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August 3, 2016

Where to Score All Your Team USA Apparel With Cash Back

With the 2016 summer Olympic Games right around the corner, soon athletes from all over the world will be traveling to sunny Rio de Janerio to compete. The best athletes in America will be there, wearing official Olympic Team USA apparel professionally designed to enhance their performance. But you don’t have to be a world-class athlete to find Olympic-level performance gear when you shop our top Team USA gear shops. These retailers give you access to the best fitness wear and Team USA Olympics apparel. Shop for USA shirts, pants, shoes and save with a fitness gear promo code. Equip yourself for your unique athletic goals while showing your patriotism and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you buy from these USA gear shops.

Macy’s

Macy’s department stores are as American as apple pie and their Team USA Collection is full of classic, timeless styles. Shop the Polo Ralph Lauren collection with a Team USA promo code and save on clothes from an official outfitter of the 2016 U.S. Olympic teams.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 70% with Clearance and Sale items. You’ll find everything from Team USA Sports Caps to Ceremony T-Shirts on sale.
• Shop Super Weekend Sales to save up to 20% on the latest USA apparel. Find even more special offers in the Deals & Promotions section, like Buy One, Get One Free offers and free gifts with select purchases.
• Save 15% when you subscribe to Macy’s email list. Be sure to sign up for Macy’s My Wallet as well to gain access to exclusive deals and offers and an app that helps you save when you shop.

Nike

Nike’s sportswear, apparel and equipment is designed by experts and used by pros, including many Olympians. Show your Team USA pride during the summer games with officially licensed Team USA gear for the whole family.

Savings Tips:
• Get incredible savings of up to 50% on gear for men, women and kids in Nike’s Clearance section.
• Create a NIKE+ account to get free shipping on the Nike Summer of Sport collection.

Old Navy

Old Navy is a top Team USA shop with hundreds of Team USA t shirts that let you be a part of the 2016 Olympics. Show American pride and Rio style with Team USA shirts for the whole family.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 40% during flash sales and pick up the Olympic apparel you love for less.
• Get 30% off your purchase with email signup and receive special offers for even more savings.
• Get 15% off your first purchase with an Old Navy Visa card and earn points and rewards redeemable at any Gap Inc. store.

FansEdge

FansEdge is your source for everything Olympics. The merchandise at FansEdge celebrates the Olympic tradition of friendly competition and patriotism with gear for every sport in both the summer and winter games.

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 25% on USA Olympics apparel when you shop the Sale section.
• Sign up for ShopRunner for free 2-day shipping offers and free returns as well as updates on sales, new items and more. You can try this service for free before spending $75 on a 1-year membership, but if you have an American Express card, you can get a membership for free!

Fanatics

Fanatics is the ultimate sports apparel and fan gear store. Support Team USA with official USA Olympics Merchandise including hats, sweatshirts and t shirts. Go the extra mile with Team USA auto accessories, collectibles, pajamas and even party supplies.

Savings Tips:
• Equip the whole team or the whole family at once and enjoy a volume discount starting at 10% for orders over $1,000 or including 50+ items.
• Earn 5% FanCash with a free Fanatics Rewards membership. You’ll get exclusive offers and early access to collections as well as a Low Price Guarantee.

Etsy

With handmade and vintage goods from artists and crafters from all over the world, Etsy is the place to find incredible and unique items that help you show your summer Olympics spirit.

Savings Tip:
• Get up to 40% off Olympic collectibles when you search for sale items on Etsy. Water bottles, commemorative sets, pins and more can all be found on sale.

CafePress

CafePress allows you to design and create the perfect USA gear for you. Upload and edit your own designs and get custom printed totes, mugs, ribbons and even flags!

Savings Tips:
• Save up to 25% on USA shirts, Olympic greeting cards and more when you shop sale items.
• Sign up for the CafePress email list to get exclusive offers and an instant 25% off promo code.

August 2, 2016

8 Unusual Coloring Books for Adults Who Need to Chill

Of all the de-stressing techniques out there — from massage to yoga — coloring is definitely the cheapest and easiest. Anyone can pick up crayons or colored pencils and let their imagination take over. And what better time to do it than today on National Coloring Book Day?

We know you’ve seen your fair share of mesmerizing mandalas, blooming bouquets and cute cats in coloring-book form. So we’ve rounded up a few options that are a little outside the box for all you pop-culture junkies and appreciators of absurd humor. Treat yourself to some of these unusual coloring books with Cash Back at Ebates. Warning: Some of these are not appropriate for kids. But you weren’t going to share anyway, right?

Vogue Colors A to Z: A Fashion Coloring Book

After a long day of screaming kids or boring meetings, you can pretend you are a world-famous fashion designer sketching away on your Parisian balcony with this super chic Vogue coloring book.

The Official “Game of Thrones” Coloring Book

Go medieval with your me-time. This intricate “Game of Thrones” coloring book from Michaels will help you create fan art in less time than it takes to binge-watch a season.

Swear Word Coloring Book

Color some choice words and phrases instead of screaming them into a pillow or inside your car during rush hour. Trust us: It feels better and reduces frown lines.

Dinosaurs With Jobs

Remember when you were obsessed with dinosaurs? And that was when you only saw them walking around in books or eating people in movies. Now you get to see them face the everyday obstacles you know all too well in this coloring book available at The Book Depository.

Bun B’s Rap Coloring and Activity Book

Coloring is great and all, but what about paper dolls? And what about rap-star paper dolls? Fill in the lines and play dress-up with some of the baddest hip-hop artists, including (but not limited to) Queen Latifah, Drake, Wiz Khalifa, Childish Gambino and Questlove.

Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel Coloring Book

You may not have the time or the funds to travel the world, but you can see some of your favorites in non-living color.

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Happy Snacks Coloring Book

Stress eating: The struggle is real. Quash those pesky snacking habits by coloring cute versions of your favorite junk foods.

Unicorns Are Jerks

We hate to disappoint you, but unicorns aren’t all majestic and sweet, as demonstrated in this coloring book from BooksAMillion. But at the end of a long, hard day that has brought out some of your choice character defects, isn’t it kind of a relief that they aren’t perfect either?

July 31, 2016

5 Simple Tips to Save on Late-Summer Travel

Summer is halfway over, which means if you haven’t gone on a vacation yet, you might be scrambling to take advantage of the remaining long days. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a month in Europe, you’ll have more fun if you’re getting the most out of your journey. Here are some ways to save money and earn credit card points.

1. Think outside the crowd. Paris and other European cities are a good deal in August because locals leave town. Then, mid-September is the start of the cheaper travel season. Likewise, you’ll find cheaper rates for travel to the Caribbean because it’s off-season there. Flights and hotels generally become cheaper after Labor Day, but if you can’t wait that long, you can still save by taking midweek or late-night flights.

2. Make sure you have the best travel card. If you don’t yet have a travel credit card, now is the time to consider one. There are travel cards for specific airlines and hotels, which help you earn free airfare and hotel rooms, along with substantial sign-up bonuses. If you’re leaving the country, be sure to take a card that has no foreign transaction fees.

The best time to get travel cards is often during the off-season. Sign-up bonuses for general travel cards and airline cards tend to peak in November, and for hotel cards, August is the best month, according to a NerdWallet analysis. If you received a travel card around either of these times, or if you just redeemed a sign-up bonus, now is a good time to travel. Even if you didn’t get a travel card at one of those times, it may still be worth it to get one for your trip, if only to start earning points and to avoid foreign transaction fees.

3. If you’re taking a road trip, make the most of your cash-back credit card. If you already have a cash-back card with rotating categories that periodically offer a higher percentage of cash back for certain kinds of purchases, see which ones you can take advantage of while you’re on the road — such as higher rewards for gas stations or restaurants. If you have a card with higher rewards in categories like gas and groceries, be sure to take advantage of those, too.

4. Find the best hotel deals. Use hotel comparison websites like Hotels.com and Priceline to find the best rates for hotels. You may be able to book hotels through your travel card. Many points-based travel cards allow you to transfer your points to pay for hotels, either through the booking site of your choice or, in some cases, through their own travel site.

5. Perfect your packing list. You can always pick up something you forgot once you get to your travel destination, but that’s money you shouldn’t have to spend. Make sure you pack essential and versatile clothing for your journey with The Smart Shopper‘s travel-ready clothing guide. By planning now, you’ll have one less thing to worry about on your vacation.

July 30, 2016

Save, Spend, Splurge: 90s Fashion Staples

If you find yourself longing for the time when you were part of the young echoing choir commanding, “Here we are now. Entertain us,” you are clearly not alone. 90s grunge still roars in the hearts of millennials and Gen-Xers just as loud as it did 20 years ago and 90s fashion throwbacks are here to wake up your inner riot grrl. From deep shades of matte lipstick to gothic choker necklaces, we’ve got all your 90s style staples with Cash Back at Ebates. Plus, we rounded up options in three different price points because going back in time shouldn’t bust your budget.

NYX COSMETICS Liquid Suede in Vintage, $6.99 | NARS Pure Matte in Volga, $27 | Christian Louboutin Velvet Matte in Eton Moi, $90

No 90s makeup look was complete without a rich chocolatey brown or deep wine lip. Make sure you go with a matte finish with staying power that will keep your MOTD intact for a long night of shoegazing to Morrissey songs.

Cross Pendant Choker, $3.99 | Whitely Choker, $28 | ‘Asa’ Choker Necklace, $75

We think it’s safe to say that if life was The Craft, most of us were Rochelles just trying to be a Nancy. Channel that “take no prisoners” goth queen with a black choker that goes just as well with a casual tee as it does with piles of black lace.

Juliette Floral Swing Dress, $20 | Coming Up Posies Swing Dress, $46 | Maggie High/Low Dress, $98

A floral swing dress was so universal back in the day. The preps and punks alike found ways to make it their own. Just make sure to go dark and flowing to make it definitively 90s.

Carmen Slip Dress, $35.99 | Topshop Crisscross Strap Slip Dress, $55 | Topshop Back Zip Midi Slip Dress, $90

Sexy, slinky and perfect for summer, slip dresses go beyond the boudoir to create a simple yet striking everyday look. Go pastel for pretty and prim or dark for a vampy evening look.

Combat Boots, $7.89 | Hanging by a Tread Boot, $54.99 | Dr. Martens ‘1460 Mono’ Boot, $124.95

Of all the shoes trends of the 90s (remember flatforms?), combat boots stood the test of time the most and are still a basic staple for a variety of styles. But we’ll always remember them as the perfect combination with sun dresses for a flirty-meets-fierce outfit.

Which of these trends are on your must-have list? Let us know with a comment below!

July 29, 2016

Dorm Room Decor Essentials to Create an Inspiring Space

When it comes to the college experience, it is hard to overstate the importance of dorm room décor. The classic college dorm room is usually cramped, awkward and short on privacy, but one thing it does offer is a blank slate for self-expression. A dorm room has to be a lot of things at once: a bedroom, living room, study spot, closet and sometimes even a kitchen. To cram all that function into one space while maintaining comfort and a sense of style can be hard. So we’ve put together a list of dorm room essentials and unique finds to inspire you. It’s also important to not break the bank on dorm room decorations. While you look through our dorm room ideas, remember that you can earn Cash Back on all your dorm furniture when you shop with Ebates. Get the dorm room decor you need without draining your savings. Now that’s a class act!

Himalayan Ionic Salt Lamp

When space is at a premium, it’s important to make sure everything you decorate with is multi-functional. When heated, this hand-carved Himalayan salt crystal lamp glows with a beautiful natural light and emits negative ions that help clear the air and dilute odors. A bedside lamp that neutralizes your roommate’s gym socks? Genius.

Emoji Pillow

There’s no reason your dorm bedding has to be super serious. This comfy, squishy pillow from Sears is not only the perfect size for a dorm bed, but it’s a quirky way to express yourself in an unmistakable way and show off your silly side.

Sunset Tapestry

Use this handmade fine art photography print as a bedspread, wall hanging or curtain and bring the beauty of nature inside. Shop Etsy for unique handmade goods and tons of other bedroom ideas and use a bedroom décor promo code from Ebates to save on everything you buy.

Nebula Duvet Cover

An ultra soft microfiber blanket that’s easy to wash and features a photo of distant planets is an amazing way of bringing space into your dorm room. Literally.

Gold Diamond Throw Blanket

Show ‘em what a gem you are with this custom gold sparkle fleece blanket. Snuggle up while you make a statement.

Dots and Feelings Stapler

Desktop essentials can double as décor if you find one with enough style, like this cute stapler that’s practically a work of art. Find this and more desk friends at ModCloth.

Alma Otter Tape Dispenser

Who said a tape dispenser can’t be impossibly cute? Get a case of the warm fuzzies every time you need tape and spread some smiles in your dorm room with this unique tape dispenser.

Brilliant Resilience Hoop Art

Not only is this itty bitty wall art adorable and dorm-sized, but it might just help you stay motivated during late night cram sessions.

Simple By Design LED Desk Lamp

Talk about multi-purpose, this battery-powered lamp doubles as an emergency charging station for two phones and even has a dish to hold paperclips or keys.

Mountain Wall Decal

Removable wall art like vinyl wall decals are a great, temporary way to decorate without damaging walls. Even if you can’t paint or hang pictures, you can easily put up movable décor wall stickers and then take them down later.

July 27, 2016

15 Free College Apps to Make You a Star Student This Fall

Whether you’re coming face to face with your first semester of college or you are a veteran academic, chances are you could use a little help getting in gear for all the long nights of cramming ahead of you. Not to mention, getting organized is a crucial element to surviving higher education. Check out this list of 15 completely free apps for school success including study apps and tools to manage the loads of information you will be taking in this fall. If you’re browsing through The App Store and find a paid version you can’t refuse, remember you can get it with Cash Back at Ebates!

1. Studious – Never use a planner book again. Studious has your class schedule, assignment due dates, notes, campus map and more all in one place. It even silences your phone automatically when you are in your scheduled classes. No more embarrassing rings!

2. myHomework Student Planner – Another one of our favorite organizational school apps for students is the myHomework Student Planner, which is similar to Studious and lets you sync across multiple devices and your desktop.

3. Voice Recorder – Recording a lecture in class to be sure you don’t miss a beat is what makes Voice Recorders one of the best apps for college courses. Don’t splurge on a fancy digital recorder and use your phone, then easily download to your PC or store recordings on your cloud accounts for easy access.

4. Assignment Planner – Similar to project management software, Assignment Planner lets you prioritize assignments and school projects by due date so you can manage your time effectively. You can also keep track of your grades so you always have a handle on your GPA, no surprises come report card day.

5. Pocket – Get a head start on researching for that next term paper and store all of your online sources with Pocket. Videos, articles and more are kept all in one place for you to pore over later.

6. Sparknotes – Sparknotes have long been a trusted resource of study guides for English students. Now there is finally an app where you can access helpful study guides on literature, poetry, drama, philosophy and the ever mind-scrambling works of Shakespeare.

7. My Class Schedule – Stay on top of your class schedule with a color-coated calendar, due date alerts and widgets to keep you informed with the slightest of glances to your phone.

8. Evernote – Those pesky team projects can be super hard to organize. Take the hassle out of keeping communication lines clear with the Evernote project management app. Create to-do lists, instant message with you team, sync to any device and clip images and text from anywhere on the Web.

9. Khan Academy – The Khan Academy app is, indeed, the ultimate study buddy. Math students can enjoy instant feedback and step-by-step instruction while tackling serious equations. Khan Academy also gives you access to videos and content on other fields of study including sciences and the humanities.

10. EasyBib – Everyone knows that one of the hardest and most tedious yet probably the harshest graded part of any term paper is the bibliography. Now you can easily generate citations in multiple formats including MLA, APA, Chicago and more. You can even scan a book’s barcode with your phone for all the information you need and send them directly to your email.

11. Fast Scanner – Sharing class and lecture notes is now easier than ever. Simply use your phone’s camera to scan notes and convert into a PDF for easy sharing. Image editing tools can help you make documents easy to read so nothing will get lost in translation.

12. Scholarships.com – Finding college scholarships can be tough since the information on them is so widespread and hard to filter by your needs and qualifications. This app makes things a little easier with a sophisticated search function and a database containing more than 2.6 million scholarships and grants.

13. PhotoMath – Another great resource for math students, PhotoMath lets you scan and instantly calculate complicated math problems using your phone’s camera. This is not just a cheat sheet, however. The app gives you step-by-step instruction on how to solve the problem in real time like a normal human being.

14. Gojimo – Test prep can be stressful. Study up for a variety of entrance exams, SATs and more with Gojimo. Take practice tests and see where you need to brush up on your studies before the big day.

15. Dropbox – Dropbox is file sharing made simple. Share anything on your phone or mobile device easily with other user classmates or teachers or simply store it for easy syncing to your desktop.

July 24, 2016

Frugal Fashion: Summer Booties Under $60

We know no summer is complete without walking along the beach in flip flops, hitting the club in gladiator sandals, or touring a vacation destination in comfy espadrilles. But never forget that boots have their place in the sun, too. Because cute ankle boots are perfect with jeans and add a little edge to a light sun dress, they should definitely be high on your summer shopping list. Before you start browsing shoes online, check out some of our favorite summer booties with Cash Back at Ebates all under $60! That means you can find booties for the office and weekend adventures without breaking the bank.

Bayou Fringe Bootie

Nothing says summer like fringe boots and the rich brown of this pair would look fabulous with light jeans and a simple tank for a lovely laid-back look.

Kammi Peep Toe Bootie

These are boots for women who walk the walk. Be a boss lady at work and at play with these super sleek peep toe booties.

Ronda Open Toe Bootie

Laser cut and perforated styles are still going strong in women’s shoes. Give your look a little structure with these beauties from Famous Footwear.

Lucretia Fringe Open Toe Bootie

The fringe and height on this pair of ankle boots will make your legs feel a mile long. Rock them with a mini dress for your next outdoor concert or event.

Trek the Town Lace-up Booties

Laces that go up the legs? Yes, please! The color of this dreamy pair from Lulus will easily mix with anything in your closet.

Always a Pleasure Lace-up Booties

We just love the vibrant chestnut color of these boots, coupled with open lacing that really makes a statement.

Qupid Tribal-Trim Booties

Tribal prints are a huge summer staple and this simple pair of black booties uses just a hint of it to shake things up.

Laser Cut Peep Toe Booties

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of club or party boots, you can stop now. Charlotte Russe has you covered with these gorgeous laser-cut booties in nude.

Lace-Up Ankle Booties

Here’s a pair perfect for your little black dress! These booties combine laces with the classic look of a peep toe for a safe way to try out a new trend.

Rodger Faux Leather Boots

Big fat buckles are oh so 90s. If you’re in need of a throwback, this pair is all Mary Jane with a little bit of a lift.

Kaimi Synthetic Boots

Give your look an urban edge with this pair rocking an athletic sole and earthy olive color.

July 23, 2016

How to Save Big at Toys “R” Us

Since 1948, Toys R Us has been the go-to destination for making kids’ dreams come true. From classic games to the hottest electronics and more, Toys R Us toys offer endless ways to entertain both kids and kids at heart. With sizzling deals on popular toys and fun for all ages, Toys R Us is your best bet for scoring huge savings this holiday season. Skip the stress and make your holiday shopping adventures easy and affordable with trendy toy specials, incredible savings programs, exclusive insider advice you’ll love and a Toys R Us coupon that will keep you comfortably within your budget. Here are our favorite tips for saving big at Toys R Us:

1. Visit the Toys R Us Savings Center for daily deals, weekly ads, and coupons.

The Savings Center is your one-stop savings spot, offering the best deals on Toys R Us toys in one easy place. You’ll find popular daily deals, weekly ads, clearance items, money-saving Toys R Us coupons and exciting promotions by toy category so you can find the perfect gifts this holiday season. Shop ‘til you drop with special 1-day only sales and get name brand toys on sale. Be sure to check back daily to take advantage of great holiday sales you won’t want to miss and earn Cash Back at Ebates for even more savings!

2. Open an “R” Us Credit Card to get 15% off your purchase.

When you open an “R” Us Credit Card online, you can choose 15% off your purchase or special financing offers upon approval to make managing your holiday budget a breeze. Plus, you’ll earn money-saving points (two points for every $1 spent at Toys R Us) that you can use like cash towards your toy purchases. Not to mention you’ll gain access to exclusive special promotions and exciting presale opportunities so you can stock up on holiday fun before anyone else. You’ll even get access to VIP partnership perks and earn points everywhere else MasterCard is accepted (one point for every $4 spent) outside of Toys R Us when you use your R Us MasterCard.

3. Sign up for Rewards “R” Us to rack up points and savings.

With the free Toys R Us Rewards Program, you can rack up points and use your rewards money to score big savings on all the most popular toys. You’ll earn one point for every dollar you spend at Toys R Us, plus get a $5 reward for every 125 points you earn. Just another easy way to conquer holiday wish lists for less! Another big bonus: Rewards R Us members get early access to over 100 Black Friday deals, which means you’ll get deep discounts on toys before non-members.

4. Download the Toys R Us app for special deals.

It’s all about apps and emails. Download the free Toys R Us app and get special deals and coupons delivered right to your phone thanks to handy text alerts. You’ll enjoy instant access to all the best Toys R Us toys anytime, anywhere. Don’t forget to sign up for Toys R Us emails to get easy access to limited-time sales events and to get more super savings sent directly to your inbox.

5. Get extra holiday savings with online promo codes and coupons.

Conquer holiday toy shopping while saving with Toys R Us coupons and unbeatable promo codes, all while earning Cash Back at Ebates. With extra savings on fun from action figures and outdoor play to learning toys and video games, you’ll find your tot’s dream toys for less.

6. Check out ToysRUs.com’s clearance section for up to 80% off.

Shop the best deals on toys at the Toys R Us clearance section, where you can browse by category and save on everything from clearance arts and crafts to discount bikes. You’ll find amazing Toys R Us toys starting at under just $2, with select toys over 80% off. Easily explore by age, price, brand and more to pinpoint the perfect toys for everyone on your list.

7. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales & holiday promotions.

Keep an eye on unbeatable seasonal discounts during special sales events including Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Get huge discounts on the most-wanted holiday toys of the season, plus stretch your budget even further with Cash Back at Ebates and an exclusive Toys R Us coupon.

8. Save with Free Shipping on orders over $19.

With every online purchase of just $19 or more, Toys R Us offers free economy shipping. You’ll get your fun stuff in about six to nine business days and pocket the extra savings! Plus, check out Toys R Us’ partnership with ShopRunner, which provides awesome offers like free 2-day shipping and member-only deals.

With so many insider tips on holiday toy shopping at ToysRUs.com, you’ll be checking off your shopping list for less in no time at all. Of course, be sure to do all your holiday shopping through Ebates to get all the best deals on toys for kids this holiday season. Happy shopping!

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Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

5 Outdoor Party Tips for Unforgettable Summer Gatherings

Every season has its upsides when it comes to party planning, but it’s pretty much a given that summer is the best season for throwing an outdoor party, especially if you’re not sure you even know how to throw a party. The best thing about outdoor parties is that they’re great for first-timers because ample food and drink choices, warm weather and the availability of your guests is pretty much a given. But even when the odds are ever in your favor, it can still be a little intimidating to host an outdoor party. That’s why we’ve collected our top five outdoor party planning tips and paired them with five great stores, so you can easily stock up on everything you need for a great time. Start your supplies shopping at Ebates to save big on your bash and earn Cash Back on all of your party planning essentials.

1. Keep It Simple

Above all else, the number one summer party tip is to keep it simple. Plan a menu that can be prepared and served all at once, can be cleaned up easily and avoids the need for oven or hot-top cooking. Don’t go nuts with a theme and don’t over-think the playlist. For a runaway success, pare your party down to the bare essentials: something to eat, something to drink, something to talk about and somewhere to sit. The first three are up to you, but for the best in outdoor furniture, check out Home and Patio Décor Center and use a patio décor promo code when you buy to get great savings. Not only does Home and Patio Décor Center have a huge variety of outdoor furniture from portable to permanent, but they also carry all the extras like landscape lighting, unbreakable dishware, outdoor rugs and more.

2. Let Nature Be Your Decorator

Let’s face it. There is no better decorator than Mother Nature. With seasonal flowers and greenery all around, items like streamers, balloons, flags or other party store decorating ideas can simply be finishing touches. Summer parties are all about comfort and ease so let your party decorations reflect that. Walk around your yard, your neighborhood or your local park to see what you can find to decorate your party naturally. Big bold foliage like tall grasses or leafy branches accent a table well, and small colorful leaves make great subtle accents. Of course, the best way to guarantee all-natural summer party décor is to plant your own blooms, herbs and plants. Check out Burpee Gardening to get all the tips, tools, seeds and supplies you need to make sure your summer parties are full of color.

3. Connect Inside and Outside

Even on the most beautiful summer day, any party needs a connection to the indoors for essentials like electricity, restrooms and running water. But you don’t want the party vibe to get lost in the transition from inside to out so find a way to connect them by leaving windows open, playing the same music indoors as out or even take everyday furniture outside. Aim to keep the indoor lighting subtle and indirect. Whether it’s evening or mid-day, a cool, dim indoors makes a good partner with an outdoor party. Shop Light in the Box for great deals on string lights, novelty lights, faux flames and more dimmable lighting ideas with incredible shipping offers.

4. No Idle Hands

Everybody wants to help when it comes to a summer party. Leave a few things undone that early-comers can lend a hand with such as plugging in the string lights, filling ice buckets, bringing out the yard games or setting up the sound system. It’s just busy work, of course, but it will give people a chance to mingle, meet and start their own conversations while you mix cocktails and heat up the grill. To find everything you need to make set-up a snap, no matter who’s doing it, head to Shindigz with a summer promo code. There you can save big on all the gear, games and goods you need to keep your guests entertained.

5. One Good Thing Leads to Another

Every party leaves something behind and the best thing you can do is be sure to separate out what you could use for the next shindig. Don’t just toss those few paper plates or plastic cups, they will come in handy next time. Try to save what you can of leftovers by freezing, or pack your guests to-go bags like party favors. Cut down on clean-up by organizing ahead of time where trash, recycling, food scraps and leftovers will go. For food and party supplies storage solutions, your one-stop shop is The Container Store where you can find everything from storage bins to ice cube trays.

What are your favorite outdoor party tips? Tell us in the comments below!

July 19, 2016

The Ultimate Guide to Teacher Discounts With Cash Back

Teachers, it goes without saying that you have one of the most important jobs in the entire world. You reward our kids with the endless gift of knowledge so it’s only fair that you get a few rewards yourself. Teacher discounts can be found at many stores, not only for school essentials and supplies, but also clothing and accessories so you can build your Back to School wardrobe for less. Check out this list of stores offering generous online discounts for teachers and Cash Back at Ebates.

Staples

Staples has a phenomenal reward program that offers up to 2% cash back (directly from Staples) on all of your purchases, free shipping with minimum purchase from staples.com and ink recycling rewards. Teachers score big with additional savings – including earning 10% back on teaching and art supplies – and bonuses that allow you to meet all of your classroom needs.