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September 17, 2016

How to Throw an Epic End-of-Summer BBQ

Summer is almost a wrap and everyone is sad to see it go – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t throw it a goodbye party! As the last few days of summer will soon be here, now is the perfect time to throw an end of summer BBQ for your friends and family. Check out this simple list of BBQ tips and summer BBQ party ideas and get ready to get the gang together for one last summer shindig. As an added bonus, you’ll get Cash Back at Ebates with your purchase at any of the mentioned stores. Happy party planning!

1. Plan Your BBQ Menu Around Summer Favorites

Your final summer BBQ is a great time to feature everyone’s favorite summer BBQ food. Grilled shrimp, lobster, chicken and burgers are all premium choices. Make sure you don’t forget about those summer BBQ side dishes that you’ll miss the rest of the year, too! Veggie skewers, portobello burger bites, grilled corn, watermelon and a classic coleslaw will round out the meal. This is no time to skimp on your summer favorites! Throw a checkered tablecloth on those tables and live up the summer fun for one more day with a summer BBQ menu before fall officially arrives. Looking for fun summer BBQ ideas? Consider doing a BBQ sauce tasting! Cost Plus World Market has a great selection of sauces available online for your summer BBQ along with a ton of other great supplies to make your BBQ ideas come to life.

2. Consider the Temperature When Planning Your Party

Depending on your region, the end of the summer can mean cooler days and even cooler nights. Take your area’s climate into consideration and either plan to host your BBQ during the day or pick up some outdoor heaters from Walmart to keep your guests comfortable outdoors at night. Be sure to keep an eye out for an outdoor heater or lighting promo code as the summer comes to a close!

3. Prep Your Food Early and Offer Pitcher Perfect Drinks

Don’t miss out on your last party of the summer by spending the whole time cooking or mixing drinks – plan ahead! Make any food and drinks you can ahead of time to save your energy for the day of the party. You can make a big batch of your favorite summer drink ahead of time and put into it into a festive punch bowl from Crate and Barrel.

4. Live it up With Some Summer Fun

Don’t forget about the games when it comes time to throw your end of summer BBQ party! Make it a party people won’t forget until next summer rolls around with great summer games like bag toss, volleyball, badminton or other summer classics. Set up some games, like an awesome horseshoes set from Rakuten.com, and be sure to keep an eye out for an end of the season promo code.

5. Pack Away All Your Summer Stuff as You Pick Up

You can plan your party décor and activities around all the stuff that will need to be packed away at the end of the summer season. If the arrival of fall means the end of your outdoor party season, get your storage containers ready for the end of the party. You’ll tackle two tasks in one when you pack up your summer party supplies and tuck them away until next year. If you need storage bins, check out the amazing supply online at The Container Store and get everything you need to keep organized so you’ll be ready to launch the next epic bash next summer!

August 29, 2016

Fun Ways to Spend Your Labor Day

Labor Day is practically made for fun. Landing right at the heels of summer, it’s a chance for one last hurrah before autumn sets in and we begin to bundle up and bunker down for a few months spent evading the chill by binge-watching Netflix and preparing for the less leisurely holidays to come. It’s the perfect respite from back-to-school preparations and the daily 8-5 grind. Here is a list of awesome ways to make the most of your Labor Day weekend.

1. Take a hike.

From amber waves of grain to majestic purple mountains, the U.S. is filled with natural treasures. The three-day weekend is the perfect opportunity to venture out and get in tune with your wild side. Pack up your tackle box and head to the lake for some late-season fishing, or take a trip to the seaside to enjoy one last dip in the waves before the weather turns too chilly.

State and national parks are also great places to visit for a day or the weekend. The early September weather is perfect for a long hike, with typically clear skies and moderate temperatures. It’s also ideal for camping. Many parks and lake sites include camping and cabin rentals, and there’s nothing quite as relaxing as a warm late-summer night spent roasting s’mores under the stars. Check out Cabela’s and Backcountry.com for awesome deals on everything from fishing rods to knapsacks before you head out.

2. Shop the sales.

Everyone needs a little retail therapy now and again, and what better time to get some than on one of the biggest sale days of the year? It’s an especially great time to shop for back-to-school supplies and clothes, so if you are a student or parent of a matriculating student, check out stores like Old Navy, Target, and Kohl’s for some killer deals on everything from backpacks to blue jeans.

On the other hand, if you’re evading the dreaded “s” word, or aren’t a student or parent of a student, there’s no shortage of awesome deals on a variety of other products as well. Labor Day is also the best time of year to buy summer clothes at deeply discounted prices. To make the most of your purchases, check out the clearance racks at shops that are also offering storewide deals or Cash Back so you can double-dip on some savings. And just because you’re buying a tank top in September doesn’t mean you won’t be able to wear it until June. Consider picking pieces that you can layer underneath cardigans and jackets so you can start enjoying your savvy shopping haul right away, and all year long. Some stores touting killer Labor Day sales include Banana Republic, Macy’s, and Amazon.

3. Host a backyard cookout.

Break out the grill for one last cookout before summer’s end. Barbecues are the perfect weekend get-together, a chance for you and your friends to really kick back, relax, and enjoy some backyard volleyball or badminton. Don’t have a ball or a net? You can grab one from Dick’s Sporting Goods while enjoying 5% Cash Back and some killer discounts through Ebates.

Since nobody wants to work on Labor Day, make things easy on yourself and your wallet by asking your guests to bring a dish to share, potluck style. With everyone pitching in, there’s no need to worry that any one partygoer won’t have something to eat, which is especially helpful if you’ve got friends with dietary restrictions or allergies. You can provide the entrees, which you can get some awesome deals on from Safeway. If you’re providing the alcohol, you can also ask guests to bring a mixer, or if you’re going BYOB, provide a few mixers yourself. If you’re planning far enough in advance, order online at Amazon to save yourself some time.

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.

July 13, 2015

Top 10 Things to Bring to an Amusement Park

No summer would be complete without at least one visit to a super fun theme park. A day full of rides, sweet treats and sunshine may be right up your alley but it will only go well if you are fully prepared. Whether you’re hitting the local carnival with your besties or piling the kids into the car and heading to Disneyland, here are 10 must-haves you will need to pack to make your day as sane as possible.

1. Smartphone – We know you don’t normally leave home without your phone but you may be tempted to store your phone while you hit the rides. Resist this urge and get yourself a trauma-resistant, water-proof smartphone case. You never know when you’ll be accidentally separated from your crew and need to get in touch.

2. Spare socks – Water rides = Wet socks. Wet socks + you = 🙁 You might want to bring a whole change of clothes but at the very least, socks are essential.

3. Hat and sunglasses – The sun is not always your friend. Protect your eyes and face with a kickin’ pair of sunglasses and practical yet fashionable hat like this cute fedora from Express!

4. Aspirin/pain reliever – Decibels will definitely be on the rise, making headaches very possible. Don’t let it take you out of the game and bring a tablet or two.

5. Hand sanitizer – This is always a must if you’re traveling with little humans who like to touch everything then put their hands in their mouth.
6. Poncho – Not the most fashionable of accessories, but this baby is a life-saver on water rides if you are set on leaving the park dry. Plus, how cute is this Hello Kitty poncho for the kids?

7. Water bottle – Everything at the park is expensive, including bottled water. Plus, using your own bottle is also more eco-friendly obviously.

8. Snacks – Bring along a few granola bars or some trail mix to keep your energy up. You’ll already spend an arm and a leg for a full meal so cut costs by supplying your own snacks.

9. A sensible bag – A crossbody bag is great to keep your hands free but a foldover crossbody bag is a one-two punch. This Backcountry bag takes up less space but expands to carry more when you need it. Can you say room for souvenirs?

10. Sunscreen – Even if it doesn’t feel particularly hot outside, ALWAYS wear sunscreen. Sunburn sneaks up out of nowhere and is never fun.

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Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

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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Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

February 25, 2015

Staycation Success: Tips & Tricks

The word vacation brings up images of escape, relaxation, and fun. Most traditional vacations take place away from the home. But when a traditional vacation isn’t an option, plan a staycation instead! You can easily take a break in the comfort of your own home and city. Staycations are a great choice for singles, couples, and families alike!

The Ground Rules
A staycation is meant to feel like a real getaway, so there are a few ground rules that need to be set. Deciding a start and end time to the vacation (whether it be a weekend or a whole week) and guidelines to follow ahead of time keep everyone involved and on the same page. NOTE: Not all of these examples will work for everyone, so pick and choose what works for you and your family!

No working from home
No cooking, cleaning, or laundry
Only check your phone or email when you absolutely have to (preferably not at all!)

Plan Your Staycation
Destination vacations usually include fun plans for dinners, activities, and ways to relax, so make sure you do the same for your staycation! Set a realistic budget with money set aside for eating out or a massage. Try to prep around the house in a way that makes your vacation at home as relaxing as possible. You can make sure all your laundry is done ahead of time, gathering local menus, preparing meals in advance, and using disposable dishware to cut down on doing the dishes.

Get Out and About
Just because it’s called a staycation doesn’t mean you need to stay in! There are most likely dozens of things to do around your hometown that you have never even thought of. Here’s a list of 10 ideas to get you started. Check out our Groupon and LivingSocial for coupons and discounts on local events, plus get 6% Cash Back at Ebates!

Visit your local museums
Check out your local library for activities
Root for your favorite major or minor league team
Have a board game tournament
Camp in the backyard
Catch a show at your local theater
Tour a local brewery
Take a painting or pottery class
Visit a local park
Go for a walk, hike, or bike ride

Relax and Refresh
While you’ll probably be tempted to tackle a few chores during your staycation, remind yourself to kick back and enjoy the moment. Whether you have a list full of activities or one or two picked out, the attitude and commitment you have to making this time about relaxing and having fun is ultimately the most important key to a successful staycation. Take the time to let your hair down and spend time with your partner, kids, or even catch up on some “me time!”

Have you ever taken a staycation? What activities around your town would you do? Let us know in a comment below!

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January 28, 2015

How to Make Valentine’s Day Special For Him

Valentine’s Day is usually catered to the woman in the relationship leaving the men just a bit stressed. Guys tend to have to plan out the date and secure the perfect gift. But we urge everyone to switch it up a bit! Make it something he’ll enjoy, not dread! We’ve come up with some cute Valentine’s Day ideas for him guaranteed to make the special man in your life feel loved this February.

Breakfast in Bed (Made Simple)
When planning a Valentine’s Day for him, breakfast in bed is the ultimate morning treat! Waking up to breakfast in bed sets the whole mood for the day, and you don’t have to get fancy with freshly-squeezed juice or handmade pastries (unless you have the time!) to make this a special surprise. We love this 1 Minute Coffee Cake in a Mug from Chocolate Covered Katie that not only looks delicious, but is also easy! Pop this mixture in the microwave, add a cup of coffee, and consider his morning made.

Subscription Boxes
Monthly subscription boxes have been becoming more popular lately and women are not the only one’s getting in on the trend. With so many types of subscription boxes, there will definitely be one out there just for him! Our favorites include NatureBox for snack food lovers, LootCrate for the geeks and gamers, and Birchbox Men. What’s great about these programs is you can buy just one box, or sign him up for a couple months!

Sweet Treats
One of the best parts about Valentine’s Day is the rich and sweet treats. From candies and cakes, to cookies and brownies, there are a lot of choices to pick from! We’ve gathered three of the tastiest (and sweetest) goodies to gift him: Ombre Nutella Cups from The Baking Robot, Sweetheart Cherry Pies from Cake Student, Marbled Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies from The Novice Chef . Quick tip: Not the best at baking? Call over a girlfriend to help make the treats and split them with her (while making sure to taste some for yourselves of course!)

Romantic Homemade Dinner
Nothing spells romance like a candlelit dinner for two. Avoid the craziness of other couples this year by staying in and making food for you and your special man. This Chicken with Herb-Roasted Tomatoes and Pan Sauce from Bon Appetit tastes like something you’d find in a restaurant, dishes up beautifully, and pairs well with either rice or roasted potatoes. It looks complicated, but it’s fairly easy and very delicious! Once you plate up and sit down, you’ll both be thankful for the quiet evening in.

Cooking For Two
Make the adventure of cooking a date! Cooking together is easily one of the best ways to spend quality time with your loved one and strengthens the relationship. Find a fun recipe to cook together (we recommend this Thin Crust Skillet Pizza for Two from Pass the Sushi) and channel your inner chef. You’ll end up creating a tasty meal for the night and memories that last a lifetime.

Movie Night
Keeping it simple can definitely be better. A movie night on the couch (complete with a blanket fort) can be just what he needs when he walks in the door. Stock up on the essentials like popcorn and candy (or make this homemade Zebra Caramel Corn from Creme de la Crumb), and let him choose the movie. You’ll both enjoy cuddling up with this relaxing date idea.

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