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July 10, 2018

The Ultimate Amusement Park Survival Checklist

If a theme park is in your vacation plans, be prepared with the essentials without dragging along a duffel bag of just-in-case items. Going out for the day (or days) to an amusement park is like readying for a trek to one of the happiest places on earth. Prepare for the elements, physical strain and some wait time.

Make Some Room

Even if you always pack light, don’t think you’ll be able to get away with just your pockets on an all-day amusement park tour. If you try, you’ll be buying necessities all day at exorbitant prices. Waistpacks (this one converts to a backpack) and sling backpacks have some room and are still hands-free.

Patagonia Atom Sling 8L
from Moosejaw

A Stroll Through the Park

If you have young children with you, they will want a place to sit down and relax — and sometimes it’s easier to keep them contained as you walk through a crowded area. I’d recommend a stroller or a folding wagon like this one, which doubles as a place to put your lunch and water bottles when you’re waiting in line.

Finding places to refill reusable water bottles is simple, and bringing your own will save you so much money. For summertime, I recommend a standard-size insulated bottle so it will fit in cupholders and small spaces.

Quest Folding Sports Wagon
from Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Recharge and Revive

You’ll need your phone all day for picture-taking and checking wait times for popular amusement park rides. An extra battery is a must, and this charging case will give you a second life.

I still love the thrill of roller coasters, but as I get older my ability to stand up afterward has decreased. Non-drowsy natural Dramamine will help you keep up.

Mophie Juice Pack Ultra Protective Mobile Battery Pack Case
from Verizon

Rain or Shine

Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, grab some sunscreen! If you’re out for several hours, you’ll want to reapply while you wait in line. This Coola sunscreen is a very light, powdery sunscreen that won’t leave you looking greasy. For kids, Badger Sunscreen is made with safe zinc oxide. Toss a few emergency ponchos into your pack and you’ll be ready for a big splash or an unexpected rain shower.

It’s a good idea to bring some resealable plastic bags in case you ride a water-themed coaster. A waterproof phone pouch is a must if you’re trying to decide what to bring to a waterpark.

Coola Mineral Face SPF 30
from Sephora

Prime Time in Line

There are a few necessities I can’t live without when I’m stuck in line with young children. A quick spritz of hand sanitizer after hanging off the handrails is a must when there’s no soap and water at hand, or use Water Wipes for cleanup. For long wait times, have some snacks (these containers are perfect for separating snack foods) and activities ready. The Eye Found It card game has a fun travel Disney version, or have kids write or draw about their adventures in a travel journal.

GoEat Lunch box
from Joseph Joseph

July 9, 2018

Win Up to $1,000 Cash Back for Black Friday in July!

It’s almost time for Black Friday in July and to celebrate, we’re giving THREE lucky winners a Cash Back prize! Shop for a chance to win the value of your purchase—up to $1,000! Limit one entry per day, plus bonus entries for purchasing from a store you’ve never ordered from before.

How to Enter the Win Your Purchase Giveaway:

If you’re not already an Ebates member, join more than 8 million other savvy shoppers who earn up to 40 percent Cash Back on almost everything they buy. Here’s how Ebates works. It’s free to join, and you’ll receive a $10 Welcome Bonus* at Ebates.com.
After you enter the email associated with your Ebates account, enter the order number of your purchase. It can be found in the “Cash Back Balance” section of your Ebates account. Limit one entry per day.
You can earn additional entries by shopping at a merchant you’ve never made a purchase with before. Simply enter the name of the new merchant in the text field.

The sweepstakes ends on July 17th, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. PST. The winners will be picked randomly through Gleam, and they will be posted on Facebook and on this blog. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, as the winner will have 24 hours to accept the prize before we will choose another winner.

Ebates Win Your Purchase Giveaway

July 3, 2018

How to Create an Outdoor Oasis for Under $250

Most people take great care decorating the inside of their homes, but few give that same attention to their outdoor space. Maybe it’s because furnishing your patio, porch or deck often can be more expensive than decorating indoors. I know firsthand because I recently invested in decking out our porch. Luckily, I found some workarounds to budget-breaking upgrades — and now I’m sharing those picks with you. The whole haul totals just under $250. And that’s not even the best part. Since you’re shopping for them with Ebates, you’ll get Cash Back on all the best products.

Start from the ground up

Outdoor rugs can be shockingly expensive, but the right rug can serve as the focal point for your entire outdoor setup. Start with the rug because you’ll be using its colors and patterns to inform the rest of your picks. I went with shades of blue for our deck, and I couldn’t be happier. This similar rug from Walmart would make a great foundation for your new space.

Cost: $45

Mainstays Fret Area Rug
from Walmart

Choose your chairs wisely

When it comes to outdoor furniture, shopping for seating can be another expensive endeavor. There are countless options available, so how do you decide? It all comes down to how often you plan to use your space and what style you’re looking for. I wanted the Adirondack style without the price tag, so I chose two plastic lounge chairs. They’re very sturdy and look great on our deck.

Cost: $60

Adams Mfg Corp Stackable Resin Adirondack Chair with Slat Seat
from Lowe’s

Add some accents

This is where you really get to show your creativity. Like I mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to plan your accent colors around the rug you’ve chosen since it’ll be a focal point of your outdoor decor. The sky’s the limit on what items you pick to fill the rest of your space. I recommend an interesting side table like this one from Jet.com. Candles, pillows and even a cool serving station are also great outdoor decor ideas.

Cost: $50

Atcia Wicker Outdoor Accent Table, Multibrown
from Jet.com
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Simplify your storage

Even on a budget, you’ve invested time and hard-earned money on your outdoor project. Protect your new pieces with an outdoor storage unit. It’ll keep everything organized and, most important, dry. I chose this one from Suncast that doubles as an extra seat. You can even find a cushion for the top to match the rest of your color scheme.

Cost: $40

Storage Seat – 22 Gallon – Taupe Brown – Suncast

from Target

Finish with the final touches

A little outdoor lighting can go a long way. I opted for string lights like these from Kohl’s and zip-tied them to a cable I bought from the hardware store. If you’re outfitting a porch or covered patio, hanging these lights is even easier. Most lights come with brackets to help attach them to your home. If they don’t, you can use a staple gun to get the job done.

Cost: $45

Cleveland Vintage Lighting Indoor / Outdoor Copper Finish Edison Bulb String Lights
from Kohl’s

June 29, 2018

9 Summer Wedding Makeup Must-Haves to Keep You Smudge-Free

Whether you’re the blushing bride, a graceful maid of honor or a gushing guest in the pews, you’ll want to look your best at every summer wedding, shindig and elegant affair. But finding makeup that keeps you looking fresh and fabulous from the ceremony to the reception to the after party is hard enough without having to contend with tears of joy, heat, humidity and summer sweat. Short of shellacking your entire face (don’t pretend you haven’t considered it!), you’re going to need a beauty arsenal chock full of waterproof, smudge-proof and summer-proof essentials. We’ve rounded up our favorite summer wedding makeup must-haves that will keep you looking picture perfect from the first kiss to the last dance. So, do you want to see our top picks of waterproof makeup for weddings? Repeat after us: I do.

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

A simple spritz of this refreshing, weightless spray is all you need. Patented temperature-control technology lowers the temp of your makeup to keep foundation, concealer and pigments in place — even in hot, wet or unpredictable weather. That means no melting, no cracking and no fading — it’s a veritable all-nighter for your face.

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

from Macy’s

Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil

You’ll want to stash a few key multipurpose products in your itty-bitty clutch purse to use throughout the night. Available in 39 shades, this game-changing must-have glides on like magic to line eyes and lips, fill in brows and add freckles, among other things.

Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil

from Sephora

Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Matte Bronzer Mini

You want to appear sun-kissed without exposing your skin to harmful rays. This natural-looking bronzer will give you a warm matte hue without any unwanted shine. You’ll look like you’ve been honeymooning in Tahiti before the big day.

Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Matte Bronzer Mini

from Sephora

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

This 16-hour waterproof foundation has a transfer-resistant, sweat-resistant and fade-resistant formula with medium to full, buildable coverage to ensure makeup stays fresh.

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

from Bluemercury

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

A favorite of makeup artists, this fine setting powder absorbs oil, reduces shine and keeps your makeup locked in place without adding any weight.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

from Bluemercury

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NARS Pro-Prime Smudge-Proof Eye Shadow Base

A little swipe of this on your lid, and eye shadow color will stay vibrant and smooth for hours on end.

NARS Pro-Prime Smudge-Proof Eye Shadow Base

from Sephora

Anastasia Beverly Hills Sugar Glow Kit

Get that dewy summer glow (without perpetual perspiration) with this amazing kit of eye, face and body highlighters — multipurpose primping at its best.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Sugar Glow Kit
from JCPenney

Becca Beach Lip and Blush Tint

Going for a minimal, natural look? Swipe a bit of this on your cheeks and lips, and you’ll look radiant.

Becca Beach Lip and Blush Tint

from JCPenney

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Not tears, nor sweat, nor water will keep you from looking like a gorgeous bombshell. This iconic mascara goes on smooth and delivers a serious dose of volume for up to 24 hours. Va-va-voom!

Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

from Sephora

June 28, 2018

The Best White Dresses for Your Summer Bridal Shower

Move over LBD — there’s a new frock in town taking summer by storm. The little white dress is a seasonal staple for all sorts of picnics, barbecues and outdoor affairs, but it’s especially apropos when you’re the belle of the ball at your own bridal shower. Whether you prefer a casual or beachy style for a backyard bash or a more structured and formal option befitting a tea-party toast, these white dresses are picture perfect and party ready. Let the celebrations begin!

Loft Eyelet Garden Flippy Dress

Delicate lace trim and an apron-inspired neckline make this casual white dress versatile and wearable. Thrown over a bathing suit at the beach or worn with a wedged espadrille, it’s designed for any and all occasions — giving you some serious bang for your buck.

Loft Eyelet Garden Flippy Dress

from Loft

American Living Waffle-Knit Jacquard Dress

This figure-flattering fit-and-flare jacquard dress is as clean and classic as they come. Worn with diamond studs and a simple and sleek sandal heel, it’s a timeless choice for an upscale event.

American Living Waffle-Knit Jacquard Dress

from Macy’s

BCBG Max Azria Dell Embroidered Voile Dress

With intricately scalloped trim, fluted sleeves and tiered ruffles, this gorgeous fitted-bodice dress is so delicately stunning it requires minimal accessories and little styling. Far from flashy, its simplicity speaks volumes. Here comes the bride, indeed.

BCBG Max Azria Dell Embroidered Voile Dress

from BCBG

Free People Eat Your Heart Out Mini Dress

On-trend billowing sleeves help make this mini statement style both romantic and retro. Delicate buttons and an open neckline make an ultra-feminine find worthy of any blushing bride-to-be.

Free People Eat Your Heart Out Mini Dress

from Free People

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French Connection Parke Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress

This girlie white lace dress features a crochet overlay, and it easily can be dressed up with heels or down with flats. Either way, it’s a darling design for a festive day.

French Connection Parke Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress

from French Connection

J.Crew Classic Button-Front Sundress in Cotton Poplin

Pockets on a dress — swoon! This classic cotton sundress features a waist-cinching sash and a true button front that’s as timeless as it is cool.

J.Crew Classic Button-Front Sundress in Cotton Poplin

from J.Crew

Kate Spade New York Sleeveless Cotton Dress

This midi-length dress is flirty and fun with a ruffle-trim V-shaped neckline. A banded middle offers a super flattering waistline, and extra frills scream, “Party time!”

Kate Spade New York Sleeveless Cotton Dress

from Neiman Marcus

Dorothy Perkins Off-the-Shoulder Eyelet Dress

Give them the cold shoulder at your shower in this simple and sleek — but equally sweet — eyelet-trimmed dress.

Dorothy Perkins Off-the-Shoulder Eyelet Dress

from Lord & Taylor

Trina Turk Los Alamitos Keyhole Dress

For the more formal shower, this keyhole dress is both chic and comfortable. (It would also make a fabulous second dress for a wedding reception.)

Trina Turk Los Alamitos Keyhole Dress

from Lord & Taylor

June 27, 2018

6 Space-Saving Gadgets That Make Compact Living a Breeze

When you’re tight on space, you need to be careful about how much stuff you bring into your home. Luckily, there are plenty of space-saving gadgets out there that make compact living much easier. Here, I’ve picked out a few of my favorite gadgets for small spaces. They helped me manage clutter when I was living in a 700-square-foot apartment, and they still keep me organized now that I’ve got a bigger space. I’m confident they’ll help you too. And, since you’re shopping for them with Ebates, you’ll get Cash Back while shopping for all the best products.

A Space-Saving Bike Rack

I had one of these when I lived in San Francisco. My apartment was tiny, with only a small storage locker to house my luggage, camping gear and other odds and ends. I left my rack free-standing because I couldn’t put holes in the walls, but you can also bolt it to a stud for extra security. Getting bikes on and off is quick and easy, and you’ll also be surprised at how little space it really takes up.

Two-Bike Garage Wall Indoor Bicycle Storage Rack
from Jet.com

The One-Pot Kitchen Wonder

The infamous Instant Pot. By now, most people have heard of this all-in-one device. If you haven’t heard, the Instant Pot is a combination of a slow cooker and pressure cooker with a few extra features, including a sauté mode. The idea is that you need to use only one pot to cook an entire meal. It’s the king of kitchen gadgets. Also, the combination of heat and pressure reduces cooking times. Both selling points make the Instant Pot great for people living in small spaces. I’ve made chili, roast and a few soups in mine. Time to trade in that hot plate for something more sophisticated.

Instant Pot 8-Quart 6-in-1 Pressure Cooker
from Walmart

The Compact Clothes Steamer

I have a full-size steamer, but I’ve always wanted a handheld option for travel too. When you’re living in a tight space, an iron and ironing board can be a no-go. I wish I’d had a steamer like this when I had a 700-square-foot apartment in Los Angeles. Simply turn it on, give those wrinkles a few passes and take on the day.

Steam and Go Handheld Garment Steamer
from Bed Bath & Beyond
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The Handheld Power Blender

When you don’t have room for a food processor or full-size blender, an immersion blender will save the day. It’s not perfect, but it can handle a surprising number of tasks around the kitchen. Try making soups, smoothies, salsas and more with this handy tool. Immersion blenders are also easy to clean. You just twist off the blender head and wipe down the handle, and you’re good to go.

KitchenAid 3-Speed Immersion Blender
from Overstock.com

A Powerful Portable Speaker

If you’re tight on space, the last thing you want to bring into your home is a bulky receiver and a speaker set. These days, all you really need is a high-quality portable speaker. This one, from Marshall — makers of amplifiers for musicians around the globe — is a great option. It’s plenty loud for a small space, has well-balanced sound levels so your favorite music will sound great and it’s durable.

Marshall Stockwell Portable Bluetooth Speaker
from East Dane

The Do-It-All Laptop Stand

No desk? No problem. Pick up this sturdy laptop stand and get to work anywhere in your home. This seems like a no-brainer on a list like this, but it’s one of the most useful tools I’ve owned. I like this option from Kings Brand because of the build quality and number of uses. You can take it anywhere in your home — or on the go — and you’ll be ready to work or play in no time.

Kings Brand Foldable Adjustable Laptop Stand
from Jet.com

June 21, 2018

How to Save Money With Military Discounts and Cash Back

If you have a military discount, we can help you make the most of it with extra savings. Ebates gives you Cash Back for shopping at your favorite stores, and, if you’re not already a member, it’s free to join. The great thing about shopping with Ebates is that you can stack your military discount on top of Cash Back. That means you’re saving twice! See the list of stores that offer military discounts. If you’re not sure whether you qualify for military discounts or how to use them with Ebates, read on!

What is Ebates?

Ebates is where you can get Cash Back for shopping at more than 2,500 stores. Stores pay Ebates a commission for sending you their way, and Ebates shares the commission with you as Cash Back every three months. Becoming a member is free, and you’ll earn a cash bonus when you join and shop. Founded in 1998, Ebates has paid members more than $1 billion Cash Back. Start getting yours!

How to use Ebates:

Start your shopping trip at Ebates.
Shop like you normally would and earn Cash Back.
Choose how to get paid — PayPal or check.

What are military discounts?

Military discounts are given to military personnel and, often, their family members. These discounts can vary from store to store. Some stores might give coupons to qualifying shoppers, while others may give a percentage off the total purchase amount. Some stores even offer perks, such as free shipping. If you’re interested in a particular store, it’s worth checking to see if they offer a military discount and what kind, because stores set discounts at their discretion. If you’re interested in a particular store, it’s worth checking to see if they offer a military discount. Many popular stores do, like Nike, Lowe’s and Carter’s. You can see a list of stores here.

Who qualifies for military discounts?

Many military personnel and, often, their family members qualify for military discounts. You might be able to get discounts if you’re an active-duty military member, a veteran, a retired military member, a reservist or a military spouse or dependent.

How do military discounts work with Ebates?

Great news: You can earn Cash Back on top of your military discount! To stack your savings, start at Ebates and click on a store link to take you to the store. The store will prompt you to verify your military status by entering a military ID, dependent ID, veteran ID or another type of military ID. Shop using your military discount, and Cash Back will be automatically added to your Ebates account once the store reports your order to us. It’s that simple!

What if a store doesn’t offer a military discount?

You can still use Ebates to save money. Just remember to start your shopping trip at Ebates and you’ll still earn Cash Back on your purchases.

Whether or not you have military discounts, Ebates can save you money on the shopping you’re going to do anyway. Not an Ebates member yet? Join now for free to start earning Cash Back on top of your military discount. Keep in touch and be the first to know about new deals on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ and Instagram.

June 1, 2018

The Only Sandals You’ll Need This Season

Get your pedicure — it’s sandal season! Time to let those toes see the light of day, touch the sand, feel the surf and skim the top of the pool. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the lake or your local playground (or just running errands in the heat), you’ll be prepared with the proper warm-weather footwear. We’ve rounded up all the different styles of women’s sandals you’ll need to complement your summer ensembles and keep your feet feeling fabulous.

Havaianas Metallic Slim Flip-Flops

You’ll flip over these flip-flops. Everyone needs a reliable pair of rubber thong sandals for everyday summer shenanigans. This metallic pair can be worn with your coziest yoga pants or your favorite maxi dress. And, more importantly, Havaianas have a comfortable (and durable) toe divider, so you can go the distance in these babies!

Havaianas Metallic Slim Flip-Flops

from Havaianas

Arizona Birkenstocks

Birkenstocks are in, baby! Equal parts comfortable and trendy, earthy footwear is all the rage right now. You’ll feel like you are walking on clouds in these spring shoes, but you’ll look like you are headed to a happening hippie music festival!

Arizona Birkenstocks

from Free People

Splendid Becca Suede Espadrille Sandals

With a suede strap and espadrille bottom, these neutral sandals for women easily can be dressed up or down. We love them with a simple and breezy spring frock.

Splendid Becca Suede Espadrille Sandals

from Lord & Taylor

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Nike Women’s Slide Sandals

Slip on these slides and you’ll be ready to run out the door in seconds or hit the pool party in casual, sporty style!

Nike Women’s Slide Sandals

from JC Penney

Tory Burch Wedge Sandals

You’ll want a wedge sandal in your spring and summer accessory repertoire for when your dressed-up outfit needs a little height and pizzazz. This T-strap pair offers a touch of polish and fashionable flair.

Tory Burch Wedge Sandals

from Tory Burch

Galatia Greek Gladiator Sandals

Straps and layers and more straps make these Gladiator-inspired sandals a wardrobe standout. They make a statement, but work with denim cutoffs and dresses alike.

Galatia Greek Gladiator Sandals

from Saks Fifth Avenue

May 23, 2018

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May 1, 2018

What’s Your Spirit Fragrance?

[qzzr quiz=”460674″ width=”100%” height=”auto” redirect=”true” offset=”0″]

Our sense of smell is arguably the most mysterious and underrated of all. We all have the power to use scent to emphasize our intentions, inspire and influence our realities, and evoke certain mindsets. What are your hopes for this spring? Would you like to be more productive at work or attract the attention of a new partner? This quiz will reveal the super-power fragrance that could help you achieve your goals, inspired by spring 2018 fragrance launches.

Shop the Results

The Scent of Success

Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc
from Neiman Marcus

The Scent of Love

Chloe Nomade
from Macy’s

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