Category: Relaunch

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.

5 Winter Plants That Thrive in Cold Weather

Posted on by Kick Writers

Just because summer has ended doesn’t mean your garden has to! Plenty of beautiful, hardy plants flourish in the colder months — making winter gardening a rewarding (and surprisingly low-maintenance) hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, these five winter gardening plants are perfect for adding a little life to your cold-weather landscape.

1.  Coneflower

First, meet the coneflower — a perennial that can bloom even in winter, as long as you care for it properly after it goes dormant in the fall. With a rainbow of colors to choose from, you can plant a clean monochrome garden or make a bold statement with a multicolored mosaic.

2. Catmint

Next up, catmint! This vibrant pink plant is surprisingly winter-hardy — but it does require a bit of patience. Catmint needs a full year of sunlight and watering to establish itself. After that, it thrives on its own through the darker, drier months and asks for very little in return.

3. Winterberry

As the name suggests, winterberry was made for the season. Its bright red berries pop after the plant drops its autumn leaves, giving your garden a fresh burst of color when everything else fades. In addition, you can clip its branches for winter arrangements or festive wreaths.

4. Winter Pansies

These slow growers are absolutely worth the wait. With the right care, winter pansies can bloom for up to 5–7 months — even in freezing temperatures. If you want to brighten up gray days, this cheerful plant delivers with vibrant color and hardiness.

5. Lily-of-the-Valley

Last but not least, Lily-of-the-Valley is a winter classic. Delicate and timeless, this plant thrives in cold climates and loves the shade. Native to the Northern Hemisphere, it brings dainty blooms to your garden when you give it partial sun or full shade.

Ready to Start Your Winter Garden?

All in all, winter gardening plants are easier to care for than you might expect. So, if you’re craving a connection to nature this season, try planting a few of these hardy beauties. They’ll reward you with vibrant color, texture, and charm — no matter how chilly it gets.

P.S. Stocking up on supplies? Download the Shopkick app to earn kicks (aka rewards) while you shop for gardening tools, décor, and more!

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.