Home & Garden – Page 2

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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”

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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.

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 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 2, 2017

8 of the Unsexiest Home Appliances to Buy Right Now

If you have a home appliances wish list, we bet there are some pretty exciting things on it. An outdoor pizza oven, a wine fridge or an espresso maker would definitely take your home entertaining up a notch. Even a brand-new front-loading washer can be the stuff of home appliance fantasies. We just want to remind you of a few unsung heroes in the household appliances department that you may want to consider nabbing for your next home renovation or spring spruce up. Stay tuned for home appliances deals and promo codes from top stores to score these unsexy yet insanely useful electrical appliances at a steal.

1. Trash compactor. Never gripe about running out of space in your garbage can before trash day again. JCPenney has you covered on compactors for every budget.

2. Garbage disposal. If you don’t already have a garbage disposal, you know the pain of throwing food scraps into the trash only to have them stink the next day. If you already have one, it may be time get ahead on a replacement at Lowe’s. They typically last about 12 years.

3. Chest freezer. It’s kind of an adulting rite of passage to own a garage fridge, right? For storing anything from bulk meats to beverages, chest freezers are definitely worth the investment.

4. Air purifier. Since we’re talking about being adults, maybe it’s also time to consider the air quality in your home. If you are prone to seasonal allergies, an air purifier can be life changing.

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5. Air conditioner. It’s still winter, so the thought of chilling the air any further can be extremely unsexy. However, the temperatures will rise before you know it, so why not cash in on great air conditioner deals at Best Buy?

6. Cooktop. If a new stove has been on your kitchen appliances wish list for a while, consider replacing the cooktop of your current one to save a few bucks.

7. Countertop oven. For those who are strapped for kitchen space, a countertop oven is heaven-sent. Find yours at Sears!

8. Vacuum sealer. Remember those bulk meats we talked about? Protect them from freezer burn with a top-of-the-line vacuum sealer.

Which of these home appliances have jumped to the top of your shopping list? Let us know with a comment below!

January 11, 2017

The No-Tears Guide to Toy Organization

After every birthday and holiday season, every parent of young children comes face to face with a giant toy pile that threatens to swallow the room whole. Although your kids may find it impressive, all you can think about is how to make it manageable. Thankfully, organizing toys does not have to be an arduous process. Let us break it down with a few basic tips to get you started. Satisfy all your toy organization needs with Cash Back at Ebates, and get a discount with a home-goods promo code. Your child’s bedroom or playroom can be clutter-free even on a budget.

Lighten the Load

Before you shop for toy organization bins or shelves, it’s crucial to assess your storage needs. Keep in mind that you may have many toys your child has outgrown, and there are probably quite a few broken items and random pieces of junk in that toy mountain. Start by picking out the items you want to trash, recycle or donate. If you have school-age children, get them involved in the process. Not only will they feel a sense of control in choosing which possessions to let go, but they’ll also learn what to do with items that are no longer useful.

Divide and Conquer

Now that you know exactly what you are keeping, you can get a better idea of which toy organization ideas will work for you. Group the toys in a way that is conducive to how your child plays. For example, put trains, tracks and cars in one pile and games and puzzles in another. Imagine each pile is a toy bin and your child is allowed to take out only one bin at a time. This guideline will help you create groups that make sense to your little one.

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Compartments Are Key

It’s time to select your storage solutions. Choose bins that can accommodate each of your toy piles, and create a system with room to grow. We love these stackable cubes from Overstock.com, which require little assembly. You can add more cubes or rearrange them as your needs change, getting more bang for your buck. And for those pesky small toys that can get lost in even the most organized system, sandwich bags are an affordable solution you probably already have.

As an added touch, label the bins so your kids know exactly where everything goes. You can even use picture labels for kids learning to read by printing out online clip art.

Play Then Display

If your kids have toys that require a ton of assembly, consider getting a small shelving unit or just clearing off the bottom book shelves in your living room. That way these toys can remain assembled without taking up floor space. Plus, that Thomas the Tank Engine track system does add to the decor in its own way.

Bucket List

After putting these ideas for organizing toys into practice, you may be tempted to ditch that giant toy bucket. Not so fast! Toy chests and buckets are great for big, soft items like stuffed animals. Or you can encourage dress-up time by making your kids’ costumes more accessible, rather than hanging them high in the closet.

December 31, 2016

8 New Year’s Essentials for Burnt-Out College Students

Last August, you started the school year ready to take over the world. But after five months of burying yourself in college textbooks, you’re running a little low on steam. This is totally normal and happens to even the most motivated students. To get you back on track, we’ve created a list of New Year’s resolutions and products that’ll help you keep them. Because if you don’t care take of yourself, making the grade will be that much harder. Shop these New Year’s essentials with Cash Back at Ebates, and end your school year with a bang.

Reduce Distractions

Starting the new year off right should include renewing your focus and concentration. Create a private study space anywhere with this cozy and portable bed tent.

Eat Healthier

The most common New Year’s Eve resolution is weight loss. Stocking up on healthy snacks with a Graze box subscription can improve your energy and reduce your dependence on the dreaded vending machine. We think that’s a great start toward a healthier lifestyle.

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Up Your Organization

If your desk is starting to look like a dump zone, it’s hardly an effective work space. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Clear the clutter with a complete organization set that puts everything in its proper place.

Wake Up Earlier

Never miss an alarm again, even after late nights with your nose buried in textbooks. This alarm clock covers all the bases with flashing lights and a bed-shaking jolt that makes sure you won’t keep slapping the snooze.

Get Active

People often jump on gym memberships when considering what to buy for the new year. We think more gradual lifestyle changes, like using standing desks, are the way to go. Not only will standing keep you more alert, it will also improve your posture and make you less sedentary.

Stay Motivated

College is a long endeavor, and the light at the end of the tunnel can seem pretty far away. Let this motivational mug remind you that you can conquer anything, just like Beyoncé.

Keep Your Spirits Up

We bet with all that time at the computer, you end up looking at your hands a lot. They might as well make you crack a smile, with playful nail decals from Etsy. Subscribe to your favorite Etsy sellers to stay tuned for a promo code on your next purchase.

Combat Stress

Spas and massages are expensive, and meditation takes precious minutes you could be spending editing your thesis. But a calming, aromatherapy body lotion from Aveda takes seconds to apply.

November 29, 2016

Holiday Decorations to Liven Your Living Room

Getting your home ready for holiday celebrations can seem like a daunting task. The key is taking it room by room, and we find it best to start with living room. Communal spaces give you the most freedom to mix and match holiday home decor to create your signature style. To get you started, we’ve picked out some of our favorite living room decor pieces that will add warmth and light to your home while getting you Cash Back at Ebates. Be on the lookout for living room decor sales or a holiday decorations promo code to save even more!

Metallic Poinsettia Throw Pillow

The most popular holiday decorating ideas always include a little sparkle and shine, making this gorgeous throw pillow a must-have.

WaterGuard Pine Trees Christmas Tree Skirt

If green-and-red isn’t necessarily your thing, not to worry — there are plenty of holiday color options, like this tree skirt that comes in a variety of shades.

Holiday Lane Silver “Joy”

Take things up a notch with living room wall decor that really turns heads. This glittery Joy is perfect for modern decor styles.

Transpac Large Glass Gold Light-Up Tree

Why bother with pine needles when you can grab a no-mess mini tree that shines all season long?

Kate spade new york Oak Street Menorah

Celebrate Hanukkah in style with a super chic menorah by kate spade new york.

Birch Wood Candle Holder

For those who prefer more rustic decor, this candle holder is the perfect outdoorsy accent.

Stag Heads with Metallic Antlers

Finding holiday decor items that surpass the seasons isn’t common. But we can see these stag heads staying on your walls well into the new year.

Gray Faux Fur Wreath with Cardinal

Take a departure from the traditional pine wreath and go with this faux fur piece to add some texture to your family room decor.

Glitter and Wood Hanukkah Decor Set

It doesn’t get any easier than this wooden wall art set. Simply hang and enjoy.

Red Poinsettia LED Glimmer Strings

If you want a little more lighting without all the hassle of string lights, opt for these tiny LED glimmer strands.

October 29, 2016

Hostess Gift Ideas to Make You the Best Dinner Guest Ever

With the holiday season approaching, your calendar is sure to fill with gatherings and dinner parties with friends, coworkers and family. Hostess gifts are a great way to show your appreciation to the person responsible for getting you all together under one roof. Sure, you usually bring a dish or a bottle of wine. But why not knock it out of the park with unique hostess gifts that will guarentee your spot at the table next time? We’ve rounded up some home goods and delectible treats that will make the best hostess gifts while earning you Cash Back at Ebates.

Le Souk Olivique Olive Wood Salad Hands, $28.99

The best hostess gift ideas are ones you can use right on the spot. So next time you sign up to bring the salad, pack along these salad hands to toss it up. And when the hostess compliments you on your unique utensils, tell her “They’re yours!”

kate spade new york Polka Dot Apron, $30

She may already have an apron but one this adorable? Plus, how many times has she had to look up cup to tablespoon conversions? Now she won’t have to since they are printed on the back of this super cute apron!

Rub Away Bar, $7.50

She slaved all day in the kitchen and her hands certainly smell like it. This stainless steel “soap bar” knocks out stubborn food odors. Just wash your hands with it.

White Stone with Gold Wine Stopper, $16.99

Geodes. They are hot right now. So don’t you dare bring that bottle of cab without this gorgeous stopper.

Copper Laser Cut Glass Vase, $9.98

Flowers are always a great idea but presenting them in a decorative vase from Cost Plus certainly kicks things up a notch.

Almond Roca Toffee with Vintage Tin, $14.99

You really can’t go wrong with candy. However, this tin of Almond Rocca is vintage and will make one fine kitchen accessory long after the treat is gone.

Artisanal Tea Brewing Collection Kit, $69.95

After-dinner refreshments will be a breeze with this tea brewing kit from Teavana.

Sugarfina “But First, Cocktails” Gift Set, $26

We mentioned that candy is a no-fail, right? Well this set will be a home run if she also has a taste for champagne and cocktails. These assorted treats are flavored after her favorite spirits.

Le Creuset Mini Cocottes with Cookbook, $100

The delivery of this gift is key. Make a soufflé in one of these cocottes, present the dish to your hostess, then surprise her with the rest of the set!

Charles Viancin Sunflower Lid, $8.99

That dinner party is sure to yield a ton of leftovers. Let the hostess know she can ditch tin foil and plastic wrap for good when you hand her a couple of these adorable silicone lids from Bloomingdale’s.

September 23, 2016

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

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