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TEN CHARACTERS YOU’LL SPOT AT EVERY IDEAL OFFICE PARTY

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
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TEN CHARACTERS YOU’LL SPOT AT EVERY IDEAL OFFICE PARTY

Though the office Christmas party may move venue and bring new faces every year, the personalities of those invited never change, according to research from national bar and brasserie chain, Browns. They claim exactly 10 party ‘characters’ are present at every single staff party regardless of where it is, which industry or trade throws the bash or how many people attend. Wondering which character you are? Here are 10 characters you’ll spot at every IDEAL office party,

THE PEAK-TOO-SOONER

This man or woman is the office Christmas party evangelist. They help round up the troops in advance of the annual bash and make wild promises of incredible party feats and promises of being the last-man or woman standing at the after-party shindig. Unfortunately, they are then found just 90 minutes into the festive bash, candle well and truly burnt at both ends, snoozing quietly in the corner.

THE BLABBERMOUTH

They’ve been the picture of discretion all year, hiding their simmering discontent at not getting that pay-rise or failing in that promotion behind a façade of normality. But once the festive spirit takes them, their lips become loose and they begin to announce, at an inconsidered and raised volume, how rubbish it is working at their company.

They also suddenly find it impossible to maintain company secrets or private disclosures. Nothing is out of bounds and, before the end of the evening, any confidential company business is suddenly common knowledge among the entire workforce. Often found at the root of any Christmas party squabbles.

THE HOUDINI

Often best-friends with the Peak-too-sooner and the Organiser, the Houdini seems well up for plenty of festive frolics in the lead-up to the staffChristmas do. They often go as far as helping organise venues for the hardy party animals to go to after the main event has subsided.

Unfortunately, this party ‘type’ is usually never around when the après-party begins, having sloped off home for an early-night and a mug of Horlicks discreetly while the rest of the workforce is still in full-party mode. Usually in their early 30s and often a new parent or horribly infatuated with their lover.

THE DARK HORSE

Quiet as a mouse all year round this pinstriped staff member suddenly, frighteningly finds their outrageous inner self at the Christmas party. While they wouldn’t say boo to a goose in normal office hours they suddenly come our of their shell.

They’re also likely to announce that they used to be lead singer in a death metal band once they’d quit their job as a dancer at a seedy revue bar. Often to be found working the floor in tandem with The Flirt.

THE LIMPET

You can easily spot this s(h)elfish staff member at the Christmas party because they are irremovably welded to the side of their departmental boss. They’ll be the one heartily laughing at their boss’s awful jokes, cooing cringefully at their boss’s development plan and happily skipping off to the bar and buying their boss drinks all night out of their own pocket.

They’ll also be the one left looking heartbroken as their boss exits the party early without hearing their full 14-part eulogy to their boss’s greatness, written in staggering techni-coloured fawning detail (in their own blood). Often to be found, at the end of the night, in the toilets, attempting to outcry The Weeper.

THE WEEPER

The staff member who steadfastly, resolutely refuses to leave their personal problems at the door to the Christmas party venue. They wear their heart on their sleeve and spread their misty-eyed romantic delusions of love through snotty tear-stained tissues thrust into the clammy hands of colleagues unfortunate enough to aimlessly wander into the toilets while The Weeper is mid-shriek over the untimely ending of their torrid love affair with Tommy, the butcher’s son.

THE DANCER

Always a decade beyond their prime, The dancer will bust all manner of old-skool moves at the office party following years of secret attendance at their local community centre’s disco-dancing classes.

Thought you’d seen the last of the hand-jive? Oh no you haven’t. And you’ve never ever seen anyone under the age of 25 attempt that backflip into a John Travolta strut before. This staff member will not vacate the dance floor – tonight it is their personal stage and the masses of open-mouthed colleagues sitting around the vicinity of the dance floor are their greatest audience. Also available for christenings, bah mitzvahs and evening wedding receptions.

THE ORGANISER

Woe betide anyone who decides to change their Christmas dinner choice at the staff party or bemoans the quality of the venue, The Organiser will be firmly, angrily on your case. This diminutive staff member has spent years scaring the pants off the biggest characters in the staff canteen, honing their withering Paddington stare to perfection.

They have a list of everything (including other lists) and have arranged the staff party with military precision. No matter you have just ordered a full round of drinks for you and your colleagues, if The Organiser says it is time to move on, you move on. No argument, you shuffle into the dining room and leave your drinks behind (they’re banned from this room because The Organiser has arranged special Christmas cocktails to be served).

THE GATECRASHER

Usually a friend (or lover) of a staff member, The Gatecrasher has already been out on their own staff party at a venue across town earlier in the evening. They turn up at yours, risking the wrath of The Organiser and invite themselves to share the paid-for after-dinner activities.  Convinced that they have injected new life into your they’ll be so sure of their ‘legend’ status they’ll even try and cheer up The Weeper before attempting to solve world famine, challenge The Dancer to a Step Up-style dance-off and demand that your boss tell them exactly what it is like being a PA.

With all these different types of character’s coming out, it’s no wonder why this festive event is the highlight of the working year for so many people. If you want to make it extra special and really see your work colleagues as their real selves, something different you can plan for your next office Christmas party is to hire a virtual reality headset, take a look at some examples of different VR headsets. Playing games always brings out people’s true colours.

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO INVEST IN PROPERTY IN THE UK

Rachel Stevenson
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WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO INVEST IN PROPERTY IN THE UK

london 1

Choosing a promising area when it comes to investment in property can change everything. By promising, it doesn’t automatically mean the cheapest areas or those with the fastest rising prices. Promising means that people actually want to live there and that there is some chance of a bright future. 

Investing into property is a great idea, because property is such a great investment. At Orbis Protect they offer property protection, which is something you really need to get if you are investing into any property. Moreover, investment in property means buying something and making money out of it either through rent or renovation – either way, at the end of the day you need someone to want to live in that location, in your house, to make you money. 

London

You also have to be realistic; of course cities like London are among the fastest growing but for investment purposes you’ll need a lot of capital behind you to get involved with a SW postcode, espcially if you’re looking at property for sale in Battersea (or anywhere else in the capital). It’s best to ask a professional for advice when looking to invest a large sum of money into property and you want someone with plenty of experience. Jason Harris at First Urban has a lot of knowledge when it comes to investments in property – his is the sort of service that can help you to crack the property market.

Northampton

So with London to one side, where is the best place to invest your hard earned cash? Well, perhaps surprisingly, Northampton is high up on the list for 2017, ranking fourth after the big London boroughs. Northampton’s prime position is what gives it a leg-up in terms of property. Located halfway between London and Birmingham and with a great train line; Northampton is a hub of opportunity. It is also a university town, so housing can be rented out to students all-year-round.

The website Northamptonshire Growth Hub has been set up to provide local businesses free support and guidance so that they can essentially grow and achieve their ambitions. According to its data, 6,000 new businesses are created in Northamptonshire each year and so far they have managed to help 2,000 of these to get themselves successfully established. With such an enormous influx of business, and now a new support network, that may encourage entrepreneurs to move to Northampton and they’re going to need houses to live in.

So what will you be looking to spend in Northampton? The most recent figures released from Rightmove show that the majority of sales in Northampton during the last year that were terraced properties sold for an average price of £170,273. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £199,670 and detached properties fetched upwards of £315,344. The overall average price of sold houses in Northampton was £206,734. This isn’t low but is far from the highs of the London market.

The figures also showed that overall sold prices in Northampton over the last year were up a solid 5% on the previous year and 22% up on the 2007 level of £169,178. So, take some advice from an expert but Northampton is a pretty safe bet for 2017!

HAVE THE IDEAL SCANDINAVIAN CHRISTMAS WITH THESE RECIPES FROM WAITROSE

Rachel Stevenson
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HAVE THE IDEAL SCANDINAVIAN CHRISTMAS WITH THESE RECIPES FROM WAITROSE

Get ready for a Scandinavian Christmas with these traditional recipes

In Scandinavia a julbord is traditionally served on Christmas Eve, a smorgasbord of typically pickled fish, cold baked ham and a hot, substantial dish like a creamy potato fish bake. In Norway, Christmas is a much more laid back affair to the UK. It’s simply a good honest meal, and much less extravagant gift giving. Rather than have one massive celebration, there tends to be smaller get-togethers throughout December and January.

Herring & beetroot salad

herring

Just a spoonful of this richly flavoured salad will whet appetites for the rest of the meal.

Prep time:5 minutes

Serves: 6 as a starter

Ingredients

275g jar herrings in dill marinade
250g pack cooked beetroot
1 tbsp capers
¼ x 20g pack fresh dill, chopped
½ small red onion, sliced very thinly 
2 tbsp double cream
6 thin slices of toasted rye bread, halved, to serve 

Method

Drain the herrings, reserving the marinade. Drain and dice the beetroot, and place into a bowl. Add the capers, dill, red onion and herrings.

Add 2 tablespoons of the reserved marinade and the cream to the bowl, and stir well to combine. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Spoon the salad and juices onto small pieces of toasted rye bread to serve.

Potato & anchovy bake

potato-and-anchovy-break

Traditional recipes for this hearty dish use pickled sprats, but anchovies are really delicious and far more widely available. Don’t be put off by the large quantity of anchovies – their flavour is readily absorbed by the potatoes and cream.

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves: 6

Ingredients

1.2 kg floury potatoes, eg King Edwards 
100g jar anchovies in olive oil
2 onions, thinly sliced 
300ml double cream 
150ml milk
50g butter
50g breadcrumbs
Watercress or baby leaf salad, to serve

Method

Preheat the oven to 190°C, gas mark 5. Grease a large, shallow baking dish. Very thinly slice the potatoes, then cut across into fine chips. They should be almost matchstick sized, but don’t worry if they end up chunkier.

Pour the oil from the anchovies into a large frying pan and gently fry the onions over a medium heat for 5 minutes to soften. Chop the anchovies into small pieces and mix with the onions. Using a slotted spoon, put the onion mixture into a bowl. Return the pan to the heat. Add the potatoes and turn in the oil left in the pan for 5 minutes. You may need to add a little extra oil.

Spread a quarter of the potatoes over the base of the baking dish. Spoon half the onion mixture on top, then another quarter of the potatoes. Layer the remaining onion mixture on top, then finally the rest of the potatoes. Combine the cream and milk with a little salt and black pepper, then pour into the dish.

Melt the butter and mix with the breadcrumbs. Scatter them over the surface of the potatoes. Bake for about 1 hour until the potatoes are tender and the breadcrumbs are golden. Leave to stand for a few minutes before serving with a watercress or baby leaf salad.  

Julskinka crumbed ham

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This is a sweet mustard and breadcrumb-crusted festive ham, served cold in wafer thin slices. It’s always worth cooking a large joint so there are plenty of leftovers for grazing on! 

Preparation time:15 minutes + cooling

Cooking time:1 hour 50 minutes

Serves: 6, plus leftovers

Ingredients

2.3kg (approx) smoked or unsmoked British gammon joint
2 onions, halved 
2 sticks celery, roughly chopped 
3 bay leaves
1 tbsp black peppercorns
2 tsp whole cloves
2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
2 tbsp light brown muscovado sugar 
25g white breadcrumbs 

Method

Put the gammon in a large saucepan and add the onions, celery, bay leaves, peppercorns and cloves. Top up with cold water to cover the meat completely. Bring very gently to a simmer, cover with a lid or foil and cook over your lowest heat for 1½ hours until the ham is completely cooked through. If the ham is not completely submerged in liquid, turn it halfway through cooking. Leave to cool in the liquid, overnight if more convenient.

Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Drain the ham, remove any string and cut away the skin. Combine the mustard and sugar, and spread all over the fat. Press a layer of breadcrumbs on top, pushing down firmly with your hands. If liked, score the fat in a diamond pattern with the tip of a sharp knife.

Transfer to a roasting tin and bake for about 20 minutes until the breadcrumb crust is golden. Leave to cool, then chill until ready to serve. 

Recipes and images provided by Waitrose.com.

THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WEDDING ATTIRE IN INDIA, JAPAN AND CHINA

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL GUIDE TO WEDDING ATTIRE IN INDIA, JAPAN AND CHINA

If you’ve been invited to a wedding in another country or culture, first things first; lucky you! These celebrations of love and culture are an eye-opening, mind bending experience, and ones which bring home the wonder of diversity in all its glory. We all celebrate love and commitment in very different ways yet under a shared sky, and there’s something very special in that.

Once the excitement of receiving the invitation has worn off, the planning must begin. Choosing a guest outfit for a wedding in the UK is hard enough; choosing one to suit an unknown culture is an entirely different, more difficult proposition. Together with Charles Tyrwhitt, retailers of timeless menswear, we look at how the dress code of a wedding changes depending on the background of the newlyweds.  So, here is our IDEAL guide to wedding attire in India, Japan and China.

WHAT WILL THE BRIDE BE WEARING?

Brides are known in the UK for their flattering white dresses, accompanied by a long train and veil. But how do our own bridal traditions compare to India, Japan and China?

India

In India, the lady’s dress depends on the region of India that they’re from. In some regions, the bride wears a saree, a garment that looks like a long drape, while in others she wears a lehenga, which is a long skirt. Often the bride is dressed in red or another vibrant colour, and her garments will be carefully embroidered with an impressive design.

The bride and her bridal party often have henna on their palms, hands, forearms and legs.

Japan

Japanese weddings are very elaborate and it’s acceptable for families to spend close to £75,000 on a wedding day. Often it’s the parents of the couple who organise the wedding, and spending excessively is a way to indicate status and of keeping ‘face’ intact. Because of the large scale of the weddings, the bride can have as many as five costume changes, each reflective of a different period of life.

At a traditional (Shinto) wedding, the bride wears a white kimono, but more recently Japanese brides have shown attention to heritage through wearing traditional print.

China

In China, it’s likely the bride will be dressed in red as the colour is considered a sign of good luck that can ward off evil spirits. In some regions, typically northern China, the traditional attire for a bride is a one-piece dress embroidered with gold and silver designs. In southern China,  a two-piece frock is typically worn.

A bridal crown is part of the wedding costume for some brides too – worn for photography or for show at a grand occasion. For footwear, a special pair of shoes are donned. These are embroidered with a symbol — for example, a turtle or a deer which symbolises happiness and longevity.

WHAT WILL THE GROOM BE WEARING?

The men often have traditional dress codes that they are expected to follow. However, many opt simply for a smart suit similar to how a groom in the UK would dress, and much for the same purpose; to let the bride be the focal point.

India

Similarly to the women, the region of India which the groom is from dictates their attire. Some husbands-to-be wear traditional dress, such as a dhoti, which is a rectangular cloth with ties around the waist. In other regions, they wear a sherwani (a long coat), a kurta (loose falling shirt that hangs below the knee), or a Western suit.

The men also get henna designs on their bodies but it is less elaborate and often hidden.

Japan

Traditionally, a Japanese groom wears a wedding kimono for the ceremony and then changes into a tuxedo. The formal kimono that he wears is called a montsuki, and often displays the family crest. More recently, the trend is for younger grooms to start the ceremony in a tuxedo.

China

In China, the husband-to-be traditionally wears a black silk coat over an embroidered robe. Often though, in the modern day, the overcoat is not worn.

The groom has to wear certain headwear too – this is usually a black hat with a red tassel. Some younger generations decide to forgo the traditional dress code and simply wear a tuxedo or a Western-style business suit.

WHAT SHOULD THE GUESTS WEAR?

It can be difficult to choose an outfit as a guest, as there are many traditions and symbolic items you may be unaware of. It’s important to remember though, that no one is expecting you to be versed on every custom and gesture, and the more enthusiasm you show for the occasion, the more you’ll be met with a corresponding embrace.

India

At an Indian wedding, the bolder your outfit, the better. Wearing vibrant colours indicates an embracing of the event. Subsequently, a riot of colour will help you fit in with the Indian guests. Guests should avoid white or black as these are colours worn for funerals and implicative of mourning in India. Wearing red is also advised against; the bride will probably be dressed in this colour and as is customary in all weddings, drawing attention away from her is poor form.

Female guests shouldn’t bare their shoulders, wear low cut tops or short skirts as this can be seen as disrespectful — a jewel-tone dress with a shawl is one example of an appropriate outfit. The Indian female guests will most likely be dressed in colourful sarees or anarkali suits, and donning one of these yourself can go down very well if you have a position of honour at the wedding. Jewellery is important for women too, so choose a statement piece for around your neck with matching earrings and bangles.

Men often wear a tailored kurta with a pyjama, and a dupatta (shawl) can be added over the kurta. For their feet, sandals, jootis or chappals are often worn as these are comfortable and prevent overheating; there’s dancing abound at Indian weddings, so you need a shoe which will be kind to your feet.

Guests might also be expected to cover their heads if the wedding is held in a temple. For this, women can wear a long scarf or pashmina over their heads while men are usually provided with a head cover such as a large handkerchief.

An Indian wedding is often a long, drawn out affair (three days long is the norm) so make sure you’re wearing something loose and comfortable, and you arrive hungry.

Japan

At a traditional Japanese wedding, men were expected to be dressed very formally with a black suit and white tie. Now however, the dress code is more flexible and it’s accepted for men to attend dressed in suits other than black, with personality expressed through coloured ties. However, wearing a white suit and black tie is discouraged.

Women often wear either a knee length dress or coloured kimono to take on a traditional look. It’s best to avoid showing any shoulder as this can be deemed a disrespectful.

China

When dressing for a Chinese wedding, avoid wearing red as (and we see a theme developing here) this can be seen as trying to steal the limelight from the bride. It’s best to wear pink, peach or purple as these are all symbols of new life and happiness. A formal dress is suitable for a Chinese wedding.

Colours to avoid include black and white, as these symbolise mourning and black is considered to be the colour of bad luck.

5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

Rachel Stevenson
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5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

Thinking of working from home? More of us than ever – especially young women – are making the move, so making sure your home is a productive and comforting space is integral to a happy, balanced life. With this in mind here are 5 tips for creating your ideal home office.

CREATE YOUR OWN SPACE

Setting up an office in one of the busiest rooms in your home is a recipe for disaster, and you will find yourself repeatedly distracted by the general activities of your home. Because of this, creating your own space is vital. Think about converting your spare room into your office.with the help of Entire Houze. If you don’t have a spare room, then get creative and carve out a designated area to work from using a folding screen or some curtains. You could even consider renting a portable cabin, or using an outbuilding such as a shed or garage. If you’re really stuck for space, specifically designed home office spaces available from sites like GardenSpaces.co.uk are worth checking out.

5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

MAKE IT COMFORTABLE

This is your office space, so furnish and decorate it as you like. Remember that the decor should be relaxing, but not too laid back (you are working after all). Hanging personal pictures is the perfect way to remind you that you are a person not a machine. It’s also a good idea to put your desk in front of a window as plenty of natural light is the holy grail of happiness; it significantly increases energy, creativity and productivity.  Also, think about adding some greenery as it’s been proven that plants in the workplace can reduce stress levels and increase productivity.

INVEST IN A QUALITY CHAIR

Did you know that the average office worker will spend almost 1,700 hours a year in front of their computer – that’s a lot hours sitting down. Your choice of chair can affect your concentration, comfort and wellbeing. Therefore investing in a quality chair will make the time you spend at the desk more pleasant and will help you avoid any aches and pains. These ergonomic office chairs are designed to promote posture, comfort & movement – what’s not to like.

5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

GET CRAFTY

It doesn’t have to cost the earth to redecorate your office. Charity shops and car boot sales are perfect hunting grounds for quirky, vintage pieces and secondhand office furniture. Or why not indulge in some DIY creativity? Cover plain cardboard box files with wallpaper or fabric for a fabulous, bespoke look. A pinboard made from a wooden picture frame, foam and fabric is a great way to display photos, to-do lists or any other information you want to see at a glance. It also brings with it a great sense of satisfaction at having done things cheaply and with your own hands.

CONSIDER A SERVICED OFFICE

If your start up business is becoming too big for your spare room, don’t be afraid of expanding and getting yourself a nice office, such as a Loc8 Commercial office. Remember that renting an office space will significantly increase your outgoings. It’s not just the rent you have to worry about. It’s also the heating, lighting and insurance bills, not to mention the business rates and price of wifi and your commute.

5 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL HOME OFFICE

However, on the plus side, a serviced office space is fully furnished and ready for a quick set up. Not only do you get a designated desk space and use of meetings rooms and conference rooms – many come with other perks like fully equipped kitchens, administrative assistants and even showers. Serviced spaces are usually the home of small corporate companies and established, but smaller teams. A lot of large businesses such as Disney or Pizza Express use them so you may be sharing an office with a big firm that could become a future client!

5 SIMPLE TIPS TO MAKE YOU THE BELLE OF THE CHRISTMAS BALL

Rachel Stevenson
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5 SIMPLE TIPS TO MAKE YOU THE BELLE OF THE CHRISTMAS BALL

high-heels-2

We all want our Cinderella moment, where the beautiful belle of the ball has all eyes on her. Make an impact this Christmas with these top tips to get you noticed!

Stay hydrated

We all know that staying hydrated is a vital part of staying healthy, but it also helps maintain gorgeous glowing skin. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will flush the body of harmful toxins that hinder your natural beauty. Have a glass of water near to hand, and take a few sips in between paragraphs of that report you’re writing. Little and often is much easier to swallow than trying to force a pint of squash down every few hours. When that glass is empty, head on up to the kitchen for a refill, with the bonus of chalking up a few more steps on our Fitbit counters.

Be Wax Aware

Every woman has her personal secrets to perfectly smooth sexy legs, but remember timing is crucial! Although waxing gives that irresistible feel, it can leave irritation and redness for a short while after. Plan ahead, and treat yourself to some well-earned pampering the day before and incorporate your waxing regime then, this will allow time for any temporary reactions to heal overnight, so you wake up to party ready pins.

Book A Day Of Retail Therapy

Treat yourself this Christmas for a day just for you, whether you take a leisurely browse through your local shopping quarter, or stay in the comfort of your home with a strong coffee and the internet world at your fingertips. Keep an eye out for a little surprise something that will enhance your signature look, with just enough difference that people can’t help but notice. How about some bright green contacts for the evening, or an elegant chain and pendant to enhance the neckline of your fabulous dress?

Perfect Your Perfume

You know what scents you like. You’ve applied your favorite but by the time you’ve reached the party it’s already faded, and it feels like a little bit of a waste. Did you know that warmer bodies will intensify the aroma? Give yourself a spritz as soon as you can after hopping out the shower, and if you want that extra boost massage in some matching body lotion over the top.

Be A Skin Sensation.

Everywhere you go, there are people who could give you the world of make-up advice. Ultimately, what people will notice first is your skin. A handy thing to be aware of if you’re short on time. Make sure your kit is stocked with your the right foundation to match your skin tone. Blend the foundation using a nice soft brush, and apply concealer to blemishes and dark spots as necessary. If you spend time on your foundation, then only have time for a quick flick of mascara and a little lip tint you will still be guaranteed to look sensational. But of course, if you have a few minutes spare and want to go to town, don’t let us stop you.

Well, there you have it. Five tips so simple that they have probably been overlooked before now, but will be a sure fire way to make everyone’s eyes focus on you as you sway and shimmy your way across the dancefloor. Now you can stop worrying, you look flawless, so go and enjoy your party.  

WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? IN THESE CAREERS YOU CAN

Rachel Stevenson
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WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? IN THESE CAREERS YOU CAN

teach-2

Have you always dreamt of embarking on a career where you can make a difference? Does the idea of being stuck in a corporate world bore you beyond believe? Maybe the thought of a career with people or places that need you, where you can contribute to something, excites you more than anything else?

If that’s the case, then it seems as if nothing less than a meaningful job will do for you. And that’s not a bad place to begin your career. To have an impact on the world or people, any one of these five career paths could be the one for you.

Conservation Officer

A career in conservation is one way that you can physically make a difference in the world. There are many roles available, pretty much all around the world. From office based positions in a premises within the UK to active roles further afield, there is a range of options for budding conservationists to choose from – along with a variety of causes. If you don’t have a strong passion for one particular cause, volunteering could be one way to find your feet in an area that you could go on to love.

Support Worker

One of the most noticeable differences you can make to people is by giving back. By caring about a community and the people in it, you can change the way people think and feel. In a range of support worker jobs, not only do you care for others, but you can improve their standard of living and add to their quality of life. There are not many jobs that allow to you have a direct impact on others, but a career as a support worker certainly does.

Of course, this isn’t a job you can simply waltz into and expect to provide the type of care deserving of the role. Fortunately, on-the-job training is always provided. For some roles, a healthcare qualification such as a BTEC or NVQ may be needed here in the UK.

In the States, it is entirely feasible to become a community support worker with only a high school diploma, though most do have a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree in psychology. In Australia, you’ll need to look into becoming a registered NDIS provider.

Research Scientist

Other ways of making a difference can involve trying to make an active change. Research is one of the means of doing this. If you love your field of study and what to make an impact on not only your specialism, but the wider world too, a career within research science could be ideal for you. With a range of areas from stem cells to cancer research, you could make history in your field, as well as change the world for the better.

Community Adviser

Working within a community, to improve its welfare or dynamics can be a very rewarding job. As a community adviser, you may be working with to promote various areas of health within an area, or even be guiding youths. Careers within community care can be challenging, but you can also directly affect and improve the lives of others. In some cases, the field is close to their hearts and giving back in this way is more important than anything another career has to offer.

Teacher

As rewarding jobs go, teaching has got to be one of the highest there is. When you teach, you impart your love of learning and your specialism to others. You can help children grow and nurture their minds at primary level, or ignite their passion in a chosen field at secondary level.

You might even decide to teach as a professor at University level and have a hand in research at the same time. Whichever field of teaching feels right for you; it will undoubtedly be rewarding, and happens to be one of the most in-demand careers out there.

WHY TURNING ASHES INTO DIAMONDS IS THE PERFECT WAY TO REMEMBER LOVED ONES

Rachel Stevenson
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WHY TURNING ASHES INTO DIAMONDS IS THE PERFECT WAY TO REMEMBER LOVED ONES

engagement-ring-6

It’s finally happened. The initial shock of the worst possible moments of your life is beginning to come to a close. Your loved one has been physically reduced to a few kilos of ash and you have gotten the standard container that makes it seem more heartless than it really is. This is a moment that we all want to forget, about as much as we want our loved ones to come walking back through the door and back into our lives. We are beside ourselves with grief and we have been in a daze of wishing for our loved ones to come back, or that we could find as much peace as we would hope our loved ones have finally found.

We can do this with memorial diamonds and other physical reminders that are unique to how our own lives with our loved ones went.

Everyone grieves in their own ways. We all remember small details with the most poignant of emotions. Some things lift us up as we remember with deep fondness, whereas some things send us into a hysterical crying fit. As we all find our own personal ways to come to terms with our grief and look to the horizons, we can find small comforts in the places where our loved ones touched us the most. And in those places, we can find truly heartfelt homes for memorial diamonds.

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We will all cling to something tangible of the dearly departed because it was theirs. It makes us feel like a small part of them is still with us. It will usually be something that calms us as we struggle through this tumultuous time. It will help us sleep and get through each new day. But what if there was something that you could carry with you wherever you go without ever having to worry about any kind of changes? Memorial diamonds do just that for us. They also do so much more for our emotional state.

The idea of turning ashes into diamonds has become increasingly popular in the UK, with multiple heartfelt stories of people who have invested in the unique trend arising. Furthermore, more and more people are opting for cremation rather than traditional burials, with the UK rate being at 75.44% in 2015. This number is likely to keep increasing, as having a loved ones ashes provides us with greater ways to keep them close by, especially when they’re made into diamonds.  

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LONITÉ UK, a reputable memorial diamond manufacturer, answers this need for us all. They take a small portion of the hair or cremated remains and use them to grow a real diamond. Quite possibly the hardest part of this choice would be the giving up a portion of the remains and the lengthy wait before the diamond is returned to you.

Not the choice of how long to leave the remains in a purification cycle to get a green or blue or even a colourless diamond. It won’t be the decision to leave the diamond in a natural state or have it cut and polished, or what kind of cut to have made to it. It definitely won’t be what to have the diamond set into, whether it’s a ring or a pendant, or even custom lockets. All those decisions won’t be as hard because we will be getting back a portion of who we lost that we will be able to have as close to us as we want.

But is this really the perfect way to have a constant reminder of the person we lost? No one can say with 100% certainty if it really is or if it isn’t. This is because it is purely the choice of the persons involved. It is indeed a very novel way of remembering the deceased without having to worry about having to go to great lengths to remember funerary anniversaries or to drive for endless hours getting to the mausoleum, or perhaps shuttling off on a yearly flight to some farther destination. It will always be a little piece and reminder of them that can be touched and help on a whim.

We compare things in such an emotional way that memorial diamonds truly are the perfect way to remember our loved ones. Because there is no defined limit of where you can have a stone set, there is no plausible way to say what is the best way. But each way brings us that much closer to the peace we so desperately seek. With memorial diamonds and our choices of where to have them set, we can’t go wrong in finding our sense of peace and comfort.

In the end, memorial diamonds do so much more than just serve as reminders. They bring us peace and comfort, and continue our very strong connection to the one we loved and lost. And having a physical reminder always at hand will surely bring us a smile when we need one the most; just like they would have done in life.

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To lay rest to any fears of the validity of a memorial diamond, LONITÉ will back their claim with reports from your choice of reputable confirmation choices such as the IGI, International Gemmological Institute; or the GIA, Gemmological Institute of America. Bear in mind though, that it will be said that these diamonds are laboratory grown diamonds and not mined diamonds. The fact that they contain a part of our loved ones is what makes them largely different than any other laboratory diamond. The world at large may see memorial diamonds more macabre than they actually are, because we are looking for a tangible connection to our loved ones; not trying to make a buck reselling our loved ones in the diamond market.

It may not bring us closure to have our fallen loved ones interred into diamonds, but it will bring us a sense of closeness and comfort being able touch a part of them whenever we need to. It is the connection we establish with what remains that will make our grieving process easier. Along with the easing of our grief comes the sense of closure to quite possibly the hardest chapter in our lives. We can choose not to follow the tradition that forces us to go to a family burial plot or mausoleum to commune with our loved ones, because we can find our loved ones resting in our lockets or watching over our garden.

In most cases, it is definitely a greener option than burial and can be quite cheaper than a traditional burial service. There are far less ecological effects in the creation of memorial diamonds than we would have to worry about with traditional burials or entombment in a mausoleum. Even with a cremation, it is truly a more beautiful way to exhibit someone’s remains in the form of a diamond than it is showcasing some vase like urn. While memorial diamonds may be considered to be a bit on the macabre side, they are a rather nice way of having a physical reminder and a close connection to our loved ones.

But it doesn’t have to wait until our loved ones pass on, memorial diamonds can be made long in advance because they can also be made from hair. This will help suit larger families when our loved ones want to leave a little piece of themselves with each member of the family in very special ways. Even when it comes to adorning their own urns. It may feel like the worst of times when our loved ones pass on, but when all of us can carry a part of them with us wherever we go, it will bring us all a little more joy in such a troubled time.

5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID HAT HAIR

Editorial Team
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5 IDEAL TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID HAT HAIR

Hat hair has been the downfall of many a great hairstyle. Although hats are a fabulous accessory for the winter months, what do you do when you take off your hat and unleash your mane?  With the help of Leo Bancroft, here are 5 IDEAL tips to avoid hat hair this winter.

Dry Your Hair

Make sure your hair is completely dry before putting on your hat. If your hair is wet and dries under your hat, it will take on the shape of the hat – hello hat hair!

Choose your hat carefully

Synthetic fibers can actually create static so stick to cotton or will hats to ensure your hair will stay smooth.

Volumize

Starting off with va-va voom hair is key. Go out and buy some volumizing products and use them before drying your hair.

Go Boho

Boho waves is the ideal hat hairstyle. A simple beach wave can be created by scrunching damp hair in your hands whilst spraying a beach wave hair spray. If the waves are slightly disheveled by the hat that doesn’t matter – this will only add to the boho trend. Pop the spray in your handbag and spritz your waves once the hat is off to refresh and define curls.

French Twist

A classic French twist is also a perfect style to help avoid hat hair. Firstly, gather your hair into a low ponytail between the crown and nape and rather than tying it together twist the hair around twice. Tuck the ends of the hair into the twist and secure some hair grips. You can slip your hat off to reveal an intact twist or you can unravel it and add volume with your fingers for tousled waves.

High Bun

If you have long hair twist hair into a bun high at the crown of your head, secure with a Bungee Band as this will prevent kinks in the hair, and then put your hat on top. When you get inside, just shake out the bun to reveal volumous hair.

Bobby Pins

If your hair is short, pull the front section of your hair into four mini bumps, and secure with bobby pins before you put on your hat. Remove the pins once you’re inside, and flip head upside down, using your fingers to restyle.

 

3 IDEAL TIPS FOR FINDING LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS

Rachel Stevenson
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3 IDEAL TIPS FOR FINDING LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS

 

If you’re single and looking for love, Christmas is one of the best times of the year to get out and meet people.  Sharon Vickery shares her  Top Tips For Finding Love This Christmas

Have you been single for a while? Not looking forward to another Christmas on your own? Well, you’re not alone and to help you find someone special this Christmas here are my 5 top tips to attract your ideal partner and fall in love for good!

Tip #1: Commit the time to find love

Most of us spend at least 35 hours a week working, a few hours watching television, going to the gym, reading or surfing the internet. But how much time do you actually spend on creating the right opportunities to find love? If you’re like most people, it’s likely that it’s not very much.

Everything in life worth having requires an investment, and your love life is no different. It’s time to put aside the thoughts that love should ‘just happen’ and there’s never a better time to do that than December. Say ‘yes’ to all the party invitations that come your way because unless you’re out there meeting people then finding your ideal partner is just not going to happen and you’ll end up disheartened and feeling like it’s just all too much like hard work.

Sound familiar? …. so go on, get out there and make it happen for you.

Top Tip # 2: Party with confidence

Most of us have issues with confidence in some areas of our lives and often the kinds of conversations we have in our heads about ourselves cause us to come across as insecure or in some way negatively to the opposite sex. Always remember that the way you think and feel about yourself affects how you look, stand, interact with people and – of course – how attractive you appear to others.

So at the next Christmas party, get dressed up and go out there with the confidence to impress, after all like attracts like, so if you want to date the best, you’d better be the best!

Top Tip #3: Approach Him

So you’ve said ‘yes’ to the party invitations and you’re there all dressed up. You’re sipping on your wine when you notice a cute guy talking to some friends. You’re not sure if he’s seen you so you don’t do anything, after all the man should be the one to approach you right?… Wrong!!!
Well, in an ideal world of course he would but your love life is too important to leave to chance. Don’t forget, guys are scared of rejection too so why not go over there and come up with a cool little one liner to get his attention, I promise, he’ll love you for it and you may get exactly what you wished for Christmas!

About the Author

To learn more about what men really want in a woman get your copy of my book ‘The Secrets to Attracting and Keeping an Amazing Man’ right here http://www.havefunfindingtheone.co.uk/salesSecretsToFinding.php

INSIDER’S GUIDE: WEST HAMPSTEAD

Rachel Stevenson
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INSIDER’S GUIDE: WEST HAMPSTEAD

Ever heard a Londoner gush over West Hampstead and say how much they love it? Thought so. Ever wondered why? Co-founder Maks Kondratjuks of #Tagvenue, the UK’s fastest growing venue search engine, reveals all…

 

How long have you lived in West Hampstead for?

About six years now – I love its bustling high street and down-to-earth vibe.

What’s your favourite thing about West Hampstead?

West End Lane – it’s jam-packed with great cafes, casual restaurants and lively bars. Even though it’s less than 15 minutes away from central London by tube, it has a relaxed neighbourhood feel. Living here means you get the best of both worlds.

Where do you go to get a good cup of coffee?

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This depends on the weather and the season – if it’s a sunny Saturday morning, Wired co. is great. If I need to grab a coffee on the go before work, then I usually drop by Minkie’s Deli Stand. On a cold winter’s evening, Starbucks on West End Lane feels most cosy.

The best place to have brunch?

If you’re a fan of having brunch outside, like I am, Cafe Med on Loudoun Road has a great terrace. I’m there quite a bit in the summer months.

The best breakfast?

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When I feel like having a relaxed Sunday breakfast, I head to the Wet Fish Cafe. Their weekend breakfast is really popular and you can even try the local speciality of ‘eggs West Hampstead’.

Where do you like to go for dinner?

I like Italian food so Sarracino is my top pick. I love the traditional feel and quality ingredients – it’s always packed!

Are there any places that shopaholics should visit?

Shopping isn’t really my thing. That being said, there are always some great finds at West End Lane Books, an independent bookshop that’s been open for more than 20 years.

Where’s your favourite place to go for a drink?

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The Black Lion is my favourite pub in the area. It has a relaxed vibe, friendly crowd and a great selection of drinks – perfect for when you want to go out locally.

If you’re planning a night out on the tiles, where would you go?

Compared to the hustle of central London, West Hampstead has more of a small town scene. If you’re planning a laid-back night out, the Gallery is a local favourite. Just a couple of minutes from the tube station, it has a great atmosphere and a surprisingly good whisky selection.

If you’re looking for a good roast, where is the best place to go?

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I like the Alice House – it can get really busy, but their traditional Sunday lunch menu is always a winner. They have great roasts and a range of craft beers to choose from.

If you had only one day to visit West Hampstead what would be on your agenda?

Walking around West Hampstead’s leafy residential streets, which are lined with beautiful red-brick homes and impressive mansion blocks, then popping into a local cafe for a coffee and a bite.

Are there any other spots worth a visit?

The area has some really pretty green spaces that are worth checking out – Regent’s Park, St John’s Wood and Hampstead Heath are a few of my favourites.

What’s West Hampstead’s best-kept secret

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Cocoa Bijoux is a must-visit for chocoholics!

Five words that sum up West Hampstead

Lively, welcoming, convenient, local, fast-growing

 

THE IDEAL WINTER WARMER: ROSEMARY & THYME SCENTED WINE PUNCH

Rachel Stevenson
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THE IDEAL WINTER WARMER: ROSEMARY & THYME SCENTED WINE PUNCH

This warm, aromatic punch is perfect for entertaining and will fill your home with the most delicious smell.  A great twist on traditional mulled wine.

Ingredients (Serves 8)

Prep: 5 minutes plus cooling/ Cook: 10 minutes

2 x 75cl bottle red wine

600ml orange juice

100g caster sugar

1 pot Rosemary, roughly chopped

1 pot Thyme, roughly chopped

Method

Place all the ingredients in a large saucepan and bring up to just boiling, simmer, covered for 10 minutes.  Allow to cool slightly.

Pass through a sieve and serve warm.

Cook’s tip

For a non-alcoholic version, use 1 litre red grape juice.

Where do you buy herbs from in the winter?

Pots of British grown, fresh herbs are available from Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose, all year round

Visit www.freshlivingherbs.co.uk for more recipes and herb tips.

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4 IDEAL TIPS ON FINDING THE RIGHT ENGAGEMENT RING FOR YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

Rachel Stevenson
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4 IDEAL TIPS ON FINDING THE RIGHT ENGAGEMENT RING FOR YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

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There was a time when engagement rings were nearly indistinguishable from one another, with the only real variation being the size of the stone set in the middle. While traditional engagement rings still have their place, the majority of brides to be and future grooms prefer to make their engagement ring selections based on personal style preferences. Many jewellers like Ascotdiamonds.com offers a modern assortment of wedding rings that appeal to everyone. Spend as much time as you need browsing engagement ring collections, reading up on specs and learning about what factors go into the engagement ring shopping process.

HAVE A BUDGET & TYPE IN MIND

Prior to setting out to find the right engagement rings, you’ll need to do a few things in advance. Having a budget in place will immediately let you know which ring options are realistic. Determine if you are more interested in purchasing an engagement ring in person at a retailer or if you want to custom design every element of your ring. Most importantly, remember to keep calm and stay relaxed in the course of looking for a ring. You can have your engagement ring altered, upgraded or sized in the future, or even have it transformed into a wedding ring, so there is nothing permanent about your decision.

CONSIDER YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

Engagement ring styles range from the classically romantic to chic, edgy and downright daring. You really want to get a ring that matches how you dress on a day to day basis. If you are more on the conservative side, an elegant, classic engagement ring will go well with your wardrobe. By contrast, those who change their style at the blink of an eye will want an engagement ring that is unique and eye-catching. Knowing what type of stone or band style you want your engagement ring to include will make it easier for jewelers to show you options that will appeal you to most. Also consider what your future spouse would like, as many couples benefit from choosing matching engagement rings.

GET IT CUSTOM MADE

If you aren’t able to find an engagement ring that adequately captures your personal style, think about having one custom designed . You will have the ability to build an engagement from the proverbial ground up. Select the perfect metal band style that compliments your skin tone to create a strong foundation for an awe inspiring engagement ring.

OPT GOR AN HEIRLOOM

Some engaged couples opt to have existing rings and family heirlooms transformed into their engagement rings with the help of jewelry companies that offer custom design options as well.

12 IDEAL MEN’S FASHION PIECES TO PURCHASE THIS CHRISTMAS

Rachel Stevenson
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12 IDEAL MEN’S FASHION PIECES TO PURCHASE THIS CHRISTMAS

12 MEN'S FASHION PIECES TO PURCHASE THIS CHRISTMAS

Finally, winter is here, and Christmas is just around the corner. It’s a time full of festivities and outdoor activities like Christmas markets, iceskating and winter walks. However the cold weather can sometimes put a damper on all the fun, especially, if your partner is complaining that he has nothing warm to wear.

We think that this is the perfect time to buy him a pre-Christmas and warm weather fashion gift. Men are notoriously hard to buy for, and it’s so easy to buy useless rubbish that he’ll never use. However investing in a fashion item that he’ll be able to wear throughout the festive season is worth it.

Weather-Ready Parka

Get him a down-filled parka that will keep him warm and looking stylish at the same time. He will be nice and toasty when you go on that romantic iceskating date. And when you’re perusing the Christmas markets stalls, admiring all the trinkets and handicrafts, he can’t complain that he is cold – bored maybe, but not cold.

Snow Boots

A pair of snow boots are a must have for winter. Even if there isn’t any snow, he’ll need shoes he can comfortably walk around in. Snow boots are designed in a way that enables them to keep the heat in. So, keep his feet warm and dry this Christmas by grabbing a pair of snow boots.

Flannel Shirt Jackets

For days when it’s cold and your fancy a winter walk, he’ll be ably to stay warm and cozy in a flannel shirt. They are are softer and thicker than regular shirts and are designed to keep the wearers warm. He’ll also look pretty dapper in a flannel shirt too.

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Beanies and scarves

When people layer up their body for the cold weather, they often leave their head and neck exposed to the cold. The answer? Beanies and scarves. These items can be found in almost every store, in every colour and in every style, so you’re guaranteed to find one (or more) that he’ll love. His neck needs protection from the cold weather and scarves are the right attire for the job.

Tech Friendly Gloves

In today’s age of technology, many people opt out of wearing gloves to ensure they can still use their phone. But, this doesn’t need to be a problem if you buy some tech friendly gloves that have touchscreen fingertips. This is a great gift for anyone especially your man. He can keep his hands warm without the need to remove them when he uses his phone.

Watch

Ok so this fashion item won’t keep him warm, but a watch is an excellent addition to every man’s look, and they never go out of season. Also, the lead up to Christmas is a busy time. With work parties, family shindigs and all those other Christmas events, it can be easy to lose track of the time and he might end up being late. But not if you get him a watch for Christmas.

There are multiple different brands and styles on the market, and you simply cannot go wrong when purchasing one. One brand that caters for a wide range of tastes are Braun watches for men, which are available in a variety of colours, sizes and prices. Braun watches are very minimalistic, meaning if you don’t want a big statement watch, they make an ideal product.

Layering Jumpers

Winter is all about layering clothes. Jumpers make up the essential layering attire for every man. If you really want to get him into the Christmas spirit, invest in a Christmas jumper.

Winter Suits

If you have a winter wedding to go to, then this is the ideal gift. A winter suit, made from a heavier fabric will keep him warm and make him look good.

Socks

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Even though we all make jokes about getting socks at Christmas, let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be Christmas without them. To keep him warm, get him a thick pair, or you could get a novelty pair to go with your Christmas jumper.

Is your man not into fashion? Why not look at Gear Hungry, to browse thousands of great gift ideas now? It’s full of amazing gadgets and products, so you’ll be sure to find the perfect present for your man there, whatever his hobbies are.

5 IDEAL WAYS TO STRETCH YOUR MONEY FURTHER WITH THESE SIMPLE ONLINE SHOPPING TIPS

Rachel Stevenson
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5 IDEAL WAYS TO STRETCH YOUR MONEY FURTHER WITH THESE SIMPLE ONLINE SHOPPING TIPS

Whether you’re sticking to a tight budget or just want to make your money stretch further, there are plenty of tips and tricks you can put to use when shopping online. With Christmas just a few short weeks away, there’s no better time to be watching your spending and trying to make savings where possible. Here are just some of the ways you can go about it.

Compare Prices

Unlike when you’re buying from a brick and mortar shop when it comes to online shopping you can easily compare prices. This gives you a huge advantage as it means you can buy things at the best price without getting overcharged. No need to traipse from place to place to find the best deal, it’s all available at the click of a button. When it’s so easy, why wouldn’t you?

Search For Sales

Again unlike regular shops when you’re buying online you can quickly find the best sales. You could manually click through your favourite sites to see what’s available, or you could find a site which shows you all of the best sales, such as the Money Saving Expert in the UK or EveryMarket in the US and internationally. The trick here isn’t to buy things just because they’re on sale- companies will count on you doing this as it means overall you spend more. It’s to seek out the things you need which you would have ordinarily paid full price for. Having a shopping list and sticking to it can help.

Get Cashback

Cashback websites are so easy to use. Simply click through their site to the website you’re buying from, and you get a little bit of money back- no strings attached! The only downside to this is it does take a while until you’re paid, but if you use a cashback site for all of your Christmas shopping you should get a nice chunk back at the end of January.

Use Vouchers

Vouchers and coupons are an excellent way to save money online. Before clicking the checkout button, it’s always worth having a browse to see what’s available. It could be anything from free delivery to a certain percentage off. Trawling through lots of different sites can be time-consuming so find one which has lots of vouchers all in one place. dontpayfull.co.uk is one example.

Stalk Social Media

If you follow your favourite brands on social media, you’ll be the first to hear about any sales or discount codes. Another way is to sign up to the newsletters of your favourite brands. Lots of newsletters can be annoying and clog up your inbox, so a good tip is to redirect them all to one folder within your inbox. That way it keeps them separate and you can scroll through them at your leisure. Before making a purchase, you can check out the latest newsletter and see if there are any good deals.

How do you save money when shopping online?

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