Pearls started out as lovely little natural accidents, but they quickly became some of the most expensive, sought-after gems on earth. Today, these lustrous treasures endure as incredibly romantic gifts — with a range of reasonable price tags. Pearls stand for purity, which is obviously quite a compliment (and one big reason they're often worn by brides). It may also have something to do with the pearl being my birthstone.

These days, truly natural pearls are found mostly in museums and estate sales, cultured pearls are the real thing, even synthetic pearls do the trick for the untrained eye — and all of the above can be found on the web at great prices.

Pearls come in many shapes, sizes and colors. They can be freshwater or saltwater. In necklaces and bracelets, pearls should be knotted individually in case your strand breaks. And you must clean them with great care, using a soft, lint-free cloth or a mild soap-and-water solution. Another tip: Don't put on your pearls until your makeup and hair products are settled so as not to dirty them in the first place. General questions about jewelry shopping? Re-read my January 24th and January 26th suggestions.

Now for the best pearl-shopping spots online: Start with the Rebecca & Penelope boutique, where you'll find the uniquely beautiful Pearls & Leather bracelets and the daintier Pearls & Chains necklaces. Explore the elegant yet affordable pearl earrings and the breathtaking Pearls & Stones and SeaTossed necklaces from LRS Design. For fashionable synthetic and freshwater pearls at great prices, visit Bourdage Pearls.

If you like the idea of being immersed in the world pearls, go to Premium Pearl, where you'll find not only an ocean of jewelry, but also an impressive amount of education, including the Cultured Pearls Guide and information on Pearl Quality and Grading. Last but not least, keep in mind that ConsumerClub.com members save 10% on jewelry for Valentine's Day from BlueNile.com. That includes plenty of pearls.

Posted by Paige Price at 09:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I for one need no special occasion to focus my online shopping on chocolate. It's delicious. It smells sweet. It improves my mood. It's full of health-enhancing antioxidants. It can even lower blood pressure. (The darker, the better on the last two claims.) And it can be downright beautiful while it lasts. So where can you find the finest chocolate confections for the love of your life (or yourself) this Valentine's Day?

The incomparable handmade chocolates from Mariebelle New York are my absolute favorite — right down to the divine packaging. And there's nothing else on earth like Mariebelle's Spicy Hot Chocolate, blended with cinnamon, nutmeg and chipotle. The posh, playful Dylan's Candy Bar has a colorful selection of savory sweet things as well.

What says (or shouts) "I love you" more than the Exploding Chocolate Bomb sold by the Chocolate Trading Company? That's one of many unique gifts you'll find in this comprehensive online chocolate shop. The Chocolate Glossary and Chocolate Knowledge sections of this site contain must-read information for the chocolate shopper.

Shopping for a chocolate-loving entertainer-type Valentine? Look to Williams-Sonoma for the Sephra Chocolate Fountain, which creates a flowing fountain of rich melted chocolate for your favorite fondue fruits. Here you'll also find the "Chocolate Obsession" cookbook for the do-it-yourself chocolatier in your life.

As if eating chocolate wasn't enough, now you can wear its scent all over your body, thanks to Bath and Body Works' growing selection of Tutti Dolci chocolate bath and body products — and Philosophy's Double Rich Hot Cocoa Shampoo and Body wash.

Are you simply seeking a sweet, classic selection of chocolates in a heart-shaped, box? Get 6% back from ConsumerClub.com when you order from Fannie May Candies. And if you run out of time to order online? There's always the grocery store. It's almost impossible to go wrong with chocolate.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

You have more than two weeks of online shopping ahead of you. That's plenty of time to find the ultimate Valentine's Day gift and plan a lovely evening out. But don't forget the all-important icing on the cake: The meaningful card. Look no further than the web browser in front of you.

As you might expect, Hallmark and American Greetings have a massive selection of paper cards, creative ecards and more (as well as great savings for members of ConsumerClub.com). But why limit yourself to a card? The Kodak Easy Share Gallery lets you turn your favorite photo into a mug, mouse pad or other special gift.

Let's say you want a high-class card that's more like a little work of art. You're a person after my own heart. Check out Luxe Paperie, where the gorgeous Valentine's Day cards could be the gifts themselves. Order elegant letterpress selections for any occasion from Pancake & Franks. And get your vibrant vintage Valentine's Day cards (including a couple scratch-n-sniff options) from Fred Flare and Rock Scissor Paper.

Your card shopping is all but complete. Now don't forget to set aside some time to think through the message you want to send. I highly suggest a few rough drafts in advance.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Few shopping experiences in life are as involved and potentially stressful as the process of purchasing a high-quality diamond. You want to impress your recipient, select something she or he will wear — and make sure you get your money's worth too. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, you'll need all the help you can get. A few tips:

Educate yourself.
Ask people you know for advice on a trusted jeweler. You'll be surprised at how many recommendations come out of it. Ask if any family member, friend or co-worker is (or knows) a diamond aficionado of sorts. Invite him or her along to shop — with a free lunch attached. Visit the web site for the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to find out how professional gemologists assess diamonds.

Shop around.
Prices vary based on so many factors. Make sure you're comparing apples to apples — first and foremost, using the famous four Cs: A diamond's cut, color, clarity and carats. Once you've found what seems like the right diamond for you, get a second opinion/appraisal from someone certified by the GIA. Make sure this person is not in any way connected to the store where you found the diamond.

Do your homework.
Follow up on a jeweler's reputation and history with both people you know and the Better Business Bureau. Inquire about where the jeweler purchases diamonds and what background the owner and salespeople have. What kind of gemology education did they receive? Do they belong to any professional organizations? If so, what does that membership require of them?

Get every guarantee.
Get details about the return policy to make sure you can bring your diamond back for a refund within a period of time. Request a warranty and a gemological certificate for it as well — along with a written appraisal of the diamond for your records. (This is important for both insuring the diamond and selling it again someday.)

Find deals online.
While you may not be able to check out every detail before you foot the bill when shopping on the web, all reputable online retailers allow full returns within a given time frame. Therefore you can technically buy a GIA-certified diamond online, get your second opinion in person and then return it for a refund if you're not satisfied.

Right now, ConsumerClub.com members can get free shipping on orders over $100 on Diamond.com and DiamondInternational.com, as well as 6% back and a free pearl bracelet from Ice.com and 10% savings on Valentine’s Day purchases from BlueNile.com.

Posted by Paige Price at 01:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The tickets have been sold. The half-time talent has been bought. The Seattle Seahawks are pinching themselves and preparing for their first trip to the Big Game. The formidable Pittsburgh Steelers are pulling out their white uniforms for a change. And the online shopping for Super Bowl parties has already begun.

Where will you be on Sunday, February 5th, the 40th anniversary of this all-American institution? I'll be glued to the screen at my very own Super Bowl event. Are you throwing a bash too? Then you too have plenty of planning in store. I'm starting with the easy stuff: The Super Bowl party supplies. From plates and cups to Beer Smarts and plastic grass, I'm getting it all at my favorite party goods store, PlumParty.com.

And now for the main course. What to serve? Chips. Dips. Wings. Pizza. Buffet style without a doubt. After all, sophistication is hardly the name of the game. I might keep it simple and order in advance from AppetizersToGo.com this year. (Check out the tasty Super Delicious Super Bowl Combo, which requires simply sticking everything in the oven on game day.) Then again, there's going to be a lot of juggling going on. I might just save myself some trouble and money and make my party a potluck. Whatever you decide to do, don't forget plenty of beer, soda and ice.

So you'll be safe and warm at home with better seats than Detroit has to offer. Lucky me, I'm borrowing a whiz-bang projector from a friend. But what better time to invest in a flat-screen TV? A site like Bizrate.com help you find the ideal option for your budget — and your needs. You can most likely save money shopping online, though you won't be able to see your new TV in person unless you buy at the web site of a well-known retailer near you (after checking out the model in person).

A few more things to keep in mind while shopping for a flat-screen TV: How much room do you have? Will your TV hang on your wall or sit on your floor? How many inputs/outputs do you need for devices like your DVD player, VCR, stereo system, etc.? What kind of warranty is available? This is a good time to re-read my "Seven Essential Tips for Safe Online Shopping" post from January 6th. Good luck. And may the best team win.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Flowers die. Cards disintegrate. Chocolates disappear. Even love waxes and wanes. But diamonds, as they say, are forever. Plenty of other jewelry is too. The plus is that you're giving the object of your affection a lifelong reminder of your love. The minus is that it puts a lot of pressure on you to make the perfect choice. I'm here to help. Hey, I'm your target audience. I want you to succeed. So I'll keep it simple:

Consider Her Style — and Lifestyle
Notice what she wears the most, both clothing and accessories. Is she classic and conservative? Artsy and modern? Vintage? Romantic? Do you even know what these words mean? Does she have a favorite color? Does she work in a lab wearing gloves all day? When in doubt, go with simple and versatile.

Peek Inside Her Jewelry Box
I'll never forget the time a well-meaning man bought me a gorgeous gold necklace with precious beads. Only I don't wear gold. I haven't since junior high. I thanked him for the gift. Then I sat him down and broke the news. He lived. Of course, a brief peek in my jewelry box might have saved him a trip to the store. And an emotional scar. So among other things, check out the metal she prefers.

Ask the Ladies in Her Life
Inquire with a close friend. Ask her sister or mother. Girls know what girls like. With time, you will too. Just don't get too comfortable. We're fickle creatures at times.

Buy from a Solid Source
Make sure a store takes returns and exchanges. In fact, get it in writing. This is one instance where a large department store or a jewelry retailer is a better bet than an online auction site. Unless, that is, you're willing to auction an item off all over again if it doesn't work out.

Let Her Pick It Out
You're out shopping together. You see a jewelry store. Your mom/sister/aunt has a birthday coming up. See where I'm going with this? Recruit your darling's assistance, but watch what she gravitates toward on her own. Ask her what she likes. Even better, skip the store and give her an IOU instead of actual jewelry. As in, "IOU one piece of fine jewelry from said store." Just make sure you include a maximum value.

Plan a Special Delivery
I don't recommend hiding a ring in her dinner roll. But giving a gift in a romantic or a creative way adds a precious memory to the mix. And since we really do remember every word you say, why not attach something positive to your permanent record?

Check Your Ego at the Door
Know going into the gift giving that she may not love the jewelry, but that doesn't mean she doesn't love you. So stay humble. Give her a gift receipt. Say you're happy if she's happy and after all, you want her to have something she'll really wear.

Remember This: She's out there shopping for you too. And while you may think you're an open book with black-and-white instructions, sometimes they get lost in translation. Any tips you'd like to share with the ladies? Be my guest.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When you're online shopping for your next movie rental from Blockbuster.com or Netflix.com, it won't hurt you to venture beyond the new releases. And considering that the Sundance Film Festival is currently in full swing in Park City, Utah, I'm taking this opportunity to suggest some of the best movies to come out of past festivals. Rent them or buy them ... either way, you're sure to enjoy them:

Big Night
Tony Shalhoub and Stanley Tucci play humble Italian brothers trying to keep their authentic Italian restaurant in business. This quietly comical story is told amidst mouth-watering footage of food artfully prepared — to perhaps the most enjoyable upbeat soundtrack ever orchestrated.

Winged Migration
The glorious cinematography. The magical musical score. Real birds with captivating personalities. This documentary follows the migratory patterns of birds on all seven continents. It's about instinct. Survival. And of course, the beauty of nature.

Spellbound
You don't have to be a former elementary-school spelling-bee champ (like me) to care about the handful of National Spelling Bee contenders portrayed in this lovable documentary. Near the end, "Spellbound" is as exhilarating as any Hollywood thriller.

Whale Rider
This moving masterpiece centers around Maori culture on the coast of New Zealand. A young girl, Pai, grows up stronger and smarter than the boys — and capable of being chief. But her traditional grandfather won't allow her to fulfill the destiny she believes is hers.

Murderball
Life changes when you're confined to a wheelchair. But that's apparently because you finally figure out what you're made of. Not for the faint-hearted, this inspiring (and then some), audience-award-winning documentary follows a team of quadriplegic rugby players as they train for the Paralympic gold medal in Athens, Greece.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's been a long, cold winter where I live. And I've spent plenty of it shopping online for little old me. So today I decided to snuggle up with my laptop to do a little selfless online shopping for a special someone else in my life: My dog. It's simply been far too long since I treated my four-legged friend to anything beyond a trip to the frozen dog park.

Today I'll be searching for some Bodhi Dog Toys to help get my deserving darling through the rest of the season sane. I'll be perusing PetCo.com for a ton of treats — maybe even enough to get me $15 off a $75 purchase. I'll be hooking her up with some sweet-smelling toiletries from GetRoyalTreatment.com. Perhaps some Papaya & Aloe Paw Wipes too. And for the grand finale, I'll be checking out the Bow Wow Bargains on TrixieandPeanut.com, my new favorite online pet store. I've got one lucky dog.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We're all guilty of a little excess now and then. "Retail therapy" has certainly worked its fleeting wonders on my mental health. But sometimes online shopping — or any shopping for that matter — can find us experiencing some serious cognitive dissonance after the fact. So how can you avoid making bad shopping decisions in the heat of the moment? Ask yourself these questions before you buy:

1.) Have you done your homework? Have you shopped around and found the best price? The right model? The strongest brand? Have you read multiple user reviews? Are you sure this is "the one?" If not, what's the store's return policy?

2.) Will you really use it? Do you need it? Does it have a meaningful place in your world? Give yourself time to think it through. Put an item on hold for 24 hours while you consider the big picture. And if you do end up buying something without feeling confident, ask yourself this question again:

3.) What's the return policy? Full refund within 30 days? Exchanges only? Final sale on markdowns? There's much to be said for reading the fine print.

4.) What's your frame of mind? Are you shopping for a high? Feeding your ego? Filling some emotional hole? Is the discount more important than the reality of what you're purchasing? There are other ways to boost your mood.

5.) Do you have the money? Will this put you in serious debt? Will the item be long gone from your life before you pay off the interest on the purchase? Be honest with yourself. A moment of disappointment is better than a lifetime of bad credit.

Happy shopping. Just make sure it's smart, responsible shopping.

Posted by Paige Price at 10:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Hatha. Ashtanga. Restorative. Iyengar. Vinyasa. Power. Anusara. It's all yoga. Though it sounds a lot like Greek if you're not familiar with the practice. I'm here to make sure your online shopping for yoga gear is nowhere near as confusing as choosing a studio or style — and feels nothing like attending a Bikram class. Confused? Find helpful information for beginners on YogaJournal.com.

The truth is, even those of us who've done yoga for a decade don't always know exactly what we're doing in class and why. None of us can expect to absorb thousands of years of wisdom in a set period of time. Yoga is a process, just like any other pursuit. The more you do it, the better it gets.

All that considered, it certainly helps to walk into class comfortable and prepared. You need clothing that moves with you, a good mat, and even a strap and a yoga block or brick if you don't want to borrow one from the studio. You never know when you might want to strike a pose at home.

Here are a few great places to find your yoga gear online:

Gaiam.com
Get 3% back from ConsumerClub.com on purchases from Gaiam.
http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/gaiam.aspx

The Athleta.com Sale Outlet
http://www.athleta.com/jump.jsp?itemType=GATEWAY&itemID=9

HuggerMugger.com Web Specials
http://www.huggermugger.com/productServlet?SearchString=00clr

LuluLemon.com
http://www.lululemon.com/cec/index.php

Posted by Paige Price at 08:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon grabbed the gold. Anthony Hopkins celebrated a phenomenal career spanning 100+ films. Martin Luther King Jr. was honored. "Desperate Housewives" won best musical or comedy show. And the incomparable "Brokeback Mountain" cleaned up with four well-deserved awards.

So what do you really need to see? I'll tell you one thing, if you haven't yet watched Reese Witherspoon and Joaquin Phoenix fill the shoes of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash with remarkable grace and spirit — belting out classic country in their real, extraordinary voices — you've missed two of the top performances of 2005.

But you didn't have to sit through last night's big event to appreciate many of the films, actors and actresses nominated. Most are playing at the downtown cineplex or dollar theater near you. Get your movie ideas, reviews and tickets on the web right now:

The Golden Globes Web Site
Find out who was nominated for what, who walked away a winner and what movies you need to get out there and see right away at: http://www.thegoldenglobes.com/

Internet Movie Database
Just in case my recommendation and the opinions of the Hollywood Foreign Press aren't enough for you, read hundreds of user comments at: http://www.imdb.com/

Fandango Online Ticket Sales
Get the best seats in the house — the ones you really want. Buy your movie tickets online in advance at: http://www.fandango.com/

Posted by Paige Price at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Who can forget Chris Farley as Matt Foley the motivational speaker, Dana Carvey as the Church Lady, Adam Sandler as Opera Man, Gilda Radner as Roseanna Rosannadanna and Will Ferrell as every cringe-worthy character under the sun?

Where would we be without "More cowbell," "Talk amongst yourselves," "Livin' in a van down by the river," "Simmer down now" and "Isn't that special?" Now here's the real question: How much would you pay for guaranteed laughs on demand? Last week iTunes further immortalized many of the best moments in the past three decades of televised comedy by adding select Saturday Night Live skits and parodies to its offerings.

Some people take issue with the $1.99 price tag on SNL downloads as short as 30 seconds. I say think about it like this: You'll probably be watching that 30+ seconds of humor 10+ times a day with different friends, family members and co-workers all week long. That's a whole lot of laughter, which studies have shown to reduce stress, boost immunity, trigger endorphins and even lower blood pressure. Crack up enough and the $1.99 you paid for that "Motivational Speaker" skit might actually add years to your life. And if it doesn't, you'll at least have genuinely enjoyed the time you had.

Don't forget: ConsumerClub.com members get 3% back on iTunes purchases.

Posted by Paige Price at 09:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's Friday. And if you're reading this, you might be in the same boat I was in as I wrote it this morning: Mentally checked out. Beyond work. On to the next thing. That thing being the weekend. That weekend including the potential to become quite hectic if my child doesn't have something fun to do. So just in case your kids didn't get plenty of toys over the holidays, I thought I'd share some great deals I discovered while surfing around. Now if only these sites offered same-day shipping.

Save Up to 50% at Toys to Grow On
From the Fun Foam Painters to a Classic Electric Train Set to the Hollywood Dress-Up Trunk, these toys are worth well beyond their sale prices. Take advantage of the sale at: http://www.toystogrowon.com/resultsSAL02

Register with Crayola.com and Save 15%
Finger paints. Activity books. Color Wonder markers and coloring sets. Organizers and more. Use coupon code DECREG15 and get it all at: http://www.crayola.com/

Get $10 off Orders of $99 or more on Babies R Us
Buy baby supplies for you or educational toys for the little ones. Get the details at: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/feature/-/396975/104-3404852-3410341

Save up to 50% with Pottery Barn Kids
It's just about the cutest decor you can find for your kids. What's on sale? Dress-up sets. Classy mirrors. Bedding. Airplane art and much more. See it all at:

http://ww2.potterybarnkids.com/index.cfm?
area=shp&cid=sal&cmsrc=bil_create_space_w1&cmtype=image&
sid=PBK9EZ1YQPNHLSIALQNPXKPIKKNAPNCR200601121306&src=hme

Get 10% Off at NickJr.com
It's not only a fun place for your kids to play games online, it's a great place to buy DVDs of Nick Jr. programming, sweet clothing and accessories, etc. Use promotional code AFF0106 to receive 10% off your entire online order in the Shop section of http://www.nickjr.com through January 31, 2006

Posted by Paige Price at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Expecting for the first time? No doubt you're getting more than your share of advice from family, friends and total strangers in the grocery line. Though most likely this free counsel relates to the process of parenting rather than pregnancy, since so many women (myself included) forget what it feels like to be pregnant the moment they hold their newborns in their arms. But there's one thing no woman can forget once she's experienced it. That's the frustration of acquiring a decent maternity wardrobe.

A few tips for the first-timer:

Review What You Have
There has to be an empire-waist shirt or a simple knit shrug in that closet of yours. Look for loose dresses, sweatshirts and more that can help you make the transition. Try and coordinate outfits with these original items when purchasing or borrowing true maternity clothes, as different clothing will fit you at different stages of your pregnancy. (And don't forget about your jewelry, most of which can come along for the ride.)

Borrow, Borrow, Borrow
Build the basis of your maternity wardrobe on the maternity wardrobes of moms who have gone before you. I made every mistake in the book, spending maybe more on maternity clothes than I did on the nursery. Of course, I made up for it by loaning my best buys to every mom-to-be around me in later years. So don't be afraid to ask. Women want to know they'll eventually get their money's worth out of maternity purchases, even if it's through the great mommy circle of pregnancies.

Budget, Budget, Budget
Maternity clothing is like anything else with a price tag. It can convince you that you need too much. Decide what you can spend and stick to it. It helps if you've already determined what you can borrow (and I don't mean on your line of credit). If you can't borrow from another mom, check out consignment shops, yard sales, discount stores and of course, sales like those mentioned below. Keep in mind, you can buy more as you identify holes in your wardrobe and your size grows with your baby.

Think Comfort and Fit
Your body may soon be out of your control. So make sure your wardrobe's comfort isn't. Dry-clean only? Don't even think about it. (Unless you're heading to a formal occasion or you work in an office with a strict dress code.) You need clothing that feels good, looks good and washes well. As for fit issues, most stores have a belly-shaped pillow you can stuff under your shirt for effect. And online retailers usually have great sizing charts and advice.

Trends Are for Teens
Black short-sleeved oxford: Good. Rainbow polka-dot peasant shirt? Your call, but you might be kicking yourself in the morning. Remember, it's not only your friends, sisters and cousins who might be wearing these articles of clothing when you're done with them. You could very well be walking down this road again in a couple of years.

Now for the Deals . . .

Check out the Mimi Maternity® Best of Season Sale:
http://www.mimimaternity.com/home.asp?Media=Motherhood

Save up to 75% and get 6% back from Baby Style®:
http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/babystyle.aspx

Get Your Sophisticated Staples and 5% back from A Pea in the Pod®:
http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/a_pea_in_the_pod.aspx

Save 40% to 60% at the Liz Lange Winter Sale:
http://www.lizlange.com/

Posted by Paige Price at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We can't do ALL our shopping on the web. So today I'll give you a simple money-saving tip that can do double duty at a shopping center near you (depending on where you live, of course). 1.) You get something at a discount — or even free. And 2.) your retailer gets your valuable feedback (and your return business if they're lucky).

Here's the deal: I've noticed a trend on my printed receipts while shopping with certain retail chains around town in recent months. Stores ranging from the Gap to Albertson's to California Pizza Kitchen are including information at the bottom of each receipt or on a second receipt-looking printout that prompts you to call an 800 number within a few days of your visit.

In exchange for your answers to a few simple questions (typically rating your experience at the store on a scale of one to five), you get, for example: 10% off your next purchase, a free appetizer, a free loaf of French bread or something like that.

So the next time a retail associate hands you your receipt, of course, check it for accuracy. During the holidays I caught two instances where I had overpaid for something and saved myself a car trip by catching it while I was still on-site. In addition, read the fine print to see if you can save money on your next visit. You'll also get a chance to let a chain know what you think of the experience they're creating for shoppers in your area.

Posted by Paige Price at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Talk is cheap. And apparently, a romantic evening at home doesn't have to cost that much either. Simply select a special someone. Follow the links below. And enjoy the perfect "dinner and a movie" date without ever setting foot into the cold winter air outside your front door. On second thought, who says the holiday party season has to end just yet? Invite all your friends over for an evening of fun.

Send Yourself Flowers
Don't wait for someone else to bring them over. Choose your favorite fragrant arrangement and get 12% back from ConsumerClub.com at:
http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/1-800-florals.aspx

Set the Table
Get your fine dinnerware, stylish linens and more at up to 65% off from WilliamsSonoma.com at:
http://ww2.williams-sonoma.com/cat/index.cfm?CID=saldngi&cmsrc=hplink&src=catcsali%7Cp1%7Crshop%2Fhme

Dim the Lights
Pacifica's addictive soy wax candles come in scents you won't find at the corner drugstore — or even the average spa boutique. Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more and 20% off Nerola Orange Blossom candles at:
http://www.pacificacandles.com/

Pour the Wine
Save up to 50% on wine, champagne, stemware and wine accessories from Wine.com. You'll also get 4% back from ConsumerClub.com at:
http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/wine.aspx

Choose Your Movie
Select your favorite movies and let Blockbuster deliver them to your door. Get your first month for only $9.99 and $9 back from ConsumerClub.com at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/blockbuster_online.aspx

Serve Dinner
Order takeout if you're so inclined. Or if you're a year-round grilling machine, shop for choice steaks and filets at OmahaSteaks.com and get 12 quarter-pounder burgers free with your order. ConsumerClub.com members also get 5% back at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/omaha_steaks.aspx

Posted by Paige Price at 07:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sometimes it's not new stuff you need. It's old stuff you need to get rid of (even if you're just making room for new and improved stuff in the long run). Now's the time to sort through what you have, give away what you can part with, organize what you must keep and set up systems for maintaining order this year.

Save 30% on Elfa® Shelving at ContainerStore.com
You may not recognize your storage space when Elfa shelving is done with it. The Container Store's organizational experts can even help you come up with a game plan for arranging everything. Get 30% off Elfa and 3% back from ConsumerClub.com at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/containerstore.aspx

Save 15% on Closet Organization at HoldEverything.com
There's a new wardrobe waiting behind all that clutter. And you're just a few shelves, racks, boxes and hangers away from discovering it. Check out the Great Closet Event at:
http://www.holdeverything.com/online/store/CategoryDisplay?identifier=HE-
SH1ACCCLS&storeId=11001&catalogId=11002&viewSetCode=E&langId=-1

Save 70% on Select Sale Items at HoldEverything.com
And now for the rest of your house. Get all your essential organizational tools at up to 70% off at:
http://www.holdeverything.com/online/store/CategoryDisplay?identifier=HE-
SH1ONS&storeId=11001&catalogId=11002&viewSetCode=E&langId=-1

Posted by Paige Price at 07:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Personal computer. Check. Web connection. Check. Shopping list. Check. Credit card. Check. Essential tips for safe online shopping? Here you go:

1.) Know Your Seller
Is it a virtual mom-n-pop shop? A giant retail chain? Some dude on eBay®? Find out fast. Read the "About Us" page. Scan customer reviews. Check out consumer information sites, product ratings sites and online buyers' guides (www.consumer.gov, www.bizrate.com, etc.). And make sure the web site lists a working phone number and physical address (preferably in your country), just in case you run into any problems later.

2.) Protect Your Privacy
Think of reading the privacy policy like taking your medicine: It's no fun at first, but it can make a big difference in the long run. Learn what a seller does with your information. Confirm that it's never sold or shared with third parties. Look for logos such as those for TRUSTe and BBBOnline, which many legitimate businesses use to indicate the protection of your privacy and security. Finally, always keep your password a secret. Avoid incorporating personal information like birthdays, Social Security numbers, etc. into it.

3.) Pay Close Attention
Double-check exactly what you're buying and at what price. Review product descriptions and photos. Make sure you've selected the right color and size for your needs. Verify your subtotal, your total, sale pricing and coupon deductions, shipping and handling fees (and timing), taxes and the return policy. Also, make sure the items you want are in stock when you order.

5.) Boost Security
Always use the most current version of your web browser — one that meets the latest, most stringent online security standards (Secure Socket Layer protocol, etc.). Another security precaution: Never send personal information such as bank account numbers via email, particularly to someone you don't know. No seller should have reason to request details like these by email.

5.) Put Your Faith in Plastic
If you're following all of the above advice, your chances of having your credit-card information stolen are slim. But what if it happens anyway? The silver lining in that unfortunate case would be this: Thanks to the Fair Credit Billing Act, you can dispute false charges and withhold payment during investigation. In fact, the most you can be made to pay for unauthorized charges is $50. Make that $0 if your favorite credit card offers extra purchase protection.

6.) Keep Receipts
Always maintain some record of what you ordered and how you paid for it. Save your email receipts and print out transaction confirmation pages. Keep authorization numbers, delivery guarantees and product warrantees as well. Also, check your credit card statements closely for possible billing errors.

7.) Don't Forget Your Budget
Safe shopping can still yield plenty of good deals. Use reputable search engines, auction sites, blogs (ahem, Shop Talk, for example) and comparison forums to seek out great prices, discounts, coupons and free shipping from sellers that meet the safe-shopping criteria I've provided here. Another tip: Sign up for your favorite online retailers' email lists, as many such sites send out e-coupons and special offers to email subscribers only.

Got all that? Great. Happy shopping.

Posted by Paige Price at 03:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I have a problem buying clothes this time of year. New Year's resolutions front of mind, I tell myself I'm only 6-8 weeks away from being a size or two smaller. If only I had as much willpower as I do imagination. Good news for all of us — some extremely fashionable, comfortable brands are having great sales right now. So while we may very well be too small for our new styles in a matter of months, at least they'll have cost us very little.

Save up to 70% on ArmaniExchange.com
Check out the big sale while it lasts. And make sure you visit the too-cool virtual dressing room while you're at it. ConsumerClub.com members also get 4% back on all purchases at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/armani_exchange.aspx

Save up to 50% at the AmericanEagle.com
Stylish comfort comes cheap at: http://www.ae.com/web/browse/category_clearance.jsp?navroot=clearance&rcid=clearance

Get 30% off at Esprit.com
Step off that scale and you're an Esprit-sporting teenager all over again. Use coupon code Welcome06 to get a full 30% off your order of non-sale merchandise. Offer ends January 8, 2005. And of course, ConsumerClub.com members also get 3% back at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/esprit.aspx

Posted by Paige Price at 07:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Play a symphony for your unborn child and he or she could turn out to be a genius. Choose your background music wisely and you can absorb more information when you study. Provide the right mix of songs at a party (or even better, get a karaoke machine) and create a far more memorable experience for all. Yes, the positive possibilities of well-selected audio are limitless. Therefore, considering that the New Year is all about self-improvement, I thought we'd start with the easy part — your personal soundtrack.

Here are some of latest deals to hit your ears (and your pocketbook) this year:

Save 3% in the iTunes® Store
If you're not already as addicted as I am to this virtual storehouse of sounds spanning musical styles, audio books and more, you soon will be. Save 3% at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/itunes.aspx

Save 6% at Simply Audio Books
Your regular channel-flipping commute just became the page-turning highlight of your day. Save 6% on audio books at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/simply_audiobooks.aspx

Save up to 60% with Cambridge Sound Works
Don't know the difference between a subwoofer and a dome tweeter? You can still appreciate a good discount on solid speakers (and much more). Shop now and save up to 60% on items featured in the Gotta-Go Clearance Sale. You'll also earn 10% from ConsumerClub.com on purchases over $200. See for yourself at: http://www.consumerclub.com/stores/cambridge_soundworks_hifi.aspx

Just for Fun: Get Free Shipping at Karaoke.com
You really don't know your friends until you've seen them belt out "Islands in the Stream" on the microphone. Get your karaoke kicks (and free shipping on orders over $88) at: http://www.karaoke.com/cgi-bin/WebObjects/Karaoke.woa/wa/Karaoke/staticPage?name=FreeShipping

Posted by Paige Price at 06:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Whoever said "you get what you pay for" didn't know much about online shopping. Today you can find everything from automobiles to authentic antiques on the web at unimaginable discounts — all with a few clicks of your mouse. Never mind the incredible rebates out there.

Of course, you have to be in the right place at the right time. And whether you're a proud penny-pincher or a closet cheapskate, you probably don't have all day to sit and search for savings.

Welcome to Shop Talk, the best place to visit for your daily deal fix. I'm here to shorten the distance between you and outstanding online offers. Point you to the top spots for free shipping. Suggest original, affordable gift ideas. Bring up timely topics in the wide world of web shopping. And help you cut through the overwhelming clutter you encounter elsewhere.

Of course, everyone will want to hear about any great discounts you've discovered as well. Find a hot deal? Share it right here on Shop Talk.

Let's start with some of the top deals of the day:

Save up to 75% at Bath & Body Works
After all the money I've spent on everyone else, I'm ready to pamper #1. Though I'm not quite prepared to brave the shopping mall again just yet. Fortunately, today we can skip the checkout line and save big on our favorite lotions and potions at: https://www.bathandbodyworks.com

Half off 2006 Calendars at Barnes and Noble
I don't know about you, but I need a collection of calendars to keep it together each year. And now I can pretend to be organized for half the price. Save 50% on all 2006 calendars at: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/gifts/giftcenter_cds2.asp?PID=9561&userid=MA0t35RCho&cds2Pid=9481&linkid=596272

Buy Two of Any Product and Save 20% on the Second at The Sharper Image
So many electronic indulgences, so little time. Will it be the ceramic hair straightening iron or the robotic floor vacuum? Whatever you choose, just make sure you can use two. Get the discount at: http://www.sharperimage.com/us/en/cs_promotions.jhtml?hppos__13

Expires January 31, 2005.

Posted by Paige Price at 09:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)