Subscribe via RSS Feed
Home > Blog

Category: socialite

anti-Valentine’s: dating site horror stories

[ 0 ] February 9, 2012

Get used to making that face.

“Online dating? Hah, what could go wrong?”

This is a sentence nobody has ever uttered in the history of mankind. Nobody sane, that is, because sane people know that online dating really brings out the crazies and weirdos. Think most couples end up like a happy eHarmony ad? Think again.

I consulted readers, friends and the invaluable source that is the Internet for the  worst online dating stories and got exactly what I asked for. If you’re one of those fluttery love-is-forever types, I advise you to read our 12 Romantic Travel Activities for Less post instead. These crazy stories are for all of our fellow anti-Valentine’s!

the law vs. romance

Lexi – I went on a date with a guy I’ll call Charlie after connecting through Facebook (we had mutual friends… I know, I know, lame). We met at a bar and he looked like he was going to drop dead in fear. I asked him what was up, but he refused to admit anything was wrong. After several quickly consumed drinks and very awkward conversation, Charlie ushered me out of the bar and across the street. Then, holding my hand, he started RUNNING full speed! He slowed down after a few blocks and said “Whew! That was close. I saw my parole officer sitting behind you in the bar. I’m not supposed to be drinking.” I took my broken high heels off, said goodbye and hailed a cab.

Richard – I had a date where, while kissing on a picnic blanket in the gardens outside Buckingham Palace, Royal Police interrupted and tried to determine if either of us were prostitutes. Moral of the story: don’t go on a date with someone you only know from the Internet where there might be a heightened level of security and policing.

when worlds collide

Pinotnoirlover – I posted an ad on Craigslist and I wasn’t expecting much because of its skeevy reputation. But I figured whatever, I’m 22, still young, what’s the worst that could happen? It turns out that the worst that could happen is getting an email response from  a man I recognized as my 5th grade teacher. Who attached very, very inappropriate pictures. I never posted on Craigslist again.

Giana – After talking online to this one guy for close to a month, we decide to go out on a date. I was really excited, he was really cute from his pictures and was always charming and funny in his emails. When we met he brought along his son who I never knew about. On his son’s birthday. He then brought us to Chuck-E-Cheese.

picture perfect

Nick – The worst date I’ve ever been on was with a girl from OkCupid. We took a walk downtown and she seemed more interested in taking pictures of skyscrapers than in making conversation. When she did speak, it was about her Pokemon collection (I don’t want to judge, but she was 30). When I suggested we get something to eat, she started to break down and cry. I did my best to console her and tried to deflect all the shady looks I was getting, so I just took her home. I got a text a week later saying she had only met me to make her boyfriend (of three years!) angry.

missing manners

Lauradelrey – A very handsome man took me to an Italian restaurant and could not. Stop. Imitating the waiter. It was really bordering on offensive. “Whatsamattawitchu? You a-no like-a dah specials?” I wouldn’t laugh or acknowledge his impersonations and he ended up getting really angry. He actually said he hoped nobody would put a horse’s head on my bed the next morning. I think we ended up splitting the bill. Thanks for nothing, Plentyoffish!

Anonymous – I was exchanging messages with a man on eHarmony for a while and we finally decided to meet at a restaurant. He sits down and after a couple minutes of conversation he goes “Just so you know, with the last few girls I’ve been out with I’ve had to drop like $100 on each of them and I can’t do that again. We’ll just get a drink.” I understand dating can be tough on a guy’s wallet but I’m not looking to bleed anyone dry! And who actually says that to their date?!

What’s the worst date you’ve been on with somebody you’ve met from an online dating site?

View Post

Valentine’s Day gift ideas for men

[ 0 ] February 2, 2012

It’s that time of year again. And ladies, I know what you’re thinking:  it’s Valentine’s Day – is he planning jewelry and a vacation, or will it be chocolates and flowers again?  (The correct answer, gentlemen, is probably somewhere in the middle.) But that’s not what why we’re here today; there are plenty of blogs that’ll show us how to spoil a lady.  No, we say that if girls want us guys to treat Valentine’s Day as sacred, the first step is putting some thought into our gifts.

And we’re not talking socks, underwear, or anything else that our mothers might buy us.  This Valentine’s Day, we want to feel special. So, in that spirit, here are a few bro-friendly gift ideas that speak directly to our inner dude.

The WaterSkiing Chair – from Hammacher Schlemmer

Men love waterskiing, it’s a fact. But we also love sitting around and drinking a beer, and until now, we didn’t think these two activities could be combined. The thoughtful – and quite frankly, genius – makers of Hammacher Schlemmer’s Waterskiing Chair claim it’s ideal for someone just starting on their path to waterskiing ability, but to us it seems like a reward for the man who’s mastered the craft.

USB Missile Launcher – from Brookstone

It’s Monday.  The boss walks into your office:  ‘So, Darryl, what’s happening? Are you going to go ahead and have those TPS reports for us this afternoon?’   You have two choices.  Do the reports (inconceivable!) or launch a series of targeted missiles at the boss’ head. Thanks to the Brookstone USB Desktop missile launcher, the latter option is no longer just a fantasy. (And unlike the hipsters in the art department, this works with PC’s and Mac’s.)

Laser Perfect 4 Laser Level System – from Geeks.com

Technically, I suppose it’s possible to use this thing as a level.  It says here that it enables perfectly straight lines and has a built-in tape measure and blah blah blah…  Let’s be clear – it looks like a space grenade and shoots four lasers in multiple directions.  And using the included suction cup to mount this bad boy on the wall at your next Laser Tag tournament will send your opponents into a whirlwind of confusion allowing you to DOMINATE!

The Hand Fitness Trainer – from Hammacher Schlemmer

Guys, we know how important it is to maintain hand strength, am I right? Where would civilization be if, say, Stanley greeted Livingstone with a limp wrist instead of a firm, pumping handshake? That’s not to mention all the other reasons for having a strong hand and forearm – badminton, saluting, thumb-wrestling – these endeavours reward only the strong! Of course, there are other activities you could undertake to maintain good hand strength, but whipping out the Hand Fitness Trainer at work won’t get you fired.

On February 14th, by all means treat your lady like she’s your one and only someone. But Awesome Present Lane doesn’t have to be a one-way street!  A few casually dropped hints and some strategically placed browser bookmarks might just have you winning laser tag and sitting down to waterski this summer!

View Post

top Valentine’s Day gifts under $100

[ 0 ] January 27, 2012

It’s only a couple months since the holidays ended and the gift buying is starting all over again. Relax! It’s only that special someone you have to buy for this time around.

Plus, we’ve made things a little easier for you with our picks of the top Valentine’s Day gift ideas for 2012.

The products below are all priced under $100, so you and your wallet will feel the love this February 14th!

Don’t forget to check out our full listing of online Valentine’s Day coupons for even more fabulous savings!

Reverie Light Rose Heart Pendant (for her)

Price: $69.00

Jewelry on Valentine’s may be a cliche, but it never fails to impress. Especially this beautiful rose heart pendant.

Plus, add another item and get 10% off $155 orders with our Swarovski coupon. Expires Feb 14th. 

Love Note Conversation Heart Dipped Oreo Cookies (for her and him)

Price: $19.99 (Price with our 15% off everything 1800Baskets coupon = $16.99)

Can’t say it in person? Say it in a cookie!

Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker (for her)

Price: $41.19 (Price with our 15% off everything FragranceNet coupon = $35.01)

Why Lovely for Valentine’s? Besides being a bestseller, this popular perfume is light, floral and appropriate for almost any occasion.

 

Men’s Eastender Classic Watch (for him)

Price: $49.00 (Price with our 12% off Timberland watches Ashford coupon (expires Feb 15) = $43.12) 

He’s your Valentine so he deserves the best. Treat him with this handsome Timberland watch on Feb 14th. Plus, this’ll give him no excuse for being late!

Red Velvet Chocolate Cake (for him and her)

Price: $39.95 (Price with our 15% off all cakes Bake Me A Wish coupon= $33.96)

You both deserve to indulge a little on Valentine’s. So throw away those new years weight loss resolutions (only for the day!) and enjoy this mouth watering red velvet cake.

Polka Dots and Posies (for her)

Price: $39.95 (Price with our 15% off any order Teleflora coupon= $33.96)

Another Valentine’s oldie but goodie. A pretty set of flowers like this pretty pink bouquet are sure to get a smile.

Forget Me Not Ring (for her)

Price: $77.00

You’re wrapped around her finger with no complaints from you. She’ll never forget the Valentine’s you swept her off her feet with this gorgeous sterling silver ring.

Plus, check out our Blue Nile coupons for additional savings!

Spa Wish Gift Certificate (for her and him)

Buy 1 certificate and get 1 20% off with our Spa Wish coupon.

This is a fabulous Valentine’s Date/gift idea. Treat yourself and your Valentine to a day at the spa. Just search for your favorite salon and purchase your gift certificate.

The Lacie Bustle Back Slip (for her…and him)

Price: $48.00

This angel-worthy number will be sure to put the romance in your Valentine’s Day.

Plus, check out our Victoria’s Secret coupons for additional savings! 

What’s on your wish list this Valentine’s Day?

 

View Post

from the archives: tips for hosting new years parties

[ 0 ] December 29, 2011

Sometimes we like to take a look back at the many posts hidden away in our fabulous blog archives. We often come across posts that made us laugh, posts with awesome tips, even posts that got you talking! So, we’re re-sharing those fabulous posts with you in our “from the archives” series! We hope you enjoy them…again! ;)

You want to throw the best New Year’s bash on the block, but it takes more than just a few hats and a countdown. We’ve thrown together a few New Year’s Eve party ideas that will help your shindig not only rock, but go smoothly and safely, too!

Decor

Before you even think of setting up that Facebook event, decide what feel you want the party to have. New Years party themes can be anything from classy dinners to luaus and everything in between. Once you decide, pick out decor to set the mood, and I mean go beyond matching napkins. Check out full-size cardboard cut-outs, disco balls and, of course, noise makers and embarrassing hats. Why not turn your home into Times Square? This celebration scene is sure to set the tone.

Guest List

This one can get a bit confusing. First, decide whether you want a small gathering with close friends and loved ones (easy) or everyone you’ve ever known (a bit trickier). Keeping it limited means less opportunity for finding red wine stains on the carpet and your favorite lamp broken in the morning.

But whatever you do, don’t publicly post it on a public forum. Everyone loves a good party, and nothing busts up a good vibe quicker than 300 people and the cops. And nothing starts the New Year quite like an eviction notice.

Drinks

You can’t just open a keg, let ‘er rip and let guests fend for themselves. Why? Because you could be held responsible if anything happens once they leave your home. Plus, they’re your friends – you want them to get home safe. So here are a few tips:

  • Hire a bartender or get a friend to watch drinks & cut people off
  • Keep plenty of non-alcoholic drinks available & stop serving well before the party ends
  • Have cab numbers available & offer the couch or floor
  • TAKE KEYS (don’t give them back, no matter how much they “hate you and your stupid party”)

Food

When it comes to New Years Eve party supplies, food is the most important. If you aren’t having a sit down dinner, have plenty of finger foods like mini quesadillas, sliders and pizza. Always keep your guests in mind, so be aware of any allergies like peanuts or seafood. Oh, and skip the fondue. It can get messy and dangerous: Open Flame + Oil + Wild Party = Yikes!
Cater your party for less with our Omaha Steaks coupons.

Now that you’ve browsed these tips for hosting New Years parties, you’re set to have the best (and safest!) bash this side of 2010. Have a safe and Happy New Year!

Are you hosting a New Year’s Eve party? Any ideas or problems you’ve come across?

View Post

from the archives: the top 5 holiday gift giving games

[ 0 ] December 22, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes we like to take a look back at the many posts hidden away in our fabulous blog archives. We often come across posts that made us laugh, posts with awesome tips, even posts that got you talking! So, we’re re-sharing those fabulous posts with you in our “from the archives” series! We hope you enjoy them…again! ;)

  

Gift giving games are great around the office and for family get togethers. They not only lower the overall cost of gift giving during the holidays, they also make the giving experience fun!

Below are 5 of the best gift giving games to try this holiday season.

1) Secret Santa

This is the classic gift giving game. A perfect option for offices, friends, family, neighbors or any medium-to-large group.

The rules are simple. Write everyone’s name on small pieces of paper. Fold the papers, and place them in a hat. Each person will draw a name from the hat and buy a gift for that person. If someone chooses their own name, they will pick again. Pre-determine an amount to spend on each gift.

2) White Elephant

This game is very fun, but it has the potential to get a little crazy…

Minimum number of participants: 4. Each participant is asked to bring a gift worth no more than a pre-determined amount.

Participants draw numbers from a hat to determine their gift choice order. Each person then takes a turn choosing a gift. The first person picks a gift, opens it and shows it to everyone. Then the second participant picks a gift and chooses to either unwrap it or to exchange it for the previously unwrapped gift. If the gift is exchanged, the person who had their gift taken from them gets to unwrap the chosen gift, and then the turn passes. When all the gifts have been opened, the game is over.

3) Getting to Know Each Other

This game is a good option for getting to know your guests better.

First, you, the host, will number each gift as it arrives. Then give the person who brought the gift a piece of paper with a corresponding number. Have the guest write down one fact about themselves and throw it in a hat or bowl.

When the gift exchange starts, you draw a piece of paper and read the fact. Guests have to guess who brought what gift. The person who guesses the right guest first is given the package with the corresponding number. The game continues until there is one gift left, which is for the host.

4) Holiday Fake Out

Everyone buys an anonymous present and places it in a pile that includes a gag gift you, the host, purchased (head to your local joke shop or use something ordinary like batteries or socks). Draw names from a hat to decide the order of choosing presents. The goal of this game is to pick a present that’s not the gag gift. Since the present is wrapped, everyone is going to have to use their deductive skills to avoid getting the gag gift.

Tip: include a small consolation gift for the person who receives the gag gift.

5) Dirty Dice

This game has two phases of play:

1)  Everyone will put their gift in a pile. Then, pass around a pair of dice to every participant. Anyone who rolls doubles can pick a present from the pile. After a couple of turns, the second phase begins.

2) A timer is set for 15 minutes, and everyone starts rolling again. There is no limit to the number of turns within the time limit. If someone rolls doubles this time, they can steal a present, but it can be stolen back; however, if someone rolls double sixes, they can steal any gift without reprisals. The point is to grab as many gifts as possible.

Tip: you may want to keep a few extra gifts on hand just in case someone is left without a present.

What’s your favorite gift giving game? Tell us in the comments section below!


View Post

Coffee Gifts for the Coffee Connoisseur

[ 0 ] December 21, 2011

There are two types of coffee drinkers: Those that enjoy a cup of joe, and those that truly relish not just the taste, but the ingredients and effort that goes into every pot.

I fancy myself in the coffee connoisseur category – I really love my coffee. So, I can honestly give you a piece of advice: if you’re thinking of getting the real coffee drinker in your life a new gadget, you may want to look beyond just a classic brewer or French Press. You may want to take a gander at these:

Bodum PEBO

Not only does it make great coffee, but it makes it in an impressive fashion! The Bodum PEBO uses a vacuum to create the perfect cup of joe right on a stovetop. Oh, and it’s dishwasher safe, which is more than I can say for most coffee makers. If your loved one enjoys entertaining and showing off, they’ll be delighted with this. Save on yours today with Amazon coupon codes.

 

Aeropress

The Aeropress is what the French Press wishes it was. Not only does it take a mere 10 seconds to brew, gives beverage strength equal to espresso, but it also lessens the acidity making it easier on the stomach. It’s also perfect for those who love traveling! The Aeropress is small, so it can easily fit in a bag and be taken on the road. All in all, a great gift for under $50.

 

Coffee Filter Straws

At first glance, this may look a little like something else – but it’s not! These glass straws have a filter attached, so it’s easy to get that cuppa anywhere. Just put loose coffee grounds or loose leaf tea in a cup of boiling water and sip away. The filter makes sure you don’t taste any grits. A perk? No lipstick smudges on the cup!

 

Joulies Thermo Beans

It always seems like a cup is too hot or too cold. What could possible fix this problem? Well, magic beans of course! To be honest, I can’t figure out how they work, but put these in your hot beverage and the temp drops to an acceptable level – then stays there. Sure, at around $100 they’re a little pricey, but can you really put a price on the perfect cup of coffee? The coffee connoisseur would surely say no.

What’s your favorite coffee gadget? Have you ever been given an awesome coffee gadget gift?

View Post

holiday drink recipes for different personalities

[ 0 ] December 15, 2011

As fun as it is to spend time with loved ones, exchange presents and bask in the warm glow of seasonal merriment, we all know the real reason to look forward to the holidays: drinking. My social circle is throwing a Christmas bash and, for reasons unknown to me, I was elected the bartender. I was daunted by the request at first, but the more I thought about it, the more fun it seemed.

I know a pretty diverse group of people, and if you do too, this is your chance to show off your bartending skills by tailoring cocktails to everyone’s unique personality. Intrigued? Get out the corkscrew and read on…

 

The Dieter: Bethenny’s Light Eggnog Cocktail

We all have a friend who is constantly dieting, either casually (“I want to lose three pounds”) or painstakingly (“How many calories are in this almond sliver?”). Either way, this light but delicious cocktail by diet maven Bethenny Frankel will make them think they’re being more naughty than nice.


The Theater Major: Winter Spice Screwdriver

Chances are the dramatic, flirty wild child in your life either majored in Theater Arts or… performs monologues on street corners. Put a stop to their party showboating by handing them this yummy, spicy twist on the Screwdriver.

 

The Optimist: Cuppa Good Cheer

I have a friend who’s always in a good mood. If I wasn’t so petty, I’d ask what her secret is. Regardless, your peppy pal needs a libation to match, so whip up a mug of this feel-good hot drink. Warning: the Cuppa Good Cheer’s combo of hot cocoa and cherry vodka will have him or her bouncing off the walls.

 

The Ice Man (or Woman): Winter Tropic

It’s not that you don’t like the Ice Man, it’s just hard to crack his shell. So melt through his frosty exterior with this mix of strawberry margarita, vodka and cranberry juice. It’s hard to imagine anyone staying frozen after a few sips of this.

 

The Environmentalist: Green Christmas

This is my own personal recipe. I know a lot of hippies. While they’re usually happy to drink whatever’s in the cupboard, I like to make fun of them with this super environmentally-conscious concoction:

  • Hot apple cider
  • Organic lime juice
  • Agave nectar
  • Fair trade whiskey

And if I do say so myself? It’s pretty darn delicious (although not literally green – maybe add some ethical vegetable-based vegan food coloring for that).

 

The Frenemy: The Grinch

Unfortunately, with holiday parties comes the social obligation to invite that friend-of-a-friend you don’t quite get along with. But that’s okay! Serve up this sweet but sour cocktail to let them know you keep friends drunk and frenemies drunker.

 

The Modest Mouse: Blushing Lady

Where there’s a holiday shindig there’s a wallflower. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but hey, it’s a party, people should mingle! Mix up this sweet combo of pink grapefruit juice and pomegranate liqueur for them. It might seem like a demure drink, but it’s got a kick that’ll have them, well, blushing.

Do you have any special holiday drink recipes to share with us?

View Post

fab gift ideas from 1800Baskets: 25% off select baskets ’til 12/8!

[ 0 ] December 8, 2011

Gift giving doesn’t have to be complicated.

Sometimes finding a great gift is as easy as ordering a gift basket! Think baskets are too impersonal? Not anymore! Below are my top picks from 1800Baskets that prove the modern gift basket is more than just muffins and flowers.

See my basket gift picks below! And, remember to take advantage of our 25% off 1800Baskets coupon on select holiday gift baskets! Use coupon code HOLIDAY25.

Stonehedge Vineyards Wine Tasting Gift Basket

Original price: $59.99 | Price with coupon: $44.99 (savings = $15.00!)

I’ll admit, this gift basket was chosen for selfish reasons. What can I say? I love wine! And, if you have a wine-lover on your gift list, I’m sure they’ll appreciate this basket just like I do.

Crafted at an award-winning Napa Valley family winery, this basket comes with two deliciously versatile reds: 2005 Stonehedge “Old Vines” Zinfandel, and the zesty 2010 Stonehedge Winery & Vineyards® Merlot. These outstanding wines are complimented by Chocolate Flavor-lined Wafer Rolls, Brie flavored cheese spread and a gourmet cracker assortment.

Dog Lover’s Holiday Gift Tower

Cute and delicious. How can you go wrong?

Lift off the cuddly pooches head to see what’s inside! He’s filled with yummy holiday treats like Fiesta Trail Mix, Fannie May® Cookies & Cream Bark, Maple Walnut Chews, and Eurostyle Biscuits.

Frosty Friends Sweets Trio

When I saw this sweet trio I just had to include them in this post!

These three cuties are filled with a delicious mix of creamy Caramel Whirls® Chocolates and lusciously crunchy Chocolate Covered Pretzel Balls (yum!). All three arrive together, but are wrapped separately and topped with bright red bows. This way you can choose to give each separately or as a set!

Golden Swirl Holiday Gift Basket 

Original price: $99.99 | Price with coupon: $74.99 (savings = $25.00!)

Chocolate lovers rejoice! This gorgeous gift basket includes rich Godiva® Chocolate Truffle Coffee, lush Godiva® Dark Chocolate Truffle Heart Biscuits, creamy Ghirardelli® White Mocha Hot Beverage Mix, mouthwatering Carousel® Red Delicious Apple Caramels, tangy Cocina Selecta® Olives, honey braided wheat pretzels, and much more.

What else is there to say other than…YUM!?

Frosty the Snow Plant

This cute gift idea comes with a beautiful white campanula plant in a fun ceramic snowman planter. The bonus? The snowman planter can later be reused as a candy dish!

Plus, add on a snow cone-shaped package of marshmallow fudge hot chocolate mix (optional).  

 

Check out our full list of 1800Basket coupons for additional savings!

Do you give gift baskets to anyone on your holiday list?

View Post

after the ‘mo’: post-Movember skin care tips from our fs staff!

[ 0 ] December 1, 2011

Movember (the month formerly known as November) has officially come to an end. The mo’s have been grown and the funds to support prostate cancer, and other men’s cancers, have been raised…

What does this mean? It’s time for those ‘staches to come off! Men across the US and the world are shaving their ‘mo’s’ and dealing with the skin that lies beneath.

Since I’m no men’s skin care expert, I went ahead and asked a couple of our Movember-participating fs staffers, Jesse and Dom, a few questions about the month of awareness, post-Movember skin care and their mustache idols!

Our ‘mo’ sporting staffers:

Why did you participate in Movember this year?

Jesse: I’m facially hirsute 12 months of the year, but this Movember I decided that I would showcase the upper lip in  solidarity with those gentlemen trying it out for charity.

Dom: A fraternity brother of mine asked a group of us to participate with him.  We obliged seeing as it was for a great cause.

In your opinion, who has (or had) the ultimate mustache?
Jesse: The ultimate moustache was worn by one Thomas Sullivan Magnum.  I can’t say Tom Selleck, because I’ve seen him without one…but Magnum always rocked the ‘stache. Second place goes to my dad (see pic below).
 

 

Dom: Tom Selleck hands down.  The man is a legend.  Period.

What are your top post-mo shaving tips and/or skin care products

Jesse: You might think that I, as a bearded man, may have no need of skin care, but you’d be wrong.  Unless one wants to be referred to as a ‘neckbeard’ one must maintain boundaries! My wife bought me the Power Shave Set from The Art of Shaving (saving tip: get free shipping on your first purchase of $50+ or more!). 

I use that daily to keep things in order. There’s something about a genuine badger brush that makes a man feel like a man…

But another tip I’d offer is to take the time to carefully wash your face with a warm cloth.  It’s like a mini-bath and helps to refresh and invigorate the skin (and spirit!).

Dom: Well, this amount of facial hair won’t go easy.  I need to take it down with my trusty Wahl industrial strength shaver first.  No blade goes near my face until that happens.  I’m certainly no glutton for punishment.

Upon reducing the bush to mere stubble I then proceed to break out my Long Handle Safety Razor from The Art of Shaving (saving tip: get free shipping on your first purchase of $50+ or more!) and my Ultimate Brushless Shaving Cream from Kiehl’s (savings tip: $20 off $65 order!).  These two make sweet music together.  While others may resort to using a brush to apply the lather I’m all about the hand.  It’s simple, cheap and easily accessible.

After the deed’s done it’s time for some soothing relief.  That’s where my bottle of Ultimate Mens After Shave from Kiehl’s comes out to play.  There’s nothing like it on earth.  I could dip my face in lava, slap this on and walk away without so much as a blemish.  It’s the real deal.

Will you grow another mo next year?
Jesse: I like to say that a moustache isn’t just for a month; it’s for life. But yes, I plan on once again showcasing it for the cause.
Dom: Absolutely!  I thoroughly enjoyed growing it.  Having said that, I’m looking forward to kissing my wife again.

Did you, or someone you know, participate in Movember this year? Share your story with us in a comment below! 

View Post

10 fun and fabulous chilly weather date ideas

[ 0 ] November 24, 2011
don’t let the chilly weather put
a damper on your date.

Finding fun ways to spice up a winter date night can be a challenge. Especially if you’re like me and would spend the entire season in hibernation if given the choice (…lucky bears!).

It may be cold outside, but don’t hide away! Below are 10 fun and fabulous date ideas. Some I’ve tried myself. Others, I’ve come across while searching things to do to help make the harsh winter chill a little more bearable.

So read on, winter-lovers and wannabe hibernators alike! Below are date ideas that’ll satisfy even the most mismatched weather pairing.

indoor date ideas

1) old school video game tourney

If you and your date are self-described gamers, you’re gonna love this one.

Get out your gaming stations, your favorite video games, pizza to munch on and a few drinks (optional, of course). And voila! You’ve got yourself a super fun, winter-proof date night!

This is one of my favorite low keys dates. Great for when you and your partner want to avoid the cold all together and just spend time together at home.

cotton candy on a cookie?
if it tastes good, bake it!
image source:

2) ultimate cookie bake-off

Now this one I haven’t tried. But it sure sounds fun! For a super sweet bonding experience come up with the best sounding cookie ever and bake it. Combine you and your date’s favorite cookie ingredients to make the ultimate cookie.

Or, if you and your date have differing opinions on what makes up the best cookie ever, then have a bake-off! Make separate batches of cookies with your individually chosen ingredients and enjoy the finished products together!

 

3) board game challenge

Sometimes the simplest date ideas are the most fun.

The key to making this date idea a success is to turn off all distractions and plunge right into the games. Don’t be afraid to get competitive!

Some fun and fabulous game suggestions for date nights: Cranium (best for more than two people), Twister, Scrabble.

Savings tip: check out our Amazon.com coupons for deals on your favorite board games!

4) hotel fake-out

Step one: Send the kids to Grandma’s…

Now that the kids are away it’s time to create an at-home hotel experience. Spend the day in bed, order in (room service!), watch movies and enjoy some quality alone time together for the night.

Or, do the real thing! Rent a hotel room for just one night. Indulge, pamper and enjoy yourselves, guilt-free. I love doing this every once in a while. It feels like a one-night getaway vacation!

Savings tip: looking for hotel deals for your one-night getaway? Get 5% off your hotel stay with our Orbitz coupon!

5) make hot cocktails

The options are endless when it comes to the yummy holiday inspired cocktails you can create.

Visit your local liquor store and grab some delicious liqueurs that’ll taste fabulous in a hot drink. Start with hot chocolate as your base and it’s hard to go wrong.

Mix your drink together and add toppings such as, chocolate or caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, etc. Get creative with it! My personal fave: Hot chocolate with mint or french vanilla Irish Cream…mmmm!

outdoor date ideas

5) make a snowman

You don’t have to venture far into the winter cold to have a good time.

This is something I joyfully discovered last winter. Yup, a great date idea is just steps away from your door…as long as there’s snow on the ground.

Just grab your date and some snowman making essentials (carrots, a scarf…you know the drill), head outdoors and start creating your snowman buddy. Don’t forget to snap some pics after you make him. He won’t last forever!

6) see the lights

Take a stroll around your block and check out the fabulous holiday light displays your neighbors have put together.

Didn’t find any amazing light displays in your area? That’s alright. The holiday decorations in my neighborhood are pretty average, too. Just take a drive and discover an area where the residents go all out. Almost every city or town has at least one! Track em’ down and enjoy.

cold outside? get a little
closer!

7) winter nature walk

Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy nature. Bundle up in your warmest attire (we’re talking layers here!) and get out there.

A great tip is to visit conservation areas in your area and check if they have any winter activities you and your date can do together (e.g. ice fishing, skating, snowshoeing, etc.).

Who knows, maybe you’ll discover a new winter hobby you and your date can share!

8) go sledding

All you need for this super fun date idea is a hill and a sled! Make it interesting. Have races or take turns timing each other. If you’re super adventurous pair, build tiny jumps and hills and try to do some tricks!

Don’t have a sled? No problem! Grab some cafeteria trays, a large slab of cardboard, some vinyl cushions…pretty much any thing that’ll hold your weight and slide down the hill smoothly. But, be prepared! Some of these DIY sleds may be a bit faster than your average sled…

9) go skiing or snowboarding

Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, these winter activities will show off your adventurous side. If you’re both beginners it’ll be a fun experience learning together. Both experts? Well then show off your skills!

If one of you is more experienced than the other, you’ll have a great time learning and/or teaching your date how to be a pro! Whatever to case, you’re set up for a great winter date.

10) head to trivia night at the bar

This is another idea I haven’t tried myself, yet. But it seems like a super fun time. Head out to a trivia night at a local bar. Grab some beers, some appetizers test out your trivia skills.

If it’s a first date you’re planning, the trivia night will give you both some interesting topics to chat about. Plus, if your team wins, drinks are usually on the house!

What’s your favorite winter date night idea? Share in a comment below!

View Post
Page 1 of 1912345...10...Last »