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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?

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 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

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 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.

February 2, 2017

How to Have a Non-Valentiney Valentine’s Day

It was barely Dec. 26, and all the stores put out their frilly pink and lacey red Valentine’s Day displays. But you’re not the frilly pink and lacey red type.

That’s OK. You can still celebrate the day in your own dark and cloudy way, and earn Cash Back at Ebates while you’re at it. Single or coupled up, here’s how those counting down the minutes until Feb. 15 (that’s when the chocolate goes on sale!) can have a non-Valentiney Valentine’s Day.

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Dress up in all black.

But don’t throw on a plain ol’ T-shirt and call it a day. While everyone around you is splurging on designer red outfits, get yourself something fancy. Maybe something cashmere.

Skip the sweet rom-coms and go for something with a little more … oomph.

Ditch the boy-meets-girl fare and choose a movie in which the narrative goes a little more like this: Boy meets girl. Boy loses girl … because girl thinks boy is a serial killer. “Scream” isn’t just for Halloween, but if you’re looking to stay on theme, the remake of “My Bloody Valentine” is buckets of gory fun.

Work out!

No, really. Put your efforts into hitting a new exercise milestone. Hit the gym or work out at home. Or, you know, raise your remote several times to change the channel. It has to burn some calories.

Get crafty.

Embrace your creative side and spend the night involved in a craft project. But knitting a hat just won’t do for the black-clad, horror-movie-watching folks on Valentine’s Day — so make your own little zombie pal instead. Then sit back and admire your buddy.

Savor some delicious wine.

OK, drinking wine may be a traditional Valentine’s Day thing to do. But wine is also delicious. So kick back with a glass of wine — but not just any wine. Pick something that’s extra dark — just like you.

January 23, 2017

How to Nail Your Valentine’s Day Staycation

You don’t have to plan an extravagant vacation to do Valentine’s Day right. And it doesn’t have to be just dinner either. This year, try extending the day into an entire weekend in which just the two of you stay at home and create special memories without the expense and hassle. Use Cash Back at Ebates to make it the smartest Valentine’s Day you’ve ever planned. Start with these staycation ideas for couples:

Pick a Theme for the Weekend

If going to a remote island and sipping cocktails on the beach is your idea of a romantic vacation, create the beach theme at home. You’ll be able to take a weekend to have all the fun and relaxation of a beach trip without spending all the money. Even if you don’t get the tan to prove it, you’ll still have a memorable weekend together. To make this theme a reality, try turning on some island music and making homemade margaritas in a Jimmy Buffet-approved blender.

If you and your partner dream of snowy mountains instead of white-sand beaches, create a lodge ambiance in your home to bring the romance of a winter destination to you. Get a bottle of sultry red wine and turn on the fireplace before you kick back with some new luxurious pajamas you were able to buy from Soma Intimates because you saved all that money by not going on vacation.

Cook Together

One of the most romantic ways to spend an evening together is to cook side by side. Creating a meal together is the perfect way to pass a Valentine’s Day evening. It calls for conversation, creativity, teamwork and wine. For this date idea, try going all out — lobster or steak cooked to perfection will suit the occasion. Because you’re not shelling out for a trip, you can afford to splurge on a delicious meal you can prepare (and enjoy) together.

Make Intimacy a Priority

When you take away the destination, the only thing that makes a Valentine’s Day trip unique is the intimate moments you share. Why not pull out all the cliché stops this year and buy that massage oil you’ve always joked about getting. Carve out time in the evening so you both can give and receive a massage with special oils for just this occasion, and you’ll quickly forget you’re not on vacation.

Get a Hotel in Your City

Even with all the planning in the world, sometimes home just doesn’t cut it. To get the romantic-getaway feeling traveling offers, try staying at a hotel in your hometown. You can find great last-minute deals at Hotels.com. Pack a bag for one night, head downtown and pat yourselves on the back — you’ve embarked on a memorable adventure together, and your romantic staycation didn’t even cost you the price of a flight.

January 19, 2017

Little Luxuries That Are Actually Affordable

Do you have silk tastes but a polyester budget? Does a little part of you weep when you make a “sensible” purchase? Does your heart say, “Buy that luxury item!” while your head says, “Um, hello? Rent is due and you do enjoy having a place to live, right?”

Hey, you can’t deprive yourself forever. Thanks to these accessible luxury items, you can get a taste of the luxe life without going overboard. Put simply: “Treat yo’ self.”

Here are a few special little somethings from accessible luxury brands that’ll put a smile on your face — without draining your bank account.

Key Rings

Here’s a way to add a little luxury to something you use every day. Plenty of designers offer cute — and shockingly affordable — key rings. And hey, no one needs to know that the key dangling off that designer ring is for a 20-year-old hand-me-down jalopy.

Daisy Rivet Valet Key Ring (Coach)

Flip-Flops

Yearning for designer clothing? Set your sights a little lower — on your feet. Many designers offer flip-flops that’ll keep your toes stylish without cleaning out your wallet.

Classic Flip-Flop (Tory Burch)

Socks

If you live in a cold climate, you could argue that this purchase is a good investment. (Really, you can!) Soft cashmere socks will keep those toes toasty warm, and having that little bit of accessible luxury wrapped around your feet will most definitely put a spring in your step as you shovel snow.

Johnstons of Elgin Cream Cashmere Long Cable Sock (ASOS)

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Housewares

You don’t have to break the bank on a designer table — but you can protect your lower-cost investment with some luxe coasters. Bonus: They are impressive, affordable luxury gifts for any housewarming parties you might attend.

Kipton Brass Bottle Coaster (Ralph Lauren)

Pets

Give Fido a reason to strut proudly at the dog park, because, hey, your four-footed fur-baby deserves a little luxury as well.

Big Pony Cotton Dog Polo (Ralph Lauren)

January 6, 2017

Throw the Ultimate Party for the Big Game

Hosting a viewing party for the big game? Don’t fumble — score big points with your guests with these tips for ensuring a football party touchdown!

1. Set the mood.

Go beyond wearing your team’s jersey. For your bash, set out themed football party decorations, such as these paper plates. Depending on how your team performs, you’ll be too psyched — or sad! — to do the dishes after the game is over anyway.

Football Tailgate Navy and Silver Party Pack (Target)

2. Keep kids (and some adults) occupied.

Hosting some kids? How about some grown-ups who just aren’t into football? Set them up with a bean bag football game that’s in keeping with the spirit of the day and will keep them entertained throughout the night.

Wild Sports Football Field Tailgate Toss Cornhole Set (Walmart)

3. Get creative with the drinks.

Beer may seem like the go-to beverage to serve during the big game, but the designated drivers and non-drinkers in attendance would appreciate something other than water to drink. Mix up some fun mocktails for the teetotalers at the party (this recipe book can help) that are themed to team colors!

Mocktails: The Complete Bartender’s Guide (Book Depository)

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4. Keep those game-day snacks coming!

You don’t need to research elaborate, Pinterest-worthy game-day party recipes to keep guests happy. Football food is fried food, so think chicken wings, mozzarella sticks or pizza rolls. And keep those fried treats hot and fresh — and plentiful! — with a deep fryer. (And, let’s face it, nobody eats salad during the big game.)

3.7-Liter Professional Style Stainless Steel Deep Fryer (Oster)

5. Don’t forget about what’s most important: the game!

Make sure everyone can hear what’s going on by ramping up your home theater game with top-quality speakers.

LG 3.1 Channel Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer and Digital Amplifier (Best Buy)

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.