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December 30, 2015

Unique Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is often celebrated as the last big shindig for the year. It’s a time to look back on your fondest memories of the passing year and to celebrate the upcoming year with loved ones and festivities. But if hanging out in your jammies and watching an oversized light fixture make its descent isn’t your cup of tea, we at Ebates suggest a few fun and unusual ways to celebrate the New Year.

Get Crafty

If you want to start 2016 in a new and one-of-a-kind way, encourage your party-goers (kids and adults alike) to forgo the prepackaged goodies for something a little more unique. Set up a craft table and get to work decorating your gear for the occasion. Set out plenty of bright colors and sparkly goodies to get the party started. Glitter, sequins, tinsel and tissue paper can be used to make the appropriate garb. Create your own party hats, noisemakers and confetti for a special celebration to mark the occasion. Kids will especially love this activity.

Create a Feast

The holidays are all about filling yourself with delicious foods without making excuses so why not celebrate New Year’s Eve with a full belly? Fill your table with a smorgasbord of options so everyone can have their fill and snack throughout the night. Finger foods can include salty and sweet snacks but you’ll also want to include a few healthy options to get your New Year’s resolutions off to a good start. And don’t forget your New Year’s tableware from Birthday in a Box!

Take on a Worldly View

The coming of a new year is celebrated the world over, but not every country celebrates it the same way.

In Columbia, they carry suitcases all day to encourage travel in the upcoming year. In Greece, people hang onions from the door to represent rebirth and break a pomegranate on their doorstep for prosperity. In Argentina, people eat beans for good luck. In Denmark, people climb onto chairs and “jump” into New Year’s Day. In some South American countries, they wear colored underwear to represent their desires for the year ahead. Spaniards consume 12 grapes, one with each chime of the clock as a symbol of luck. The Japanese clean their homes and send thank-you cards.

Many of these practices can be performed concurrently to show your appreciation for other cultures and to have some unique and fun celebrations this New Year’s Eve.

Count Down Each Hour

Why wait until the last moment to live it up when you can celebrate every final hour of the year? Create fun age-appropriate activities for your guests to complete each hour. When the clock strikes each hour, set up a new activity like games, dancing, entertainment and more. These activities are particularly fun for little ones, especially since it’ll help them stay up until midnight for the big countdown!

Have a Ball

Ring in modern times with the medieval tradition of masquerade balls. Get an era appropriate gown at Costume Express or modernize the event with a pretty dress from Barneys New York. The occasion calls for opulence so feel free to go all out with an elaborate getup. Most importantly, don’t forget your mask so your party will look the part!

Double Dip

In other cultures, New Year’s isn’t celebrated only at the dawn of the year. The Macedonian Orthodox Calendar celebrates December 31st and January 14th, with fireworks and gifts for children, respectively. Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year and is a two-day festival in early autumn, filled with religious service and large meals. Chinese New Year is celebrated in late January or early February in accordance with the lunisolar Chinese calendar and includes a clean home, presents and gifts of money in red paper envelopes.

Relax the Night Away Solo

Instead of getting yourself into a tizzy or dealing with the outside world, create a relaxing spa night so you can start your New Year’s with a fresh outlook. Take a long soak in a warm bath while enjoying a nice book. Paint your nails and make use of your favorite facial treatment from Sephora. Bake some cookies so your home will smell delicious and enjoy a tasty, homemade treat. There’s no harm in taking a little time for yourself on New Year’s Eve.

Plan Your Resolutions

There’s no time to plan for the future like the minute before. Use this time to set out your resolutions for the year. You can create plenty of fun activities. Write your resolution on a piece of paper and put it in a balloon to pop at midnight. Create a match game for the kids to pair similar resolutions. Cut out a handprint and write resolutions on it. You can even create a time capsule to open on New Year’s Eve next year to see how everyone followed through.

Whatever activities you plan for your New Year’s Eve, make it something you’ll enjoy. Spend time with those you love or bask in a solo night by yourself. As long as you’re spending New Year’s with a smile on your face, it’s sure to be a good year.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 29, 2015

The Art of the Thank You Note

Imagine coming home from a long day at the office. You’re tired, your feet hurt and your mailbox is full of bills, catalogs and other forms of junk mail. But nestled in between all those coupons and ads is a small envelope with your handwritten name on it. A thank you card. In the age of texts, tweets and emails, this is a joy to see. Taking the time to say “thank you” in the form of a handwritten note can make any day full of stress end on a joyful note. Whether you want to buy some beautiful stationery or DIY your own notecards, here’s a few tips and tricks on the art of writing a thank you note this holiday season. We also picked out a few of our favorite thank you note sets that you can get with Cash Back at Ebates.

1. Make It Stand Out

Grabbing a piece of copy paper, scribbling the words “thanks” and throwing it in the mail doesn’t cut it. Yes, it’s the thought that counts, but put some effort into it to really show your gratitude. Your aunt spent four hours making those cookies that you love. Your sister stood in line for 45 minutes to pick out the scarf you’ve been wanting for months. And your co-workers remembered what your favorite flowers were. Having your thank you card stand out among the junk mail makes the recipient eager to open it. Even hand-made cards get major brownie points, showing that you went above and beyond with your effort.

2. Be Specific

When saying thank you, make sure to include what you’re thanking someone for, whether it be the gift you received or a kind gesture they’ve shown you recently. Let the person know how you felt receiving the gift and how you plan to use it or how it will make a difference in your life. This shows that you’re not just sitting down and signing thank you cards generically and shows their gift or gesture has not gone unappreciated.

3. Add a Special Touch

If the situation calls for it, adding a special touch to the thank you card can really bring a smile to someone’s face. Whether you want to add a small gift yourself or simply write a meaningful quote, make sure to address it so that it will not be overlooked or misinterpreted.

4. Send in a Timely Manner

Delivering a thank you note, whether through the mail or in person, should be done within a week or two. The sooner the note is delivered, the more of a priority that person appears to be. A thank you note a month or two after the gift or gesture can come across as an afterthought, which doesn’t make the person feel special at all. And the goal of the thank you note is to show your gratitude and appreciation!

Take your time in writing thank you notes, regardless of how tedious or unnecessary it may seem. It truly makes a difference. And if you’re thinking of buying stationery instead of making your own, here are a few suggestions we have for you!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 28, 2015

The Cutest Weekly Planners for 2016

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to get more organized, getting a weekly planner is a good start. While planners and calendars on your phone are convenient, people are rediscovering the lost art of putting pen to paper and finding that paper planners can be just as effective in keeping you on top of your schedule. Find the calendars that work for your life and style with our list of adorable planners with Cash Back at Ebates.

kate spade new york Gold Dot Planner

Add touch of sparkle to your everyday with this classic organizer by kate spade. Features include a hardbound cover, elastic band closure, interior golden metallic spiral binding, an interior pocket and mylar-covered tabs. Sweet sayings throughout will keep you motivated to make 2016 the best year yet.

kate spade new york On a Bright Schedule Planner

A little pop of bright green will surely keep you from forgetting to update this super chic planner, also by kate spade. Keep your dates straight in each monthly grid and reflect on every unique occasion in the lined journal sections.

Sakroots Artist Circle Daily Planner

Keeping track of your busy schedule was never so much fun. This daily agenda is a planner, an address book, and a notebook all in one, complete with a sticker page featuring Sakroots critters!

Studio Oh! Woodland Tales Planner

For the rustic types, this super cute bear planner will remind you of academic calendars from way back in the day when your biggest worry was finishing your diorama in time for the science fair.

October 9, 2015

9 Steps to Building a Classic Wardrobe

Building a classic wardrobe that is functional, comfortable and fashionable can seem like a daunting task. Rest assured, it’s possible! Having a closet containing clothes that are cohesive and easy to mix and match can help relieve morning stress and future shopping trip frustration. We’ve come up with 9 steps on how to build a classic wardrobe that will keep you looking fashion forward for years to come. Don’t forget to save more while building your wardrobe by shopping with Cash Back at Ebates!

Clean Out the Closet

A cluttered, outdated or messy closet is a major hindrance when building a wardrobe. Donate or toss out items that are worn out, obsolete or don’t fit you any more. Items that are stretched out, faded or pilling should be replaced. Keep in mind that these items can be replaced over a period of time. Don’t feel the need to do a complete overhaul all at once!

Factor in Your Lifestyle

Lifestyle plays a major role into your wardrobe. Do you work at a desk or are you busy traveling for formal events? Do you like to hike on the weekend or spend lots of time beach side? Every wardrobe is a personal expression of yourself, so make sure to factor your day to day life when buying clothes, shoes and accessories.

Keep it Neutral

While color is essential to fashion, keeping it neutral is one of the most important steps to building a classic wardrobe. Neutral colors consist of black, brown, navy, gray, white, camel, tan and cream. Use neutrals to build up your outfit and add a pop of color or two to finish off the look. Experiment with neutrals outside of pants and tops by adding a neutral coat, purse or shoe.

Back to the Basics

Basics are a stepping stone to a good wardrobe. Every wardrobe has basics, which are items that are worn often and can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces. The essential basics for every wardrobe should include a white button up shirt, classic denim jeans, a little black dress, a neutral blazer, black pumps, neutral flats, a cardigan, a pencil skirt and dress slacks. Once those items are in your closet you can add statement jewelry pieces, a fabulous bag, the perfect evening coat and a go-to date dress.

Layer, Layer, and Layer Some More

Layering effectively has baffled many for ages, but it’s really quite simple! Layering will add character and personality to your outfit and ease the transition from day to night. Add a blazer over a camisole, a blanket scarf over a sweater or a collared shirt under a vest for a top-notch look.

Avoid Trendy Items

Trends are fun but they come and go. The key to building a wardrobe is to pick pieces that are staples. Don’t avoid trends completely, especially if you enjoy them, but be selective and don’t spend too much money on a piece that you won’t wear in two months. Trends will fade, but style is eternal.

A Good Wardrobe is a Balanced Wardrobe

A balanced wardrobe includes a wide selection of clothes, shoes and accessories. You’ll want to have attire that works for casual weekend hangouts, the typical work day, an important business conference and a special night on the town. If you open your closet and only see t-shirts and jeans or blazers and pencil skirts, it’s time to consider balancing your wardrobe.

Pay Attention to the Fit

It’s easy to overlook a top that is a little too snug or a pair of jeans that are a tad loose, but avoid this mistake. All your clothing should fit your body and flatter you as well. If you have a great piece that you invested in that can be taken in or let out, find a good seamstress to take care of it.

Let Your Personality Shine

Your lifestyle or job may dictate how you dress daily, but always remember to let your personality shine through. If a plain white v-neck and jeans is too simple for you, add some funky sneakers and a brightly colored scarf with your favorite handbag to add a bit of your personality into your outfit.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

September 30, 2015

Fall Activities for All That Won’t Break the Bank

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year. You get to witness the majesty of nature and how it changes before your eyes as a whole new color palette forms. These changes bring along fun seasonal activities that all ages can enjoy. Gather up your family and friends and check out these fun fall activities that won’t have you digging deep into your pockets.

1. Reach up high to pick some apples. When the next rainy day comes around, you can use your freshly picked apples to make pies, muffins, caramel apples and more.

2. Hit up the local pond with stale bread and feed the ducks. Pack a picnic and a blanket to make the trip even more memorable.

3. Take advantage of the autumn breeze and go fly a kite. For an extra challenge, make your own kite for a family-fun project.

4. Pull on some cozy socks and drink hot apple cider. For extra fun, make your own cider!

5. Find a local hay ride for the whole family to enjoy. Better yet, if that hay ride includes a trip through a corn maze, that’s a whole day of family fun on the cheap.

6. Gather the whole family up for a nature hike at a local park. Look and listen for different types of wildlife and keep a list of every one you find.

7. Watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”. Get a great big dose of nostalgia. If you have young ones, introduce them to this childhood favorite!

8. Enjoy homemade ice cream in a can. It’s easy enough for toddlers and kids to make. Follow this recipe and roll back and forth before enjoying this tasty treat.

9. Plan a pumpkin patch day. Instead of buying your pumpkin from the local grocery store, head to a pumpkin patch and pick one out for a fun night of jack-o-lantern carving. After carving the pumpkins, gather up the seeds for roasting!

10. Rake up all the leaves into a pile and jump into them. Just make sure to wear clothes you’re okay with getting a bit dirty!

11. Create an outdoor fall scavenger hunt. Have your little ones look for pumpkins, acorns, scarecrows, fallen leaves and more.

12. Collect leaves and make a leaf rubbing for handmade fall home decor. Enjoy quality time with the family while beautifying your home for very little money.

13. Volunteer to help others. Find your local food bank or soup kitchen and see how you can donate your time or host a local food drive in your neighborhood.

14. Warm up during cool evenings with a campfire. Roast hot dogs and veggies and finish off with delicious s’mores. End the night with some spooky “ghost stories” (as long as the little ones don’t get too scared!)

15. Make a bird feeder. Gather up pinecones and create this kid-friendly bird feeder using peanut butter and birdseed.

Whether you do these activities with your friends, significant other or family, enjoy the changing seasons while saving more. Look for more autumn activities at LivingSocial and Groupon and get Cash Back at Ebates.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

August 15, 2015

How to Romance Your Partner in 15 Easy Ways

Did you know that August is National Romance Awareness month? While we’re pretty sure you all know what romance is, we think it’s important to be reminded that in any relationship, romance is important. Some people say you should never stop dating your partner, even after you move in together, have kids or get married. You’re too busy to be romantic, you say? We’ve got some great ideas to show your love that are easy and cheap but incredibly thoughtful and sweet. Here are our 15 romantic gestures to keep the sparks flying no matter how long you’re been together.

1. Closeness is key. Sitting next to each other on the couch, holding hands or even walking side by side is something you can and should do every day. When you let physical space come between you and your partner on a regular basis, you’re allowing emotional space to creep in as well. If you’ve got some PDA hang-ups, don’t worry. You can be conservative about your showing of affection, but you should show it in some fashion. Try using this rule of thumb—If you were a stranger and saw you and your partner walking down the street, would you think you were a couple? If not, try looking like one and close that physical gap.

2. Leave little love notes. If you’ve got Post-Its and pens in your house, then you’re already halfway there. This doesn’t have to be a sonnet, just something sweet or a heartfelt “thank you” for something your partner has done for your or your household lately. Get silly with a cute little doodle or even tell a short joke for an easy giggle. Leave love notes in places your partner will find them during their regular routines, whether it’s on the bathroom mirror, coffee pot or ice cream container. This act of spontaneity keeps your relationship fresh and exciting.

3. Write long love letters. OK so this one does take a little more time but this is perfect for when you are apart for business trips, vacations, etc. When you are away, pen a love letter and express your true feelings for this special person. Keep it sincere or get a little flirty. There is no wrong way to write to your lover as long as you stay away from the mundane like details about your trip or your day. There will be plenty of time to talk about stuff like that when you reunite. Send the letter in the mail, no matter when you’re slated to return. It will be a nice surprise brought right to their doorstep.

4. Send sweet texts. Sending a little text just to say “hi” will always brighten someone’s day. Any time your partner crosses your mind throughout the day is a good time to text them and tell them all about it. Maybe you heard a joke that reminded you of them or walked past an old haunt you two used to frequent back in the good ole’ days when you had more time and were just getting to know each other. Don’t let moments of missing them or feeling nostalgic pass you by. Share them in just a few taps on your phone.

5. Cook together. Plan a meal, go grocery shopping and cook that meal together. Not only are you spending time together, you are collaborating, delegating and producing something you can both be proud of and enjoy together (unless you burn it, of course). Cooking and eating is a sensual experience. Get into it! Go all out and plan three courses, complete with a decadent dessert you can share with two spoons.

6. Learn to master their favorite dish. This one is perfect for non-cohabiting couples because you’ll have plenty of space and privacy to learn this special skill in secret. Wow your partner by not only learning to cook their absolute favorite meal in the world, but by knocking it out of the park. Find a recipe, try it out, tweak it and make it your own according to their taste and liking. Seriously, they will worship you once they are done chowing down.

7. Send them cute animal pictures. If nothing makes their heart melt more than seeing a cat and dog take a nap together or a baby sloth getting a bath, send it to them via text, email or Facebook message. Make this a private exchange. It’s one thing to share these little bits of viral cuteness with the rest of your socialsphere but it’s a little more special when you send it directly to your one and only. Reddit.com/r/aww is also a chock full of adorbs.

8. Prepare a home spa. If you know your partner is about to come home after a particularly brutal day, help them unwind with an at-home spa. Run a bath, provide a clean and comfy robe, buy or make some luxurious bath bombs, light some scented candles and put on a record that will promote absolute chillness to create one zen-tastic space in which they can melt the day away. Don’t engage in conversation, just lead them toward their personal spa for one, exit and close the door behind you. There will be plenty of time to talk afterward about all the obstacles they faced, but hopefully their outlook will greatly improve by the time they towel off. This may not seem very romantic, but giving your partner some “me time” when they really need it is a loving, selfless act for which they will be totally grateful.

9. Engage in each others hobbies. Most likely, you both have some unique interests that you might not necessarily share. Whether it’s sports, music, crafting, scuba diving, stamp collecting, whatever, set aside some time to experience your partner’s hobbies. Notice, we say experience because we know you might not necessarily enjoy these things. The important thing is that you are present, you give it a try and most importantly, you witness them in their element. Even if you find out you don’t have a powerful yen for building HAM radios after all, chances are you will still get a kick out of seeing them completely geek out over something.

10. Give small, random gifts. Who doesn’t love a cheesy little gift now and then, just because? Again, this small token of affection can be anything that will make your partner laugh or remind them of special times you shared. Also, you get extra points if the gift happens to be something you partner has talked about wanting or planning to buy for themselves. This shows you actually listen to them, and believe us, that’s the best gift you can give. In the digital age when we are all glued to our phones, finding out someone is paying attention to us can be a rare commodity.

11. Take them on a surprise date. A lot of couple like to practice a regular date night. But that’s the thing about romantic ideas. If you are expecting them, they are somehow a little less romantic. Plan a surprise date! It doesn’t have to be super elaborate, maybe a nighttime picnic in the backyard or last-minute tickets to a movie with a babysitter ready to watch the kids. If your offices are close-by, maybe stop by unannounced to take your partner out to lunch. Romantic surprises like these keep your relationship from becoming completely routine.

12. Take the kids. Yes, please. Take them. Whether your partner is a stay-at-home parent or a working one, chances are they can use a little quiet time. And even though it’s something they really need, some parents have trouble asking for this small luxury they certainly took for granted before kids came along and turned their lives upside down. So without warning, take those kids to a movie, to grab a burger, to your mother’s house, to the moon, anywhere and leave your partner at home. They will feel supported and cared for, which always leaves room for romance.

13. Buy them an outfit. We know this is a tricky one because not everyone likes to be dressed by another person. But if you feel like you know your partner’s personal style well enough, splurge on an outfit for them. This will show them that you appreciate them as a delicious piece of eye candy and thought they would look great in some shiny new wrappings.

14. Get dressed up. No matter if you are staying in or going out, get all gussied up, especially if it’s been a while since your partner has seen you put your A-game on. Break out the fancy dress shoes and sport coat. Expertly apply the red lipstick and little black dress. Create the look that makes you feel like you can turn any head on the sidewalk. That confidence is always attractive.

15. Give a foot or back massage without be asked. Touch is the biggest ingredient in a romance cocktail. But touch that relieves stress or physical pain is simple amazing. If your partner has an active job (like carrying your child) or they’ve just had a rough day, give them a little massage to help ease the tension. Make them putty in your hands.

Which of these romantic ideas will you be planning to do with your partner? Comment below!

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July 23, 2015

3 Low Maintenance Houseplants

While we can all appreciate the value of an attractive houseplant, we don’t all have the green thumb that it takes to keep them alive for more than a few weeks. If you’re like us and you want a good looking but low maintenance houseplant, we’ve got your covered. Spritz these plants with a splash of water every couple weeks and you’ve got yourself a growing, thriving and happy houseplant. Don’t forget to head over to Ebates for discounted price deals and Cash Back offers on your favorite Home and Garden stores.

Jade

Easily identifiable by their thick oval leaves and deep green color, jade plants grow quickly and require relatively little attention to keep healthy. These succulents tend to be more attractive than the average fern, and they’re easier to maintain as well.

Aloe

While we all know of aloe as a component in a huge range of skincare products, the plant is also surprisingly easy to maintain. Aloe thrives in dry soil environments, meaning that depending on the humidity levels of your home or office, you can get away with only watering the plant once every other week. For those of us that tend to forget about those watering obligations, aloe seems like it might be just the right match.

Air Plants

In addition to their incredibly easy upkeep and maintenance routines, air plants are also one of the coolest plants in terms of options for potting. Because they don’t require soil to grow, there are a ton of cool ways to hang your air plants for a unique display. And all you need to do to keep them thriving is to mist once a week with a water bottle.

According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association, maintaining houseplants have myriad benefits ranging from improving your mood and sense of well-being, to reducing anxiety and stress levels, giving a better sense of stability, and making it easier to relax.

Whether you want them to help filter indoor pollution, do a little stress relief, or just brighten up an otherwise lackluster corner of your home, houseplants can do the trick! While you might not think you have the green thumb, ordering a few of these super easy to maintain houseplants should be able to convince you otherwise.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

July 14, 2015

4 USA Destinations for a Perfect Summer Getaway

As we head into the summer months, friends, couples and families everywhere are wondering where to head for a summer getaway. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of four beautiful American destinations perfect for any travel group. And don’t forget to browse Ebates travel coupons and deals for more savings and Cash Back on all your travel needs!

Chicago

Chicago has a horrible (and accurate) reputation for its unbearable seven-month-long winters, however, few cities are as majestic as summertime Chicago. Stroll the river walk amidst the impressive skyline and renowned architecture or take a water taxi to save your walking legs. Explore heralded museums such as the Museum of Science and Industry, The Field Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Shedd Aquarium.

Don’t leave without experiencing classic Chicago deep dish pizza, or taking in a ballgame at the historic Wrigley Field. If you want to balance trekking around the city with some R&R, take in one of Chicago’s many beaches and stare off into Lake Michigan with a cold drink in hand.

Portland

Portland, and the Pacific Northwest in general, experience more than their fair share of blustery gray days and rain but June to September (particularly July and August) brings the warmest temperatures and lowest amounts of precipitation. Portland is revered (and sometimes mocked) for its uniqueness, which means there’s no shortage of culturally stimulating activities to partake in.

Portland has dozens of karaoke bars and a serious focus on live music in general. But it wouldn’t be the Pacific Northwest without some coffee and a good read. Powell’s City of Books in Portland is the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. If you’re not feeling as cerebral, take a hike in the Columbia River Gorge or check out one of the 58 active breweries within the city limits.

Asheville

If you’re looking for a quaint mountain adventure, few places in North America can offer the combination of culture, outdoors and quaint feel like Asheville, North Carolina.

The small-town layout lends well to the diverse ways one can spend a day. Get up early to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and be back in time to eat lunch at one of the many excellent microbreweries. Walk off the food and brews by grazing the 8,000-acre backyard of America’s largest home, the Biltmore, and as many of its 250 rooms you can make it through. Those looking for a mild summer climate destination are well served heading to Asheville, with average summer temperatures barely exceeding 70 degrees.

Biloxi

For those looking for a more laid-back vacation complete with white sand, great fishing and higher temperatures, look no further than one of the country’s first settled communities (1699) in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Though Biloxi suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina, its colonial, southern charm lives on with landmark sites like Jefferson Davis’ Beauvoir, the post-war home of the former President of the Confederate States of America. Many resorts and casinos have also been fully restored and when paired with the assortment of great golf course options in the area, Biloxi holds all the elements for a relaxed trip of play and leisure.

No matter where you decide to head this summer, be smart with your money and browse Ebates Travel & Vacations coupons to get the most out of your money.

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July 8, 2015

5 Unique First Date Ideas to Break the Ice

When’s the last time you were on a first date? Was it fun/awkward/nerve-racking? Did conversation feel too forced or not fluid enough? Maybe you two just didn’t have anything in common. Or perhaps your date plan was unoriginal and you both knew it. The best date ideas are the ones that allow you to gain an organic insight into the other’s life – their upbringing, passions, ambitions and fears – without it being too contrived. The goal is to break down the barriers as quickly as possible and let the nerves float away.

Check out our guide below for interesting date ideas that’ll melt away the first date ice. If nothing on this list resonates with you, explore Groupon coupons for more exciting date and event ideas!

Trivia Night at the Local Pub

No matter where home is, chances are there’s a local bar hosting weekly trivia. If you’re in a major city, you’ll probably have a trivia option every night of the week. Taking a date to trivia allows you to find out a lot about the other person without even asking.

A lot of anecdotes and context start to surface when someone’s forced to rack the depths of their brain attempting to answer eccentric and challenging questions. Not to mention, you’ll be playing on the same team, allowing a competitive bond to form effortlessly. After trivia’s over, stay for another drink and rehash or elaborate on tidbits that were brought up throughout the night. You may find yourself chatting until closing time, wondering where all that time went.

Go To an Improv Show

What better way to break the ice than to laugh at people performing in awkward, unplanned scenarios? An improv show or other performance arts events are great options if you don’t want the first date to be too talking intensive. Not to mention the evening will be more memorable regardless of whether or not sparks fly. If a dinner and movie are your typical date go-tos, attending an improv show will be a breath of fresh air.

Volunteer Together

Nothing takes the pressure off a first date more than spending time with someone while performing a job. Look up local places to volunteer and enjoy a fulfilling day together, slowly feeling each other out. Serve soup to the homeless, play with kids at a youth center or hang out with the elderly. No matter the activity, you’ll have plenty to relate to during, or after your volunteering session ends.

Find a DIY Project to Do Together

Remember arts and crafts time in grade school? Or how about art class in high school? It’s always fun and social to create. When we’re crafty and occupied with the creative process, it’s a relaxed atmosphere for chatting and casual conversation. If you drink coffee or tea and strive for your mugs to be beyond the ordinary, make your own custom coffee mugs together. Conversation will flow organically and you’ll end up with a cool keepsake in the process. And if you want to save a little buying supplies, you can always use Michael’s coupons from Ebates.

Have a Coffee Date and Play Truth or Dare

Yes, the coffee date is a little cliché but that doesn’t mean it’s not effective in getting to know a person. The problem is, conversation can be a little stiff and uncomfortable with two people meeting for the first time, no matter how much smiling is going on. So why not spice it up a bit and play a mild (or not so) game of truth or dare? At the least, the game might force some laughs, breaking down the barriers to freer-flowing conversation.

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May 24, 2015

3 Tips for Hosting the Perfect Summer Party

It’s almost summer, and that means it’s almost time for the season of barbecues, pool parties, bonfires, and fun. If you’re planning to throw a party this summer, all you need to do is prepare a few key details and you’ll be all set to give your guests a great time.

1. Choose Your Theme

When the weather starts to heat up, it’s the best time of the year to plan a fun outdoor party. One of the best ways to get your guests exciting about an upcoming party is to center things around a theme. If you’re celebrating for the Fourth of July, you already have your theme ready to go, but other ideas like Kentucky Derby parties, lawn games, and garden parties are all light themes that help you in your planning for everything from invitations to libations.

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2. Get Creative With Your Drinks

Speaking of libations, the key to any successful party is the food and drinks you serve. Get creative with your drinks and keep things in theme. While Cinco de Mayo may have already passed, a cantina-themed fiesta is going to be great all summer long, and a few margarita varieties are just the thing to get things started.

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3. Get Your Guests Involved

While a traditional dinner party is always a nice time, there’s something more exciting about heading to a party where there is a little more planned for guests. Getting your guests involved in the party doesn’t necessitate months of planning, but a few simple options can keep the party flowing, fun, and lively. Whether it’s lawn games, projecting a classic film, setting up a build your own Bloody Mary bar, or something else, a few simple activities can be the difference between a good party and a great one.

Follow these simple tips and your guests will be talking about your party for months to come. As always, your party preparations are always more affordable when you shop with the discounts and Cash Back that Ebates offers!

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