Summer may be in full swing, but the fall season will be here before you know it. If your child will be setting off for her first year of college, then you will soon find yourself scrambling to purchase everything she’ll need for her new dorm room and her new life on her own. Those first-year start-up costs can be pretty brutal, but there are ways to save a little cash here and there.
Clothes: If your college freshman is attending school in a state that has a lower sales tax, it might be in your best interest to hold off on buying back-to-school clothes until you actually arrive at the University. Not only will you save money, but you’ll have far fewer boxes to pack!
Dorm Supplies: For the first time your child will need all of her own household supplies. This means everything from shampoo and toothpaste to bath towels. Check out one-stop-shops like Target and Wal-Mart that will have absolutely everything an incoming freshman will need.
Electronics: Along with dorm supplies, your freshman will also need supplies for class—notebooks, pens, paper, and a computer. And if you’re going to shell out good money for a big-ticket item like a desktop or laptop, then you might as well get an extra perk. If you purchase a Mac computer at the Apple Store by September 20 you can get a $100 Back to School card that can be used at the Mac App Store, the App Store, the iTunes Store, and the iBookstore. Now that’s a bonus!
Dana Robinson
Dana Robinson is a couponing expert and regularly contributes money-saving articles to PromoCodes.com.
Doing things yourself is the ultimate way to save money. For example, imagine how much money you could save if you made clothes for yourself and your entire family. Granted, sewing on a button is a bit much for most people to handle, but the art of sewing and creating home décor items yourself is also a great way to express yourself and flex your artistic muscles.
Sew It: My mother always made clothes for my sister and I when we were children—especially easy-to-sew summer dresses. We looked great and she saved a fortune! When you’re ready to take sewing matters into your own hands, check out the current deal at JoAnn. Until July 2 you can get 50% off the regular price of one item (code: MGV183). And Joann Fabrics not only offers everything you could possibly need to make clothing and home décor items yourself, but they even teach you how to do it. The stores offer classes in quilting, sewing, knitting, and crocheting, just to name a few. Click here to find a store near you for a list of classes. In no time at all you’ll be able to craft clothes for yourself and the kids, and save up all that extra money for a fun family night out.
Dana Robinson
Dana Robinson is a couponing expert and regularly contributes money-saving articles to PromoCodes.com.
In the current economy, countless people have had to downsize their homes and move into smaller abodes. However, there is no need to fret over the lost square footage. There are many ways to maximize the space you have, and make it appear much larger than it actually is. Use these tips to both expand your living spaces and strengthen your knowledge of decorating strategies.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Nothing is worse than waking up every morning to a tiny, outdated bathroom lacking in space and functionality. Thankfully, mirrors offer one easy DIY way in which to improve this room. Many older bathrooms come with a tiny, 1950’s-esque mirror/medicine cabinet duo that looks dated and dingy. In addition, it isn’t very easy to conduct your daily beauty routine within a 20×24-inch square of space. To brighten your bathroom up, remove the mirrored cabinet and replace it with a sprawling 60×36-inch wall-mounted mirror. It will instantly open up the space and make it look lighter, larger, and more modern.
Mounted Microwave: The kitchen is the area that is most prone to counter clutter that can instantly shrink a room. Rather than adding yet another appliance to the mix alongside the toaster and the coffeemaker, invest in an over-the-range microwave. If you shop for this or similar appliances at Home Depot before July 7, you can get $50 off your purchase when you buy two or more. By placing this kitchen staple up overhead as opposed to on the counter itself, you free up valuable space that would otherwise go to waste.
Grace Cahalan
Grace Cahalan is a frequent contributor to PromoCodes.com.
Now that beach season is upon us, weight-loss remedies, such as the South Beach Diet, the Atkins Diet, and the “I’ll just chew gum when I feel hungry” diet may sound tempting. Although shedding those extra pounds and tightening up your mid-section may be the only thing on your mind, remember that there’s more to being healthy than fitting into your dream dress size.
It’s Human Nature: Regardless of what popular diets may insist upon, hunger is not something that should be stifled or ignored. Instead of overlooking your hunger pangs and disregarding the stomach grumbles that disturb the entire office, resort to a healthy snack to nosh on between meals. Reaching for a banana, peanut butter and apples, mixed nuts, or a yogurt cup will leave your body and mind feeling focused and thankful.
Stretch it Out: As you make the decision to neglect your body’s fatigue and tack on an extra mile to your run, remember that you may be compromising another facet of your health for that extra 100-calorie loss. Always bear in mind the importance of staying hydrated, working out at a level that’s appropriate for you, and stretching both before and after your fitness regimen.
Healthy Inside and Out: Now that you’re eating better and exercising, don’t forget to focus on other aspects of your health as well. Take time out to have your annual check-up and get your teeth cleaned, too. And if you haven’t had your eyes checked in a while, now is the perfect time. Until June 30 1-800-CONTACTS is offering $10 off your order, plus free shipping on all brands. Being able to see and getting a discount. Now that is truly a beautiful thing!
Naz Papen
Naz Papen is a frequent contributor to PromoCodes.com.
The Fourth of July is just around the corner. Soon, fireworks will be bursting into the sky as people from all over the country gather to barbeque, socialize, and celebrate our country and its freedom. Red, white, and blue are the colors of the day; however, you don’t want to show up to the barbeque with a cliché flag T-shirt to show your patriotism. There are ever so many more ways to look festive yet stylish for this fun summer holiday.
Bold Bikini: If your plans for the holiday include sun and sand, invest in a nautical-inspired bikini to brighten up your day. You can choose one that incorporates all three patriot colors or perhaps strut you stuff in a bold solid-color suit. Not only will you stay cool in the scorching summer heat of July, but you’ll be sporting a classic American look that is ideal for the occasion.
Sizzling Shoes: If the rest of your outfit is simple and neutral, like a classic white eyelet sundress, then let your feet do all the talking. Opt for a pair of red-hot wedges that will add a bold pop of patriotic color to the rest of your attire. If you’re feeling daring, try the mile-high Chinese Laundry Drastic Wedge sandal from Macy’s. Luckily, Macy’s is offering $10 off orders of $75 or more until June 30 (code: XJW562A992) – so make sure you plan your ensemble ahead of time, and start shopping!
Grace Cahalan
Grace Cahalan is a frequent contributor to PromoCodes.com.
When the daylight hours grow long and temperatures rise, wearing the standard business suit to work can get a little uncomfortable. The summer season calls for more casual office attire that leaves you feeling fresh and free, as opposed to stifled and sweaty. As long as your boss is willing to give you some leeway in terms of the dress code, we’ve got a few tips to keep you looking casual and cool, all summer long.
Sunny Shoes: Free your feet from their painful, pointy-toed pump prison that is your go-to winter work staple. Instead, choose a stylish pair of closed-toe wedges in cream or black that are perfect for the season. They look stylish and savvy paired with either a flowing dress or skirt, and the neutral color and demure toe ensure that they’re still office appropriate.
Wearable White: Ditch the dark colors and opt for crisp, bright white for your summer wardrobe. Come casual Friday at the office, leave your black blazer at home, and choose a trendy white three-quarter-length sleeve option instead. No need to empty your wallet on this key clothing piece; browse Gap.com, where you can get 30% off your order until June 24 (code: GPSURPRISE). Pair it with a floral top, dark skinny jeans, and a gold pendant necklace, and you have a look that all the girls in the office will admire.
Grace Cahalan
Grace Cahalan is a frequent contributor to PromoCodes.com.
