Category: Moments that matter

Save Big with These Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips

Posted on by Kick Writers

Believe it or not, we’ve officially made it to mid-December — and if it feels like the month is flying by, you’re not alone. Hanukkah is well underway, and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday to-do lists growing by the minute, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when it comes to staying on budget.

The good news? It’s not too late to save. Whether you’re checking off the final gifts or prepping for celebrations, these five last-minute holiday shopping tips will help you keep spending in check — while still embracing the season.

1. Watch for Last-Minute Sales

Retailers (both big and small) are rolling out daily deals in a final push to hit their end-of-year goals. Flash sales — especially on clothing, accessories, and beauty — can pop up quickly, so staying alert is key.

To get ahead, sign up for your favorite store’s emails and check their websites regularly. You might catch that perfect gift at a fraction of the price.

2. Redeem Your Kicks

If you’re a Shopkicker, don’t forget about your kicks! Check your balance and redeem those hard-earned points for digital gift cards.

Whether you’re shopping for toys, tech, or last-minute stocking stuffers, using kicks to offset your total is a win. Even a small reward can help ease the end-of-year budget strain.

3. Stick to Your List

Quick store runs are part of holiday life — but they’re also where impulse buys sneak in. Before you head out, make a clear list of what you actually need and stick to it.

If something unplanned catches your eye, pause and ask: Does this align with my priorities? Will it stretch my budget? Having a list helps you shop with intention and minimize regret.

4. Shop Online + Pick Up In-Store

Curbside pickup has become a holiday hero. Not only does it help you avoid shipping fees and long delivery windows, but it also limits in-store temptations.

Many retailers offer same-day pickup, allowing you to shop online, earn kicks, and stay within your budget — all without waiting in checkout lines. It’s fast, efficient, and smart.

5. Go Homemade

Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive. Homemade gifts are a heartfelt and budget-friendly way to show you care.

Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a DIY ornament, or a framed photo, handmade gifts add a personal touch to the season — and often mean more than store-bought ones.

Wrap Up the Season with Smart Spending

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to derail your budget. With a little planning, a few clever tricks, and help from apps like Shopkick, you can save money and still enjoy the magic of the season.

P.S. Haven’t redeemed your kicks yet? Now’s the time! Download the free Shopkick app, earn rewards just for shopping how you already do, and make the most of every last-minute trip.

Halloween Party Ideas for Adults: 5 Spooky Ways to Celebrate

Posted on by Kick Writers

Halloween isn’t just for kids — we adults want tricks and treats too. If you’re looking for Halloween party ideas for adults, this list is for you. Whether you’re planning a spooky dinner or crafting eerie DIY decor, these ideas will make your night unforgettable.

1. Spike the Punch… with a Frozen Hand

Add a chilling twist to your party punch. Simply fill a clean rubber glove with water, tie it off, and freeze it solid. Once it’s ready, peel off the glove and drop the icy hand into your bowl. Not only does this idea add drama, but it also keeps your drink cold — and your guests talking.

2. Spider-Infested Soap

Want to get creative in unexpected places? For a fun surprise, place small plastic spiders inside a clear soap dispenser. When guests go to wash their hands, they’ll get a spooky shock. In fact, this might be the easiest scare of the night.

3. Scary-Good Dinner Ideas

Looking to add something eerie to your meal? Just add black food coloring to boiling water before cooking pasta or rice. You’ll end up with vampire linguine or monster mac — creepy, delicious, and totally Instagram-worthy. Even better, it takes almost no extra effort.

4. Vampire Teeth in a Glass

If you’re hosting overnight guests, try this subtle scare. Drop a set of plastic vampire fangs into a glass of water and leave it on the bathroom counter or nightstand. As a result, you’ll create just the right amount of creepy. Bonus points if the lighting is low and moody.

5. Googly-Eyed Ghost Wreath

Kick off your party the moment guests arrive. To make this DIY, hot glue white ping pong balls onto a foam wreath form, then add googly eyes of all sizes. After that, hang it on your front door for a playful, spooky welcome.

Make This Halloween One to Scream About

From creepy drinks to clever decorations, these Halloween party ideas for adults will leave your guests howling with laughter (and maybe just a little fright). Before you shop, check the Shopkick app to see if you can earn kicks on party supplies — a little treat before the tricks begin.

Happy haunting!

Celebrate Her, Her Way: 5 Meaningful Mother’s Day Ideas

Posted on by Kick Writers

We love moms — and all the women who play a motherly role in our lives. From grandmas and aunts to cousins, friends, and chosen moms, Mother’s Day is all about honoring the women who show up with love, strength, and heart every day.

Whether you’re planning something big or keeping it simple, these Mother’s Day ideas are easy to pull off, full of love, and sure to make her feel appreciated.

1. Cook a Full Day of Delicious Meals

Give mom the gift of rest — and great food. Start the day with a cozy French toast casserole, whip up a savory toast or salad for lunch, and end with a dinner she’ll love, like tacos, burgers, or homemade pizza. Bonus points if she doesn’t have to lift a finger or clean up!

Shopkick tip: Grab your groceries at stores like Target, Walmart, or Sam’s Club and earn kicks in the process. Scan featured products or upload your receipt to rack up rewards while you shop.

2. Frame the Kids’ Art

Turn a favorite drawing into a keepsake. A simple frame can transform kids’ art into something she’ll treasure forever. Shop for frames at Target, Walmart, or even Amazon—and let the little ones create something just for her, especially if it features their handprints or sweet notes.

3. Create an At-Home Retreat

Bring the spa experience to her. Set up a cozy corner with her favorite book, run a bubble bath, or prep a quiet space with candles, a playlist, or her favorite snacks and drinks. A little solitude can go a long way in making her feel renewed.

4. Pick Your Own Flowers

Instead of a store-bought bouquet, visit a local flower farm and pick blooms together. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy the outdoors and make new memories. The final bouquet is more personal — and you’ll likely snap some great photos along the way.

5. Send Her to the Spa

Sometimes, the best gift is time to herself. A gift card to her favorite spa or salon gives her the freedom to relax how she chooses — whether that’s a massage, facial, or mani-pedi. Pair it with a handwritten note for a personal touch.

Celebrate Her, Her Way

Whatever Mother’s Day idea you choose, Shopkick makes it easy to earn while you shop. Download the free Shopkick app and collect kicks just by walking into stores, scanning items, uploading receipts, or shopping online. Then trade those kicks for gift cards to her favorite places — from Sephora to Target.

This Mother’s Day, celebrate her with love, creativity, and maybe even a few extra kicks.

4 Mother’s Day Crafts for Kids

Posted on by Kick Writers

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate all the amazing women in your kids’ lives. Here are four fun and heartfelt crafts your kids can create at home — no fancy supplies required. 

 

Let’s jump in! 

 

1. Mother’s Day Interview

This one’s simple and adorable. Ask your child a series of questions about their favorite lady  —anything from “What’s her favorite food?” to “Why do you love her?” Have them write or dictate their answers, then draw a portrait of her to go with it. Frame it up and drop it in the mail, or leave it on her doorstep! 

 

2. “I Wished for You” Fingerprint Art

Create a dandelion blowing in the wind using watercolor paints and your child’s fingerprints. Use thumbs to stamp the “seeds” around the page. It’s colorful, creative, and perfect for framing. A fun and meaningful keepsake. 

 

3. Simile Poem

Great for older kids! Have them write a poem using similes to describe their mom or special someone (“She’s as kind as a…”). Add a hand-drawn border or a mini portrait, and voilà — you’ve got a personalized masterpiece ready to gift or mail. 

 

4. Heart Photo Shoot

This one’s a favorite! Cut out hearts in different sizes and colors, tape them to a wall in a swooping pattern, and snap a photo of your child “blowing” them from their hands. It’s a sweet visual way to send love — perfect for texting, emailing, or printing and mailing to loved ones. 

 

Whichever craft your kids choose, it’s all about celebrating the love they have for the women who care for and inspire them.

The best Christmas shopping apps for the 2019 ho-ho-holiday season

Posted on by Kick Writers

The holiday season is a whirlwind, isn’t it? For me, the kickoff to Christmas shopping begins with a cherished tradition: a festive brunch with my girlfriends the weekend before Thanksgiving. We chat about our lives, swap tips for surviving the season, and indulge in laughter (and mimosas) before the shopping frenzy begins. But here’s the thing — our conversations have shifted over the years. Instead of just discussing sales and stores, we now talk about the apps that make holiday shopping a breeze.

 

These apps are designed to simplify your holiday shopping — helping you save time, find great deals, stay energized, and even make the process more fun. Whether you’re tackling Black Friday, shopping last-minute, or just looking to stretch your budget, these tools are here to help you savor the season.

 

Amazon Shopping App Overview

When it comes to holiday shopping, Amazon is often the first name that comes to mind. And for good reason — they make finding and purchasing gifts incredibly easy. With its expansive inventory, intuitive interface, and the convenience of doorstep delivery, it’s no wonder this app is a go-to for millions.

 

Pros:

  • Unmatched selection of products, from books to electronics to unique finds
  • Easy to use anytime, anywhere, whether you’re waiting in line or relaxing at home
  • Excellent deals on stocking stuffers and holiday essentials

 

Cons:

  • Over-reliance on Amazon can take away the thrill of discovering unexpected treasures in stores
  • It’s not the best for last-minute, in-person gift-hunting adventures

 

If efficiency is your holiday mantra, Amazon ensures you can check off most of your list with minimal hassle.

 

Target App Overview

Target holds a special place in the hearts of many, and its app elevates the shopping experience to a whole new level. The Target app seamlessly integrates with the store’s loyalty program, Target Circle, and offers an array of functionalities — from finding in-store deals to enabling contactless wallet payments.

Pros:

  • Combines online shopping, in-store navigation, and deal-finding in one app
  • Integration with Target Circle provides personalized perks and cashback opportunities
  • The app’s wallet feature simplifies the checkout process

Cons:

  • Limited to Target’s inventory, which may not cover every item on your list

For fans of Target, this app is a game-changer, making it easier than ever to snag everything from holiday décor to gifts for your loved ones.

 

Starbucks App Overview

Holiday shopping can be exhausting, and that’s where the Starbucks app steps in. Whether you need a caffeine boost or a cozy beverage to keep warm, the app makes ordering your favorite drinks effortless.

Pros:

  • Earn free drinks and food with the app’s reward system
  • Skip long lines by ordering ahead, saving precious time
  • Great for picking up small gifts like mugs, coffee beans, and gift cards

Cons:

  • Temptation to overspend on coffee during those marathon shopping trips

The Starbucks app keeps your energy high and your spirits warm, making it an essential companion for the busy holiday season.

 

Instacart App Overview

Looking for a way to offset some of your holiday expenses? Instacart might just be your answer. This app allows you to earn extra income by shopping for others — a flexible side hustle for anyone who enjoys the buzz of retail therapy.

Pros:

  • Earn money by shopping for others, providing a budget boost for your own gift-buying
  • Flexible scheduling lets you work when it’s convenient for you

Cons:

  • Balancing your own shopping with working for others can be a challenge during the busy season

Instacart isn’t just a money-maker; it’s also a feel-good opportunity to help others while you tackle your own holiday goals.

 

Shopkick App Overview

Shopkick is not just an app; it’s a game-changer. By turning your shopping trips into a fun scavenger hunt, Shopkick helps you earn points (kicks) for free gift cards and cashback while shopping.

Pros:

  • Earn kicks by simply walking into stores, scanning items, or making purchases
  • Works both in-store and online, maximizing your earning potential
  • Adds an element of fun to shopping, keeping you motivated throughout the season

Cons:

  • None that stand out — this app combines functionality with entertainment flawlessly

If you’re looking to inject a little joy and extra rewards into your holiday shopping, Shopkick is the perfect companion.

 

Rakuten App Overview

If cashback is your priority, Rakuten (formerly eBates) is a must-have. This app allows you to earn cashback on purchases from your favorite retailers, making every dollar stretch further.

Pros:

  • Generous cashback offers on a wide range of stores and items
  • Pairs seamlessly with other apps like Shopkick for double the rewards

Cons:

  • You need to remember to manually start a Shopping Trip to track your purchases

Rakuten makes it easy to stay on budget while still getting everything you need for the holidays.

 

eBay App Overview

For the rare, quirky, and one-of-a-kind gifts, eBay is a treasure chest. Its auction-based model is perfect for finding vintage items, collectibles, and other unique surprises for your loved ones.

Pros:

  • Discover rare, eclectic items often unavailable elsewhere
  • Competitive pricing can yield incredible deals

Cons:

  • Auctions require time and attention to win
  • Risk of items not arriving as described, so buyer vigilance is necessary

If you want your gifts to stand out, eBay is your app for finding something unforgettable.

 

Wish App Overview

Wish is the app for bargain hunters and those who love the thrill of unbranded products at unbeatable prices. From accessories to electronics, it’s a great resource for unique and affordable finds.

Pros:

  • Low prices that make holiday shopping more budget-friendly
  • Perfect for finding gifts that cater to unique tastes

Cons:

  • Limited inventory compared to major retailers like Amazon

Wish is a hidden gem for anyone looking to stretch their holiday dollar while still giving thoughtful and distinctive gifts.

 

This holiday season, let technology be your secret weapon. With apps like Amazon, Target, Starbucks, Instacart, Shopkick, Rakuten, eBay, and Wish, you can simplify your shopping, save money, and even make the experience more enjoyable. Whether you’re earning rewards, finding rare treasures, or grabbing a quick latte, these apps have you covered.

 

Don’t let the holiday rush overwhelm you — download these apps today and make this season your most efficient, rewarding, and joyful one yet!

Going to Disney: 5 money-saving hacks for planning a cheap Disneyland trip

Posted on by Kick Writers

Disneyland may be magical, but it’s not cheap. In 2016, a trip for a family of four averaged $1,624 for airfare, $2,128 for a four-night stay, and $1,010 for park tickets — not including food, souvenirs, and extras. 

 

Good news: With smart planning, you can save big. Here are five tips: 

 

  1. Use travel points: Travel credit cards like Barclaycard Arrival Plus or Capital One Venture let you earn points to offset flight and hotel costs. Richmond Savers even mapped out how to visit Disneyland nearly free using these cards
  2. Earn with Shopkick: Courtney Cole used the Shopkick app to earn Target gift cards, which she converted into Disney gift cards — covering meals, toys, and even a princess makeover without guilt
  3. Bring your own food: Save on meals by packing snacks and drinks. Disneyland allows coolers (up to 18″x25″x37″) and hydration backpacks. Just no alcohol
  4. Find discounted tickets: AAA members, military families, and youth groups may qualify for special rates. For others, MouseSavers recommends aRes Travel for legit discounts
  5. Travel off-season: Visit during Disney’s “Value Season” (Jan–Feb, early Oct–Dec) for lower prices and smaller crowds. Avoid peak pricing by skipping holidays and summer.