michaels

March 15, 2016

7 Secrets to Finding Spring Clothing Deals

Spring has finally sprung! Whether you’re planning to jet off somewhere fabulous for spring break or just want to get out and take a stroll in the recently returned sunshine, spring is the perfect time to give your wardrobe a much needed pick-me-up. If your ambitions of new spring fashion have your budget quaking in its boots, don’t fret just yet. Spring generally means flowers and more sunlight, but did you know it also comes with some pretty incredible fashion deals? If you know where to look, spring fashion coupons and clothing sales are ripe for the picking on everything from basics to swimwear. Wondering where to get started? Check out these seven insider secrets and you’ll be on your way to the perfect spring fashion makeover at a price that will make the most of any budget.

1. Join the Club

Staying in touch with your favorite brands simply by entering your email address can mean some serious spring fashion savings. Many stores will reward customers for loyalty or even just for signing up for their email newsletters. Get incredible spring fashion coupons, spring sample sale alerts and exclusive early access to spring clothing sales when you register online with your favorite brands. Signing up for store loyalty programs can also mean that you get reward points for shopping that can later be redeemed for a clothing promo code or freebie. Spring shopping can easily turn into enough points for fabulous fashion savings later on in the year!

2. Take Advantage of End of Season Sales

Mark your calendars! As the seasons shift, stores will usually knock down the prices on the previous season’s apparel and spring is no exception. Many retailers will move into warm weather apparel and swimsuits as soon as spring starts and put their cooler weather apparel on sale. If you happen to live in a region where spring doesn’t exactly equal bathing suit weather, this can mean some awesome clothing deals for you! Stock up on warmer wear or even the apparel that came out in prior seasons that still fits in with ongoing fashion trends and you’re in for a steal!

3. Shop Top Fashion Outlet Stores

If you’re looking for the top brands this spring but don’t want to pay top price, make sure you cash in on the incredible spring clothing deals available at popular online outlet stores. High fashion stores are full of gorgeous accessories and clothes on sale that will have you looking like you stepped out of a fashion magazine without the top fashion prices. Plus, if you activate Cash Back at Ebates at any of these stores, your spring fashion budget will go even farther!

4. Update Your Accessories

Even if you don’t have the cash to do a full spring wardrobe overhaul, updating your accessories and accent pieces can go a long way toward freshening up your look. Give those drab fall and winter outfits a fun spring accessory like a bright pair of flats, some sparkly jewelry or a scarf with a cheerful print. Check out stores like J.Crew for a wealth of fun accents that won’t break the bank and will score you some Cash Back.

5. Cash in on Coupon Codes

When it comes to stretching your spring fashion budget, coupons and promo codes are going to be your best friends. Plus, spring fashion coupons are easy to find if you know where to look! Keeping an eye on the store’s homepage will ensure that you don’t miss any deals, but no one really has time to constantly watch for that spring accessory promo code you’re after. While this is another reason you’ll want to sign up for store e-newsletters, if you’re overwhelmed with emails, don’t forget that you can simply head over to Ebates for a full listing of available codes and sales from all of your favorite online stores. Make Ebates your first stop for spring fashion shopping and never miss out on an apparel promo code or spring accessory coupon code again!

6. Check Out Fashion Blogs to Get the Look for Less

Staying up to date with top fashion trends is fun, but it can mean serious danger for your bank account balance. As you know, some high fashion just isn’t affordable, even with major clothing sales. The good news is that this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t get the look you’re after at a great price. The secret? Check out fashion blogs and magazines with features on how to get the look for less. Most retailers will produce similar garments and accessories as top fashion labels, so you really don’t have to spend top dollar to keep up to date. Finding a great deal on the looks you want and getting clothes on sale is a much easier task at a trend and wallet friendly store.

7. Think Outside the Box & Get Creative

Still not finding the savings you’re seeking? Tap into your creative side and make your own spring fashion accessories! Start collecting ideas on Pinterest or your other favorite creative hub and then head off to the craft store! Stores like Michaels and joann.com both have a terrific selection of DIY fashion supplies that can help fuel your projects, like headbands, faux flowers and jewelry essentials. Whether you are adding a little sparkle and a flowery touch to an old clutch or making a bright new statement necklace, you’ll stand out from the pack with your truly unique creation and keep up with spring fashion trends at a fraction of the cost!

February 9, 2016

10 Stores to Help You Conquer Spring Cleaning

It’s time to bid goodbye to winter and step into a fresh new season in style! Make spring cleaning a breeze with a little help from these popular retailers offering Cash Back at Ebates.

Angie’s List, 50% Cash Back

Angie’s List offers fair price and service quality guarantees to over 3 million members. Find the best deals in local home cleaning services and browse trusted ratings and reviews from area business.

Savings Tips:
• Get exclusive service discounts from popular businesses, plus enjoy members-only pricing with local deals up to 90% off.
• If you buy from Angie’s List and the price exceeds the Fair Price Range for the service and location, you have the option to exchange the service for a new one, or receive a refund for the amount exceeding the Fair Price.

Walmart, 1% Cash Back

Find the largest selection of electronics, home furnishings, video games, baby gear and more at Walmart. Shop spring cleaning essentials including discount cleaning supplies and storage, or discover the best deals on your new favorite closet organizer.

Savings Tips:
• Walmart offers free value shipping and free returns on millions of items.

Sears, 3% Cash Back

Sears is the destination for appliances, auto care, clothing, electronics and more. Shop great deals on top brands in jewelry, fitness, shoes, toys and must-haves for your spring cleaning adventures.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for Sears emails to learn about special sales and other deep discounts.
• Spring cleaning coupons and hot weekly deals let you save on kicking clutter to the curb.

Lowe’s, 2% Cash Back

Find quality appliances, paint, patio furniture, tools, flooring, hardware and more for all your spring cleaning and home improvement needs at Lowe’s. Bring your DIY projects to life with Cash Back at Ebates on storage and organization, home décor and building supplies.

Savings Tips:
• Shop the Savings section for special deals, like up to 20% off kitchen cabinets, bath essentials, tool sets and more!
• Lowe’s offers free shipping offers on qualifying orders of $49 or more in the contiguous United States.

Casa.com, 1% Cash Back

Shop great deals on décor, bed, bath, cookware and home goods at Casa.com. Control the clutter with Cash Back at Ebates on kitchen storage, closet organization, shelves, office organization and more spring cleaning solutions.

Savings Tips:
• Visit Casa.com’s Sale Section where you’ll find home essentials at up to 50% off!

Michaels, 2% Cash Back

Save on arts and crafts, custom framing, home décor and seasonal products at Michaels. Browse the best in hobbies, custom products, DIY supplies and craft storage for all your organizing goals.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for Michaels emails and first-time subscribers get 20% off their entire purchase.

Kohl’s, 6% Cash Back

Find great savings on clothing, shoes, toys, home décor, appliances and electronics for the whole family at Kohl’s. Check off your spring cleaning list with hot deals on media storage, bookshelves, dresses, desks, laundry room storage and more.

Savings Tips:
• For every $50 you spend at Kohls.com, you’ll get $10 in Kohl’s Cash. At checkout, your Kohl’s Cash coupon will be deducted from your total purchase!

The Container Store, 4% Cash Back

The Container Store is the original storage and organization store. Control clutter with the best deals on shelving, closet storage, cabinet organizers and storage boxes.

Savings Tips:
• The Container Store features free standard shipping offers on many items when you spend $75 or more.

Ace Hardware, 3% Cash Back

Shop Ace Hardware for tools and home improvement essentials. Browse home storage goods, organization and cleaning supplies, hardware and more.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for Ace Hardware emails and be the first to get exclusive savings offers and expert tips delivered to your inbox.

Dyson, 1.5% Cash Back

Discover the best vacuum cleaners, fans, heaters and tools at Dyson. Ditch the dust with the best cleaning supplies including handheld vacuums, air purifiers and more high-tech spring cleaning solutions.

Savings Tips:
• Visit Dyson.com’s Special Offers Section for more ways to save on the latest in cleaning technology. Get special promotional pricing on vacuums and more Dyson favorites.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

February 4, 2016

How to Decorate an Apartment on a Budget

Whether it’s a cozy studio, large loft or itty-bitty apartment, we all want to infuse our space with some personal style. Adding a little attitude to your ambiance doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag thanks to these simple apartment decorating tips on a budget from your friends at Ebates. Here’s how to decorate an apartment easily and affordably.

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall – Particularly useful if you’re in tight quarters, a wall mirror can create the illusion of space while adding interest to plain walls. Your local thrift store is the perfect place to start. Refinish an old frame with paint or glue on accents like shells, tiles or rope to achieve your perfect look. Mix and match tall rectangular mirrors with ovals and other shapes to bring any room to life.

Bye, Bye Bare Walls – You don’t have to be an artist to add a little flair to your lair. Grab a pack of affordable canvases from a local craft store like Michaels and dress them up while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Find interesting fabric swatches that speak to your style from places like Joann.com and wrap the canvas for instant art. Simply glue the fabric to the back of the wooden frame and you’ve got statement pieces perfect for living room decorating ideas. Use fabrics with funky texture for some fun, go monochromatic or perk up your place with pretty prints. No Picasso painting skills required.

Make a Splash With Shower Curtains – Not finding the curtains you want to cover windows or boring blinds? Shower curtains come in a variety of daring designs and materials and make a fun alternative to expensive window treatments. Plus, you can use them as affordable room dividers to create separation in style. Remember our canvas tip from above? Create a huge statement piece by wrapping an oversized canvas with a shower curtain. They’re super versatile and easy to clean!

Lighten Up – String lights can easily and affordably brighten up any space. Hang strands sparingly from wall to wall for a simple ceiling accent or cluster them together and hang them from the ceiling for a whimsical look. Perfect for adding interest to a wall, above a headboard or draping on a shelf or mantel.

Perk Up With Paper Lanterns – If you’re on the hunt for affordable apartment decorating tips, paper lanterns are the perfect answer! With lanterns in an array of sizes and colors, they’re ideal for everything from living room decorating ideas to adding adorable accents to a kitchen nook or office space. Cluster an array of your favorite shades or hang monochromatic paper lanterns from your ceiling for some elegant ambiance. Perfect for kids’ rooms too! Little ones love choosing their favorite colors for some fun flair.

Oldies But Goodies – You can find tons of hidden treasures at local used book and music stores. Peruse old record bins for eye-catching album artwork featuring unique designs, artists and colors. Frame the album sleeves or adhere them directly to walls for some fun and funky wall décor. Grab a bunch and arrange them in a symmetrical layout for a bold way to liven up plain walls. Old books can add a vintage accent to shelves and tables. Visually appealing covers and various sizes will combine to create interesting decorations with a classic twist.

Serve Up Style With Plates – Decorating on a tight budget means getting creative! Plates don’t just belong in the kitchen cupboard. Create a wall collage by mixing and matching colorful plates in different sizes and adhering them to an accent wall. Use adhesive or attach wires and hang plates in an interesting configuration for a simple yet fun way to refresh a wall. Use plates with different prints and textures or stick with one style for a bold piece of DIY wall art.

Make Any Room Bloom – Simple accents can add up to chic style. Use clear containers or extra mason jars from your kitchen cupboards as small vases, which are perfect for your favorite petite petals. Line a window, shelf or create an easy DIY centerpiece when you cluster jars together. Bonus: faux flowers add an affordable, lasting touch. Get extra decorating leverage by using glass jars for easy candleholders, too. Just drop in a tea light and add a glow to your space.

Cut a Rug – Got funky floors you can’t permanently update? No worries. Fabric remnants are an easy way to add a rug without blowing your budget. Clean up the edges and cut the fabric to whatever size fits your space. Glue on an anti-slip rubber backing (that old yoga mat you have hanging around will work wonders!) and voila — an affordable DIY rug perfect for your bathroom, kitchen or living room floor.

Whether you’re searching for living room decorating ideas, want to beautify your bedroom or kick up your kitchen, these easy and affordable ideas will transform your space in no time. What are some of your favorite apartment decorating ideas?

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

February 3, 2016

Where to Find the Best Home Decor Deals

February means you’re probably cooped up inside, dreaming of warmer weather and sunny skies. Put your winter woes to rest and cheer up with some home decorating ideas! Winter is an awesome time of the year to whip your place into shape and freshen up those furnishings. Get a head start on your new home décor design project today with these tips on how to shop these Ebates stores and get Cash Back:

Ashley Furniture

Ashley Furniture is your one-stop shop for fabulous furniture, home accents and more. Cash in on these deals and give your home décor a stylish boost today.

Savings Tips:
• Check out the Smart Buys section online at Ashley Furniture for all the best value deals in one place!
• With free shipping on thousands of items, getting perfect furniture is even more affordable online at Ashley Furniture.

Bed Bath and Beyond

The name says it all! Bed Bath and Beyond really does have all the home goods and essentials that you want and need. For all the top brands of home accessories, furniture and more, shop these deals online:

Savings Tips:
• Get up to 75% off when you shop the clearance and savings section.
• Sign up for the Bed Bath and Beyond email newsletter and get an instant coupon for 20% off any item!

Bedding.com

Does your bedroom desperately need a winter pick me up? Bedding.com offers the finest selection of linens, comforters, pillows and more that will have you feeling like you’re sleeping on a cloud in no time. Head online ASAP to catch these deals at Bedding.com:

Savings Tips:
• Check out the limited-time offers for fabulous savings of up to 70%!
• Subscribe to the Bedding.com newsletter and get 5% off your next order.

Macy’s

Macy’s is the quintessential department store with beautiful brands and styles that add fabulous, classic touches to your home. Freshen up your surroundings with gorgeous designer goods at budget-friendly prices at Macy’s.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for emails from Macys for a fast 15% off!
• Looking for rock bottom prices? Keep an eye on the clearance section, especially when there are Macy’s coupons available!

JCPenney

JCPenney is a great place to pick up terrific discounts on everything for the home. Get fantastic deals on lamps and lighting options, new curtains and even furniture when you shop online at JCPenney.

Savings Tips:
• Shop JCPenney’s Red Zone Clearance for incredible savings of up to 80% off!
• Get valuable rewards for shopping when you sign up for MyJCPenney Rewards.

Looking to get crafty or make some shabby chic DIY home décor? Head to Michaels and get all the supplies you need for the perfect project at an awesome price.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for email updates and newsletters from Michaels and get 20% off your next order.
• Michaels often has fabulous coupons available, so double check for those before you check out!

Kohl’s

When you shop home décor online at Kohl’s, you’re in for some serious savings. Get that new couch you’ve been eyeing since last summer at an unbelievably low price with these tips:

Savings Tips:
• Check out Kohl’s clearance for deep savings of up to 70% off any day of the week.
• Get 15% off your next purchase when you sign up for Kohl’s email sale alerts.

Overstock

Whether you’re looking for wall art or a new dresser, Overstock.com is the perfect place to find home goods and décor at unbelievably low prices. Check out these tricks for saving online at Overstock. Your home will thank you!

Savings Tips:
• Want to save 75% online at Overstock? Head to the Clearance section!
• Sign up for Overstock emails, get a coupon for 10% off and 2% rewards on all future orders!

Sears

Sears specializes in high-quality home goods that are perfect for revitalizing your home’s look, feel and function. Head to Sears online to take advantage of these tips to give your home the perfect new update:

Savings Tips:
• Check out the Deals Center online for all the best Sears coupons in one place!
• Save up to 45% off with exclusive deals when you become a Sears member. It’s free to sign up and you’ll gain access to weekly member deals!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

January 22, 2016

5 Tips to Hosting the Perfect Tea Party

Tea parties are a great way to gather up friends for a fun afternoon of stories, laughter, drinks and food. Whether you’re throwing a baby or bridal shower or just want an excuse to get everyone together, hosting a tea party is exciting and enjoyable for all ages. But as fun as they are, they do require a bit of proper planning. No worries though – we have all the tips, tricks and must-have items to throw the perfect tea party! When planning your event, don’t forget to search for promo codes and deals at Ebates to save more and earn Cash Back on all your tea party purchases.

Issue the Invitations

When planning a tea party, the formality of your event will reflect in the formality of your invitation. If you want a traditional English tea party, opt for handwritten invitations on a tea card. Or get in touch with your crafty side and print them out on floral stationary and decorate with lace or pearls. If you’re new to throwing an afternoon tea party, keep it small, inviting three to five guests.

Set the Table

Since you’ll be sitting at the table as you drink your tea, make the table shine. Set down a white linen or lace tablecloth and arrange a fresh bouquet of flowers in the center of the table. Let your own personality shine through when decorating. Make sure to arrange the treats and teacups ahead of time. Use tiered cake stands to elevate the table and maximize space. And don’t fret if your tea set doesn’t match! Mix and matched china allows for a fun and modern look. Or you can invite your guests to bring their favorite tea cup to the party and ask them to share what makes the cup special to them.

Arrange the Treats

The main emphasis of the party is of course the tea, but snacks are equally as important! Opt for snacks that don’t require being served warm, such as finger sandwiches and scones. Serve biscuits with jam or channel your inner baker and make a cake (or tiny cakes!) for all to enjoy.

Present the Drinks

Offer your guests an assortment of hot and cold tea. You can opt for one tea pot full of boiling water presented alongside tea bags and another pot with your favorite tea already brewed. Don’t forget the tea essentials such as lemon, sugar, honey and cream. You can even include orange or lime slices, fresh fruit such as raspberries and strawberries or fresh herbs like basil and mint. This will allow your guests to try new things and share their favorite combinations. For iced tea drinkers – make fun ice cubes! Add an edible flower or lemon zest to the ice cube tray for a little surprise.

Enjoy the Party

In the end, whether you serve your tea on a silver tray or just brew up some iced tea, enjoy your tea party. It’s a wonderful way to bring people together and enjoy one another’s company!

Tea Party Essentials

To enjoy your lovely afternoon tea, you need a few essentials. This stoneware teapot from Lord & Taylor is simple and elegant but is also microwave and dishwasher safe. If you plan on brewing tea leaves, you’ll want a tea strainer to serve to the perfect cup. Adding a cute sugar bowl and a pink tea set to the table completes the look.

Tantalizing Teas

Having a variety of tea available for your guests allows for a delightful afternoon. A hearty black tea like this form from Adagio Teas is a great addition for a morning tea party while a chai tea adds a bit of sweet and spice to the mix. Mix it up with interesting flavors like a tropical green tea or herbal tea, served with garnishes.

Delightful Decor

Elegant decorations really add to the tea party atmosphere. Arrange your treats on a two-tier cake stand or serve them on doilies for a classic look. These tea invitations from Etsy will get your guests excited for the party. Don’t forget to set down a lace tablecloth before decorating!

Finishing Touches

While it’s not necessary to dress up for a tea party, there’s no denying that it’s part of the fun! Carry a white lace parasol if your choose to have a garden tea party in the sun and add lavender gloves to perfect the look. Tea hats are all the rage and this emerald fascinator from ModCloth will be one you’ll never want to take off. Or opt to keep it simple by adding a jeweled broach to your favorite dress.

Will you be throwing a tea party this 2016? Let us know in a comment below!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 18, 2015

7 Last Minute Gift Ideas for Procrastinators

The holidays are here, which means last minute shopping sprees! Don’t worry, even procrastinators can score great deals and check off holiday wish lists with time to spare. With tons of online shopping deals, it’s time to skip those long mall lines and take advantage of these seven holiday tips designed to save you money on last-minute gifts, for some of which you can get Cash Back at Ebates and save even more with coupons and promo codes.

1. Browse Thousands of Last Minute Gift Ideas at Groupon: Easily send great local deals and gift awesome experiences with Groupon. Treat family and friends near and far to spa days, a night out on the town, a new restaurant and more, all while saving with Cash Back at Ebates and a Groupon promo code. No matter their interest, explore Groupon.com for amazing holiday gifts, then simply email gift cards to your recipient, or print out a voucher and put it in a holiday card. For added savings, use a Groupon coupon and get the best local deals on already low prices. It’s a procrastinator’s paradise!

2. Discover Discounted Local Deals at Living Social: Another amazing online deal site, Living Social offers an array of last minute gift ideas, from entertainment to popular products, travel deals and more. Browse tons of last minute gift ideas for everyone on your shopping list and save with Cash Back at Ebates. Plus, take advantage of Living Social’s Me+3 promotion that gives you the chance to get a free deal when three of your friends use one of your referral links to purchase an offer. Explore their gift section and easily print out your gift, email it or schedule it for a later delivery date. Don’t forget to use a Living Social coupon for ultimate savings on your local deals.

3. Gift Cards Make it Easy: Give your friends and family the freedom to choose a gift they’ll really love at one of their favorite retailers when you send gift cards! Gift cards sent via email are a great option and can be delivered directly to the recipient’s inbox very quickly. From Michaels and Macy’s to Nordstrom and thousands of retailers in between, gift cards are one of our favorite last minute holidays tips for easy, stress-free gifting.

4. DIY!: Sometimes the most heartfelt gifts are homemade. If you’re running low on time or if stock ran out on a gift you had in mind, why not make something special yourself? Whether you’re a knitter, an artist, a cook or anything in between, a DIY gift is a surefire way to spread some holiday cheer. Get crafty with easy ideas like decorating a picture frame with embellishments, bringing a plain coffee mug to life with a permanent marker or even baking some tasty treats. Put together a quick gift basket filled with a few of their favorite things, like snacks, drinks, movies and bodycare, and you instantly have a go-to gift everyone is sure to love. The possibilities are endless!

5. Subscriptions are Simple: Renew their favorite magazine subscription from Magazines.com or get them access to popular streaming sites like Netflix or Hulu as the perfect last minute gift! With monthly or even yearly subscription options, your gift will keep on giving long after the holiday season is over. Plus, there are plenty of options out there for everyone on your list, from movie buffs and gamers to makeup mavens and sports fanatics, which makes your search simple!

6. Think Outside the Big Box: Of course, everyone has their favorite big box retailers, but consider online marketplaces like Etsy or Scoutmob for unique finds this holiday season. Many artisans offer holiday specials and expedited shipping offers so you can get that last-minute gift in-hand ASAP. You’ll find one-of-a-kind deals from independent makers for gifts that will be truly treasured. From babies to grandparents and college students to coworkers, you’ll discover incredible last minute gift ideas at these online creative havens.

7. Get Personal: Custom photo gifts may sound time consuming, but places popular like Shutterfly do most of the work for you! In just a few clicks, you can transform your gift recipient’s favorite photos into works of art, a personalized calendar, a mug, photo books and more. Plus, with their special Super Rush Shipping offers and helpful holiday shipping guidelines, you’ll know exactly when you need to submit your order to get your goods in time.

There you have it, our favorite holiday tips for conquering those last-minute holiday gift meltdowns. Whether the holidays just crept up on you, or you struggled to find that one perfect gift for the last person on your shopping list, we hope you save with your Groupon promo code and Living Social coupon, fill your glue gun for that quick and easy DIY project, email that gift card and wrap up your holiday shopping with time and money to spare. After you’ve made your list and checked it twice, be sure to save with Cash Back at Ebates! We’d love to hear from you. Comment below and share your favorite last minute gift ideas!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

September 18, 2015

New Fall Decor Ideas to Freshen Up Your Home

With summer over and fall beginning, it’s time to give your home a little refresher. Fall decor is warm, cozy and inviting, making it easy to add to any room. These DIY decorations are very easy so gather up your family or friends for a craft night with a mug of hot apple cider! We’ve gathered eight decor ideas that are easy (and fun) to make. Remember to shop for any craft supplies you need at Ebates with Cash Back at stores like Michaels, JoAnn and WalMart.

Add a little sparkle to traditional fall foliage with this beautiful DIY Falling Leaves Garland from House of Jade Interiors. Garlands are an easy way to dress up a plain wall and bring the outdoors into your home.

Pumpkins are usually associate with Halloween, but they make a perfect vase for dried flowers. This monochrome design from The Daily Basics is perfect as either a centerpiece or decor on a side table. Who knew pumpkins could be so classy?!

Cozy up this autumn by adding a pop of color with this easy leaf pillow from Better Homes and Gardens. It seems intimidating but by using an iron on transfer and a couple of stitches.

Mason jars aren’t going anywhere and that’s a good thing because these mason jar vases from Anything & Everything are too chic! Fill them with either artificial or real flowers for a perfect fall mantle piece.

Wreaths are not just for the winter holidays! Fall wreaths bring warmth to your doorway, making you smile every time you enter your home. Little Lovely Leaders shows us how to make this perfect burlap wreath, which you can easily make your own.

Empty vases are perfect for year round decor because you can fill them with whatever color palette fits the season. AmandaJaneBrown fills her vase with popcorn kernels, dried beans and dried peas, showing off the colors of the autumn leaves.

Another pumpkin decor, but this time in white! Better Homes and Gardens shows off how to use twisted vines of bittersweet to make this fun fall centerpiece.

Yes, more mason jars, but now as a candle holder. Learn how to apply leaves to mason jars for this warm look from Spark & Chemistry.

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.

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

May 18, 2015

Decorating Hacks for a Better Looking Home

While we’d all love to live in our dream home, not everyone can grace the paces of Architectural Digest. Thankfully for the rest of us, there’s no shortage of quick, simple, and easy ways to transform your home from average to amazing. If you’re looking for a few ways to freshen your home’s interior design, the internet DIY community is a wellspring of inspiration and fun ideas that won’t drain your back account. Here’s out guide to hacking your home design one room at a time!

Kick Things Up in the Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the easiest places to start with your decorative hacking. While most of us think of it for its utilitarian purposes, your kitchen can be just as charming and design friendly as the rest of the house, even if you’re an active chef. The ladies over at I Am Momma Hear Me Roar have a great way to take a boring rubber floor mat and turn it into a stylish fabric floor covering that is not only secure, but also attractive.

With a few simple steps and a few crafty supplies, you can have an easy to clean, personalized mat that makes chopping onions oh so comfortable. And if you order your supplies using Michaels coupons from Ebates, you can make the project that much easier on the wallet.

kitchenmat — via I Am Momma Hear Me Roar

Lighten Up Your Living Room

If you’re living in an older home or apartment, there’s a solid chance you have an unusable fireplace. While we love the architectural detailing of an old mantle, a whitewashed slab in the middle of your living room feels like wasted space. The Budget Decorator will show you how t put the fireplace to use with an assortment of candles for a sophisticated, bohemian glow. After all, it’s still a flame, just a bit smaller in scale.

candlesfireplace — via The Budget Decorator

Design Details in the Dining Room

Feeling a bit blasé about your dining room? House Beautiful has some great ideas about easy makeovers you could do in a day. If it’s the furniture you’re lacking, go with the pro tip and just paint everything white. Your table and chairs might be well-loved antiques, but a fresh coat of high-gloss white paint will give your dining room a fresh, airy look. If you’re looking for a funky touch, you can get creative with your wall décor. They recommend decorating a wall with plates for a unified look that’s a cheeky take on the purpose of the room, and one that you’re dinner guests definitely won’t have seen before.

Bring Some Style to the Bathroom

Often the home’s most overlooked opportunity for design improvement, the bathroom deserves a little attention. Another utilitarian space, you might not think of your bathroom as a very style-friendly zone, but there are some little things you can do to beautify it. Take your shower curtain for instance. Real Simple suggests that instead of going with traditional metal rings, add an interesting touch by fastening it to the rod with fabric bows. It’s fun, functional, and rust-resistant.

You don’t have to undergo an entire home renovation to get a fresh new style. Follow these four simple decorating hacks and you’ll be amazed just how great your home can look!

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