Couponing For Mere Mortals: Target Coupons, Cartwheel and Deals

Well, its no secret that I have a love affair with Target. What a lot of shoppers don't know is that they have several ways to earn additional savings in store and online. I am still surprised by how many of my friends and family are not using these resources to save. Therefore, I decided that I needed to devote an entire post in my "Couponing For Mere Mortals" series. Here's the breakdown:

Coupons: Target has accepted manufacturer coupons for years, but many shoppers are still unaware of the store coupons that Target offers on its website. By clicking on the Coupon link on the Target Website, you can print store specific coupons to use at the register. You will have to go through an initial set up for the printer software with your first use of the site. These are not just store brand products either. This is where it gets really good. Did you know that you can combine manufacturer coupons with Target store coupons? Yes, you can double up the discount with one of each, unless restricted by the manufacturer. Most of the Target store coupons are for in-store purchases, but occasionally they offer an online code as well.  Here is their complete coupon policy.

Mobile Coupons: Another variation of the Target store coupon promotion. Text COUPONS to 827-438 (Target) you will receive a link to sign up. Then you will receive a text message containing your coupons. When you check out just hand your phone to the cashier to scan the bar code and any coupons for items you are purchasing will be applied.

Daily Deals Online:  Everyday Target has select items that are on sale for 24 hours only or until they are sold out whichever comes first. These are exclusive online deals. You can see some of the items coming up as daily deals for the next five days, but you won't know the sale price until the item goes live. Go to the Target website and clink on Daily Deals, then scroll to the bottom to see what's next. This is great for big items that are on your wish list.

Cartwheel: This is the newest way to save at Target. Cartwheel is a completely separate app from the Target website and Mobile Coupons.  Cartwheel is Target's social network based savings app. Its easy to use and the more willing you are to promote the app the more you earn in Cartwheel. Here's the way it works. Go to the Target website and click on the Cartwheel link in the left side menu and download the app to your phone. Create an account by logging in using your Facebook sign in. Now this is what turns some people away, but don't worry. Once you sign in using the Facebook, you can opt to share your activity or not share. Basically, your account is set up like, obviously enough, a shopping cart. You get a limited number of spots in your Cartwheel. Click on the browse option and add the deals you want to use. When you check out, hand the cashier your phone, they will scan your barcode and any discounts you have loaded into your Cartwheel will be added. There are a lot of discounts available and you can use them several times until they expire, but you have to select them into your spots to activate them. The benefit of using the share feature on your Facebook is to promote the app to your friends, the more friends you have join the more spaces and badges you earn to activate deals. I have used this app along with coupons and it works great.

REDcard: Now, advocating a store credit card is not my usual preference.  The Target RedCard is a good addition to your savings routine, if you use it appropriately. The rules apply the same as signing up for any credit card. Keep a low balance limit, pay it off regularly before adding additional charges, and of course pay on time. What I like about the REDcard is the additional 5% off every purchase and the free shipping on all purchases. If you are a regular shopper at Target, 5% off your bill can be a benefit, especially when you stack it with other discounts like Cartwheel and coupons. The savings can really add up. Be careful not to let it lead you to impulse buy. Stick to your list and your pre-planned discounts.

I think Target hit the "Bullseye" with these great deals and discounts. Please feel free to share your great finds and deals with me! Happy Target-ing!

Newly Wed-nesday: Megan and Brandon, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

As I mentioned in yesterdays post, I want to share with you some of "how I spent my summer." One of the highlights was the wedding of my favorite nephew Brandon to his sweet fiance, Megan. I was honored to help them plan the wedding and it was truly a wonderful experience. Megan has a wonderful personal style and Brandon is classic and traditional. Their wedding was every bit a reflection of the two of them.

All The Details:

Color Story: Tiffany Blue, White, Pink

Ceremony: Christ Church Cranbrook was gorgeous without any additional embellishment. The incredible architecture of the historic church was the backdrop during the traditional evening ceremony. Megan and Brandon were the centerpiece of the moment. It was elegant and reverent but filled with joy and personality.

The Happy Couple:  Brandon was quite dapper in his Brooks Brothers tuxedo and black tie. His very classic attire was set off by his Tiffany blue socks peeping out of his loafers.  Megan stunned us all in her gown by Priscilla of Boston. The strapless ball gown created by the designer made famous by Grace Kelly, featured a bodice of handmade rosebuds. She wore satin pumps embellished with crystal butterflies by Aruna Seth. The bridesmaids wore short Tiffany blue dresses that tied at the waist with pockets, of course. Her sister and Matron of Honor wore a robin egg blue version of the same dress.  The brides bouquet of white peonies and baby's breath and maid's bouquets of blue hydrangeas were created by Fleurtech. 

Reception: The Village Club was in full bloom and the lush grounds were the setting for the cocktail hour on the patio. This night was literally a garden-party. After dinner, guest returned to the lantern lit patio. The bride and groom provided family and friends with a cigar bar to enjoy, as well as passed hummer ice cream cocktails.  

Design: Table top decor included huge white hydrangeas, baby's breath in Tiffany style boxes and birch bark lined containers and accented with metal lanterns and blue and clear glassware. Each table was named for a location in Chicago where the couple met and lived. The escort cards and table tents were handmade and depicted a silhouette of each Chicago landmark.

Sweets:  In lieu of the traditional cake, Megan and Brandon had a cupcake bar, featuring with oodles of yummy sweets from Taste Love Cupcakes, winner of the Food Networks 2012 Cupcake Wars. Flavors included, Red Velvet, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Double Vanilla Bean all dressed up with Tiffany blue icing and the signature white bow.

The Party: Brandon and Megan wanted their day to be a celebration, making certain to stick to old traditions but still create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The bride and groom finished their bridal dance with a "snowball" dance. Making sure that every guest hit the dance floor at least once to enjoy their nine piece band. Other goodies included Tiffany boxes of dancing shoes for tired party feet created by Lisa's Gift Wrapper's, who created all the Tiffany boxes and card box for the event. The brides mother passed around lighted maracas to get guests in festive spirit and the couple set up a photo booth to capture friends and family enjoying their big day. Finally, the evening wrapped up with guests taking home a taste of Michigan with Towne Club Pop and BetterMade Potato chips waiting for them as they departed.

Family weddings are always special and although I am not impartial, I have to say this was one of the best. It was a great time with a beautiful couple. I could not be happier to see my wonderful nephew marry such a lovely and caring wife. Many years of happiness Megs and Brandon. We love you. Happy Life! Ta.

Photo Credits: Laurie Tennent Studio, House of Gray, MadLab Designs, Random Family and Friends.

The Reinvented "Of-The-Month" Box

Well, Hello! Its been quite a summer. Gone too quickly as usual. I'll be catching you up on all the goings-on over the next week or so, but today I wanted to share a great idea for long distance gift giving or especially for the college back to school-er. Its not a new concept to sign a loved one up for a monthly delivery of fruit, meat, etc but there are several companies that have refreshed the concept with some really interesting, socially conscious and healthy incarnations.

Umba Box - Umba provides the recipient with their specially selected handmade gift or gift(s) each month. They concentrate on jewelry, stationary, accessories and bath items with several options for length of subscription. "We are passionate about handmade products and the connections that can be forged between consumers and artists. We shine a light on handmade products by including a story about the artist in each Umba Box. Ultimately, Umba Box is special because of the insight each subscriber gains into the lives of artisans." 

ManPacks - The name speaks for itself. This is a great option for college fellas, a guy just starting out or the too busy to think about it type. You can send ManPacks every 3 months. The packs come in several options including, "Gym Rat" and "The Natural" or "CEO" to suit every guys style. They include socks, undies, shaving items and if you so choose, for the progressive parent/gift-giver...cover your ears children...condoms (said with a whisper). Another convenience is you do not need to know the recipients sizes or address. They will contact them directly to collect the info. 

Hammock Pack - A super idea for someone who really needs a little me time but just won't take the time. Hammock Pack offers a solution that arrives on their doorstep and they never have to leave home. "Whether it’s as simple as a movie night or mementos from that exotic vacation you can’t find the time to take. So relax and let a little “me time” come to you." They offer three affordable subscription options and unique themes each month. What a great mid-term treat or for Mom after a busy summer with the kiddos.

Birch Box - If you have someone who is really into the latest and greatest in beauty products and accessories this is the box for them. They have boxes for men and women. Birch Box sources high-end beauty products from established to up and coming companies. "The women’s subscription includes everything from skincare to makeup, as well as fun non-beauty extras. The men’s subscription delivers top-tier grooming products in addition to lifestyle accessories ranging from hip socks to tech accessories."

Blissmo Box - These boxes are filled with eco-friendly and non-toxic products and offered with a 3 month gift subscription of either their beauty or snack packs. They search out new brands as well as established product names. "We want to use products that are better & safer for our bodies, our families, our communities and our planet, but realized it difficult to know where to find these products or if they were truly safer...We figured others had the same frustration so set out to help health-minded and earth-minded shoppers discover what's better."

The Honest Company - Made famous by its founder, actress Jessica Alba, The Honest Company specializes in safe, earth friendly cleaning and baby self branded products. Their gift packs come in 1, 3 and 6 month options of either the family home essentials or the diaper and wipes option. This is a fabulous idea for a new mom, but the cleaning products would be a creative and useful gift for a new grad with a new apartment and a college loan to pay off. Either option is practical and thoughtful.

There are lots of companies that are hoping on the gift box wagon. Whichever you choose, its a convenient and useful gift that is still personal and creative. The joy in these gifts is the anticipation of knowing you have surprise to look forward to each month. Who doesn't want to stretch out a birthday, holiday or special occasion as long as possible. I'll be checking the stoop for some goodies...Happy Giving! Ta.

Its a Royal sale!

First things first, where have I been? Well, there was a wedding, (not mine, a family thing), another iron in the career fire and now a big out of state move. I will be back! In the meantime, please stop by my Etsy store Pack and Alley's for some awesome vintage finds that change all the time. In celebration of the the Monarch-to-be's birth, we are offering a 20 percent discount storewide! Enter the coupon code PRINCE at check out. Click on the link to the right of this page or visit us at www.etsy.com/shop/packandalleys. See you in August. Ta!

Gifts for Dad Made in the U.S.A.

Well, May was all about Mom and next up is Dear Ole Dad. This year get him something unexpected and forego another necktie. It's kinda like giving a kid school supplies for their birthday...bummer.  We searched out to find some really cool stuff that Dad's would love to get. I decide to see what items I could find that were all Made in the U.S. A. Here are just a few, but there are hundreds of ideas out there!

Cycling Dads will love this specialty cleaning and care kit.  "Keep wheels (and legs) thriving with this portable set of travel-sized stainless Steel, chrome and tin polish, wash and wax, sprocket and gear oil and natural insect and bug repellent made to help you blaze your own trail. A thoughtful gift for the roadie and off-roader alike, this handy kit keeps your ride in top condition without slowing you down--now that's the perfect road partner. Set of four 2 oz. bottles. Made in Atlanta."

Cycle Care Kit - uncommongoods.com

For the Thinker Dad, this beautiful hand crafted leather sketchbook/iPhone case: "theGOODbook™ 5 is a leather wallet, iPhone 5 case and sketchbook all in one. Designed to consolidate the many items we carry in our pockets everyday. Comes with one replacement sketchbooks. Handcrafted in Portland, Oregon USA."

Wallet/Sketchbook/iPhone Case - redcloudscollective.com

For the Backyard Dad, this tournament horseshoe set:  "Approved for professional and tournament play by the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association, this American Presidential edition includes everything needed for 2-4 person play: two 24" solid steel stakes; a rulebook with court layout, a handsome mahogany-finished pine carrying case with built-in handle, and 4 forged-steel American horseshoes with longer, weighted tips, tapered leading edges, ringer breakers and finger holds—all designed to enhance success. This Tournament Horseshoes Set ensures backyard fun for generations to come. Made in the U.S.A."

Tournament Horseshoe Set: - smithsonianstore.com 

For the Fishing Dad, The Lure Locker: "Use this innovative product to safely secure your lure to your fishing pole and leaving no exposed sharp hooks! Simply fold it over your rod and lure. Easily conceals your lure from getting snagged!"

Lure Locker - duluthpack.com

For the Biker Dad: Gatorz Kegger Sunglasses: "The wrap around will define your sunglass and how you will be holding the toilet after the ladies continue to refill your red cup all night. Keep em’ close, so you can shield the blinding sun as you stumble into the morning light. Specially designed to provide the sharpest, clearest vision possible, Gatorz Eyewear are a must for riders, racers, or extreme sports enthusiasts who demand the best."

Gatorz Kegger Sunglasses - bikersden.com

For the Fix-it Dad, Personalized Hammer: "Short hammer (or other tool) with a custom designed, hand engraved personalization of your choice."

Personalized Hammer - etsy.com

For the Outdoor Dad: The American Classic Coleman Cooler: "The Coleman Steel Belted® cooler has the same great performance as the original from 1954. Large 54 qt. capacity holds up to 85 cans; thick insulation keeps items cool for hours. Solid steel latch secures the lid; stainless-steel hinges and screws resist rusting and breakage. Large, sturdy stainless-steel handles with rubber grips are easy on the hands and make transporting simple. Rustproof, leak-resistant channel drain lets you empty water without having to tilt the cooler.  Base, lid and liner of the Coleman Steel Belted cooler are easy to clean"

Coleman Cooler - REI.com

For the Nautical Dad: Repourposed Sail Cloth Duffel Bag: 'This duffel has the weekend get-a-way in mind. It's perfect for that weekend regatta or a weekend in the city. It's also airline carry-on regulation size. Easy to spot on the turnstile. Ocean durable.'

Sailcloth Duffel - ellavickers.com 

For the BBQ Dad: Knox Rub Gift Basket: "All 4 Knox's Spice Co's regional seasonings and our Knox Bro's. Middle Eastern Market Style Kabob seasoning and South American Fruit Spice. The 4 original dry rubs; Chipotle BBQ, Jamaican Jark, Cracked Pepper and Yummy Chicken. Great for a BBQ or grilling enthusiast. A unique gift for the foodie who thinks they have everything. Carefully arranged in a towel lined basket and filled with hickory chips, shrink wrapped and tied with a red cord. Personalized card and recipes supplied."

Knox Bro's Rubs - knoxspice.com

For the Rocker Dad: El Dorado Guitar Strap: 'Our “Vintage Plain” model guitar straps are designed for the guitarist looking for all the quality, durability, and comfort of our hand-tooled straps, but in a “dressed down” version. These straps are fashioned from sturdy top-grade stitched saddle leather. The shoulderpads are backed in plush sheepskin shearling, providing unsurpassed comfort even with the heaviest instrument. The bucklework is chromed solid cast zinc."

Original Guitar Strap - eldoradostraps.com

Happy Father's Day!

Weekend Project: Cleaning Your Patio Furniture Without Dangerous Cleaners

Its the big kick off to summer and you are probably getting all the patio furniture uncovered. Not so pretty, is it. Months of moisture and inclement weather have taken their toll. Here is a simple, inexpensive and chemical free way to clean your patio furniture in no time. Happy Patio Time!

Memorial Day with Meaning

Memorial Day is the official start to the summer for most of us. The first long weekend to get away or get ready for the season ahead. It, of course, is much deeper than that though. Memorial Day like so many other holidays seems to get lost in the shuffle of merchandising. So, what is the actual official definition of Memorial Day? Here is what the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs says:

"Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns." Read More

Did you know that there is a National Moment of Remembrance? Under the law Americans are asked to pause at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to observe a moment of silence.

"To ensure the sacrifices of America ’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance.The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.” -va.gov website

Here are some creative ideas to get away with purpose this weekend.

Patriots Point, Charleston, SC - Charleston is steeped in history and at Patriots Point, you can visit one or several attractions that will put you right in the heart of our nations past.  Tour the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier which houses the Medal of Honor Museum, the USS Clamagore, the only guppy submarine preserved in the United States, the USS Laffey naval destroyer, over two dozen military aircraft, walk through an actual Vietnam Naval Support Base, or pay your respects at the Cold War Memorial.

Airborne and Special Operations Museum, Fayetteville, NC - Home of Fort Bragg the ASOM is a wonderful variety of exhibits and events all year round.  "The main exhibit gallery moves the visitor through time, starting in 1940 with the conception of the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon and ending with today's airborne and special operations units. Much has changed in the world since the battles of World War II and the conflicts of the Cold War era, but the courage and dedication of the American soldier is a common bond that ties each generation together."

Tuskegee Airmen National Museum, Detroit, MI - "The National Museum of the Tuskegee Airmen represents the culmination of the efforts of many individuals. It provides a place not only to record the contributions of Americans to the defense of our Nation during a period in our history when they were not thought of as the equal of other citizens, but a place where all of the youth of America may come to acquire inspiration, counseling and assistance in achieving excellence in their own educational and career pursuits."

Michigan Military Museums and Forts - Check your local and state government websites for a list of museums and monuments in your area.

The California State Military Museum, Sacramento, CA - "The California State Military Museum is only a few minutes walk from the State Capital, The California State Railroad Museum and several other fine museums, parks, and tourist attractions. The museum, opened by Governor Pete Wilson in 1991, is the official military museum and historical research center of the State of California. This was reinforced on 11 September 2002 when Governor Gray Davis signed legislation making the museum a permanent museum under the California State Military Department and providing permanent funding for the museum. Finally on 13 July 2004, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation to amend the Government Code to make the museum the state's official military museum."

Missouri History Museum, St Lois, MO - Current Exhibit - "Between Two Worlds: Veterans Journey Home explores the struggle of 20th-century soldiers to stay connected to home, to thrive while separated from their loved ones, and to eventually transition back into home life. Through firsthand stories from veterans, this exhibit examines both the changes and the continuities in the veteran experience, from World War I to the Iraq War."

Antietam National Battlefield

National Park Foundation - Listing of All Battlefields and Forts in the United States

Kentucky Military History Museum at the State Arsenal, Frankfort, KY - "The newly renovated museum houses the exhibition, "Kentucky Military Treasures: Selections from the Kentucky Historical Society Collections," which now includes a recently-restored piece of the Fighting Falcon (the first American glider to land at Normandy on D-Day) and Gen. William O. Butler’s presentation sword from the Mexican War.  

Spanning nearly 200 years of conflicts -- from the War of 1812 to more recent engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq -- "Kentucky Military Treasures" shares the personal stories of Kentuckians who fought and sometimes lost their lives in these battles.See the many machines and other trappings of the military service. Learn how regular Kentuckians became heroes. Listen as veterans tell their stories in their own words." 

Arlington National Cemetery

Washington, D.C. - Of course the ultimate lesson in US history, Washington D.C. has too many amazing attractions to mention in one post. There are some lesser known monuments and museums that should not be missed. Here is a listing of all of the Monuments and Memorials in D.C.

If you can't get away this Memorial Day, there are ways to celebrate this countries heroes without spending a dime or traveling far. Almost every town in America has a parade or event on this holiday, contact your local municipality or veterans organization to find out more. Create a fundraiser for your favorite military organization, get the kids set up at a lemonade stand or bake sale. Visit a vet, you would be surprised the number of veterans that have no support or family system, contact your local hospital chaplain or volunteer office to find out their visitation policy. Get creative and find a way to keep the "memorial" in this great holiday.  To those who serve and have served at home and overseas, my family and I are forever grateful to the men and women who keep us safe, and their families holding down the home front until they return.

The Lord is my light and my salvation
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life
of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked advance against me
to devour me,
it is my enemies and my foes
who will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me,
even then I will be confident.

Psalm 27:1-3