that will make a lasting impression.

Kourtney Bodycon Dress, $31 (Tobi)

Your weekend casuals have plenty of room for an off-kilter cut. This dress is just as adorable with sneakers as it is with pumps.

Get ready to rock. Guitar strap purses are the new go-to accessory. With lavish embroidery and sparkling embellishments, these bags and straps will turn any look up to 11.

Rebecca Minkoff Embroidered Guitar Bag Strap, $95 (Nordstrom)

Take your favorite bag up a notch in seconds flat with this gorgeous strap to give your OOTD a psychadelic 60s vibe.

STEVE MADDEN Swiss Faux Leather Crossbody, $88 (Nordstrom)

This crossbody bag is perfect for your weekend chambray shirts and dresses. A little bit of fringe thrown in makes this the quintessential retro bag for fall.

SONOMA Guitar Strap Crossbody Bag, $36 (Kohl’s)

This designer look doesn’t have to come with the designer price tag! Add this simple yet stylish purse to your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Dainty pendants and skinny chokers, your number is up. Big and bold collars are the new centerpiece to your fall styles. Get ready to deck your neck with these no-nonsense pieces.

Tucker Statement Necklace, $58 (Nasty Gal)

Tribal inspired in glimmering gold, this choker is the perfect finishing touch to any deep V in your wardrobe.

Oceane Choker, $68 (BaubleBar)

Add some bling to your office blazers and tops with this jeweled choker.

Faux Rose Choker, $5.90 (Forever 21)

Indulge your inner flower child with this precious rose choker. This necklace pairs fabulously with off-shoulder tops.

Which of these pieces is now at the top of your wishlist? Let us know with a comment below!

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change.

September 14, 2016

Face the Rainbow With the MAC Good Luck Trolls Collection

You may have heard that your favorite baby-butted, crazily coifed toys were getting their own motion picture, but did you know you’ll be able to wear a rainbow face to the premier? Trolls the movie comes out this November but MAC Good Luck Trolls makeup is here now! With bright lid pigments, shimmering glitters, luscious glosses and more, the MAC Good Luck Trolls collection is the statement-makup lover’s fantasy come true. But for the rest of you who like to keep your colors a little low key, there are plenty of products to add just a tiny kick to your everyday face, like MAC Trolls beauty powder and their pearly pink eye shadow. While the entire Good Luck Trolls MAC collection can be yours with Cash Back at Ebates, we picked just a few of our favorites to add to our beauty wishlists–especially in time for Halloween!

Before you dive deep into MAC Troll makeup shopping, check out this adorable video featuring some mischievous makeup-thieving Trolls! Then pick up your favorite items ASAP because you know what they say–“hair” today, gone tomorrow.

ATLANTIC BLUE Eye Shadow, $17

Apply this shade as an all-over, electric smokey eye or mix with a little water to create one daring liner.

CHARTREUSE Pigment, $22

This loose powder pigment will pair amazingly with a deep lip for a fun contrast that will turn heads–fuzzy or otherwise.

REFLECTS Transparent Teal Glitter, $22

Add a touch of glitter to your lip, lids or cheeks for those special occasions that call for a little “outrageous.” We call them Tuesdays.

DANCE OFF PANTS OFF Lipstick, $18

This frosted hot pink MAC Trolls lipstick is fabulous with a little mascara and neutral blush to really let those lips pop.

GLITTER GRUNGE Lipglass, $17

Go all out and pair this glittery gloss with the darkest smokey eye you can muster. After all, grunge is in the name.

GLOW RIDA Beauty Powder, $28

This amazing highlighter will make your feel like a golden goddess. It’s a must-have for your upcoming holiday looks.

187 SH DUO FIBRE Face Brush, $43

No makeup look can be half as successful without the right tools. This brush is essential for both application and blending.

TEASE AND THANK YOU Chroma Craze, $25

And now, the Pièce De Résistance–a bright spray-on hair color that completes your transformation. Or should we say Trollnsformation?

September 13, 2016

A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Meal Planning

When it comes to family life, making meals that are tasty and filling, keeping your schedule from becoming a nonstop cook-a-thon, and not spending a fortune on groceries at the same time is a tall order.

But meal planning can fix this. Match it with coupons from Ebates and Cash Back, and what you have is a recipe for saving money, saving time, and eating better than before.

So, if you’ve never made a meal plan before, where do you start?

1. Work with what you have. There’s no need to run out and restock your entire kitchen. On the contrary, the idea is to save money and effort, so the best first step is just to stay put. Look through your cupboards, refrigerator, and freezer to see what kind of food you already have. What could you creatively turn into a meal already? If you can’t make a week’s worth of meals with what you already have, what side dishes do you need to complement what you do have? Once you have used up your current selection and are running out of supplies, then you go shopping.

2. Have the “heavy hitters” for the week. If you break up your dinners into two main dishes for the week, you’re accomplishing a few things. You’re making it possible to buy those chicken breasts or lasagna plates in bulk at a lesser price than buying a small one every week for one meal. You’re saving a lot of effort by not making elaborate and different meals every day. And you’re making it possible to have leftover night with the food left in the fridge from the previous day. You can rotate what these meals are every week. Perhaps you’ll have chicken and fish one week, and pasta and burgers the next.

3. Don’t forget snacks. When the kids need something to munch on before dinner or your blood sugar is a little low, it’s the perfect concoction for messing up a meal plan. You end up making the meal early and are hungry later, or dinner is spoiled and you’ve wasted a lot of food. So make sure to add snacks to your list. Something as small and healthy as a granola bar will take the edge off and give you a boost of energy without upsetting the plan, and the best part is, they’re cheap.

4. Your shopping list is law. Laws don’t bend to the will of a toddler who really wants chicken tenders or a bag of Reese’s that is just dying to jump in your basket. In order for meal planning to actually work, you need to create a shopping list that is highly detailed and non-negotiable. Before you walk out the door, look at each item and decide if there’s a really good reason that it’s there – not just because it looks nice. Not only will this make your family healthier, but you’ll save money by not making impulse purchases. Even better: Your house won’t be full of dishes without sides that end up ruining your entire meal plan when your family feels tempted.

5. Get your calendar involved. Get yourself a new calendar, because when you start meal planning, you’re going to need a schedule. If you’re going out to dinner one evening with the whole family as a treat, then there’s no need to buy extra food to plan for that meal. If you’re having a potluck on Tuesday and are in charge of the casserole, then it’s smart to make that one of your two weekly meals so you can buy the supplies in bulk for less money (Sam’s Club is great for this). Also, by charting out what is being served for each meal every day, it eliminates that snackish feeling and cancels out the craving to just buy pizza instead – which can be both pricey and unhealthy.

6. Base your meals on sales. Planning meals is a great way to save money, and it becomes even more cost effective if you follow this next step. Browse through the fliers local stores send you to not only gain inspiration for some yummy new dishes to try out, but also to take advantage of the sales to customize the week’s meals. If beef is on sale, then chicken week is out the window – you can have burgers for much less. Browse sites like Ebates to see which stores are offering the best deals, such as Walmart.

September 13, 2016

5 Warm and Affordable Destinations for Your Dream Holiday

The holidays can be a frantic time of year and can sometimes feel full of obligations. Fortunately, the holiday season is also a great time to find incredible savings on getaway travel. If you’ve ever daydreamed about skipping Thanksgiving dinner or playing hooky on Christmas Eve, there are countless budget travel destinations to consider. To cover the spread, we have selected five different types of holiday destinations that are sure to please any type of traveler. From beach bum to businessman, thrill-seeker to spa-seeker, our cheap holiday destinations are sure to give everyone an excellent reason to miss the office holiday party this year. Peruse through these affordable holiday destinations and you will find deep seasonal discounts on airfare, hotel accommodations and car rentals. Take a flight of fancy, cruise through your options and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you book holiday travel at our top stores.

For Sun and Sand: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Affordable beach destinations get even more affordable during the holidays when most people only travel domestically to be with family. Some of the world’s top cruises and resorts break out their best pricing for travel between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Our top destination for sun soaking is Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic boasts dozens of all-inclusive resorts that offer a first-rate vacation at rock bottom prices for travel around Christmastime. The average low temperature in December is a gorgeous 72 degrees with low rainfall and 4-star hotels rooms can be found for less than the cost of that drone on your nephew’s wish.

When you’re ready to book your holiday travel, check out the all-inclusive deals at Hotwire. You can save hundreds on four-star and five-star hotels and have your food, drinks and entertainment all rolled into one great budget travel deal.

For Quiet: The Seychelles Islands

Get away from group gatherings and find some peace and rest during the holidays at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. If this sounds perfect, you should immediately search for travel options to the Seychelles. The Seychelles is a group of 115 islands, only 30 of which are populated. Although there is plenty of wildlife, it’s pretty easy to avoid crowds of people. With exceptional sailing, snorkeling, fishing and surfing, the island paradise of the Seychelles is a beautiful destination year-round. The great news is that prices usually drop November-January making it one of the most desirable and affordable destinations in the world.

Book your stay with Priceline and choose from affordable hotels, luxury apartments, resorts and spas in Victoria, La Reunion, Anse Boileau or Anse Volber Village in Seychelles. Take your holiday in paradise without spending a small fortune!

For Adventure: Venezuela

Adventure destinations are usually seasonally dependent and the most common holiday adventure packages involve ice and snow, or at least a heavy sweater. However, in Venezuela, the “Lost World” jungle boasts mild temperatures and breathtaking sights. Visit Auyan-tepui to see the world’s highest waterfall, explore the Tepui sandstone mountains or hike the maze-like black-rock trail up Mount Roaima. Most flights to Venezuela come in and out of the capital city of Caracas which has a variety of accommodation options from cheap hotels to approved home-stays and luxury resorts.

Also check out Priceline for great deals on vacation packages to Venezuela and the chance to save up to $500 when you book. Priceline’s packages offer three-star and four-star hotels paired with budget-friendly flights to guarantee you the best savings.

For Inspiration: Barcelona, Spain

All across the world, the holiday season is a time for spectacles. From festivals to parades, concerts to sporting events, Christmastime offers the best in music, food and entertainment. One of the world’s best destinations from late November to late December is Barcelona, Spain. During the holiday season, Barcelona is alive with the best traditional crafts, cooking, singing, dancing and all around celebrating. The weather is mild and the streets of Barcelona at Christmas are ablaze with incredible light displays. Get drawn into traditional celebrations like the chocolate days and the Feast of Los Santos Inocentes which is similar to April Fool’s Day.

The best accommodations in Barcelona are often private homes for rent and this can be an excellent way to explore local culture. However, if staying with strangers isn’t your thing, Expedia offers travel packages to Barcelona that include accommodations in the city’s top five-star hotels. By booking a flight and hotel through Expedia, you can save up to $570 and they guarantee that their price is the best price available so there’s no risk.

For The Best Holiday Shopping in the World: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Let’s face it, there is no way you’re going to travel anywhere in the months between November and January without someone expecting a gift when you get home. Like they say, ‘tis the season! If you want to get all of your holiday shopping done for cheap while having an exceptional holiday getaway, your ultimate destination is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the largest shopping malls in the world and the Bukit Bintang retail area has bargains as far as the eye can see. The holiday months are the start of the peak season for Malaysian beaches on the west coast where Kuala Lumpur is located so you can do your shopping in paradise. You can expect blue skies, minimal rain and incredible savings – especially when you book your travel with a promo code from Ebates.

On top of great low prices on air travel and accommodations, Orbitz is also a prime resource for exclusive deals on car rentals. The more mobile you are, the better you can combine a beach vacation with bargain hunting because you can stay in a more secluded area without worrying about how to get into the center of town. With rentals starting at under $30 per day, Orbitz can make it possible for you to explore the beautiful country of Malaysia at your leisure.