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May 6, 2017

Non-Girly Gifts for the Practical Mom

It seems that, since the dawn of time, Mother’s Day gifts have involved a bouquet of blooms and a box of chocolates. Sometimes you think outside the candy box and go for something cozy like a pair of fuzzy slippers. But if your mom was cut from a no-nonsense mold or her idea of R&R is watching a baseball game on the couch, these Mother’s Day gift ideas just might hit a home run. Check out our hand-picked selections, from must-have electronics to home goods she’ll actually use — all available with Cash Back at Ebates.

Insulated Lunch Tote

If you’ve been watching your mom take the same wrinkled-paper-bag lunch to work for years, this insulated tote is perfect. It looks like a purse while working double duty to keep the lettuce on her BLT crisp.

Chunky Chenille Throw

One of the easiest but most overlooked gift ideas for mom is a nice, comfy blanket. Who doesn’t love a blanket and who doesn’t need more of them?

Gold Pig Bookends

If you’re looking for unique gifts your mom will actually use, this piggy bookend set is perfect — especially if she has a home office or beloved bookshelf that could use a little pizzazz.

Mama Bear T-shirt

A T-shirt may not come to mind when you think of cool gifts, but you have to admit this one is adorable. No novelty here, just a proud badge of being a mighty mom to some cute cubs.

Date Night

She may be your mom, but she’s also someone’s sweetheart. And, chances are, it has been a while since this lovely couple hit the town. Give them a date night to remember with local deals on dining and entertainment from Groupon. If dinner and a movie is their jam, top it off with a gift card from Fandango.

3-in-1 Avocado Slicer

This one just speaks for itself. A tool that can cut, pit and slice an avocado in seconds? Mom will be wondering where this has been her whole life.

WD My Passport Ulta 1 TB External Hard Drive

How many times have you heard your mom complaining about filling up her DVR? Maybe enough to suggest she has a TV addiction. But instead of getting into that conversation, why not just give her some extra storage space so she’ll never miss another episode of “The Bachelor”?

Philips Wake-Up Light

Getting up in the morning can be the worst. Make her a.m. a little more pleasant with this simulated sunlight alarm that will gradually wake her up without panicked beeping or annoying radio hosts.

Seamless Belly Support Band

If you’re shopping for a mom-to-be, there is nothing — I repeat, nothing — more practical than a belly band. Not only does it support your belly, but it also holds your pre-maternity jeans up without having to button them. It’s pretty much a miracle.

May 3, 2017

What Moms Really Want for Mother’s Day

To help you give greater gifts for Mother’s Day, we’ve put together a guide of what moms really want. (Hint: It’s probably not cleaning supplies.) Mother’s Day cards are a great way to start the day, but don’t stop there. To celebrate one of the most important women in your life, check out these unforgettable gifts for her and save with Cash Back at Ebates.

Create New Memories

A day full of fun can be more meaningful than material Mother’s Day gifts. Swing by LivingSocial or Groupon, where you can buy and share the best things to do in your local area. You’ll discover exciting deals for local restaurants, boutiques and more. It’s the perfect way to let your mom try the pricey new hot spot on a budget or explore relaxing yoga classes. Plus, you’ll save on the best gifts for mom with Cash Back at Ebates.

Make Her Busy Life Easier

If your mom is your family’s go-to chef, why not take time-consuming meal planning out of the equation? Try HelloFresh for delicious and healthy recipes with all the pre-measured ingredients needed, delivered right to your door. Or select recipes your mom will love and treat her to the fresh, homemade meals she deserves (and do the dishes, of course). Get your subscription through Ebates for the best savings. Or check out a subscription to Graze, which delivers healthy snacks by mail. You can even send them to your mom’s workplace so she’ll have scrumptious and nutritious snacks right at her fingertips. Save on your Mother’s Day gift with a Graze promo code

Looking for more gift ideas for your mom that’ll give her time to relax? If she feels like a one-woman cleaning crew, it’s time for her to ditch the dust and let someone else freshen things up. At Angie’s List, you can book flexible house-cleaning options that’ll make your space sparkle and give mom a much-needed break from the daily grind.

Think Unique

Show your mom she’s appreciated with a heartfelt gift. At Etsy, you’ll find cool and unusual Mother’s Day gifts to fit a variety of budgets. Shop Etsy’s special collection of gifts for moms, and save on handmade jewelry, personalized gifts, incredible artwork and more must-haves. From home décor deals to one-of-a-kind bags to foodie favorites, you’ll find tons of affordable options that fit your mom’s style.

If diamonds are your mom’s best friend, then Blue Nile is a must. At this classic jewelry store, you’ll find high-end accessories, including pendants, chains, charms, earrings and more ways to sparkle that make perfect gifts for mothers. Plus, you can shop by price and style so you can find the perfect fit that works for your budget.

Find Her Zen

Between balancing work and family life, moms are basically superheroes with little time to themselves. This Mother’s Day, treat your mom to the ultimate day of relaxation with Cash Back at Ebates on spa services. Visit Spafinder Wellness 365 and let your mom get in the zen zone with a versatile gift card. She’ll enjoy her favorite services, including massages, facials and more ways to kick back and relax.

Don’t forget to save on the best Mother’s Day gifts and experiences with Cash Back from Ebates. Comment below and tell us the best Mother’s Day gift you’ve given or received. Happy Mother’s Day from Ebates!

March 29, 2017

Cute Alternatives to the Standard Wedding Cocktail Hour

A wedding is a time for tradition. That’s why most couples in the U.S. opt for the traditional order of wedding events: ceremony first, followed by a cocktail hour, then dinner and dancing. But what if you want to break with tradition and do something different for your cocktail hour. Or (gasp!) not have a cocktail hour at all? With more and more couples opting for creativity over tradition during cocktail hour, wedding guests are increasingly surprised and delighted by cute options like these that create even more memorable moments.

Play lawn games

Custom wedding cornhole boards

Croquet, cornhole, giant Jenga, giant checkers, homemade Twister — there are dozens of fun lawn-game options to keep your more playful guests entertained. Having games set up for your guests to play at their leisure is a fun and memorable way to make your cocktail hour unique. Etsy is an incredible resource for finding gems for cocktail hour lawn games, like these custom wedding cornhole boards. And, as a perk, you’ll have the games to keep for future parties.

Create a cigar bar

Montecristo

There are plenty of ways to signify a celebration is in order, but two of the most celebratory are champagne and cigars. If you have some cigar lovers in attendance, hosting a cigar bar during your wedding cocktail hour is an impressive and distinct way to make your day even more special. JR Cigar has an incredible selection, including world-renowned Montecristo cigars, and you can add a special DIY flair by creating your own handmade description cards to highlight the distinct tasting notes for each type of cigar.

Do your toasts (or even cake) early

Cava

If your ceremony is earlier in the day, why not forgo the traditional cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and serve cake and coffee immediately following the ceremony? This is a great alternative to the traditional wedding-cake cutting at the end of the night, and it’s a great way to save money. Cutting down on the amount of alcohol served is always better for the budget.

Another cute alternative is to have champagne poured and do your wedding toasts a little early. It’s a less formal way of bringing everyone together in recognition of the bride and groom, but it’s a fun way to kick off the cocktail hour. If your venue allows you to supply your own, stock up on plenty of bubbles from wine.com. (Tip: Go for cava or dry prosecco, rather than true champagne, to save some money.)

Host wine or beer tasting

If you think your guests are going to appreciate an activity that will keep them entertained beyond toasting and mingling, you could offer a wine- or beer-tasting bar. This little addition to a cocktail hour could amplify the festivities, especially if you and your fiancé are avid wine tasters or beer aficionados. A tasting bar could add an adorable touch to share with your guests something personal and special from your life.

Completely mix it up

For nontraditional couples who want to save money, replacing a standard cocktail hour with, well, nothing might be a good option. Replace that hour with late-night bonfires and s’mores, or simply make a quick getaway after the ceremony to greet your guests and kick off the reception.

Or, for a complete flip on tradition, make your wedding reception one long cocktail hour. As long as your guests get plenty of food and drinks, a formal dinner might not be missed — especially if there’s ample music and dancing!

March 6, 2017

Must-Have Statement Pieces for International Women’s Day

As we approach International Women’s Day, we’re seeing a clear trend toward wearing this year’s #BeBoldForChange message and attitude on one’s sleeve (or shirt). For some, it’s about making a powerful political statement, and for others, raising basic awareness. Either way, a strong case can be made for embodying the “you are what you wear” mentality. If you want to express yourself this International Women’s Day, here are a few pieces that will empower you to represent the issues you support in any setting.

Just because

Nothing makes a statement quite like a T-shirt that, well, makes a statement. This “The Future Is Female” shirt from Etsy is as casual as it is powerful. The slogan, which has been revived only recently, was born in the radical women’s movement of the ’70s and was originally silk-screened as the slogan for New York City’s first women’s bookstore.

Running errands

Grab this “Feminist” tote bag from Forever21 when you’re on your way to the store and feel strong and proud the entire day. The term “feminism” dates back to the mid-1800s, when women in the U.S. were fighting for property rights, equal pay and access to higher education.

Out to dinner

Say it with jewelry. Try these “This Is What a Feminist Looks Like” earrings from CafePress, which are small but mighty, conveying support and awareness among people of all backgrounds, ages and gender identities.

As a gift (or just for you)

The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan is a foundational read that helped light a match under the second-wave feminist movement of the early 1960s. It was and is still lauded for its direct approach to a taboo topic of the time, and it continues to spark conversation about who should be included in feminist discourse.

How to Have a Non-Valentiney Valentine’s Day

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

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

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Dress up in all black.

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

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

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

Work out!

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

Get crafty.

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

Savor some delicious wine.

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

December 24, 2016

7 Super Cool Hobbies That Require Zero Skills

If you have ever wished you had a hobby but you know you’re too lazy to pursue one, this is your lucky day. While a two-week intensive course on beekeeping or private guitar lessons sound super fun (and you’d probably look amazing busting out the guitar solo from “Free Bird” in full protective bee gear), we’re betting those things are pretty pricey and require some natural ability, like, say, manual dexterity or a non-fear of bees (which is totes a skill). So let’s lower the bar just a tad and consider one of these easy and cheap hobbies. Ebates has everything you need to get into some majorly cool hobbies while you rack up some Cash Back.

Meditation: If you can sit still and listen quietly to your own breath, you can meditate. Treat stress and get in touch with your body with only a few minutes of meditation a day. Up the ante by increasing your meditation time gradually and you’ll find your center in less time than you think. To help you get started, search for free meditation apps on your phone. Some provide calming sounds or voice direction to help you melt into your meditation practice.

Coloring: Coloring in adult coloring books, like this adorable one featuring calming cats, is another hobby for the overly stressed. All the hard work of illustrating is done for you, leaving you free to create with color and even tape it to the fridge if you do a gold-star job.

Podcasts: Now you can finally know what the heck all your friends have been talking about. Download podcasts for your car commute or morning train ride on any subject you choose. Go for popular podcasts like “This American Life“ and “Modern Love“, or find top podcasts on special interests like history, pop culture, comedy and more.

Hiking: You don’t have to be an Eagle Scout to get into exploring local trails and landscapes. Hiking is for everyone, and all you need is a map and a good pair of boots like these Danner cascade boots from REI. REI also has a great blog and buyer’s guide so you can find the perfect footwear for your next trek.

Upcycling: Even if you’ve never crafted or taken on a DIY project in your life, upcycling is as easy as it gets. Take the things you no longer use and give them new life with just a few supplies you can get at crafts stores like Michaels or Jo-Ann Fabric. To get you started, seek some inspiration from top blogs such as Upcycle That and ReFashionista.

Calligraphy: In this digital age, you can easily stand apart from the pack by mastering the thank-you note and spiffing them up with some calligraphy. It’s easy to learn and incredibly calming. This starter kit from Etsy will provide everything you need to get scrawling in style.

Blogging: Got some daily musings or rantings to share with the world? Build your own creative space while keeping your writing skills sharp by starting your own blog. WordPress has free blog templates, or you can create your own custom website with GoDaddy. Their site builder is easy to use, and web hosting is affordable for any budget.

Which of these hobbies piques your interest? Let us know with a comment below!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 8, 2016

3 Easy DIY Fantastic Beasts Costumes For Opening Night

70 years before Harry Potter was swept off to Hogwarts, magizooligist Newt Scamander arrives in New York City where trouble is brewing for the wizarding community, threatening to expose them to the general public. To make matters worse, the magical creatures Newt has rescued and stowed carefully away in his dimension-defying suitcase have gotten loose. Can he and a pair of savvy sisters recapture these Fantastic Beasts before they cause too much chaos? You’ll have to see the movie to find out! But before you do, consider showing up to opening night as Newt, Queenie Goldstein, or Porpentina Goldstein in one of these 1920s-inspired DIY costumes. All pieces can easily fit into your fall wardrobe and come with Cash Back at Ebates! Which one has you counting the days until the biggest movie premier of the year?

Newt

Blue Lapel Belt Waist Trench Coat, $29.90 (Choies)

Putting a feminine twist on this dapper look isn’t hard with this rich color palette. Plus, it’s cold out there. Time to invest in some long jackets!

Mustard Yellow Womens Vest, $25 (Etsy)

A cute denim vest like this also looks great with your fall sweaters.

Navy Bow Tie, $36 (Kohl’s)

We’re betting this little bow tie will make a fine re-gift for the holidays if it’s not totally your style. If it is, bonus!

Wooden Box Purse, $39.95 (Etsy)

Instead of lugging around a big leather case, opt for a cute box purse you can use for the rest of the season.

Queenie

Alice Boutique Silky Duster, $52 (Boohoo.com)

The key to bubbly and friendly Queenie is her dainty pink coat, so start there with this sleek silky duster.

LUCY Paris Blouse, $32 (YOOX)

This adorable pink blouse will make a great addition to your work wardrobe.

Rib Knit Wrap Dress, $59 (Nordstrom)

And who can’t use a wrap dress for…anything? They are truly the most versatile piece of clothing you could own.

Riva Women’s High Heels, $49.99 (Kohl’s)

Sensible black pumps are every girlboss’ essential item.

Porpentina (Tina)

Heathered Bow Cloche, $78 (Brooks Brothers)

Thank goodness these precious little hats are back in style!

Wool Blend Trench Coat, $149.90 (Nordstrom)

If the hat and this coat aren’t a match made in heaven, we don’t know what is.

Loveletter Surplice Blouse, $25 (Tobi)

All you need is a plan cami underneath and you have a flowing blouse that is perfect for day-to-night.

Sailor Gouchos, $20.40 (Dressbarn)

We absolutely love gouchos as a summer-to-fall transition piece since they look just as cute with flats as they do with tall boots.

Brass Ball Locket, $18 (Etsy)

Top it all off with a unique gold locket and you are full-blown Tina.

And the finishing touch…

Wizard Wand, $24 (Etsy)

You didn’t think we would forget the wand, do you? One of these handmade cherry wood wands work for all three of these Fantastic Beasts costumes.

October 11, 2016

The Most Relevant Pop Culture Halloween Costumes of 2016

Some love Halloween for its chills and thrills. Others love it because it’s the perfect time to tout your interests and earn some pop culture cred. Whether you are looking to wow your crew at the Halloween house party or surprise your kids with the coolest Halloween costumes on the block, check out our favorite pop culture Halloween costumes with Cash Back at Ebates. Don’t miss out on sales, coupons and promo codes from top Halloween costume stores. Get rock bottom prices on everything you need to make Halloween 2016 the best one yet.

In Memoriam

David Bowie Glam Rocker Adult Costume, $53.99 (Walmart) | Velvet Prince, $54.99 (Halloween Mart)

We lost quite a few music icons this year, but maybe none as devastating as Prince and David Bowie. Pay them tribute in style with these complete looks.

Suicide Squad

Harley Quinn Jacket & Shirt, $35.99 (Halloween Mart) | Suicide Squad Adult Joker Costume Kit, $31.99 (Costume SuperCenter)

Some call them #relationshipgoals. Others just call them good old psychotic fun. Score Joker and Harley Quinn costumes from Suicide Squad to step up your couple’s costume game.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Finn Deluxe, $49.99 (Halloween Mart) | Grand Heritage Rey Women’s Costume, $98.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes) | Bb-8 Women’s Costume, $29.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

How cruel was it that Star Wars Episode 7 came out in December last year? You’ve had to wait 10 whole months to dress up like Rey…or at least have a good excuse to do so.

Finding Dory

Disney’s Finding Dory Dory Adult Costume, $42.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

Chances are, your kids loved Finding Dory and the obsession is still going strong. This costume is perfect for those parents looking to be good sports for their family’s group costume.

The Huntsman

Ravenna Skull Dress Costume, $54.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

Some of us have serious dreams of being a princess while others would rather rule their kingdom with an iron (yet manicured) fist. If you’re the latter, try the evil queen from The Huntsman on for size.

Pokémon

Pikachu Dress Women’s Costume, $44.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

People are STILL playing PokémonGO so this sassy Pikachu is definitely trendy. Just make sure no one catches you.

Stranger Things

Stranger Things Eleven Dress, $79.00+ (Etsy)

DIY costumes are all fun and games until you realize you can’t sew. Luckily, the makers at Etsy have you covered. Create the Stranger Things costumes your friends will covet!

Stranger Things Barb Dress, $52.50 (Etsy)

In a world full of Nancys, be a Barb. With this plaid dress, all you need are thrift store glasses and a Trapper Keeper to become this beloved Bestie.

Ghostbuster Girl

Ghostbusters Girl Costume, $21.84 (Yoyo.com)

The all-female cast of Ghostbusters still continues to be a huge deal for little girls everywhere. Remind yours that she can do anything, including save the day from monsters.

Zootopia

Nick Wilde Classic Costume, $22.39 (Costume SuperCenter) | Judy Hopps Classic Costume, $23.19 (Costume SuperCenter)

If your kids think Gazelle is the greatest singer of our time, they may have watched Zootopia 10-too-many times. Just go with it and grab them a Nick or Judy costume. They’ll go savage for it.

September 23, 2016

9 Native-Owned Etsy Stores to Shop on Native American Day

Festival season is coming to a close and Halloween is right around the corner. What do these two things have in common? They both increase the likelihood that you will see a non-Native person donning a headdress and face paint in an egregious act of appropriation. Native American culture is something to celebrate. What better way to do that than supporting Native artists and makers? Native American Day is observed every fourth Friday of September, which makes today the perfect day to treat yourself to Native American jewelry, art, accessories and more at these nine Native-owned Etsy stores. Discover quality, handmade Native American goods all with Cash Back at Ebates.

Seeworks

A handmade guitar strap is the perfect gift for the musical genius in your life. The best part is they’re one of a kind, which always makes gifts extra special.

ThunderKin

Native American jewelry is knowN for it’s silver and turquoise but detailed beading like this is its real staple.

AuthenticNativeMade

These gorgeous baby moccasins are hand beaded and one of a kind. You can go with a traditional pair like the one above or pairs featuring your favorite superheros like Batman or Wonder Woman.

RavenSongStudio

Opal is also a traditional Native American material and this minimalist rings are as elegant as they are stunning.

cherokeewhisper

Give your home a Southwestern flair with this hand painted jug, a unique and authentic mantelpiece.

ATouchofNativeBeauty

This bracelet and ring set is simple while making a statement. Pair these pieces with your fall outfits for just a touch of color.

NativeHorizon

Fringe is in! This shoulder bag is of higher quality than anything similar you would find in department stores.

UnrestrainedArts

Add some color to your wall decor with this painted wood-slat installation.

Highway66Treasures

Jewelry is one way to make a statement but an edgy watch like this is quite another.

Which of these stores is now on your Etsy favorites list? Let us know with a comment below!

September 16, 2016

Here’s How to Rock 10 NYFW Trends for Less

New York Fashion Week is almost over and if you’ve been paying attention, you’re probably knee-deep in fall fashion inspiration. But if you’re worried about scoring designer and celebrity looks for less, fret not. We’ve rounded up some NYFW trends you can grab with Cash Back at Ebates for as little at $15! From shoes and accessories to must-have fall dresses, these pieces will easily complete your closet without busting your budget. Look like a star without the Hollywood paycheck with these 10 affordable celebrity style and designer-inspired staples.