About mprice

Margaret Price is a Content Strategist for Apartment Guide. An experienced writer, she has been published in several print and digital publications. Currently, she writes and edits content for the Apartment Guide blog. Find Margaret on Google+

Create DIY Valentine’s Day Gifts in Your Apartment

Posted on February 11, 2013 by mprice

Don't spend a fortune on flowers this Valentine's Day. Make origami roses instead.

Don’t want to spend a fortune on flowers this Valentine’s Day? Make origami roses instead.

Valentine’s Day can get rather pricey, as marked-up red roses, designer chocolates and jewelry are the typically expected gifts on this day of love. But you don’t have to break the bank this year to give your true love a gift he or she will cherish and remember. With a little creativity and some DIY know-how, you can create budget-friendly Valentine’s Day gifts in your apartment that will stand out from the usual offerings. Here are some ideas that make our hearts flutter.

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Everlasting Love
Don’t spend a fortune on a dozen roses that will just end up wilting or a box of expensive chocolates that might not get eaten. Instead, get crafty and give your sweetheart a bouquet of long-lasting origami roses. Hit up your local craft store for origami paper, and take a look around your apartment for the basics like scissors, glue and a pen. Or, create your own origami chocolate box. Then, fill the box with these easy homemade Oreo truffles for a simple, creative gift she’ll eat right up.

More about Valentine’s Day:
Shake Up Your Valentine’s Day Routine
How to Do Valentine’s Day For Less Than $50
Ways to Celebrate Singles Awareness Day

Customized Coupons
Instead of relying on store-bought cards, why not create a customized coupon booklet that entitles your sweetie to a number of goodies around your apartment? Many websites offer free templates that you can download and use to create your own coupons. The only thing that’s required is some glue and a little creativity. If you’re having a hard time coming up with coupon ideas, stick to the basics; just about anyone can appreciate the gift of a day of cleaning around the apartment or a week of hearty, home-cooked meals.

Food for Thought
Speaking of meals, the most budget-friendly Valentine’s Day meal you can have is one you prepare yourself – and your sweetheart will swoon over how much thought and effort you put into it to make the evening that much more special. So skip the subpar prix fixe menus and packed restaurants and pour your heart into a homemade dinner. Start off with something to set the romantic mood, like this salad with fresh raspberries and marinated artichoke hearts. For the main course, try something simple yet healthy like Baked Chicken alla Milanese. End this special meal with a rich, decadent dessert like Mocha Pots de Crème.

Say it With Technology
If your significant other is a music lover, there’s no better gift than the gift of music. Hijack his or her iPod or MP3 player and create a playlist full of love ballads or special songs that have played an important part in your relationship. Or, take one of those old USB flash drives you have lying around your apartment and add photos of moments you’ve shared. You can even get a little crafty and attach a personalized Valentine’s themed keychain.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/dhavatar

Get Artsy in Greenville Apartments

Posted on January 31, 2013 by mprice

If you’re an art lover, check out the creative energy near Greenville’s Far West End neighborhood.

As the seat of Greenville County in northern South Carolina, Greenville is part of the third largest urban area in the state. This vibrant Southern city is home to an eclectic mix of artists, galleries and unique public festivals and events. This centrally placed city is located nearly halfway between the larger metropolitan areas of Atlanta, Ga., and Charlotte, N.C., making it a great place to relocate if you’re looking for small town charm and don’t want to sacrifice big city amenities. If you’re an art lover, consider settling into an apartment for rent in Greenville and take advantage of all the creativity the city has to offer.

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Far West End
Formerly known as the Pendleton Street Arts District, this part of town was rebranded in early 2012 to bring awareness to the area as an arts district as well as bring merchants and investors in. Today, this area is an eclectic mix of bohemian gallery spaces, coffee shops and boutiques spotlighting local, artisan goods, and residents of apartments for rent in Greenville that find themselves in the Far West End are never far from the creative energy.

First Fridays Art Walk
Nestled in the Far West End you’ll find the Village of West Greenville, which is home to more than 40 local artists. Join local art lovers on the First Fridays Art Walk, a local gallery crawl where you’ll see work from local painters, potters, fabric artists, photographers, sculptors and so much more, just minutes from Greenville apartments for rent. In between galleries, pop into The Happy Biscuit Southern Café (54 Louis Ave., Greenville, SC 29611) and grab a bite to eat.

Festivals
Greenville is a hotbed of artistic festivals that occur every year. The Indie Craft Parade, held every September, features handmade art from artists all across the Southeast. For a taste of something more professional, residents of Greenville apartments should check out the West Greenville Arts Festival, which features up to 40 local artists as well as a number of juried visiting regional artists. And the spring brings Artisphere, a dynamic three day art street festival, which features local and regional artists, as well as food, crafts and games.

Greenville Open Studios
Greenville Open Studios is an annual weekend event which opens the studios of local artists to the public and showcases their work. Usually occurring in the fall, Greenville Open Studios began as a way to increase awareness about the art scene in Greenville and has evolved into one of the most-loved events in the city, giving the public a rare glimpse into the artistic process. If you’re living in apartments for rent in Greenville, this is definitely a must-see event.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/DenisTangneyJr

Get Cooking with the Best Kitchenware on a Budget

Posted on January 29, 2013 by mprice

A chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are two essential kitchen items you can buy on a budget.

We know that preparing meals at home can save you time and money, but decking out your kitchen with gadgets and cookware can also be expensive. And if you’re living in an apartment, you want to make sure you have the basics without taking up too much room or burning through your bank account. Here are our tips on how to purchase budget-friendly kitchenware, as well as a list of the essentials every apartment dweller needs in his or her kitchen.

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• Cookware sets can be a waste of money if you’re not planning on using every single item in the set. Instead, purchase solid, decent quality pieces as you can afford them, since they’ll last longer. Before getting started, ask yourself questions like: What do you cook, what’s your cooking style and how often do you cook? This will help you determine which pieces you actually need.
• Check your local discount store for deals, like T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s and Ross. In addition to offering already discounted merchandise, these stores will often offer additional deep discounts on items that have minor scratches or dings and dents, so keep an eye out.
• You can find uncommon cooking accessories, like bamboo steamers, spider strainers, tortilla presses and rice cookers, for rock bottom prices at your local Asian or Hispanic market.
• One of the best places to find kitchen items for lower-than-retail prices is at restaurant supply stores. While they mainly cater to restaurants, some locations are open to the public. Find one in your area and call ahead to make sure you can browse their selection.
• Sometimes you can pick up great pieces at garage or estate sales if you know what to look for. You might have to sift through a few duds, but the patience will pay off when you find that near mint condition Le Crueset Dutch oven for cheap.
• Deal-of-the-day sites like Woot! or 1 Sale A Day offer some amazing discounts on choice items. If you’re not sure where to start, Google “deal of the day” along with “cooking” and sort through the results.

More about Kitchens:
6 Best Kitchen Gadgets for Small Kitchens
The Only 16 Kitchen Gadgets You Need

Now that you’ve got the basics, here are our picks for the five pieces of cookware that will have you covered in the kitchen, without breaking the bank.

• Chef’s knife: A good, high-quality chef’s knife can chop things quickly and more efficiently, making your life easier in the kitchen. Pick up one that’s at least seven inches long with a stainless steel blade and a textured, slip resistant handle, like the Victorinox 10” Chef’s Knife ($26.65 from Amazon).
• Dutch oven: This hefty workhorse of a kitchen gadget is one of the most versatile around. It can be used for any cooking technique as well as marinating, refrigerating and freezing. The Lodge Color 6-Quart Dutch Oven is one of the more budget-friendly offerings, and comes in several bright colors to coordinate with your kitchen décor ($49.97 from Wal-Mart).
• Large, heavy skillet: If you’re cooking in a small kitchen, you may think the idea of a 14-inch skillet is too much, but having a large skillet will ultimately save time because it evenly cooks food, meaning you won’t have to cook in batches. The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Open Skillet features steel riveted handles that stay cool on the stovetop ($28.24 from Amazon).
• Bamboo cutting board: A sturdy, large cutting board is a must in any kitchen because it can be used to cut vegetables or fruit or carve meats. The OXO Large Bamboo Cutting Board features handles and nonslip edges as well as a juice canal to keep your counter clean ($22.49 from Target).
• Measuring cups: We love this OXO 3-Piece Angled Measuring Cup Set. Perfect for wet or dry ingredients, the cups feature soft, nonslip handles, and the angled surface makes reading the markings from the side or the top easier ($20.00 from Williams-Sonoma).

Photo credit: iStockphoto/hudiemm

Settle Into One of These Seattle Neighborhoods

Posted on January 22, 2013 by mprice

Downtown Seattle apartments offer great views of the waterfront.

Former Seattle mayor Greg Nickels referred to the city as “a city of neighborhoods” in 2005, so it’s no surprise that you can find Seattle, Wash., apartments spread throughout this beautiful Pacific Northwest city. From the free-spirited charm of Fremont to the trendy grunge of Ballard and Capitol Hill, each neighborhood possesses its own unique personality, but they manage to mingle seamlessly to create a city as diverse as its hilly, water-filled landscape. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Seattle, here are a few neighborhoods to consider.

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Downtown
Downtown Seattle is a lively area booming with industry and tourism, which means that residents of Seattle apartments in this part of town have no shortage of things to do to keep them entertained.
• Pay a visit to the world-famous Pike Place Market, which is the oldest continuously operated farmers market in America. You’ll find hundreds of stores and vendors offering the best in fresh fish, cheeses, produce, souvenirs and much more.
• From Pike Place, visitors can walk down the Harbor Steps to Seattle’s vibrant waterfront area, with its quaint boutiques, art galleries and seafood restaurants. You’ll also find the Seattle Aquarium here.
• Art lovers will enjoy the Seattle Art Museum, which includes an impressive permanent collection of American, African, Australian Aboriginal, Asian, Native American and European art while featuring rotating exhibitions from all over the world.

Capitol Hill
The Capitol Hill neighborhood continues to defy stereotypes. Leather-clad punk rock types mingle with young professionals in coffee shops, local pubs and some of the city’s best restaurants in this neighborhood that specializes in nightlife and entertainment.
• Two of the city’s best-known movie theaters are in Capitol Hill—the Harvard Exit, which is housed in the former Women’s Century Club, and the Egyptian Theatre, in a former Masonic lodge—so make sure to catch a flickand soak in the ambiance.
• Take a break from the nightlife in the expansive, 48-acre Volunteer Park, which includes a conservatory, a fenced-off reservoir, several sculptures and a water tower with an observation deck, which offers stunning views of the Space Needle on a clear day.
• Seattle is known for its independent book stores, and there are seven in this neighborhood, including Twice Sold Tales, Spine and Crown Books and Elliot Bay Book Company, which moved from its historic Pioneer Square location.

Fremont
Originally founded as a separate city, Fremont was annexed to Seattle in 1891. Today, this neighborhood holds the unofficial motto of “Freedom to be Peculiar,” which is a nod to its creative, bohemian roots.
• Unique public art is one of the most noticeable things about Fremont. You can still see a controversial statue of Lenin that was brought over from Slovakia by a local art lover. Stumble upon the Fremont Troll, an 18-foot concrete troll that is tucked under the north end of the Aurora Bridge.
• The Fremont Arts Council sponsors several popular events in the neighborhood, including the Summer Solstice Parade & Pageant, which is famous for its nude Solstice Cyclists, and Trolloween, a Halloween party hosted at the Fremont Troll.
• Foodies will have a field day in Fremont. This neighborhood is home to the country’s only 100 percent organic, fair-trade chocolate factory, and the Fremont Sunday Market offers tasty goodies like wood oven-baked pizzas, crepes and fresh produce.

West Seattle
Outdoorsy apartment finders in Seattle might consider a move to the West Seattle neighborhood, which is located in the hilliest part of the city and offers great views of the Olympic Mountains and Cascade Range.
• Alki Beach is a favorite among residents of Seattle apartments due to its laid-back vibe and gorgeous views of the Puget Sound. Unwind by people watching or get some exercise by taking a stroll along this peaceful beach.
• West Seattle is chock full of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Take a dip at the heated saltwater pool in Lincoln Park, go for a hike through an old-growth forest at Schmitz Preserve Park or explore the four-mile nature trail along Longfellow Creek.
• For lots of fun indoors, check out The Junction, occurring at the intersection of California Avenue and Alaska Street. Whet your appetite at a number of great restaurants featuring options like sushi, craft beer, steaks and cupcakes. Sundays bring the popular West Seattle Farmers Market, which happens year-round.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/espiegle

Which Richmond Neighborhood Fits You?

Posted on January 16, 2013 by mprice

If you’re a history lover, check out apartments for rent in downtown Richmond.

As the capital of Virginia and one of the most notably historic cities in the United States, Richmond has something to offer everyone. From history buffs who will love exploring the city’s monuments and historical structures to arts and culture enthusiasts who will enjoy stopping into the museums and galleries in the Museum District, residents of Richmond apartments never get bored. If you’re searching for apartments for rent in Richmond, here are some great neighborhoods to check out.

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Downtown
Downtown Richmond offers residents of Richmond apartments a unique mix of retail, commercial and residential development while paying homage to its historic past, making it an area of the city where you can truly live, work and play.
• The River District is home to Richmond’s 1.25-mile innovative Canal Walk, a popular tourist destination that meanders along the banks of the Haxall Canal and the James River and Kanawha Canal.
• The Jackson Ward neighborhood is a historically black neighborhood that was once known as the “Harlem of the South.” This lively part of town was once frequented by notable musicians like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole and James Brown. You’ll also find several historic buildings here, like the Hippodrome Theatre and the Maggie L. Walker House.
• Court End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Richmond, home to such historical structures as the John Marshall House, the Museum of the Confederacy and the Virginia State Capitol.

Central
Central Richmond includes some of the city’s most well-known attractions, including Hollywood Cemetery, several universities and the Carytown shopping district. It is truly the heart of the city, and those who live in Richmond apartments in this neighborhood can look forward to a dynamic mix of students, young professionals, artists and musicians.
• Just west of downtown Richmond, The Fan, named because of the way its streets fan out at an angle, is comprised of 85 blocks of beautiful and unique town houses. The campus of Virginia Commonwealth University is located in this neighborhood.
• The budding Museum District hosts events like the First Fridays Artwalk and Broad Appétit. This neighborhood also contains one of the city’s largest collections of early 20th century architecture, with 22 properties being listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

East End
Richmond’s birthplace can be found in the East End, where residents enjoy historical attractions, the beauty of parks and fresh air and a family-friendly environment.
• True to its name, Church Hill is home to many churches, the most famous of which is St. John’s Episcopal, which was the site of Patrick Henry’s inspirational speech. As Richmond’s first historic district, this neighborhood includes many of the original 32 blocks of the town that were set in place in 1737.
• The Fulton neighborhood is tucked along the banks of Gillies Creek and overlooks downtown and the old Manchester docks. You’ll find a wide variety of architectural styles, from Cape Cod to Craftsman bungalows and everything in between. Richmond apartments in this neighborhood are close to the National Cemetery and Powhatan Hill Park, which offers views of the rest of the city.

West End
Life in the West End is a perfect combination of the excitement of the city coupled with the comforts of life in the suburbs. Historic tree-lined streets give way to quaint boutiques and world class dining destinations in this neighborhood that has its own distinct character.
• Windsor Farms is home to two of Richmond’s most famous historical attractions: the Virginia House and Agecroft Hall, both of which are English manor houses that were physically transported to the state and are now open to the public.
• Westhampton is known for its quiet streets and stately homes. Residents love exploring The Avenues, the neighborhood’s premier shopping district which features a great mix of boutiques and local cafes.

Northside
Despite being so close to the buzz of downtown, Northside neighborhoods possess an impressive amount of tranquil green space, making it the perfect place to settle down for some peace and quiet in your Richmond apartment after a long workday.
• The Ginter Park neighborhood spans 21 blocks and was one of Richmond’s first planned developments. Known as the “Queen of the Suburbs,” it was incorporated into the city in 1914 and still remains a quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Bellevue architecture is some of the most varied in the city, ranging from Italianate to Spanish to American Four Square. Residents unwind and stay fit at the beautiful Joseph Bryan park, an expansive green space complete with walking trails, lakes and tons of natural beauty.

Southside
The Southside of Richmond is known for its natural beauty as well as its quiet atmosphere and well-kept homes. The area is quiet and cozy, with many shady parks where residents of Richmond apartments go to unwind and get some exercise.
• Named for the Westover Plantation on the James River, home of William Byrd, the founder of Richmond, Westover Hills is a quiet neighborhood characterized by its winding, tree-lined streets and friendly residents.
• The Fawnbrook neighborhood blends the spirit of old Richmond with new, modern sensibilities in its architecture and amenities. The expansive Pocosham Park is located just south of this neighborhood, offering a peaceful environment complete with walking trails.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/traveler1116

Tune In with These Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Cable

Posted on January 15, 2013 by mprice

Don’t let cable break the bank. Keep up with your favorite shows with these budget-friendly alternatives.

Now that spring is upon us, we can’t stop thinking about getting hooked to a new lineup of television shows, as well as finally getting some answers to our existing favorites. What exactly is going on now that the gang on The Walking Dead has discovered the Governor’s secret, and has the balance of power shifted in the mythical land of Westeros on Game of Thrones? If you’re a TV addict like we are, you know that some of your favorite shows can come with a high cost, as cable and Internet could run you nearly $150 per month. Thankfully, the digital age has left us with some clever ways to avoid paying the exorbitant costs of cable without sacrificing quality. Read onto find our favorite ways to watch television in your apartment on a budget.

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For Old Favorites: Netflix Streaming
Back in the olden days, we used to get one or two discs in the mail periodically from Netflix, but no longer. While that option is still available, who wants to wait few days in between catching up on episodes of True Blood? Netflix streaming is the best way to get caught up on old shows. You can even stream movies, and the best part is it’s only $7.99 per month. Watch instantly on your computer, or connect devices like the Wii, PS3 or Xbox 360 to watch your favorite shows right on your TV. Unfortunately, not every series is available for streaming, especially new ones, so be prepared.

For New Series: Hulu Plus
Just as Netflix is perfect for getting caught up on old TV shows, Hulu Plus is great for getting addicted to new ones, as they generally have the most current shows available. At just $7.99 a month with no commitment, you’ll have access to all current season episodes of many hit shows, hundreds of popular classic shows and thousands of award-winning movies.

For Reliability: Roku
The great thing about Roku is that you can stream various channels right to your TV without purchasing a gaming system that can cost hundreds of dollars. The box itself isn’t too expensive (from $49.99) and there are no monthly fees, so once you make the initial purchase, it’s all yours! It’s one of the most reliable streaming devices on the market, and there’s something for everyone. You’ll find movies and games as well as larger networks like HBO, CNBC and Showtime, and even inspiration and fitness channels.

For DVR Capabilities: Channel Master
Channel Master uses antenna technology to transmit many TV channel options for free, so it’s like having cable, only without the pesky monthly charges. The only downside is the set up and installation fees, which could cost you several hundred dollars, but after a few months, this system will more than pay for itself. One of the advantages of the Channel Master is its built in recording capability, so you’ll never miss your favorite shows again. You can pause live television, record up to two channels at once and fast forward through commercials.

For Fringe Benefits: Amazon Instant Viewer
If you’re a member of Amazon Prime, then you instantly have access to a number of great TV shows and movies, right at your fingertips. While not all of them are free, the ones that do cost money are available for only a nominal fee, so double check the prices before you click anything. And if you’re an avid online shopper, you’ll enjoy other benefits like free two-day shipping and no minimum order size in addition to unlimited instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows for just $79 a year.

For the Newest of the New: Google TV
The newest product to hit the streaming television market, Google has teamed up with Hisense to release a low-cost Google TV box, known as the Pulse. This box really does it all: customers can stream television shows and movies as well as access web content through the Wi-Fi connection, all for under $99. And, it will ship with a double-sided remote, complete with full QWERTY keyboard on one side and a touchpad and dedicated Netflix button on the other.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/mgkaya

Feeling SAD? Combat Winter Depression in Your Apartment

Posted on January 10, 2013 by mprice

Don’t succumb to winter depression – fight it off in your apartment.

The magic of the holiday season has come and gone, and with the cold, dark days dragging on, things can seem a little bleak this time of year. If you find yourself feeling down during the winter months, take comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year, primarily starting in the fall and continuing through spring, and according to a study done at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, an estimated 4 to 6 percent of the population in the United States suffers from it.

If you’re not sure whether or not you have SAD, the Mayo Clinic has released a list of symptoms to watch out for, including depression, hopelessness, anxiety, loss of energy, social withdrawal, oversleeping, weight gain, difficult concentrating and appetite changes, particularly a craving for foods high in carbohydrates. While the specific cause of SAD is unknown, a few factors that might come into play include a disruption of your body’s circadian rhythm, and a drop in serotonin and melatonin levels due to reduced sunlight and the change in season. The good news is that there are several quick fixes you can make in and around your apartment to help fight seasonal affective disorder and boost your mood by spring. Here’s how.

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Indoors
• Bring the light in. One of the most effective ways to combat winter depression is with the use of an artificial light box. These small boxes, found online for upwards of $60, mimic outdoor light and are generally used for at least 30 minutes at a time to help adjust your body’s sleep cycles. You can even make your own by repurposing a wooden filing box from Ikea and purchasing some fluorescent bulbs. You can also brighten up your apartment by keeping blinds open and curtains drawn, allowing as much natural light in as possible. Sit near a window, either at home or at work, to take advantage of the sunlight. In terms of décor, use light-colored fabrics, wall treatments and rugs in your apartment during the winter to reflect light.

• Watch what you consume. Fight against the cravings and limit your intake of carbohydrate-rich foods, which will only cause a sugar crash. Instead, fill your diet with healthy foods that promote alertness and mental energy, like salmon, blueberries, whole grains, vegetables and nuts. Avoid self-medication with caffeine or alcohol. Caffeine may give you a brief jolt of energy, but it can also cause anxiety, muscle tension and other issues. Alcohol is a depressant, which can exaggerate symptoms. Try sipping on herbal tea instead, or if you must indulge, have a glass of heart-healthy red wine with dinner.

• Don’t oversleep on weekends. While it may be tempting to catch a few extra Zs on cold winter weekends, doing so can actually prevent you from fighting against the symptoms of SAD. The goal is to keep your body in sync as much as possible, so try waking up and going to sleep at the same time each day, even on weekends or days off from work.

Outdoors
• Load up on light. To drag your body out of its natural tendency to want to sleep all the time in the winter, take several breaks throughout the day to get as much natural light as you can. Get outside and go for a walk in the morning before work, or eat lunch outside during the day. In addition to getting some exercise, you’ll also increase your body’s capability to produce Vitamin D, both of which can lift your mood.

• Socialize. While the crummy weather and cold spells may have you looking longingly at your couch, it’s important to stay social instead of hibernating for the winter. So call up a few friends and make plans to do something fun, like grabbing coffee or checking out that new romantic comedy. Being around friends and family for even just a few minutes a day can make you feel better.

• Stay active. Just because the temperature is less than ideal doesn’t mean you should slack off on your workouts. Engage in regular aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes three days a week for optimal results. Plan your workouts for early in the morning, so you stay energized throughout the day. If your schedule doesn’t allow for a pre-work workout, studies show that early evening exercise can prevent fatigue during the evening, so plan on working out two hours before bed so your body and brain have enough time to settle down before bed.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/HuntImages

Throw a Budget-Friendly Party in Your Apartment

Posted on January 7, 2013 by mprice

Save money on party invitations by hand delivering them to the people you see regularly.

As the New Year is just beginning, it’s the perfect time to think about budgets, saving and taxes. But tightening up the purse strings doesn’t have to mean the end of fun. Birthday parties, dinner parties and showers are great ways to get a group of friends together and socialize in your apartment, but hosting a party can also be costly. Here are our tips on how to throw a great party without spending a lot of money to do so.

Make it Count
It may seem like a no-brainer, but determine how much money you actually want to spend and stick to that figure. Coming up with a budget will help you limit your spending to things you really need for the party, so you’ll be less tempted to splurge on unnecessary items, like that custom ice statue or face cake.

Keep Track
Once you’ve settled on a dollar figure, make a detailed list of everything you’ll need. Be as specific as possible when making your list, but make sure to stick to things you need, not things you want. Taking your list along with you while you’re shopping will keep you organized and prevent impulse purchases, allowing you to easily stick to your budget.

Spread the Word
If you’re sending out invitations for a casual party, websites like Evite or Punchbowl are free and do all the heavy lifting for you. For a more formal occasion where printed invitations are appropriate, stay on budget by making them yourself. You can purchase blank invitations for cheap, or make custom invitations and have them printed online at Vistaprint. Save postage by hand-delivering invitations to guests you see regularly.

Set the Mood
No party is complete without decorations, but there’s no need to spend an arm and a leg on them. A little can go a long way in this department, so pick up a few balloons and some streamers at a discount or dollar store. Instead of paying for helium, you can blow up the balloons by mouth and scatter them around your apartment. For nontraditional decorations, visit a local craft store and pick up some artificial flowers to place in vases you already have lying around your apartment, or purchase cheap grocery store carnations and jazz up by placing in a pretty bowl. Or, fill clear vases with water, drop in a few drops of food coloring to match your theme and place small, cheap floating candles inside for a unique centerpiece for a dinner party. If you are throwing a shower or a birthday party for someone, decorate using childhood and current pictures of the guest of honor. You can even make your own decorative bunting with fabric scraps, ribbon and a needle and thread.

Serve it Up
Save money on food by doing the preparation yourself rather than getting it catered or picking up prepackaged snacks. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables and cut them up rather than splurging on an expensive tray, and make your own dips. Or, turn the party into a potluck and have guests bring their favorite dishes while you supply the drinks. A punch-type cocktail like sangria can be made in advance and the ingredients purchased in bulk, which can be a time saver and cheaper than trying to stock a full bar. Purchase soda and water by the case at a discount or wholesale store like Costco, and buy beer by the keg. While it may make cleanup more difficult, using real dishes and utensils that you already own will cut down significantly on your costs.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/khz

Keep Your Clothes Looking New With These At Home Garment Care Tips

Posted on December 18, 2012 by mprice

Keep your clothes looking so fresh and so clean with these at home garment care tips.

If you’re on a budget, buying new clothes can be costly and unnecessary. Taking good care of your clothes will not only make you look better, but it will also make them last longer. Here are several tips to consider when you are caring for your garments at home.

Hang It Up
Make sure to put your clothes on a hanger at night if you are going to wear them again. Put dirty clothes into a hamper to be washed. Try to avoid crumpling up your clothes into a ball on the floor, which will help protect the fabric and make them last longer. Button the top button on shirts and blouses and hang them neatly on the hanger, while pants and jeans should go on a special hanger with clips that hold the top of the waist.

What’s In Store
If you need to store items seasonally, like sweaters or purses, make sure you’re storing them properly. New, airtight garbage cans make great storage containers for freshly cleaned clothing. To prevent mildew from forming in a purse during storage, stuff the inside with crumpled newspaper and leave it unfastened.

Washed Out
Wash your clothes often, using a gentle wash cycle for delicates and separating whites from colors. Don’t use liquid bleach in the wash, but instead choose a pure soap with a scoop of baking soda for a cleaner, more environmentally friendly solution. Chemical bleaches don’t completely wash out of clothes, posing a potential danger to your health.

Out to Dry
Try not to use a dryer at all, as dryers can wear out your clothes and make colors fade more quickly than if you just air dried your clothes. Additionally, dryers use a large amount of electricity, which you will see reflected on your power bill. Try drying your clothes on a drying rack, which are generally inexpensive and can be found at any home furnishings store. Once your clothes are finished drying, remove them immediately and hang them up or fold neatly to avoid any wrinkles that might occur.

Blow Off Some Steam
You can de-wrinkle clothes quickly by running hot water into a bathtub and hanging the garment on a shower rod – the steam will help to remove the wrinkles. Or, invest in a portable steam cleaner and fabric steamer that sanitizes surfaces and freshens garments without the use of chemicals, like the EnviroMate Pronto, which features a 15-piece accessory kit, four bar pressure for maximum cleaning power, a 1200W heating element and a soft touch ergonomic handle. The best part? The steamer heats up in only two minutes, which is perfect for when you need to freshen up clothes in a hurry.

DIY Quick Fixes
Just a few simple tips can help fix clothing snafus or prevent them from happening. When you first purchase a garment, dab clear nail polish on the center of each button to seal the threads and prevent the button from popping off. Rub zippers with wax occasionally to keep the teeth from snagging. Wrap tape around your finger with the sticky side out to remove lint from a concentrated area. To create your own DIY lint roller, roll up a magazine and wrap double sided tape around it.

This post was sponsored by Reliable Corporation, which carries an extensive line of home and professional sewing machines, steam cleaners, steam irons and industrial fabric cleaning products

Photo credit: iStockphoto/lucentius

Toast to a Rockin’ New Year’s Eve With Our Playlist

Posted on December 13, 2012 by mprice

Make sure your New Year’s Eve party is lively with our playlist.

One of the most important considerations when planning a New Year’s Eve party is making sure that your playlist is on point. You’ll want a great, high-energy mix of danceable tunes that everyone can enjoy, while including a few classics for those who love the oldies and some slow jams for the lovers. So if you’re staying in this New Year’s Eve and are ready to bust a move with your friends, throw on our playlist to keep your guests’ toes a-tappin’.

“1999” by Prince
Even though the year has come and gone, “1999” is a timeless classic and one of the best New Year’s Eve themes because of its overarching “carpe diem” sentiment. Plus, it’s a funky, dance-worthy anthem that deserves a place on any party’s playlist.

“New Year’s Eve” by Snoop Dogg
This breezy, smooth hip-hop song begins appropriately with a New Year’s Eve countdown and is peppered with sound clips of popped champagne bottles. So when this song comes on, do as Snoop does, and grab a glass and make a toast to the good life.

“You Only Live Once” by The Strokes
What better time to consider your mortality than at the dawning of a New Year? This upbeat pop rock song reminds us that you do, in fact, only live once, so best to start living it up while you can.

“I Wanna Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles
Ramp up the nostalgia factor with this sugary, classic pop song, perfect for friends and lovers on the dance floor. Whether or not you were born in the Beatles era, most everyone can appreciate the sweet sentiment of this song.

“Jaan Pehechaan Ho” by Mohammed Rafi
Fans of indie cult classic “Ghost World” will recognize this song from the film’s opening sequence. Everyone else will probably recognize it from the recent Heineken commercial. In any case, “Jaan Pehechaan Ho” has to be one of the most energetic and happy songs around. You just can’t not dance when this song comes on.

“Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey
A classic party rock anthem, your New Year’s Eve gathering is almost guaranteed to transform into an impromptu sing-along when this song comes on. Whether you grew up listening to this song on the radio or are just fondly recalling your frattier years, you can’t go wrong with this feel-good power ballad.

“D.A.N.C.E.” by Justice
French electro house duo Justice is no stranger to making disco-fied club bangers that somehow manage to bring out the dancer in all of us, even your most wallflower-esque friend. This groovy bassline-driven track features a sing-songy kids’ chorus that practically begs you to sing along.

“Rock and Roll All Nite” by Kiss
There’s no pussyfooting around here – with “Rock and Roll All Nite,” Gene Simmons and his face-painted crew single-handedly championed the concept of the all-nighter. While we may not agree with the band’s choice of outfits, we can’t deny that this song will keep your party rocking.

“The New Year” by Death Cab for Cutie
Seattle, Wash.-based indie rockers Death Cab for Cutie turn up the self-indulgent emo despondency on this track that begins “So this is the New Year / And I don’t feel any different.” After several hard-hitting party anthems, your guests might enjoy taking advantage of this break to catch their breath.

“Next Year” by Foo Fighters
Another tender slow song, “Next Year” shows grunge rockers Foo Fighters getting in touch with their softer sides, making it a fabulous choice for your party’s slow dance interlude.

“All My Friends” by LCD Soundsystem
Aging hipster James Murphy from LCD Soundsystem reflects on life, love and the importance of friendships in this sentimental dance ballad. Grab all your closest friends for this one, which features lyrics like “And if the sun comes up / And I still don’t wanna stagger home / Then it’s the memory of our betters / That are keeping us on our feet.” Just make sure a box of tissues is close at hand.

“Good Life” by Kanye West
“Good Life” is all about the celebration of finally making it in life, being able to appreciate and afford the finer things while paying homage to where you came from. It’s the perfect popping bottles anthem. So this New Year’s Eve, take heed of Kanye’s advice: “let’s go on a living spree.”

“How Deep Is Your Love?” by The Rapture
New York dance-punk veterans The Rapture are guaranteed to bring out all your guests to the dance floor during this seven-plus-minute disco banger, which ends with an epic saxophone solo.

“It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” by R.E.M.
With all the Mayan doomsday predictions floating around this year, this song by Athens, Ga.-based alternative rockers R.E.M. particularly rings true for 2012, earning it a coveted spot on our playlist. So pour another drink, remind yourself that you’ve lived to see another year and tell yourself “I feel fine.”

“One More Time” by Daft Punk
Quintessential French electronic duo Daft Punk crafted the ultimate celebration song with this worldwide hit. Grab your friends and loved ones, hit the dance floor and party on into the wee hours of the night.

“Auld Lang Syne” by Die Toten Hosen
No New Year’s Eve playlist would be complete without including this traditional Scots-poem-turned-folk-song, sung around the world at New Year’s Eve gatherings. Turn your party on its ear by concluding the night with a fast-paced, fiery version performed by German punk band Die Toten Hosen, who even tosses in a few ad-libbed lyrics.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/knape

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