November 2016 – Page 3

November 13, 2016

90’s Throwback: Black Friday 1996

Ah, the ‘90s. The era of bucket hats, butterfly clips, the first Macintosh computers, “Friends,” and phones made for the sole purpose of actually making calls. A lot has changed in the decades since, and Black Friday is no exception.

Though the biggest sale day of the year has always drawn hearty crowds of savings-hungry shoppers, the craze of the holiday has increased tenfold in the past two decades. What was once a day of wildly low prices on the year’s most-wanted items is now a cultural phenomenon spanning an entire week, with its cousin Cyber Monday immediately following.

In 1996, we could watch the morning news broadcast live interviews with those few dedicated shoppers camped outside of electronics stores, determined to be the first to grab one of a limited stock of coveted Macintosh computers or Nintendo 64s.

This year, we’ll scroll through Twitter to see online versions of local news broadcasts showing interviews with scores of similar dedicated Black Friday veterans, though they’re more likely to be awaiting a chance to snag a new 50-inch TV, or an Apple product exponentially more advanced than that of its ’96 predecessors.

To see just how much things have really changed, check out this list of comparisons between Black Friday ads and sales in 1996 to projected Black Friday ads in 2016.

Electronics

Not only did technology — and the world — not come to a screeching halt in the year 2000, but the world’s fascination with and reliance upon technological innovation has increased tenfold in the years since.

Aside from the aforementioned Macintosh desktop, some of the other biggest electronics buys in ’96 were the 1.2 GB hard drive ($220 after rebate); the Motorola flip phone (free with contract); the Walkman (between $15 and $60); the 4MB memory upgrade ($30); 28.8 kbps modem ($280); 13-inch TV with built-in VCR ($300); CD Rom drive ($150); pagers ($70); and the Packard Bell desktop computer ($1,467 after rebate).

This year’s list of most-wanted tech items looks pretty similar to that from 1996, though much more advanced. Although most Black Friday 2016 ads aren’t live yet, there are some predictions based on previous years and current sales. According to TheBlackFriday.com, one of the hottest items on sale at Best Buy right now is the LG 55-inch 4K Ultra Smart HD TV, which may also be a Black Friday favorite. In 1996, we could barely fathom a smart TV, let alone an ultra-smart one. Also, some Black Friday aficionados are suggesting drones will be a big hit this year, though these are a bit of a wild card.

Games

Games, too, are traditionally a huge draw for Black Friday shoppers. In 1996, besides the Nintendo 64, the Sega Saturn was a major deal, selling for $200. The Super Game Boy was advertised at $40, as were PlayStation games. And lest we forget, before there were smartphone apps like Pokémon Go, there was the Tamagotchi, which, in ’96, sold for just a few weeks’ allowance, or $15.

This year, some Black Friday experts are suggesting the release of the Xbox One S and the rumored release of Sony’s PlayStation Neo, along with the discontinuation of Xbox 360s and Disney Infinity, will lead to major steals on gaming consoles. There are also a host of remastered video games about to be released, such as Bethesda, Call of Duty: Infinite, and Pokémon Sun and Moon, leading many to suggest that games will be a major Black Friday focal point.

Toys

Of course, no Black Friday would be complete without a mad dash to the toy aisle for the season’s most beloved toy. In 1996, the champions of children’s hearts everywhere were by far the Tickle Me Elmo doll and Beanie Babies. As for the latter, these were also a big hit with many teens and adults, rumored to gain significant value over time.

Today, some of the hottest toys of 2016, as named by Walmart, include the Nerf N-Strike Elite HyperFire Blaster, Razor Scooter, Paw Patrol Zooming Marshall, and the Sky Viper Streaming Drone. No word yet on which of these will be available for deep Black Friday discounts, but it’s likely the drone won’t be the only one flying off the shelves.

Entertainment

When it comes to pop culture, though the faces have changed, our hunger for it has stayed the same. While most of us nowadays watch TV and movies from our computers or flat-screens, back in ‘96 the wide-screen TV marked the dawn of a new era. Some of the hottest Black Friday deals on movies included films like “Forrest Gump,” “True Lies,” and “Braveheart” available from $9.99 to $15.95—or about the price of one month’s subscription to Netflix. When it came to the still-popular VHS, some of the coolest buys were “Buffy,” “Young Frankenstein,” “The Good Son” and “Alien Nation,” all on sale for $5.99 a piece.

This year, predictions for some hot entertainment buys include DVDs of popular movies like “Anchorman 2” and “Magic Mike XXL” on Blu-Ray for $9.72. You’ll also be able to grab titles like “The Walking Dead” and “True Detective”—full box sets for about $10 each.

Clearly, Black Friday has changed quite a bit over the past 20 years, but our love of shopping will never end.

November 12, 2016

12 Gifts for the Health Nut Who Has Everything

We all have the one friend. She’s up at 5 a.m. every morning for a run or she’s always checking out the next health food craze or she is definitely the one to go to for the best yoga tips. Her body is a fine-tuned machine and she keeps it at peek performance. So naturally, you’re looking for health and fitness gifts to get her this holiday season and the biggest challenge is finding something she doesn’t already have. We’ve combed the web for some of the best-rated, best-selling, and generally deemed can’t-live-without gifts for the health nut in your life. Whether you need gifts for healthy eaters or must-have gadgets for athletes, we’ve got it all right here with Cash Back at Ebates.

Fitbit Blaze

GPS tracker, heart rate monitor, step counter, distance tracker, calorie burn calculator. What can’t it do? Well, it can’t drag her out of bed in the morning. But good thing she has iron willpower anyway.

Nutri Ninja Blender Duo

Whether she is into juicing or making the ultimate protein shakes and smoothies, this all-in-one Ninja system is the best in the bizz.

Ventura M23CW Bicycle Computer

For hardcore cyclists, a good biking tracker is ideal. This wireless tracker calculates speed, distance and averages so she can always challenge her personal best. Other functions include a calorie consumption calculator, thermometer, metric/English conversion and auto powering on and off of the device.

BlenderBottle

No more bulky blenders when she’s on the go from work to workout. Just pour the water and protein powder, shake, chug and conquer.

Gold’s Gym Sauna Suit

Help her build up a good sweat no matter what the workout with this sauna suit from Gold’s Gym.

Fitbit Flex 2 Waterproof Activity Tracker

Technology is finally catching up for swimmers, making waterproof trackers better than ever. This one tracks your progress over time and even helps you recognize your sleep patterns.

Digital Kitchen Food Scale

Portion control is key and not everything can be measured in cups and spoons. A digital food scale is perfect for the person who is vigilant about their balanced diet.

5-in-1 Electric Mandoline Food Dicer

The hardest thing about eating healthy is the prep involved. But this state-of-the-art chopper makes veggie dicing and slicing a breeze.

Veggetti Pro

Help her cut carbs by replacing her favorite pastas with veggies! This spiralizer makes instant veggie noodles for healthy, delicious dishes.

The Language of Letting Go Journal: A Meditation Book

Healthy body, healthy mind. Remind her to take time out to breathe and be present to keep her mental health in line as well with a meditation journal.

Yoga Wheel with Premium TPE Mat Material

For advanced yogis, the wheel is the next step in taking her practice to new levels. Included is a 20-pose guide on how to use the wheel for balance and strengthening.

Vivi Life Fitness Counter Jump Rope

No need to count jumps. This rope does it for her with an electronic read-out and it adjusts for different heights.

November 11, 2016

A Guide for Making the Most of Singles Day

Singles Day is the biggest shopping day in the entire world — even bigger than Black Friday. Never heard of it? That’s because it’s hosted mainly in China, with Hong Kong and Singapore only recently adopting the holiday. Originally, it was a male-exclusive day of celebration, since the high population of men in China made it difficult for many to find the right girl. So they set up the day as a way to celebrate being single and to have better chances finding love.

Taking place November 11th, due to the symbolism of 11/11, this holiday brings in as much as $9 billion a year. But Singles Day is only just bleeding over to the Western world, and the savings aspect of shopping on that day hasn’t quite hit. It doesn’t need to. For you, Singles Day is a fantastic way to treat yourself right and remind yourself and your friends of all the advantages of singledom.

How Can You Make the Best of Singles Day?

Use Singles Day to Find Love

It sounds like the opposite of the point, doesn’t it? But Singles Day is a great way to evaluate your relationship status and decide if you should make a change. If you’re committed to staying single, that’s great! Perhaps help one of your friends work up the courage to reach out to a match. But if you’re looking for love, work up your own courage and ask out someone you like, message someone on Tinder, or ask around for a blind date. Who knows? This could be the day your status changes.

Take a “You” Day

Whether it’s going to the spa, taking the entire day to catch up on your favorite shows, treating yourself to those guilty pleasure snacks, or gaming until your eyes cross, Singles Day is about appreciating yourself and your value as a “whole,” not a “half.” So just as you’d love someone else to treat you right, treat yourself right, and make a commitment to having the most pampered day you can.

Hang out With Other Singles

It can get lonely for singles, so reach out to some of your friends and take the day to do something fun. You’ll brighten your spirits and brighten theirs as well, reminding each other that fun doesn’t have to come with a partner. Go to the park, go Pokémon hunting, or just stay at home and talk until the sun goes down. Whatever you do, make it fun.

Buy Yourself a Gift

You would never let Valentine’s Day come and go without buying the one you love a gift, so don’t let Singles Day pass without buying yourself something nice!

A Karaoke Night With Friends

You learn a lot about someone when you do karaoke — how well they can sing, how well they think they can sing, and if they really do improve with some liquid courage. It’s a great way to break the ice on a date, but it’s an even better way to create some funny stories and great moments with friends. Choose your favorite hole-in-the-wall for belting out your best or make that the after party once you finish a few glasses of luxury wine from Wine.com. The day is about you, so make it memorable!

A Good Movie With All Your Single Pals

Date nights are fun, but you can forget about the date — great company doesn’t have to be romantic, so grab your other single friends and treat yourselves to all the fun of a night out. Stock up on popcorn, decide who’s making the refill runs, and make it an entire night that reminds you of the good parts of being single. If you try out Dealflicks to see what sort of price cuts you could earn from the venture, you could even make it a full night of back-to-back movie watching.

November 10, 2016

The Best Jeans Under $50 You Can’t Go Without

Winter is just around the corner, and you know what that means: cute winter clothes. Long sleeves, cozy jackets, fluffy boots, and the best part of all — a pair of flexibly fashionable jeans. But finding jeans that look good and feel good for those low temperatures is pricey. How can you get the right price without breaking the bank? These six pairs of jeans are just what you’re looking for — and they’re all under $50.

1. Piper Skinny Jeans, $42 | Nordstrom

Skinny jeans never go out of fashion, and nothing looks cuter under an oversized winter jacket than a pair of petite jeans. These slim jeans are great for your form and even better for your bank account, coming in at $42. Add that to Cash Back coupons from Ebates, and you could afford to splurge on that pricey dream jacket. Better yet, you could stock up on a supply that will last you for several seasons.

2. Zco Destructed Boyfriend Jeans, $12.49 | Tillys

Guy jeans are just more comfortable, aren’t they? But getting hold of a pair that fits you perfectly is quite a task. At Tillys, you can get a pair of boyfriend jeans that hug you in all the right places for $12.49. With stylistic tears and deep pockets, they’re perfect for going out or snuggling up with a hot cup of cocoa.

3. Zip Ankle Skinny Jean Legging, $29.80 | Boden

These ankle jeans come in a soft array of colors that are perfect for professional or business events, though their legging material makes them deceptively comfy. At just $29.80, you can match them up with a light colored blouse and a pair of dark heels for a look that’s modern and professional.

4. Acid Pool Skinny Jeans, $31 |Nasty Gal

Comfortable, durable, and eye-catching, these skinny jeans come with a faded acid wash color that works with any outfit. Pair them with warm boots or a dark-colored sweater and you’ll not only look good, you’ll feel the comfort of thick, form-hugging material. At just $31 with Ebates’ Nasty Gal Coupons and promo codes, you’ll get your winter wardrobe for a crazy low price.

5. Levi’s 535 Super Skinny Jeggings, $39.99 | Bon Ton

Whether you’re hanging out in the cool weather with friends or building a snowman on a whim, nothing answers the call quite like jeggings. Levi’s 535 Jeggings rise up high on your middle and draw attention to a curvy or slim waist. They also give you that waist-hugging feel that’s perfect for a night out. Best matched with a pair of heels and a crop top, you can get your own for only $39.99 with Cash Back at Ebates.

6. Bristol Printed Skinny Ankle Jeans, $35.99 | Macy’s

Daring is the name of the game, with these form-fitting skinny jeans catching attention with their bright floral pattern. But just because they’re patterned doesn’t mean they’re too extreme. The softer color matched with the ultra-soft material makes them perfect with a light colored turtleneck or fashionable jacket, setting off the look without overwhelming it. When you spend just $35.99 on these jeans, you can afford to grab those high-calf winter boots to perfect the look.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 9, 2016

Your Complete Guide to Singles Day Sales With Cash Back

Singles Day is almost upon us! This special day is meant to both honor singletons and serve as an opportunity, for those who are a little over single life, to find love. While this growing holiday may not have started in the U.S., it is spreading like a wildfire bringing with it some serious savings. Some Singles Day sales could even give Black Friday a run for its money.

Stay on the lookout for special, last-minute sales announcements from top stores like AliExpress and even designers like Michael Kors. And don’t forget to top off your Singles Day shopping with Cash Back at Ebates! Here is a guide to get you started with coupons and promo codes that could save you big. Living the single life is always sweeter when you treat yourself so take advantage of today. You deserve it. Go forth and spoil yourself!

Andrew Marc

Get up to 80% off sitewide, plus additional 20% off with code SINGLES20. Valid 11/5-11/13.

See all Andrew Marc coupons>

Shop Andrew Marc with 4% Cash Back>

Farfetch

Take 22% off for 24 hours with code FF1122. Valid 11/11 only.

See all Farfetch coupons>

Shop Farfetch with 3% Cash Back>

Rebecca Minkoff

Enjoy 22% off the entire site with code DOUBLE11. Valid 11/11-11/12 on Ebates US and 11/11 on Ebates Korea only.

See all Rebecca Minkoff coupons >

Shop Rebecca Minkoff with 4% Cash Back>

Helzberg Diamonds

Save $25 on orders $199.99 and up, $75 on $499.99 and up, $200 on $1,299 and up, and more with code SINGLES. Valid 11/10-11/13.

See all Helzberg Diamonds coupons>

Shop Helzberg Diamonds with 2% Cash Back>

Light in the Box

Take $15 off your order of $130+ order with code 11LITB16. Valid 11/3-11/11.

See all Light in the Box coupons>

Shop Light in the Box with 6% Cash Back>

Luisaviaroma

Save 15% on all full-priced items with code PP1611. Valid 11/3-11/15.

See all Luisaviaroma coupons>

Shop Luisaviaroma with 4.5% Cash Back>

World of Watches

Get up to 85% off plus an extra 11% off with code SINGLESDAY11. Valid 11/10-11/12.

See all World of Watches coupons>

Shop World of Watches with 4% Cash Back>

Yoox Asia

Save 22% storewide (except kids section) plus free shipping on all orders with code PEPERO22. Valid 11/9-11/11.

See all Yoox Asia coupons>

Shop Yoox Asia with 3% Cash Back>

**Prices and Cash Back amounts subject to change.

3 Easy DIY Fantastic Beasts Costumes For Opening Night

70 years before Harry Potter was swept off to Hogwarts, magizooligist Newt Scamander arrives in New York City where trouble is brewing for the wizarding community, threatening to expose them to the general public. To make matters worse, the magical creatures Newt has rescued and stowed carefully away in his dimension-defying suitcase have gotten loose. Can he and a pair of savvy sisters recapture these Fantastic Beasts before they cause too much chaos? You’ll have to see the movie to find out! But before you do, consider showing up to opening night as Newt, Queenie Goldstein, or Porpentina Goldstein in one of these 1920s-inspired DIY costumes. All pieces can easily fit into your fall wardrobe and come with Cash Back at Ebates! Which one has you counting the days until the biggest movie premier of the year?

Newt

Blue Lapel Belt Waist Trench Coat, $29.90 (Choies)

Putting a feminine twist on this dapper look isn’t hard with this rich color palette. Plus, it’s cold out there. Time to invest in some long jackets!

Mustard Yellow Womens Vest, $25 (Etsy)

A cute denim vest like this also looks great with your fall sweaters.

Navy Bow Tie, $36 (Kohl’s)

We’re betting this little bow tie will make a fine re-gift for the holidays if it’s not totally your style. If it is, bonus!

Wooden Box Purse, $39.95 (Etsy)

Instead of lugging around a big leather case, opt for a cute box purse you can use for the rest of the season.

Queenie

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

The key to bubbly and friendly Queenie is her dainty pink coat, so start there with this sleek silky duster.

LUCY Paris Blouse, $32 (YOOX)

This adorable pink blouse will make a great addition to your work wardrobe.

Rib Knit Wrap Dress, $59 (Nordstrom)

And who can’t use a wrap dress for…anything? They are truly the most versatile piece of clothing you could own.

Riva Women’s High Heels, $49.99 (Kohl’s)

Sensible black pumps are every girlboss’ essential item.

Porpentina (Tina)

Heathered Bow Cloche, $78 (Brooks Brothers)

Thank goodness these precious little hats are back in style!

Wool Blend Trench Coat, $149.90 (Nordstrom)

If the hat and this coat aren’t a match made in heaven, we don’t know what is.

Loveletter Surplice Blouse, $25 (Tobi)

All you need is a plan cami underneath and you have a flowing blouse that is perfect for day-to-night.

Sailor Gouchos, $20.40 (Dressbarn)

We absolutely love gouchos as a summer-to-fall transition piece since they look just as cute with flats as they do with tall boots.

Brass Ball Locket, $18 (Etsy)

Top it all off with a unique gold locket and you are full-blown Tina.

And the finishing touch…

Wizard Wand, $24 (Etsy)

You didn’t think we would forget the wand, do you? One of these handmade cherry wood wands work for all three of these Fantastic Beasts costumes.

November 6, 2016

11 Things You Didn’t Know About Singles Day

If you live in the U.S., chances are you’ve never heard of Singles Day, which falls on November 11 every year. While the name may seem obvious as to its meaning and tradition, there is more to Singles Day than meets the eye, especially its reoccurring theme of elevens. So it’s only fitting that we present you with 11 fun facts about Singles Day and why it might just be your new favorite day of the year.

College Kid Created.

The first Singles Day celebrations date back to the 90s when Chinese co-eds at Nanjing University grew tired of lamenting over being partnerless and decided to celebrate it.
Boy’s Club.

November 11 was originally dubbed Bachelors Day but we all know the woes of single life cross gender boundaries. It wasn’t long before female students started joining in on the fun.
Anti-Valentine’s Day.

The holiday was meant as a protest to Valentines Day…so why is it in November and not February? Because…
One is the Loneliest Number.

11/11 was chosen because the numbers look like a congregation of singles. Get it?
It’s the Name that “Sticks.”

Chinese Singles Day is called Guanggun Jie which literally translates to “bare sticks holiday.” While thinking of yourself as a bare stick might not be terribly comforting, one thing about the Double 11 holiday definitely is…
Singles Day Can’t Be Beat.

Last year, Singles Day sales racked up a whopping $14.3 billion on Alibaba sites Tmall and Taobao alone. You can’t do that without offering rock-bottom prices. But Albiba’s Singles Day isn’t the only 1 day sale game in town. Nor is online shopping from China the only way to find amazing deals. Singles Day is spreading across the globe so look out for a promo code from your favorite store on “Double Eleven.” Add to that a little Cash Back at Ebates, and you’ve got a day to remember.
180 Million People Can’t Be Wrong.

That’s how many singles celebrate this day in China alone. That’s one slamming party!
Wine and Dine.

It’s a well-known Singles Day tradition to go out to dinner with friends. Each friend asks for a separate check to pay their own way and symbolize independence and prosperity–also a great way to avoid doing math to split a check. That’s always annoying.
Breakfast of Champions.

The morning of Singles Day is often started with a meal of four youtiao (deep-fried dough sticks) and a steamed bun. Why? To make the shape of 11.11 with the youtiao as ones and the bun as the dot in the middle! Cute, right?
Looking for Love.

Not all celebrators are single and loving it, which has made blind date parties very popular on this day. In 2011, the city of Shanghai hosted 10,000 singles in one of the biggest blind date events in history.
Put a Ring On It.

Every year on November 11 since 2011, Hong Kong and Beijing have reported a record number of weddings. Many people are also using this day to propose to their sweethearts. Maybe soon it will be called Single-No-More Day.

How To Master Holiday Home Decor

The holidays are just around the corner and that means giving your space a festive refresh. Explore how to master holiday home decor with our favorite tips and save on DIY supplies with Cash Back at Ebates.

Wrap Your Photos for Some Festive Flair.

Have art or family photos hanging on your walls? Choose classic wrapping paper with festive designs or opt for something metallic and chic for a modern touch. Wrap the photos, add some decorative ribbon and hang them back up for a simple holiday look using supplies you probably already have hanging around the house.

Fill Your Favorite Fruit Bowl with Ornaments.

Put a large fruit bowl on your dining table and fill it with your favorite holiday ornaments for a simple statement. Classic round metallic ornaments in silver and gold offer a modern look. Add pinecones or vary the ornament size for visual interest and you have the easiest holiday home decor ever.

Sweeten Things Up with Holiday Treats.

Create a sweet setup with simple holiday goodies. Use red and white striped peppermints and other festive candies and fill up clear jars or modern vases for easy holiday home decorating on a budget. Vibrant red cranberries make a gorgeous Thanksgiving-inspired touch.

Use Mini Ornaments to Make a Statement.

Add a simply chic touch to your home’s greenery with mini ornaments. Use small ornaments to decorate indoor plants for a fresh take on holiday home decorations. Use white lights for a chic touch and bring the lights and hardy plants to entranceways and porches to spread your holiday decorating ideas to your outdoor living space as well.

Float Ornaments for a Festive Ambience.

Add a whimsical flair to your Christmas holiday decor with clear filament string and classic round ornaments. Tie the string to each ornament hook and hang from light fixtures or hooks on the ceiling for a modern floating look. Especially adorable for a DIY holiday photo booth.

Design a Space-Saving Spruce.

Have a chalkboard wall? Draw your Christmas tree with chalk for a simple and fun addition to your holiday decor ideas. You (and the kids) can draw your own holiday ornaments and use different colored chalkboard pens to make lights. Another fun alternative: use green masking tape on your wall to shape a spruce on the wall.

Craft an Ornament Wreath.

All you need is a hot glue gun, a foam crafting wreath and your favorite holiday embellishments to create unique holiday decorations. Glue on ornaments, pinecones, cranberries or a fun mixture of everything for a dazzling DIY accessory worthy of your front door or window. Be sure to use a craft supplies promo code and save on your creation with Cash Back at Ebates.

Add Greenery to Your Space.

Freshly cut evergreens, juniper, holly and more will add a beautiful touch to mantels, shelves and table centerpieces. Pair with pinecones or even a few simple ornaments for some easy and modern Christmas home decor.

Spray Paint Twigs Silver & Gold.

Gather thin winter branches and spray paint in classic silver and gold, then display them in a tall vase for a pretty metallic pop. Perfect for your mantel and windowsills, too.

Create a Makeshift Chandelier.

Dangle ornaments, holiday ribbon or festive pom-poms from your light fixtures to give your space a holiday spin.

12 Big-Ticket Beauty Gifts to Grab Right Now

It’s that time again for beauty sales to start popping up on your radar and the perfect opportunity to kick your holiday shopping up a notch. We’ve picked out the hottest high-end beauty gifts at Sephora, from anti-aging kits to must-have makeup sets so you can sufficiently spoil your mom, BFF or maybe even yourself! While these top-of-the-line gifts will test your budget, you can get the best deal of the year with Sephora promo codes and beauty deals while stacking up Cash Back at Ebates.

Sparkle & Shine XL Traincase

A growing makeup collection needs an expert-level case and one this sparkly will definitely make her feel like an instant celeb.

Glitter Happy Brush Set

An artist is only as good as her tools. This expert brush set will add a little shimmer to her vanity set-up.

Drybar The Tress Press Digital Styling Iron

Expert hair tools can cost a pretty penny but you can cut the price tag with Sephora coupons.

Foreo LUNA™ 2 for Combination Skin

LUNA is a waterproof cleansing and anti-aging device for combination skin types that deeply cleanses while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

GLO Brilliant™ Teeth Whitening Device

If you’ve heard her despair about the cost of professional teeth whitening (because it is steep), this complete high-tech system is the perfect gift.

Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X

This can also be said for professional hair removal, whether it be waxing or laser. The Tria is a lasting investment in confidence.

Slip Silk Pillowcase

Bad news. Your pillowcase is wreaking havoc on your skin and hair with its harsh cotton. Put a stop to it with this heavenly silk replacement.

Dr. Jart+ Liftra™ 3-Step Contour Set

Need a facial pick-me-up? This set offers a complete skin care program for lifting and sculpting the look of the face with breakthrough technologies and formulas.

L’Occitane Deliciously Addictive Almond

Give dry skin the boot with this complete bath and body set filled to the brim with essential vitamins for radiant skin.

Bobbi Brown Bobbi To Glow Shimmer Brick Palette

Add a little shimmer to her fall MOTD with this expert eyeshadow palette.

Color Correction Must-Haves

Sephora + PANTONE UNIVERSE Correct + Conceal Palette, $49 (Sephora) | Gnome For The Holidays Airbrush Sponge Set, $18 (Sephora)

Contouring is so last year. Now it’s all about color correction. Take advantage of makeup sales and create your own perfect bundle with a color correction palette and sponge set!

November 3, 2016

Holiday Entertaining 101

Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. You can find amazing Christmas party ideas online. When you keep these holiday entertaining fundamentals in mind, creating a seasonal party is easy. Whether your holiday party is your first time hosting or if you’re a seasonal pro, we have everything you need to throw a memorable, enjoyable and affordable party.

Here are seven unique tips, from cocktails to themes to decorations. Plus, when you shop at any of the stores below, you’ll earn Cash Back at Ebates, which means even more money in your pocket for the holidays!

1. DIY Decoration Party

The autumn and winter holidays are all about decorations. If you want to entertain your guests and send them away with a special gift, stock up on the DIY materials for everyone to make their own seasonal decorating must-have. It’s a great way to start the party, get everyone in the holiday spirit and break the ice while making something fun and unique. Shop Joann Fabrics for all your craft needs and be sure to use an Ebates promo code at checkout to save.

2. Light Up the Night

Alternative lighting is the key to creating a festive atmosphere. Set the mood for your guests as soon as they walk in the door by turning off harsh overhead lighting and featuring small, soft light sources like string lights or votive candles. You can find a variety of beautiful candles that spread the scents of the season at ILLUME Candles where promo codes can save you a bundle.

3. Fun and Games

Games are a great way to entertain kids of all ages and get your guests chatting and laughing. Pop culture trivia games break the ice for adults and easy art projects will captivate kids. Check out the learning corner at Are You Game for great activities for all grade levels and cruise the adult games section for grown-up activities.

4. Toast for the Host

A specialty drink is a great way to establish your holiday party themes. There are many seasonal classics to choose from like mulled cider or wine, hot cocoa or egg nog, but it’s sometimes more fun to think out of the box when it comes to cocktails. Margaritaville Cargo carries quality party drink makers that you can offer with a holiday twist.

5. Finger Food Favorites

Although everyone loves a good feast, a holiday party meal doesn’t have to be a sit-down affair. If you feature a buffet of finger foods and appetizers, not only will your guests enjoy more variety, but everyone can eat whenever they’re hungry and avoid the post-meal urge to nap. For inspiring Christmas party food ideas pick up a seasonal issue of your favorite lifestyle magazine at Meredith Magazines.

6. All that Paper Good Glory

Jazz up classic Christmas party food ideas by turning bitesize cheesecakes into little Santa hats by adding strawberries on top. Or cut out brownies into triangles and add a drizzle of green icing to make Christmas tree brownies. Have enough disposables so that your guests can sample the array and even take some for the road. Stock up on all the disposable dish ware you need at Kmart.

Electronics

Games

Toys

Entertainment

How Can You Make the Best of Singles Day?

Use Singles Day to Find Love

Take a “You” Day

Hang out With Other Singles

Buy Yourself a Gift

A Karaoke Night With Friends

A Good Movie With All Your Single Pals

1. Piper Skinny Jeans, $42 | Nordstrom

2. Zco Destructed Boyfriend Jeans, $12.49 | Tillys

3. Zip Ankle Skinny Jean Legging, $29.80 | Boden

4. Acid Pool Skinny Jeans, $31 |Nasty Gal

5. Levi’s 535 Super Skinny Jeggings, $39.99 | Bon Ton

6. Bristol Printed Skinny Ankle Jeans, $35.99 | Macy’s

Related Links

Newt

Queenie

Porpentina (Tina)

And the finishing touch…

College Kid Created.

Boy’s Club.

Anti-Valentine’s Day.

One is the Loneliest Number.

It’s the Name that “Sticks.”

Singles Day Can’t Be Beat.

180 Million People Can’t Be Wrong.

Wine and Dine.

Breakfast of Champions.

Looking for Love.

Put a Ring On It.

Wrap Your Photos for Some Festive Flair.

Fill Your Favorite Fruit Bowl with Ornaments.

Sweeten Things Up with Holiday Treats.

Use Mini Ornaments to Make a Statement.

Float Ornaments for a Festive Ambience.

Design a Space-Saving Spruce.

Craft an Ornament Wreath.

Add Greenery to Your Space.

Spray Paint Twigs Silver & Gold.

Create a Makeshift Chandelier.