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December 4, 2016

Beauty Tips for Looking Stunning in Holiday Photos

The holidays are all about marking another year gone by and the blessings that came with it. One of the ways we do that is by taking holiday photos and professional family portraits. But the thought of getting camera-ready can cause anxiety for some. If that’s the case with you, we’re here to help. Take a look at these simple beauty tips that will have you glowing and looking gorgeous for all your photo ops. This complete holiday beauty guide will give you the skinny on what you need and how to get it with Cash Back at Ebates.

Hydration First

You may think skipping the moisturizer will help you keep your face on longer, but remember: We’re approaching winter, and the cold air is harsh. Protect your skin by always starting the day with a moisturizer. Stick with non-SPF moisturizer (it photographs better) and keep it light. A sensitive-skin formula should do the trick.

Get Matte, Then Get Even

Applying a pore-reducing, matte primer is your next step. We recommend Benefit’s The POREfessional: Matte Rescue Invisible-Finish Mattifying Gel. It will give you an instant glow, and your foundation will glide on like butter. Speaking of foundation, you’re going to want to go heavier than normal for full-on coverage. Then, even out your skin tone with a concealer that blends easily with your foundation. Finish it off with powder, and you’ve got the perfect canvas. Pro Tip: If dry spots pop up while you apply your foundation, mix it with your moisturizer and reapply to only the dry areas.

Brows That Wow

Filling in your brows is a must for photos, even if they’re naturally full. Harsh light can wash them out, leaving your eyes looking frameless. The key to keeping the look natural is filling with hair-like strokes. This Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer does just that with a push-up, angled tip.

Stop. Selfie Time.

Now that you have your face and brows done (the foundation of your makeup look) take a selfie. Mirrors will only deceive you. Make sure to do it in bright, natural light to make sure everything looks even, and angle the shot so that your brows look as symmetrical as possible.

Primp Those Peepers

Believe it or not, you’re now past the hardest part, and highlighting your eyes will be a breeze. All you need is neutral shadow at the crease, light-yet-matte shadow at the brow bone, a little dark shadow on your lash line at the outer corners (top and bottom) and a touch of shimmer at the inner corners. Before you finish it all off with your normal mascara, sweep on some Lancôme CILS BOOSTER XL Mascara Base to create the look of thick, long lashes. No falsies required!

Pucker Up

You may not normally wear lip liner, but it’s absolutely essential for photos. Start with your liner, then apply lipstick (preferably matte, for staying power) with a lip brush. You’ll be amazed how much longer lipstick lasts this way, as opposed to when you apply it straight from the tube.

Now Freeze!

Once everything is applied perfectly and you’re full-on feeling yourself, spray on some NYX Cosmetics Makeup Setting Spray. Don’t worry — it may feel wet, but it’s really like hairspray for your face, and will make everything sweat- and element-proof for the whole day. Be sure to keep blotting papers and translucent finishing powder on hand in case your skin starts to get shiny. Pro Tip: Ripped-up pieces of toilet seat covers actually work wonders for absorbing oils when you’re in a pinch.

December 2, 2016

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

So you’re done shopping for big items and now just need a few stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. Congrats! You’re most of the way there. Allow us to make your shopping experience easier with this go-to guide for stocking stuffers and great ways to earn Cash Back at Ebates.

Zippo Hand Warmer, Chrome, $20.99 (Walmart)

Fitting neatly in a pocket, this chic hand warmer provides up to 12 hours of warmth.

Corkcicle Wine Chiller, $17.99 (Wine.com)

Chill wine from the inside and get the perfect glass every time. For the wine enthusiast on your list, this fits perfectly in a stocking and is sure to bring a smile.

Panasonic ErgoFit In-Ear Earbud Headphones with Mic + Controller, $14.99 (Panasonic)

Friends and family will love listening to sweet tunes with these budget-friendly earbuds in the colors they love the most.

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm, $4.99 (Macy’s)

This cute lip balm contains natural ingredients and a subtle tint that provides moisture and color in one swift move.

Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak 3 Piece Stocking Stuffer, $5.99 (Ulta)

The perfect travel-size hair products without harsh chemicals. They’ll love this set of shampoo, conditioner and dry shampoo, great for that salon finish any day of the week.

Magic Razorless Cream Shave, $4.90 (Soap)

Help your man maintain a smooth, soft face with this magic razorless shave cream. His skin will be bump-free and moisturized for days on end.

Kikkerland Hedgehog Dryer Balls (Set of 2), $6.99 (BuyBuy Baby)

Toss these cute little critters into the dryer to naturally soften your load and cut down on static.

Sheffield 14-in-1 Hammer Multitool, $9.79 (Walmart)

This stainless steel multitool with polished hardwood handles is perfect for tiny apartments or keeping in your car.

Square Slate Coasters, $8 (Home Decorator’s Collection)

Perfect for the new homeowner. You can even use the enclosed chalk to scribble a cute message on the coasters before gifting.

Diving Whale Loose Tea Infuser, $12.19 (Overstock)

Fill this cute little whale with loose tea and submerge for a delightful and eco-friendly tea time.

November 30, 2016

Out of the Box Ways to Give

The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes the usual onslaught of gift shopping madness. If this time of year leaves you in search of more meaningful gifting options, you’re not alone. Finding a gift outside the norm may require extra thought and care, but the genuine gratitude you’ll receive will make it more than worth your while. Whether you’re looking for creative alternative gift giving ideas or ways to give back, check out this handy list of out-of-the-box ways to give in lieu of the usual seasonal fare.

1. A Charity Donation

This one is a favorite go-to when it comes to giving while giving back. Spread awareness of a cause you’re passionate about by donating in someone else’s name, or contribute to her favorite cause for a gift that makes the world a better place.

2. Babysitting Vouchers for a Night Out

Help a loved one and her significant other get out and about for a much needed date night by offering a series of vouchers, each good for a night of babysitting, a weekend or even a day trip without the kids. You can even get crafty and create a whole coupon book.

3. Make a Purchase That Sponsors a Cause

Many stores contribute a portion of sales to charity this time of year. Whether a store follows a one-for-one donation match system (like TOMS) or supports ongoing holiday initiatives like the Macy’s Believe campaign for Make-A-Wish, carefully selecting where you buy gifts online is a simple way to add giving back to your holiday.

4. Take a Class Together

One of our favorite gift giving ideas is choosing an experience you can share together. Support local artists, chefs and teachers by enrolling in a fun class for you and a lucky friend or family member. Find a great wine and painting night, yoga class or Italian cooking class to get out, have fun and learn a new skill together.

5. Sponsor a Charity Race

Help someone find the motivation to get out and get moving by sponsoring her entry into an upcoming charity race. Whether it’s a 5K fun run or a marathon, entering a race is great way to support a cause and reach fitness aspirations. For bonus points, sign yourself up too, and train together.

6. Sponsor a Student Group

Sponsoring a local student group in someone’s name is a fun way to connect a gift recipient with the local community and inspire kids in the area to achieve great things. Win-win!

7. Craft Something Handmade From the Heart

Wondering what to get the person who has everything? A thoughtful, handmade gift is a great way to show you care, and it’s sure to become a treasured keepsake in her home or office.

8. Commit Hours to Volunteer

Dedicating some of your time to a cause your friend cares about is a fantastic way to show her your love and support. Gift giving can be tricky, but donating your time is a great gift that gives back.

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.

November 22, 2016

Gift Guide: Top 10 Foodie Gifts of 2016

Especially during the holidays, a foodie’s knowledge and passion can be intimidating, especially for friends and family struggling to think of perfect foodie gift ideas. But finding a great present for the food fanatic in your life ought to be a piece of cake. That’s why we’ve assembled this guide to the best gifts for foodies on your list. Give your favorite foodie friends a present that will delight them for years, and get Cash Back at Ebates while you’re at it!

Pork Butcher Cuts Cufflinks, $54.95 (Tanga)

Help a foodie wear his passion for meats on his sleeve with these classy cufflinks.

Urban Moonshine Organic Bitters, $36.54 (Vitacost)

Take her cocktail game to the next level with these high-quality, organic maple-flavored bitters.

Outset Cast Iron Oyster Grill Pan, $49.95 (HSN)

Add this distinctive new piece of kitchen hardware to his repertoire, and maybe he’ll even make you grilled oysters as a thank you.

Le Creuset French Press, $65 (Sur La Table)

A ceramic French press in a bright, cheerful color is a beautiful way to start the day.

Visol Misto Stainless Steel Double Walled Cup With Saucer, $24.49 (Overstock)

Stainless steel cups are the perfect present for anyone serious about perfecting hot beverages.

The Luxury Collection Epicurean Journeys Book, $50 (Saks Fifth Avenue)

Inspire a foodie to get out there and taste the world, with this feast for the senses.

Himalayan Salt Block & Holder Set, $49.90 (Crate and Barrel)

This salt block and holder will add flavor and up the cool factor for any foodie gathering.

Bethany Housewares Springerie Rolling Pin, $24.99 (Boston Store)

Create traditional European cookies with this gorgeous hardwood rolling pin.

Cathy’s Concepts Personalized Mason Jar Mixology Set, $72 (Boston Store)

Mason jars aren’t going away, and when you add a mixology set with a personalized engraved initial, you’ll have the perfect gift for your foodie friend.

Cute 6 Piece Boiled Egg Sushi Rice Mold, $6.79 (Light in the Box)

For the foodie with a sense of humor, this boiled-egg or sushi rice mold is ridiculously adorable. It might just be the cutest foodie gift of them all.

November 18, 2016

Holiday Outfit Ideas for All Occasions

The holidays will be here before you know it, and with it, a plethora of gatherings. Between company parties, friendly shindigs and family affairs, you’ll need some fancier wardrobe pieces to celebrate the season in style. To inspire your look, we’ve come up with a few holiday outfit ideas that range from warm and cozy to wow-worthy. Whether you’re looking to spice up holiday cocktail dresses or holiday casual outfits, we’ve got you covered, with Cash Back at Ebates to boot.

Formal Affairs

MAJE Pleated velvet dress, $184.50 (The Outnet) | Capsule Beaded Cape, $67.50 (Simply Be) | Qupid Agatha T-Strap Pumps, $29.99 (JCPenney) | INC International Concepts Tamme Clutch, $59.50 (Macy’s)

For those super fancy holiday party outfits, pile on the texture: lace, tulle, sequins, beading, velvet, … how about a little bit of everything? You really can’t overdo it with formal affairs as long as you keep your colors consistent. And when in doubt, add a cape. It’s always a showstopper.

Among Friends

Topshop Velvet Crop Top, $35 (Nordstrom) | Camouflage Jacquard Pencil Skirt, $95 (Topshop) | ALDO Narcissa Flatform Tassel Loafers, $24.50 (Macy’s)

When you’re with your own peeps (your chosen family) this is really where you can get daring with holiday party outfits that push the fashion envelope. And nothing says “daring” like a crop top! Again, play with textures. Top it off with an edgy shoe like a metallic flatform, and you’ve got Instagram-worthy holiday wear.

Family Lounging

Black Asymmetric Short Sleeve T-shirt, $16.90 (Choies) | Shawl Lapel Knitted Cardigan, $23.50 (ChicNova) | Charter Club Silver-Tone Pearl Bib Necklace, $32.70 (Macy’s) | MOTO Bleach Lucas Boyfriend Jeans, $80 (Topshop) | STEVE MADDEN Tomorrow Leather Block Heel Pumps, $50.06 (Lord & Taylor)

Even though it’s just Mom, Dad, little bro and his brood, you should still step it up a notch when putting together holiday casual outfits. Skip the ripped skinnies, and opt for neat boyfriend jeans, which look killer with a simple metallic shoe. Add visual interest with lace trims and a statement bauble, like a bib necklace.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 14, 2016

How Much Does the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Cost

For many, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the kickoff of the holiday season. Now in its 90th year, the Manhattan spectacle is a tradition with a big audience. The live broadcast attracts 50 million TV viewers, and 3.5 million spectators watch it in person, pushing the total number of people in Manhattan to more than 5 million.

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While the job of putting on the parade may prompt images of Maureen O’Hara performing Doris Walker’s character in Miracle on 34th Street, executing such a parade actually takes the effort of 8,000 people, including more than 4,000 Macy’s employees who volunteer on Thanksgiving morning.

The Makings of a Parade

17 giant character balloons as well as other, smaller balloons
27 floats
10,000 parade marchers, including 1,000 clowns, 1,100 cheerleaders and dancers, and members of 12 marching bands from around the country
Celebrity appearances and music groups
Mini performances of 5 Broadway musicals
The Radio City Rockettes
And only 1 Santa Claus

Balloons

Some say the balloons are the highlight of the parade. With the largest balloons measuring 5 or 6 stories tall, they sure do make a statement. Snoopy, a well-loved character, has been in 38 parades, more than any other character. Each balloon requires 50 to 90 volunteer handlers and uses 300,000 to 700,000 cubic feet of helium. The minimum helium cost is $510,000, and notably, Macy’s is the world’s second-largest consumer of helium, trailing only the U.S. government.

The height at which the balloons can be flown is determined by a calculation of balloon size, volume of helium, gross weight and wind. Wind is the biggest concern when handling the balloons. While the narrow streets of New York City protect the balloons with predictable airflow most of the time, when a balloon approaches a street intersection, handlers must navigate unpredictable crosswinds that usually come from the west.

Construction

Floats and balloons are constructed at the Macy’s Parade Studio in Moonachie, N.J., where 26 sculptors, carpenters, metal workers and painters work year round. One float can take between four and nine months to go from sketch to completion. And a single float can include 100 to 200 pounds of glitter.

To get from New Jersey to New York City for the parade, balloons can be deflated for shipment. But floats must be constructed to collapse down to a width of 8.5 feet so they can fit through Lincoln Tunnel. And the preparations are more than just balloons and floats; about 700 new costumes are designed each year.

It’s Time for the Parade!

Balloons are inflated between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Wednesday. Then, from midnight to 8 a.m., the floats are set up. Many spectators arrive before 6:30 a.m. to line up for a spot with the best view. In just two hours’ time, 200 costume fitters dress 2,000 balloon handlers, 400 kids, 300 float escorts and 900 clowns. The parade begins promptly at 9 a.m., following a 2.5-mile route that ends at the Macy’s storefront in Herald Square.

When It’s Over

After the parade ends, it takes just 15 to 20 minutes to deflate each balloon and pack it up for transport back to the warehouse. Costumes are packed into about 10 truckloads, and the laundering of these costumes will take about a month to complete.

But even before the parade is over, the work has begun on next year’s event. Marching bands are notified two years before their parade performance, with a representative taking a trip to the high schools and colleges to let them know in person.

Money and Costs

Macy’s, a company with annual revenues of more than $10 billion, is tight lipped about the total cost of the parade, but some of the expense is offset by having corporate sponsors for balloons and floats. Here’s what we know:

For new balloons, sponsoring companies pay $190,000, which includes construction and a parade fee. Repeat balloons cost sponsoring companies a $90,000 fee. Each float costs Macy’s approximately $30,000 to $100,000 to construct. The costumes that are in storage total $2 million in on-hand assets, including the custom-made outfits for Santa and Mrs. Claus. Broadway shows that performed in the parade saw a $300,000 jump in advance ticket sales after their parade performance.

Financial Roundup

Annual Costs

Helium: $510,000 minimum
Floats: $810,000 to $2.7 million
Property taxes: $138,573
Salaries: $51,433 is the salary for one studio coordinator
(There are 26 full-time staffers working year-round on parade prep and construction)
= $1.5 million to $3.4 million

Assets

Studio in New Jersey: $6.9 million
Costumes: $2 million
= $8.9 million

Freebies

4,000 Macy’s volunteers
Marching bands
Broadway performers
NYPD

A Look Back at Parade History Highlights

1924: Although it took place on Thanksgiving Day, the first parade was called the “Macy’s Christmas Day Parade.” That first year included live animals like camels, goats, elephants and donkeys; horses pulled the floats. About 250,000 spectators attended.
1925-1926: The parade added live lions, tigers and bears.
1927: The name was changed to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The live animals were replaced by giant balloons because the animals frightened children. The first balloons included Felix the Cat, The Dragon, The Elephant and Toy Soldier.
1933: This was the only year in parade history when Santa Claus led the parade instead of ending it. Also, it was the first year the parade was recorded on newsreel and then later screened in theaters.
1942-44: The parade was cancelled because of World War II.
1947: The movie Miracle on 34th Street was released, including the parade as a significant part of the plot.
1948: The parade was telecasted for the first time by NBC.
1957: The Radio City Rockettes appeared in the parade for the first time.

November 13, 2016

90’s Throwback: Black Friday 1996

Ah, the ‘90s. The era of bucket hats, butterfly clips, the first Macintosh computers, “Friends,” and phones made for the sole purpose of actually making calls. A lot has changed in the decades since, and Black Friday is no exception.

Though the biggest sale day of the year has always drawn hearty crowds of savings-hungry shoppers, the craze of the holiday has increased tenfold in the past two decades. What was once a day of wildly low prices on the year’s most-wanted items is now a cultural phenomenon spanning an entire week, with its cousin Cyber Monday immediately following.

In 1996, we could watch the morning news broadcast live interviews with those few dedicated shoppers camped outside of electronics stores, determined to be the first to grab one of a limited stock of coveted Macintosh computers or Nintendo 64s.

This year, we’ll scroll through Twitter to see online versions of local news broadcasts showing interviews with scores of similar dedicated Black Friday veterans, though they’re more likely to be awaiting a chance to snag a new 50-inch TV, or an Apple product exponentially more advanced than that of its ’96 predecessors.

To see just how much things have really changed, check out this list of comparisons between Black Friday ads and sales in 1996 to projected Black Friday ads in 2016.

Electronics

Not only did technology — and the world — not come to a screeching halt in the year 2000, but the world’s fascination with and reliance upon technological innovation has increased tenfold in the years since.

Aside from the aforementioned Macintosh desktop, some of the other biggest electronics buys in ’96 were the 1.2 GB hard drive ($220 after rebate); the Motorola flip phone (free with contract); the Walkman (between $15 and $60); the 4MB memory upgrade ($30); 28.8 kbps modem ($280); 13-inch TV with built-in VCR ($300); CD Rom drive ($150); pagers ($70); and the Packard Bell desktop computer ($1,467 after rebate).

This year’s list of most-wanted tech items looks pretty similar to that from 1996, though much more advanced. Although most Black Friday 2016 ads aren’t live yet, there are some predictions based on previous years and current sales. According to TheBlackFriday.com, one of the hottest items on sale at Best Buy right now is the LG 55-inch 4K Ultra Smart HD TV, which may also be a Black Friday favorite. In 1996, we could barely fathom a smart TV, let alone an ultra-smart one. Also, some Black Friday aficionados are suggesting drones will be a big hit this year, though these are a bit of a wild card.

Games

Games, too, are traditionally a huge draw for Black Friday shoppers. In 1996, besides the Nintendo 64, the Sega Saturn was a major deal, selling for $200. The Super Game Boy was advertised at $40, as were PlayStation games. And lest we forget, before there were smartphone apps like Pokémon Go, there was the Tamagotchi, which, in ’96, sold for just a few weeks’ allowance, or $15.

This year, some Black Friday experts are suggesting the release of the Xbox One S and the rumored release of Sony’s PlayStation Neo, along with the discontinuation of Xbox 360s and Disney Infinity, will lead to major steals on gaming consoles. There are also a host of remastered video games about to be released, such as Bethesda, Call of Duty: Infinite, and Pokémon Sun and Moon, leading many to suggest that games will be a major Black Friday focal point.

Toys

Of course, no Black Friday would be complete without a mad dash to the toy aisle for the season’s most beloved toy. In 1996, the champions of children’s hearts everywhere were by far the Tickle Me Elmo doll and Beanie Babies. As for the latter, these were also a big hit with many teens and adults, rumored to gain significant value over time.

Today, some of the hottest toys of 2016, as named by Walmart, include the Nerf N-Strike Elite HyperFire Blaster, Razor Scooter, Paw Patrol Zooming Marshall, and the Sky Viper Streaming Drone. No word yet on which of these will be available for deep Black Friday discounts, but it’s likely the drone won’t be the only one flying off the shelves.

Entertainment

When it comes to pop culture, though the faces have changed, our hunger for it has stayed the same. While most of us nowadays watch TV and movies from our computers or flat-screens, back in ‘96 the wide-screen TV marked the dawn of a new era. Some of the hottest Black Friday deals on movies included films like “Forrest Gump,” “True Lies,” and “Braveheart” available from $9.99 to $15.95—or about the price of one month’s subscription to Netflix. When it came to the still-popular VHS, some of the coolest buys were “Buffy,” “Young Frankenstein,” “The Good Son” and “Alien Nation,” all on sale for $5.99 a piece.

This year, predictions for some hot entertainment buys include DVDs of popular movies like “Anchorman 2” and “Magic Mike XXL” on Blu-Ray for $9.72. You’ll also be able to grab titles like “The Walking Dead” and “True Detective”—full box sets for about $10 each.

Clearly, Black Friday has changed quite a bit over the past 20 years, but our love of shopping will never end.

November 11, 2016

A Guide for Making the Most of Singles Day

Singles Day is the biggest shopping day in the entire world — even bigger than Black Friday. Never heard of it? That’s because it’s hosted mainly in China, with Hong Kong and Singapore only recently adopting the holiday. Originally, it was a male-exclusive day of celebration, since the high population of men in China made it difficult for many to find the right girl. So they set up the day as a way to celebrate being single and to have better chances finding love.

Taking place November 11th, due to the symbolism of 11/11, this holiday brings in as much as $9 billion a year. But Singles Day is only just bleeding over to the Western world, and the savings aspect of shopping on that day hasn’t quite hit. It doesn’t need to. For you, Singles Day is a fantastic way to treat yourself right and remind yourself and your friends of all the advantages of singledom.

How Can You Make the Best of Singles Day?

Use Singles Day to Find Love

It sounds like the opposite of the point, doesn’t it? But Singles Day is a great way to evaluate your relationship status and decide if you should make a change. If you’re committed to staying single, that’s great! Perhaps help one of your friends work up the courage to reach out to a match. But if you’re looking for love, work up your own courage and ask out someone you like, message someone on Tinder, or ask around for a blind date. Who knows? This could be the day your status changes.

Take a “You” Day

Whether it’s going to the spa, taking the entire day to catch up on your favorite shows, treating yourself to those guilty pleasure snacks, or gaming until your eyes cross, Singles Day is about appreciating yourself and your value as a “whole,” not a “half.” So just as you’d love someone else to treat you right, treat yourself right, and make a commitment to having the most pampered day you can.

Hang out With Other Singles

It can get lonely for singles, so reach out to some of your friends and take the day to do something fun. You’ll brighten your spirits and brighten theirs as well, reminding each other that fun doesn’t have to come with a partner. Go to the park, go Pokémon hunting, or just stay at home and talk until the sun goes down. Whatever you do, make it fun.

Buy Yourself a Gift

You would never let Valentine’s Day come and go without buying the one you love a gift, so don’t let Singles Day pass without buying yourself something nice!

A Karaoke Night With Friends

You learn a lot about someone when you do karaoke — how well they can sing, how well they think they can sing, and if they really do improve with some liquid courage. It’s a great way to break the ice on a date, but it’s an even better way to create some funny stories and great moments with friends. Choose your favorite hole-in-the-wall for belting out your best or make that the after party once you finish a few glasses of luxury wine from Wine.com. The day is about you, so make it memorable!

A Good Movie With All Your Single Pals

Date nights are fun, but you can forget about the date — great company doesn’t have to be romantic, so grab your other single friends and treat yourselves to all the fun of a night out. Stock up on popcorn, decide who’s making the refill runs, and make it an entire night that reminds you of the good parts of being single. If you try out Dealflicks to see what sort of price cuts you could earn from the venture, you could even make it a full night of back-to-back movie watching.

November 6, 2016

11 Things You Didn’t Know About Singles Day

If you live in the U.S., chances are you’ve never heard of Singles Day, which falls on November 11 every year. While the name may seem obvious as to its meaning and tradition, there is more to Singles Day than meets the eye, especially its reoccurring theme of elevens. So it’s only fitting that we present you with 11 fun facts about Singles Day and why it might just be your new favorite day of the year.

College Kid Created.

The first Singles Day celebrations date back to the 90s when Chinese co-eds at Nanjing University grew tired of lamenting over being partnerless and decided to celebrate it.
Boy’s Club.

November 11 was originally dubbed Bachelors Day but we all know the woes of single life cross gender boundaries. It wasn’t long before female students started joining in on the fun.
Anti-Valentine’s Day.

The holiday was meant as a protest to Valentines Day…so why is it in November and not February? Because…
One is the Loneliest Number.

11/11 was chosen because the numbers look like a congregation of singles. Get it?
It’s the Name that “Sticks.”

Chinese Singles Day is called Guanggun Jie which literally translates to “bare sticks holiday.” While thinking of yourself as a bare stick might not be terribly comforting, one thing about the Double 11 holiday definitely is…
Singles Day Can’t Be Beat.

Last year, Singles Day sales racked up a whopping $14.3 billion on Alibaba sites Tmall and Taobao alone. You can’t do that without offering rock-bottom prices. But Albiba’s Singles Day isn’t the only 1 day sale game in town. Nor is online shopping from China the only way to find amazing deals. Singles Day is spreading across the globe so look out for a promo code from your favorite store on “Double Eleven.” Add to that a little Cash Back at Ebates, and you’ve got a day to remember.
180 Million People Can’t Be Wrong.

That’s how many singles celebrate this day in China alone. That’s one slamming party!
Wine and Dine.

It’s a well-known Singles Day tradition to go out to dinner with friends. Each friend asks for a separate check to pay their own way and symbolize independence and prosperity–also a great way to avoid doing math to split a check. That’s always annoying.
Breakfast of Champions.

The morning of Singles Day is often started with a meal of four youtiao (deep-fried dough sticks) and a steamed bun. Why? To make the shape of 11.11 with the youtiao as ones and the bun as the dot in the middle! Cute, right?
Looking for Love.

Not all celebrators are single and loving it, which has made blind date parties very popular on this day. In 2011, the city of Shanghai hosted 10,000 singles in one of the biggest blind date events in history.
Put a Ring On It.

Every year on November 11 since 2011, Hong Kong and Beijing have reported a record number of weddings. Many people are also using this day to propose to their sweethearts. Maybe soon it will be called Single-No-More Day.