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March 22, 2017

15 Reasons to Love Spring Explained in GIFs

We at Ebates — and surely most of you — are so ready to say,”See ya later, winter, and don’t let the door hit you on the way out.” It is now officially appropriate to get supremely tickled about spring re-entering your chilly little life. And if it feels like last spring was 393,120 minutes ago (because it was) and you can’t possibly remember how great it was, let us remind you in a series of GIFs why spring is awesome.

1. Warmer weather: The weather’s warmer and you’re excited to remove some of those layers. Let’s just hope your New Year’s resolution to shed that winter weight actually stuck.

2. Driving with the windows down: Sure, you won’t be able to have an audible conversation and your car stereo will sound terrible, but WHO CARES IT’S FINALLY SUNNY!

3. Spring cleaning: Yikes. You really let the place go while you hibernated the winter away. Time to break out that Swiffer.

4. April showers: Don’t worry. You don’t have to dance in it. Stay in and enjoy the pitter patter on your rooftop, and then stand by for some serious rainbow action.

5. May flowers: A frolic through the flowers is not only healing for the soul, but also a terrific backdrop for selfies. Just stock up on the Claritin first.

6. Easter: Sure, Easter means more than bunnies and chocolate — but really, CHOCOLATE! It brings out the creeper in all of us.

7. Spring break: Fashions may have changed, but the shenanigans stay the same. Time to cut loose and shake that caboose.

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8. Cinco de Mayo: There’s no better time of year to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and get a tasty education in Mexican food. (Note: *This* is not how you do that. And there are far better Mexican food items than tacos. Get your hands on some menudo. You won’t regret it.)

9. Festival season: All those leftover Halloween costumes and accessories you have collecting dust in the attic? They’ve got you covered for Coachella, Sasquatch, SXSW, etc.

10. Barbecues: Barbecues and crab boils are perfect excuses to bring the crew together and consume way more food than you should. Enjoy a big hunk of beef on your plate. (The hunk cooking it isn’t too bad, either.)

11. Gardening: Sure, gardening and yard work seem like a chore. But don’t forget that you get the chance to bring life to things and then turn around and cut them down like a boss. Get it!

12. Freshly cut grass: Piggybacking off No. 11, cutting the grass might be a chore but the intoxicating smell that follows is worth it. Or is that gas fumes from the mower?

13. Romantic picnics: Let the outdoors ignite your passions. But beware of prying eyes.

14. New beginnings: With the seasons changing and nature in a state of renewal, spring is the perfect time to try a new haircut, travel to an exotic place or start killing it on those big life goals.

15. Sprucing up your spring wardrobe with Ebates: Update your look and get Cash Back? How is that not the best part of spring? Shop Double Cash Back stores to bring your fashion into focus this season.

March 20, 2017

6 Fashionable Pet Accessories Dog and Cat Owners Will Obsess Over

Some may call you obsessed with your pet, but maybe they just don’t see your dog or cat for as fabulous as they are. As a dedicated pet owner, you spare no expense for your furry BFF, including keeping their fashion on point. We’ve rounded up some super cute accessories any dog or cat owner will absolutely love. However, there is nothing more in vogue than Cash Back at Ebates, which you can get for buying any of these adorable items. Get their tails wagging by giving them an instant style upgrade.

Puppia Modern Dotty Dog Harness

Metallic polka dots on a chic black harness? Yes, please! Give your little fuzzball a Kate Spade-inspired look with this classic accessory. Plus, did we mention that black is slimming even for pups?

Puppia Polar Dog Harness

Animal print is a must for any four-legged fashionista. She’ll love expressing her wild side with this fur-lined harness. Staying warm never looked so cool.

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Top Paw Ruffle Dog Harness

Do you have a pretty prima donna on your hands? It doesn’t get any girlier than hot-pink ruffles. This statement-making harness is the perfect party look for your pup, but don’t feel the need to save it for special occasions. She can be fabulous every day of the week!

Puppia Modish Vest Dog Harness

For those times when your dog is feeling casual but still wants all eyes on him at the dog park, this bold vest is a must. Its solid bright color not only keeps Fido visible and safe, but it also tells his friends he’s not afraid to be noticed.

Pearl Cat Collar

Cat owners know that some felines are extra fancy. If your fur baby is a lady of luxury, treat her as such with this pearl cat collar. With a magnetic closer, it will release easily if needed to keep her looking ravishing without compromising her safety.

Glam Gold Cat Collar

If you have a dapper gent on your hands, this bow-tie collar will perfectly reflect his regal nature. It comes in a variety of colors and prints to coordinate with his coat. He wouldn’t want to clash, after all.

March 16, 2017

10 Steps to Spruce Up Your Space This Spring

Transitioning from winter to spring can be one of the most fulfilling design moments of the year. If you have the right decor and the right mindset, you can create a cheery spring-like space that you’ll be dying to hang out in come the weekend — no matter how small your space. Here are some home-decorating ideas that you can employ while earning Cash Back at Ebates.

Start with a little spring cleaning

Marie Kondo’s “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” is a great read to get you ready to de-clutter your life — and there’s no better time for that than spring-cleaning season. Although Kondo’s ideas are revolutionary, they may be a struggle to stick to religiously. But tidying up once and reducing the excess in your space will help you maintain order as the seasons drag on. It’s an investment, so next spring maybe you’ll be able to skip spring cleaning altogether.

Switch up your lights

For an instant change to any room, update your lighting situation. A contemporary, quirky lamp — like this three-bulb lamp from Lamps Plus — is the perfect way to bring a new look to any space. Stay on-trend with a bronze base and unique Edison-style bulbs. You’ll need the lamplight less and less as the days get longer, but you’ll appreciate this look even in the light of day.

Curtain call

Try investing in new curtains. Grey is the color of the season, which could be the perfect choice to redecorate your space’s window dressing. Curtains are an easy-to-switch-out accessory that can inexpensively bring new life to any room at any time.

Throw some pillows at it

Anything with a tropical print will be a favorite decor item this season, and throw pillows are the ultimate accent. Add just one or two new pillows on top of your same old comfortable sofa, and you will change the look of the room completely. These palm-leaf throw covers from Overstock.com will slip right over your existing throws and turn your space into a warm, tropical haven you’ll love spending time in.

Stick with the staples

The first trick to revamping your space is to stay true to the pieces that work. When it comes to living-room decorating ideas, solid investments — rather than trendy furniture — are in style this season. That means you don’t have to buy a new couch; just update your throw blanket or rug. You don’t have to get a brand-new glass-plated table; just decorate with a few vintage books from the flea market and a brass-and-glass vase.

DIY something

The weather is warmer. The sun is out. Your weekends are freeing up. That’s the perfect combination for a do-it-yourself home-decor project. Start small with a DIY spring wreath for your door or wall, or go big with a wooden bedside table. You’ll be able to spruce up your space and create something you’ll love to look at and show off. Make this season the time you finally do that project you’ve been thinking about for months.

Find some vines

Climbing vines are this year’s succulents. Greenery adds some life to every room, increases productivity and can even make you happier. Wall-hanging plants are one of the best space-conscious home ideas to bring color to your space. Some wooden or brass vases that you can nail right to the wall are the best way to showcase these decorative plants.

Make your kitchen a happy place

Healthy eating can depend so much on a happy, pleasant kitchen. Start with cleaning out your cabinets (do you really still need those two chipped Starbucks mugs from college?), and then invest in one or two clean, fun pieces that will get you back into the kitchen preparing healthy meals. This marble-and-copper cutting board from Food52 should do the trick.

Try new knobs

Update your dresser or cabinets this spring with some new knobs. Try going for something different and fun — something you’ve never seen before, like grey agate stone knobs with gold from Etsy. Or go for a vintage look. Either way, mix it up and you’ll be cheered up and ready for spring every time you walk into your space.

Don’t be afraid of mixed patterns

Who says striped pillows won’t look great on a handmade quilt? Or that a tie-dye rug doesn’t go perfectly with geometric curtains? Bring out anything and everything unique you have, and put it all together. Going eclectic is a fun way to revamp your space and bring playfulness into your space this season. If you love the piece but it doesn’t exactly match, don’t question it — just go for it.

March 15, 2017

Quiz: What’s Your Dream Backpack?

From camo to striped, the elementary school staple has grown up. And although you’re aware of the many benefits of a hands-free carry-all, picking out the perfect pack can be overwhelming. Take our quick quiz to discover the right style — all available through Ebates — for you.

[qzzr quiz=”378948″ width=”100%” height=”auto” redirect=”true” offset=”0″]

Shop the Results:

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March 15, 2017

Five Female CEOs Who Are Ultimate #GirlBosses

Because we never need an excuse to celebrate talent, Ebates would like to give a special shout-out to some of our favorite stores that are run by intelligent, inspiring and empowering women. Without the hard work of these fabulous girl bosses (and our very own), Ebates wouldn’t be where it is today.

Ulta Beauty

The fourth of six children and the first in her family to attend college, Mary Dillon rose through the retail ranks before taking the helm of beauty giant Ulta in 2013. Her focus on diversity and personally understanding the needs of the Ulta woman has not only propelled company growth, but also significantly contributed to the de-stigmatization of affordable beauty in an industry in which luxury reigns. Dillon once ran a marathon — and placed! — just to understand what runners looked for in their workout apparel. Now that’s dedication.

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HSN

Mindy Grossman is another first in her family to attend college. Grossman, the CEO of HSN, graduated at 19 and decided to forgo law school to pursue her passion in the fashion industry. She’s been killing it ever since — a success she attributes to her lifelong mantra, “Agile is the new smart.” Grossman encourages women to pursue their goals through her HSN Cares program, which supports first-time entrepreneurs.

BirchBox

Katia Beauchamp co-founded the innovative makeup-box company Birchbox with fellow Harvard Business School student Hayley Barna while they were still in school. Early on, the two women struggled to convey their female-oriented value proposition to predominantly male venture capital audiences. Despite encountering rejection after rejection for two years, the women persevered, eventually raising $1.4 million. Their wildly successful business model has since inspired dozens of similar subscription-box companies. Can you say, “girl boss goals”?

Tory Burch

Beginning in 2004 with now iconic footwear, Tory Burch built a billion-dollar brand that is internationally synonymous with elegance and originality. She is almost equally well known, however, for her commitment to female empowerment. She launched the Tory Burch Foundation to make financial resources available to aspiring female entrepreneurs. Recognizing that starting businesses takes more than just money, Burch recently launched her #EmbraceAmbition campaign. The site provides dozens of skill worksheets and helpful articles to help women explore their potential.

Neiman Marcus

Karen Katz, the CEO of Neiman Marcus Group, has been pushing boundaries at the mega-retailer since she started as a merchandise manager in the summer of 1985. Now, as its first female CEO, she’s taking Neiman Marcus to new girl boss heights. She was the first head of the company to initiate and support the launch of a nonprofit brand, Akola, in stores. Akola reinvests 100 percent of its sales into empowering women from disadvantaged communities in the United States.

March 14, 2017

How to Start Saving for Your First Home

Buying your first home can seem impossible, especially for a generation that’s under-employed, underpaid and saddled with debt. I know because I used to think it was unattainable. Until I bought a house. Last month. With my own savings.

I’m not going to lie to you: It required a lot of sacrifice, hard work and flexibility. But I’m here to tell you that homeownership isn’t a pipe dream. It’s a real, achievable goal if you set your mind to it and focus on one word: save. To do that, you’re going to have to get thrifty and creative. Use these tips and tricks to get started on your own path to saving for a house. A few of them will get you Cash Back at Ebates, which will put you even closer to the finish line.

1. Tuck Away That Tax Refund

You may have money to burn, but it should go straight into your savings account. Set up a separate account just for your home fund. One that you can’t easily touch and won’t be tempted to dip into. Before long, you’ll have a sizable chunk of change. Plus, you get up to 7.5 percent cash back on TurboTax products through Ebates, so you’re getting even more back when you file.

2. Clear the Clutter

Start looking around your apartment for things you never use or could live without. You’ll be surprised at just how much extra stuff you have. Start listing it on sites like eBay or see if any friends are interested in your extras. You’ll feel better because your space is decluttered and you’ll have some extra dough to show for it.

3. Redefine Your Essentials

Most forms of entertainment are temporary pleasures, so it’s important to think about what you can and can’t live without. Fear of missing out is a very real thing, but it’s easy to curb if you focus on what’s really important: your future home. You don’t have to live like a complete hermit. Just be mindful of your spending habits and limit nights out. That discounted meal or event from a deals site may seem like a bargain right now, but it all adds up in the end.

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4. Cut the Cord

A really easy way to get ahead is getting rid of cable. You can save hundreds per month by downsizing to a powerful internet connection and streaming everything. Plus, with an HDTV antenna, you’ll probably get 60-plus channels free. Put that cash away like you’re still paying for your full-price cable and internet bundle. I’ve been cable-free for seven years. You won’t even miss it.

5. Build Your Big Fat Check

If you haven’t guessed it by now, the name of the game is save, save and save some more. One of the best ways to do this is using a site like Ebates to help you add anything you can to your bottom line. You’re downsizing and being smart about how you spend your money. Ebates provides an awesome value by helping you earn on the things you already buy from the brands you shop. Any money from your Big Fat Check is money you didn’t have before, and every little bit helps.

These are just a few ways to get started. It’s really just about your frame of mind and finding little ways to boost your savings account. In a few months, you’ll look at your bank statement and appreciate all the little changes you made. And when you put that key in the door and walk in to your new home for the first time, you’ll know that all of it was truly worth it.

March 14, 2017

8 Punny Pi Gifts for Math Nerds

$8 Punny Pi Gifts for Math Nerds$

What is Pi Day? In honor of that famous number starting with 3.14, Pi Day is every March 14. It’s also, coincidentally, Albert Einstein’s birthday, making this hands-down the brainiest day of the year. In celebration, we’ve rounded up some super cute and punny pi gifts from Etsy that you can grab with Cash Back at Ebates! Show the math nerds in your life your Pi Day spirit with one of these eight (3+1+4=8 — get it?) handmade goods.

Pi Plate

One of our favorite Pi Day activities is actually eating pie, so why not get this punny pi plate for those who love dessert as much as they love geometry?

Pi Coffee Spoon

Hopefully it didn’t take you too long to decipher this little pun. Plus, what goes better with pie than coffee?

Magnum Pi Wall Art

$8 Punny Pi Gifts for Math Nerds 1$ The power of a good mustache is as infinite as the digits in pi.

Pi Mug

That morning cup of Joe is always life-giving, especially when it pays you a compliment!

Pi Necklace

This dainty and darling silver necklace is the perfect gift for the girl who has beauty and brains.

Pi Book Art

$8 Punny Pi Gifts for Math Nerds 3$ This is maybe the brainiest gift we have ever seen. Add a little 3D art to their study with this carved book featuring a super cool pi design.

Pi Book Bag

$8 Punny Pi Gifts for Math Nerds 2$ What do nerdy people like better than nerdy gifts? Gifts only they will understand. We’ll give you a cheat sheet: It means, “I ate some pie.”

Pi Bracelet

We adore this brass men’s bracelet featuring the first 108 digits of pi. The cuff is comfortable and adjustable, making it a no-fuss accessory he can wear every day.

March 8, 2017

The ABCs of Baby Proofing Your Entire Home

One of our favorite parts of impending parenthood, whether for the first or fourth time, is the nesting phase. While picking out nursery colors and adorable furniture is the fun part, you may find yourself dreading the baby-proofing process. Remember it is exactly that—a process! And it’s easier than you think, especially with these baby-proofing tips and helpful products you can get with Cash Back at Ebates.

Take Your Time

Before you buy all the baby-proofing products in the world, do yourself a favor and take a deep breath. Then remember you have a whole five to six months from when baby arrives to when baby starts crawling and exploring their surroundings. When you decide it’s time to get started, focus on the one room where your little one will be spending most of their time. Typically, this is the living room.

Get Down

The best way to assess a room’s baby-proofing needs is to get down to your child’s vantage point. That’s right. Crawl on your hands and knees around the floor. Who knew you had so many electrical outlets and sharp corners? Use this information gathering to draft a baby-proofing checklist you can use to shop for everything you need.

Go for Bulk

You will quickly learn that you need a lot to keep a baby safe in your home. A baby-proofing kit is really the best way to go, since they tend to include almost everything. Plus, it never hurts to have some extras on hand—especially outlet covers. If you’re a traveling family, you should also consider a travel baby-proofing kit to keep those guest rooms and hotel suites safe for small hands.

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Off-Limits

Don’t be afraid to make certain rooms or sections of a room off-limits for your child. Maybe you only want to baby proof the front of the home. Just place a baby gate in front of the hall to keep baby in bounds. If you have a home entertainment center or a computer desk in a common area, put a baby gate around that. Keep pets’ water and food bowls behind baby gates as well.

Stock Up on Distractions

Another great way to keep baby away from potential hazards is to simply distract them with colorful, shiny things they can play with. Keep bottom drawers in the kitchen full of toys and safe utensils like measuring cups and wooden spoons. Put stuffed animals on bottom shelves of your (anchored) bookcases. Baby will be able to play safely, and you’ll have peace of mind—which is, of course, priceless.

March 7, 2017

Who Will Win the Title “Ultimate Mom”?

Being a mom is no easy task, but these ladies do it in style! Whether they’re rocking runway looks at work or running errands with children in tow, these moms know how to navigate hectic schedules all while providing the love and support their families need.

You may be familiar with March Madness, but we put a little spin on that with our Mama Madness bracket. All week long, you get the chance to vote for your favorite moms (real and fictional), then see who wins it all. Come back every day to vote for your favorite until the winning lady is crowned.

And the winner is…Lorelai Gilmore!

Leave a comment below with your favorite mom, whether she made the list or not.

March 6, 2017

10 Wow-Worthy Wedding Makeup Tips for the DIY Bride

You want your big day to be flawless, and that includes your wedding makeup. Get the lovely looks you and your bridesmaids crave with the best wedding makeup ideas around. No matter your stunning style, you’ll save a pretty penny with Cash Back at Ebates and some simple DIY wedding makeup tips. Here are our top 10 tips for flawless wedding makeup!

1. Prime Time

The best bridal makeup begins with the perfect surface. No matter the season or location of your wedding, the ideal primer will ensure your makeup stays put from your walk down the aisle to photos and every dance move in between. Apply a water-based primer from a makeup maven like Kat Von D Beauty and get ready for the smoothest skin possible. You’ll notice your makeup has more staying power than ever before. If you’re going for any shadow, be sure to keep your lids lovely with an eye shadow primer to prevent creases too!

2. Matte Is a Must

Overly oily skin can get in the way of even the best makeup looks. Combat that greasy glow in an instant with top-rated oil-blotting papers from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. A must-have for summer weddings and warmer climates, these ultra-thin papers are perfect for an on-the-go touch-up without smudging your bridal makeup. They’ll soak up sweat and oil and leave your skin feeling flawless.

3. Hands Off

Using a clean brush or soft makeup sponge is one of the best wedding makeup tips around. Skip breakouts on your big day by always applying foundations, BB creams, concealers and anything else that touches your face with a clean makeup brush or damp blender.You’ll prevent any dirt and bacteria from transferring from fingers to face. Plus, great makeup tools will give you that flawless finish you want, without leaving behind smudges and fingerprints. Be sure to blend well to stop those pesky makeup lines from infiltrating your wedding photos.

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4. All About the Arch

The right makeup for wedding day photos is crucial. Don’t let your bare brows steal the spotlight! Instead, if your eyebrows are slightly sparse, give them some shape with an eyebrow pencil or defining cream from NARS Cosmetics. You’ll frame your face and really make your snapshots pop. Be sure to watch a wedding makeup tutorial to get your look just right, and practice perfecting your arches with the right shade before the big day.

5. Get Glowing

Ditch the dull and get a stunning sheen in seconds with a radiant highlighter. When properly placed, a highlighter can give you a subtle glow without making your face look like a strobe light. Pop some in the corners of your eyes for a fresh-faced, awake look in an instant. Use it under your brow arch for a little lift, and sweep some on your cheekbones for a great glow if you’re looking for some easy glam. Check out e.l.f. Cosmetics for lots of illuminating essentials while saving with a makeup promo code.

6. Waterproof for the Win

Let happy tears flow freely and never mess up your makeup, thanks to waterproof wedding makeup. Your lashes will love a coat or two of waterproof mascara to keep them in perfect shape all day long. Check out some great, long-wear waterproof mascara options at Tarte Cosmetics and lengthen and strengthen your lashes with the best.

7. Stay Put

Once you’ve achieved your perfect bridal makeup look, be sure to set it with a great makeup setting spray, like Urban Decay’s All Nighter. Give your face a generous mist and let it dry to give your look staying power from morning to night.

8. Get Cheeky

The last thing you want is for your face to appear washed out in your wedding photos. Avoid a dull look by adding a pop of color to your cheeks with a natural-looking cream blush. It’ll give you instant lift and a healthy glow. Smile, pop some color on the apples of your cheeks and blend out toward the temples for the perfect look.

9. Bright Eyes

Skip red, tired eyes with your favorite anti-red eye drops. We recommend the tried-and-true Clear Eyes Maximum Redness Relief. A must if you’re anticipating a late night the day before your vows, eye drops will get the red out and brighten up your look instantly.

10. Bye-Bye, Bags

Pesky under-eye bags and dark circles have no place in your wedding photos. Prep your delicate under-eye area with a moisturizing eye cream and let it sink into your skin. After your primer layer, dot on a color-correcting concealer in a triangle shape under your eyes and blend out toward your cheekbones. This technique will give you a great, natural-looking highlight and cover up any drab darkness under your eyes. Be sure to set it with a light powder before your grand appearance.