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April 25, 2017

How I Saved More Than $1,600 on My Wedding: Invitations

My fiancé, Ryan, and I are planning a wedding in Healdsburg, California, in the heart of wine country. Like so many couples, we’re learning that planning a wedding means lots of shopping. Whether it’s paper for invitations or ties for your groomsmen, spending becomes second nature. So, as a bride with a budget she’d like to stick to, I’m obsessed with getting the best deals when I can. Thankfully, Ebates helped me save on so many wedding essentials, such as invitations, decor, attire — even our honeymoon. In this series of posts, you’ll get a chance to see exactly how much I was able to save and how.

The Knot 2016 Real Wedding Study puts the average cost of wedding invitations at $462. (Is it just me or do these numbers seem to be going up every year?) Ryan and I budgeted $400 for our save-the-dates and invitations. I’m happy to report that, thanks to the great deals we found at our favorite Ebates stores, we came in comfortably under budget and well below the national average.

In the end, we saved $124 on save-the-dates and invitations, which was about a third of what we had budgeted.

So how did we do it?

Save-the-Dates

Since Ryan and I live in the Bay Area, our wine-country wedding is not technically a destination wedding. But because so many of our family and friends are traveling from around the U.S. and the world to be there, we decided that sending out save-the-date cards was in order.

We decided to go with Etsy to find a great PDF — created by a talented designer — that we could simply customize and download to send to a separate printing service. We chose a vibrant watercolor design for our save-the-dates. This design from Etsy shop RoseGoldandCopper almost had a feeling of spilled wine, which was lovely and on-theme for us. Cost: $25

After ordering the save-the-dates, I decided to also order a self-ink stamp with our return address, to make labeling our envelopes much easier. Cost: $9.90

Etsy didn’t have any coupons at the time of our purchases, but we were able to take advantage of 1% Cash Back at Ebates. It’s a pretty small return, but I knew I was saving by doing a little DIY.

Savings:

Ebates Cash Back savings: $0.10

Total saved at Etsy: $0.10

Once our Etsy design was ready, we were able to easily download the PDF and upload it to Vistaprint. The process was simple and completely painless. Vistaprint has a foolproof ordering process for save-the-date postcards (and other add-on goodies, such as thank-you cards and save-the-date magnets). We ordered a set of 90 cards, which came with 90 free envelopes.

At the time I ordered, there was a 40% off coupon for invitations and announcements. After that deal, I also qualified for a site-wide $5 off coupon. These deals, which I was able to access instantly with the help of my browser’s Ebates Cash Back button, brought the printing cost down from $51.30 to $25.77. On top of that, I saved even more with 4% Cash Back at Ebates.

Savings:

Coupon savings: $25.53

Ebates Cash Back: $1.03

Total saved at Vistaprint: $26.56

The save-the-dates from Vistaprint turned out gorgeous — just as they looked in the store. Now, our task was to stamp the back of all the envelopes and then print all the addresses on the front. We were counting on a hand-me-down printer to do the job, which we dusted off — and realized required some fresh ink.

We jumped back online and found InkCartridges.com. Not only were we able to score an awesome deal on two new cartridges that outlasted our save-the-dates, but InkCartridges also delivered the ink to our door that day, which meant I didn’t have to take time to run yet another wedding errand. That was impressive.

I was able to access a 10% off coupon for the ink cartridges. Plus, I got an incredible 11% Cash Back at Ebates. Yay, more savings!

Savings:

Coupon savings: $3.20

Ebates Cash Back: $3.16

Total saved at InkCartridges.com: $6.36

Invitations

When it came time to send the actual wedding invitations, we decided to eliminate any possible stress. At this point in the planning process, we had a lot more on our plates, including two full-time jobs and an energetic puppy!

We went with an all-inclusive, fully customizable invite package through Wedding Paper Divas, and we loved it. With some incredible coupons and Cash Back at Ebates, we were able to get some awesome savings.

Our favorite design was Heritage Vineyard, since it kept a consistent watercolor look but brought more of our wine theme into it. All we had to do was customize an existing template, and we had control over everything from the typeface to what the text said. We changed the font to something a bit more rustic and playful, and we changed the wording to fit our casual style.

Then we personalized our envelopes. All we had to do was upload a Google sheet with all our guests’ addresses on it, and our envelopes were created and sent to us. So simple.

Now to the savings. Ebates found us a Wedding Paper Divas coupon for new customers, and we automatically got $50 off our order! Plus, Ebates found another coupon for an additional 20% off wedding invitations. And then, of course, we saved even more with our 2% Cash Back at Ebates. Once Ebates worked its magic, I saved $91.02. Not too shabby.

Savings:

Coupon savings: $86.38

Ebates Cash Back: $4.64

Total saved on invitations: $91.02

Total saved on save-the-date cards: $33.02

To sum up all these incredible deals, I saved about $124 and spent just under $265 on invitations and save-the-date cards. That’s about $200 less than the national average and $135 less than our budget.

I’d say that’s a win.

Next up, I’ll share even more wedding deals. Stay tuned to learn how I was able to save big on honeymoon travel.

April 25, 2017

8 Ways to Get In Tip-Top Shape for Your Wedding

You’ve been planning for months, but now that your wedding date is approaching, the pressure of having all eyes on you is really starting to sink in. The best method of attack is to commit to a fitness and wellness plan well before you say, “I do.” Below, eight tips to help you be your physical and mental best for your wedding.

Plan in Advance

Although it’s tempting to freak out and fall prey to crash diets, experts advise starting early. Keep a morning journal to track your progress. What are your specific goals for how you’d like to feel and look? What types of exercise do you enjoy? Writing down your plan will help you feel a sense of control and keep you focused even when life gets busy.

Change Your Diet

Even if you’re committing to amazing workouts, it’ll be challenging to meet your goals if you’re still pounding down margaritas after work. The easiest trick: Eat your veggies. Not only will it make your skin, hair and nails look great, but it also will help you feel fuller longer.

Adjust Your Attitude

When you’re not in the mood to go to the gym, remind yourself that your wedding body is something you can control. There might be a million glitches and last-minute changes with the rest of your plans, but you’re in charge of your daily exercise.

Balance Is Key

Some brides amp up their workout routines into overdrive, leaving them more prone to burnout. Schedule specific times each week for you to hit the gym — and treat it like any wedding appointment. Make it a priority and give yourself time to get in the groove.

Start Small

It’s all about baby steps. Challenge yourself to new fitness goals. Take a yoga class after work or work with hand weights during one of your breaks. If you commit to making a little effort every day, you’ll soon notice big results.

Meditate

Whether you’re getting hitched at city hall or planning a big blowout, weddings add new challenges and issues to your everyday routine. Clear your head of worries. In the mornings, take a few minutes to focus on your breathing. It will slow your heart rate and help you be better prepared when problems arise.

Connect with Your Fiance

During the wedding process, it’s easy to forget the reason you’re doing it in the first place. Take time each day to connect with your fiance. Schedule a date night, cook a healthy dinner together or go for a long hike outdoors.

Treat Yourself

You may have your hair and makeup team for the big day under control, but it’s also helpful to pamper yourself before you say, “I do.” Book a manicure, try out a facial mask or spring for a massage.

April 23, 2017

Staff Secrets: Caitlin Longwood

In our “Staff Secrets” segment, we share faces and habits of the people who bring you Ebates and The Smart Shopper. For our first feature, we spoke with Caitlin Longwood, the voice of Ebates social media and ninja-level Ebates expert.

What’s your day job?

Social Media Manager at Ebates and instigator of office nerf gun wars. I take both extremely seriously.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I’d say crafting and DIY. I’m into decorating my home on a budget and pretending I’m on my own HGTV show.

How long have you been a member of Ebates?

3 ½ years.

How much Cash Back have you earned?

$1367.52. No judgement! I like shopping. 🙂

What’s the last thing you bought?

I treated myself to a delightful massage through Groupon. I couldn’t pass up such a good deal!

Do you have a favorite store?

ASOS is my everything.

Favorite article of clothing?

It sounds kind of gross, but I have a pair of white Converse sneakers that are at least 10 years old… I’m very attached to them, and I like the worn-in look.

What’s the most money you saved on a single thing?

There was a sale at Kohl’s where all Nike gear was 25% off. Kohl’s was also offering Double Cash Back that day. I was able to stack the sale, the Kohl’s Cash and the 6% Cash Back to save over $50. Whenever I get Cash Back I feel less guilty about splurging a little on myself.

What’s the one tip you’d tell people about using Ebates?

Use the Cash Back Button! We have so many stores, sometimes even I’m surprised when a store is available on Ebates, and I work here. I have the button installed on my browser, so when I shop, it lets me know if there’s Cash Back available. The other cool thing is that it automatically tries out coupon and promo codes and then adds them to my shopping cart without me doing anything. It takes away that FOMO when I see an empty “promo code” box on a website. I don’t have to Google forever to find one.

What something you wish you could get Cash Back on?

Groceries!

OK, last one. If you could have any one superpower, which would you choose?

Teleportation—think of all the money & time saved on travel!

April 23, 2017

4 Sneaker Outfit Ideas All Guys Need to Try This Spring

When you think of even the most expensive, statement-making sneakers, you undoubtedly picture casual settings. We’re here to bust you out of that box and show you a few ways you can dress sneakers up for anything from weddings to workouts. Take a look at these sneaker outfits you can top off with Cash Back while shopping athletic shoes for men through Ebates.

Suits and Sneaks

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/497858933790835670/

Pairing a dress sneaker, which is just a dress shoe built for comfort, with a suit is always a good idea. However, if you’re tired of playing it safe and you’re craving a sportier look even on special occasions, try a clean, white leather sneaker like these Stan Smith Adidas.

Above all, keep it low-top and tailor your pants for minimal pooling at the ankles for a crisp yet bold look. Depending on your dress code, this could be perfect for those days you go directly from office to outing.

Black on Black

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/346214290089253104/

There is perhaps nothing easier and more chic than an all-black aesthetic. For this edgy street-style look, go with fitted black denim and an all-black shoe like these Vans Atwood sneakers.

Remember to opt for no-show ankle socks in black. An unexpected pop of white throws the whole thing off balance. Now you have a casual sneaker outfit Kanye himself would covet.

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Party Popper

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/349732727296837305/

If those spring and summer weddings are already taking over your calendar, at least you have multiple opportunities to try a bright sneaker. Colorful Converse, like these All-Star Ox sneakers, are fantastic for non-black-tie weddings, and they will give your jacket and pants an instant pop.

When selecting a color for your sneakers, go with one that will match your outfit’s level of loudness. If you’re wearing tan, go for pastels. Match jewel tones with jewel tones and primary colors with primary colors.

Peak Performance

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/390405861429377998/

With the athleisure trend still going strong, you’re going to want a pair of joggers and high-top sneakers — stat. This is a winning combo every time, since joggers will always stay in place so you can show off your new kicks with ease. We just love a white leather high-top like these Court Borough sneakers from Nike.

We hope you’ll give these looks some thought next time you reach for your favorite jeans and sneakers for weekend lounging. Now that you know how to wear sneakers for all occasions, tell us which of these looks is your favorite with a comment below!

April 22, 2017

Quiz: Where Would You Be Caught Wearing Yoga Pants

Who can blame you for never wanting to take off your yoga pants? It’s hard not to love pants that are stretchy, figure-flattering, slimming and always in style. And now, with athleisure as one of the hottest trends, it’s more than acceptable to sport the style beyond the studio. Take our quiz to discover where you’re most likely to be CIYYP (caught in your yoga pants).
[qzzr quiz=”404756″ width=”100%” height=”auto” redirect=”true” offset=”0″]

Shop the Results!

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April 19, 2017

Top Fitness Trends and Gadgets Through the Decades

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<a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/fitness-trends-gadgets-through-the-decades"><img alt="Top Fitness Trends and Gadgets Through the Decades" src="https://www.ebates.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/top-fitness-trends-and-gadgets-through-the-decades.png" width="600px" height="6193px" /></a><br><a href="https://www.ebates.com/blog/fitness-trends-gadgets-through-the-decades">Top Fitness Trends and Gadgets Through the Decades</a> Created By:  <a href="https://www.ebates.com/"> Ebates</a>

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Early Fads

Charles Atlas: This fitness guru rose to popularity in the 1920s. His inspiration came from an unlikely place: studying the lions at the Bronx Zoo. The company he founded currently has more than 30 million students worldwide.

Electric Muscle Stimulator: We recognize these devices from commercials that say you can tone your abs by wearing a special belt and not doing a single sit-up. But the idea dates back to 1761 when scientists first proved that external electricity can activate muscles. As research continued, Soviet sport scientists in the 1960s reported 40% force gains when using devices in athlete training. In 2007, claims for EMS ab belts said they are “equivalent to 1,500 sit-ups per hour.” Recently, however, there have been $12 million in settlements from four companies due to false advertising.

Initial Workout Machines: These early fitness devices were strange (and steampunk). Vibrating “slimming” belts are a quintessential example of old-fashioned fitness. They’ve been around since the 1920s, when whole-body vibration was used as part of the training program for Russian cosmonauts. An early treadmill dating back to 1923 had large wheels and a footbed made of wooden slats. Another device from the 1930s, the Wonder Cycle Exercisulator, was supposed to simulate horseback riding and had a strange band that bound your head to the handlebars.

1950s-1970s

Sauna Suits: They became popular in the 1960s. Product claims included the following: 1 pound of weight loss for every 1 pint of sweat, a 40.4% increase in weight loss and a 20.8% increase in metabolism. But not everyone achieved such positive results. In fact, three wrestlers died in 1997 and 1998 from exercising while wearing sauna suits. The risks of using a sauna suit include dehydration, kidney failure, heat stroke and heart attack. Yet Khloe Kardashian praises her sauna suit. There are many brands of sauna suits still sold today, as well as DIY instructions that use a trash bag.

Vacuum Slacks: The product called Slim-Skins was popular in the 1970s. Notably, Rose gave them a try in an episode of “Golden Girls.”

NordicTrack: Launched in 1975, the NordicTrack is still around today. In 2015, 40 professional dancers jogged in place on NordicTracks for 12 hours to film a “fitness flash mob.”

1980s

Jane Fonda Aerobics: In 1982, when VCRs were starting to become popular, ”Jane Fonda’s Workout” home video was made for $50,000. In total, there were 23 videos released and 17 million copies sold. Fonda made her last video in 2010 when she was 72. Her net worth now totals more than $120 million.

Bowflex: Launched in 1986, it reached its peak of popularity in 1990. Despite a hefty price tag of $1,000, the unwieldy home gym system often sat unused, making it a “very expensive clothes hanger.” In total, there were 2.5 million sold.

Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin’ to the Oldies:” Since its launch in 1988, there have been a total of 65 fitness videos released and 20 million copies sold. Simmons helped people lose 3 million pounds over his 30-year career. His net worth is $15 million.

1990s

ThighMaster: After its launch in 1991, the ThighMaster sold 6 million products in the first 18 months. The product’s success is largely due to the campy infomercials starring Suzanne Somers that are now cult favorites. Its total sales were $100 million, and versions of the product are still available today: the ThighMaster Gold and the ButtMaster.

Ab Roller: The rolling device that facilitates crunches was launched in 1994. Lucrative commercials made these so popular that when inventor Don Brown was issued his product patent, there were already 27 product knock-offs that launched in just two years. With its quick rise to popularity, Ab Roller attained $1 billion in worldwide sales by 1996.

Pilates: In the 1980s and ‘90s, Pilates went mainstream, but it was first developed in 1912. Joseph Pilates created the fitness system while he was in an internment camp in Germany during World War I. After the inventor emigrated to the U.S., he was teaching Pilates to the NYC Ballet and George Balanchine in the 1960s. A decade later in the 1970s, Hollywood celebrities discovered Pilates. Today, there are still 10 million practitioners.

2000s

Pole Dance Workouts: In 2003: Carmen Electra released the first “Aerobic Striptease” DVD in her five-part series. Pole dance workout classes rapidly gained popularity and are offered in many gyms. The International Pole Dancing Fitness Association has been pushing for the sport to be in the Olympics.

Zumba: Founded in 2001, the dance-based workout saw 4,000% growth from 2007 to 2010. In 2012, it was valued at $500 million, and in total there have been 10 million DVDs sold. Weekly classes are taken by 15 million people. Celebrity fans include: Natalie Portman, Shakira, Jackie Chan, Madonna, Halle Berry and Jennifer Lopez.

Shake Weight: Launched in 2009, 4.5 million Shake Weights have been sold. As of 2010, revenues were $40 million. The inadvertantly suggestive nature of the product made its infomercials go viral and inspired hundreds of parodies.

2010s

Toning Shoes: In 2010, toning shows hit the market and spiked in popularity. Annual sales were $1.1 billion. Although these once-popular shoes had sales of $252 million in just four months and were heavily endorsed by celebrities, shoe companies were eventually forced to pay more than $65 million in refunds due to false advertising.

CrossFit: The brand generates $4 billion in annual revenue. With a cult following in excess of 4 million participants, this fitness regimen was started by a college-dropout-turned-millionaire, Greg Glassman, who claims that CrossFit is “creating a new super breed” of human.

Yoga: It’s a $27 billion industry, and Americans spend $5.8 billion on yoga classes, $4.6 billion on yoga clothes and $3.6 billion on yoga mats and accessories. Yoga has been around for 5,000 years, but the number of Americans practicing yoga has increased by 50% in the past four years to 36 million.

Athleisure: The yoga-pants trend started the fashion crossover of athleisure clothes — workout wear worn in other settings. In 2016, the athleisure market, including footwear, was $270 billion, and it’s cutting into jean sales.

Facial Fitness Pao: Trending for 2017, this Japanese product exercises face muscles.

The Digital Frontier

Wii Fit: Sales for the Wii Fit have been 44 million units, including both the Wii Fit (2007) and Wii Fit Plus (2009).

Fitbit: Launched in 2007, there have been 20.8 million sold to date. Revenues were $14.5 million (2011), $76.4 million (2012), $271.1 million (2013), $754 million (2014) and $1.86 billion (2015). Fitbit currently holds one-third of the wearable tech market (34.2%).

Wearable Technology: Wearable technology is now being integrated into clothing. The Lumo Run shorts and leggings track information about your steps and stride. Big-name companies like Samsung, Google, OMSignal and Under Armour are also pursuing smart clothing.

Health and Fitness Apps: In 2014, this category grew 87% faster than any other type of app. By 2016, it was a $400 million market. Top fitness apps in 2016 were: My Fitness Pal, Fitstar Personal Trainer, Sworkit, Pocket Yoga, SparkPeople and Runkeeper.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org
http://www.artofmanliness.com/2011/09/29/lessons-in-manliness-from-charles-atlas/
https://www.charlesatlas.com/what_is.html
https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704779704574553790579199098
http://nymag.com/thecut/2014/01/dressing-to-diet-always-a-thing/slideshow/2014/01/02/women_working_out/05-women-working-out/
https://diettogo.com/blog/15-crazy-fitness-contraptions-past-100-years
https://www.buzzfeed.com/sarahburton/i-tried-a-vintage-exercise-machine-and-now-i-cant-stop-shaki?utm_term=.quozlRqj4#.ii01MqmPr
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/passive-exercise-whole-body-vibration#1
https://www.fernwoodfitness.com.au/weight-loss—exercise/exercise/retro-active/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/273136-does-a-sauna-suit-help-you-lose-weight/
https://kuttingweight.com/blogs/news/70054213-how-much-weight-can-you-safely-lose-using-sauna-suits
https://www.yahoo.com/beauty/whats-the-deal-with-khloe-kardashians-sauna-220241937.html
http://www.vintagepaperads.com/1978-Slim-Skins-Vacuum-Weight-Loss-Pants-Ad–Reduce_p_96128.html

April 17, 2017

20 Thoughts You Have While Attending Your First Music Festival

An entire season of can’t-miss lineups, world-class food-truck cuisine and outdoor partying is unfolding before you — and you’ve decided to dive right in. Good for you! Attending a music festival can seem intimidating, but don’t fret. Let us walk you through some of the highlights of your thought process as you say “yes” to festival season. You’ll have a better idea of what to expect and what to stock up on with Cash Back at Ebates to make the experience that much more enjoyable.

1. If your festival is in the desert, you will immediately try to scan your memories to find another time that you’ve been this hot and sweaty. Even if you do find one, it won’t make you feel any better.

2. You suddenly realize everyone you saw looking cute in their festival wear on Instagram was part of a massive conspiracy theory. Sure, people look fine, but they are basically melting in front of you.

3. “How long have I been standing in this line?”

4. “I’m so happy to be out of that line.”

5. “What do you mean we’re not in yet?”

6. “You mean I have to walk a mile from this line to another line, and THEN I’m in?”

7. The reality of your hanger washes over you.

8. You laugh a bitter I-told-you-so laugh as you enjoy the granola bar you packed that prompted your friends to make mom jokes about your level of preparedness.

9. You’re finally in. A patch of shade and a beverage sound like heaven right about now.

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10. Hydrated and recharged, it finally hits you that you’re actually here and what lengths you will go to enjoy good music and good friends.

11. Those warm, fuzzy feelings die as soon as you hit the first Porta Potty. They are quickly replaced by gratitude that you remembered to bring hand sanitizer.

12. The excitement returns when you make your way to the first stage and get to dancing.

13. You decide all this running from stage to stage should count as your cardio for the week.

14. It’s a good thing, too, because that donut ice cream sandwich stand has been calling your name all day.

15. You lose a friend in the shuffle, and, when you see you have no service, wonder how people actually survived without cell phones.

16. “Is a ‘friend lost and found’ a thing?”

17. You collectively decide your friend would have wanted you to move on and enjoy the next act.

18. You turn out to be right, because you spot her two rows back from the stage on the shoulders of a “new friend.”

19. You take a moment to thank the universe for SPF lip balm and the comfort of Birkenstock sandals.

20. You thank yourself for daring to try something new. This calls for a reward. Donut ice cream sandwich, anyone?

April 15, 2017

Shop the Look: The Impossibly Light Jacket by Nike

A sporty style keeps you on your A-game all day. The key to ensuring your look steps up from post-gym sloppy is to invest in smart staples you can mix and match with all your wardrobe basics. This look from Nike is the best of both worlds: comfortable (it doesn’t get much cozier than running shoes) yet chic (thanks to tailored silhouettes and up-to-date styles). Below, the must-add pieces you need this season.

Air Zoom Vomero 12

A sleek shoe that’s one step up from your standard sneaker. With a slightly elevated sole and minimalist detailing, this basic looks cool with jeans, leggings or even dresses.

Impossibly Light Running Jacket

A layering staple you can toss into your tote, this jacket lends an athletic edge to any ensemble. Structured and fitted, the smart design won’t add any bulk.

Pro Rival Sports Bra

The perfect hybrid of an everyday T-shirt bra and a trusty sports bra. Layer on tanks and tees so you can pull off the look all day.

Power Epic Lux Running Tights

A wide waistband and breathable fabric make these the most comfortable leggings you will ever own. Chic mesh detailing makes them work for real life — pair with a sweater at night for a casual dinner look.

April 15, 2017

These Birthday Party Themes Will Make You Mom of the Year

When it comes to party themes for kids, the possibilities are endless. You can go with their favorite movie, sport, activity, animal — you name it. Choosing party themes that are near and dear to your child’s heart is the easy part. Putting it all together is the real challenge.

Before you dive into party planning, take a look at these super cool birthday party themes that are definitely worth the extra effort. Keep in mind, you can get virtually everything you need to make childhood magic with Cash Back at Ebates. Shop Oriental Trading, Michaels, Shindigz, Hobby Lobby and more for party decorations, invitations and all the finishing touches to make your celebration a hit.

Legomania

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/53409945562042272/

Lego-man cups, block-shaped Jell-O Jigglers and, yes, a few Legos to build some centerpieces, and you’ve got a party that looks like it took weeks to plan. You can even find recipes for Lego-head marshmallow pops and Lego brownies and make your own Lego piñata. For the minor details like tablecloths and napkins, stick to solid primary colors to bring the whole theme together.

Mermaid Magic

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/512706738811705022/

This is one of our favorite party themes for girls who are over the pink princess look. Give your little one an underwater adventure for her birthday with metallic jewel tones and a little glitter for good measure. For a majestic touch, we particularly love those paper lanterns that look like jellyfish.

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Emoji Explosion

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/94364554671726714/

Tween girls can be a bit harder to please, but we haven’t met one who doesn’t want to cover her life in emojis. Make sure emoji cupcake toppers are at the top of your party-planning checklist, since they are such a fun and easy accent for this theme.

Backyard Carnival

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/99360735507940930/

Put that retro popcorn maker to good use and turn your backyard into a fair to remember. This theme makes activity planning a breeze. Just go with classic carnival games like beanbag toss for the younger kids and “shoot the balloon” for more mature guests.

Campfire Chic

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/203295370657223952/

If your kid comes alive in the great outdoors, a camping or lumberjack party theme is perfect. It’s also perfect for parents who want a healthier twist on the candy table, since you can easily include trail mix fixings without a total revolt from the young party-goers.

“Moana” Madness

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/187884615685311069/

It’s luau time! We love the “Moana” party theme because you can go authentic Hawaiian or you can find all the movie-related party supplies you need at Birthday in a Box, in one single shopping trip.

“Zootopia”

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/187884615684500935/

As long as it is still on Netflix, kids will be going crazy for “Zootopia.” Luckily, it’s an adorable movie most parents really love! And thank goodness there is a bunny in the movie, because you can do so much with carrots — from carrot cupcakes to “carrot” cracker bags.

April 13, 2017

Best Beaches for Your Destination Wedding

Destination weddings: They’re fun, intimate and unforgettable for everyone who attends. Your guests will be so deep into vacation mode that the wedding itself will feel like bliss, and they’ll be ready to party hard. For the engaged couple, choosing a destination wedding saves hassle, time and, in some cases, money — especially if you’re a smart online shopper and earn Cash Back at Ebates. Perhaps the best part of a destination wedding is that you can roll out of bed the day after you say your “I dos” onto a beach, and spend the rest of the week relaxing, enjoying each other and riding that newlywed high. Here is our list of the best beaches for a destination wedding.

Makua Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

There is no shortage of stunning beaches in Hawaii, but the tricky part is finding a beach that’s not only gorgeous but also convenient and secluded from crowds. Thankfully, Kauai is smaller and less developed than its neighboring islands, so its beaches are vast and relatively empty, depending on the time of year. Makua Beach, also called Tunnel Beach, is a crazy beautiful option that will bathe you and your guests in romance. Go to Hotels.com to book a honeymoon suite just off the beach at nearby Hanalei Colony Resort.

Placencia, Belize

Sidling up to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is ideal for scuba-loving couples. A friendly country with turquoise waters and white sands, Belize is affordable and offers destination weddings with distinct eco-adventure vibes. If you’re looking for a beach that’s far enough away to ensure your crazy cousins-in-law will stay stateside but close enough to keep costs low, you might just find the perfect combination in Belize. Do yourself a favor and stay for an extra week or two to dive Blue Hole and book a romantic splurge at Hatchet Caye Island Resort for a honeymoon on a private island.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This lively Mexican beach town is known for its artistic whimsy, warm beaches and lush rainforests. But just outside of town you’ll find all-inclusive resorts that are ideal for larger weddings, so you can relax with a poolside cocktail and let someone else take over all the decision-making for you. Or you and 18 of your closest friends and family can hole up in a luxury beachside villa, booked through VRBO, and enjoy all the sunshine and privacy Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Either way, don’t miss a trip to town for a skewer of grilled seafood and an evening stroll along the Malecon.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

If you’re dreaming of barefoot chic for your big day, there’s probably no better place than the Bahamas. With an all-inclusive option like Atlantis Bahamas, you can book what you want online and leave the rest up to the staff. It’s a low-maintenance couple’s dream, and after avoiding the stress of planning for the months leading up to your wedding, you’ll still get to enjoy a tropical party weekend and a honeymoon in paradise — a reward most newlyweds have to work for!

Algarve, Portugal

Portugal is a surprising addition to this list, to be sure. It’s neither close to the U.S. nor convenient. But it’s affordable and it’s home to some of the most wedding-perfect beaches in the world. Save by booking affordable international flights through Vayama, and book a luxury villa for the wedding party on VRBO that’s near the unique, rock-framed Praia da Marinha. Or book a neighboring luxury resort for your guests through Expedia.