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Posts Tagged ‘black friday shopping’

Cyber Safe Monday – 10 Ways to Protect Yourself While Shopping Online

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Hello friends, now that your Thanksgiving meal has been digested, the crowds have dissipated from Black Friday and you supported small businesses on Saturday, it’s time to go online in search of more deals and bargains.  

Online shopping has increased dramatically over the years, but some things never change, and that is security and scams.  So this year before you click with a credit card, review these 10 tips from internetsecure.com to keep you cyber safe this season.

shopping safely online
1. Look for the latest credit card password procedures, such as Verified by Visa. 

In the last year, each major credit card issuer has come up with a secure system online that involves use of a password known only to the credit card owner. This presents to you the highest form of online security possible when shopping, and so you should look for sites that support these new standards.

2. Check the return/refund, warranty, guarantee and other policies.

Take the time to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable, reliable merchant that will offer you the same shopping peace-of-mind that you would get elsewhere. If the online merchant doesn’t post sufficient information to provide you a degree of comfort about such policies, consider taking your business elsewhere.

3. Make sure that the checkout process is secure
Always make sure that you are using a site that provides full “encryption” over the credit card transaction, which helps to ensure that your credit card information can’t be accessed while it is in transit. You can determine this by looking for a small “padlock” at the bottom of your browser screen, or by a message indicating that you are entering a secure site.
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4. Look for privacy and security policies

A company that is very conscious about security issues will most often post some information online for you to read. Take the time to look for the security and privacy policies that the online store might have posted and read them, since this will give you more comfort that you are shopping with a site that will carefully guard your credit card and personal information.

5. If concerned, do due diligence
If you are dealing with an online store, but are unsure whether they are reliable and credible, do a search for them on the Internet, to see if other consumers have expressed concern or have had positive or negative experiences.

6. Understand the “safe-shopping” policies established by the issuer of your credit card
Take the time to understand the guarantees that your card-issuer offers with respect to shopping online. You will likely find that even if you are subjected to an online fraud, you will not be liable for any loss greater than $50, which should put your mind to rest.

7. Shop around
Often what might seem to you to be a bargain might not be, once you factor in other costs, or if you don’t consider that there might be other online stores offering the same product or service at a lower cost. Take the time to look at alternatives.

8. Beware of hidden shipping, duty and other costs

Many of those who shop online are surprised by the hidden charges that were not well-documented on the site. Make sure you understand all the potential charges before committing to a purchase, and if something seems unclear — ask! Look for sites that clearly post such charges as part of the checkout process, or post the information elsewhere on their site.

9. Keep receipts Filthy Fragranceand other documentation

Make sure you print out a copy of the receipt once you’ve finished the purchase. In addition, if the online store offers to send you a copy of the receipt by e-mail, take advantage of this option.

10. Order early!
The common complaint of every online Christmas shopper is that they ordered too late to ensure delivery of their goods by Christmas. Shop early — and shop often!

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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Shop Small Business Saturday #shopsmall

Shop Small Business Saturday 011 Hello friends, were you one of the millions out and about yesterday shopping on Black Friday?  If so, I hope you found some good bargains.  I had an early morning appointment then did a few chores around the house, but today I’ll be heading out to support some of our local businesses.

Today is officially Shop Small Business Saturday and there are several stores in Middletown that I’m featuring and I hope that you will be out supporting some of your own.

Elana’s Florist is located on 500 North Broad St. in Middletown, and it is more than just a florist shop.  Elana’s is filled with a wonderful array of holiday items and decorations where you are guaranteed to find something for everyone on your gift list.

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Small Business Saturday Shop Small Business Saturday

Sweet Melissa Bakery is newly opened also on Broad Street adjacent to Elana’s which is convenient for your wedding and bridal shower planning.  They also create awesome personalized birthday, holiday and special occasion cakes.

Sweet Melissa Bakery Sweet Melissa Bakery Shop Small Business Saturday Sweet Melissa Bakery

Wardrobe by Carolyn & Nadira is a small boutique located on the 2nd floor at 11 W. Main Street and this is by far my favorite small shop in town.  Big Buddha Bags, evening gowns, faux fur, and tons of gorgeous accessories line the glass shelves of this hidden treasure.  Fragrant soaps and lotions are perfect stocking stuffers.  

Wardrobe by Carolyn & Nadira was previously Lai Renise, however, they still offer private shopping, trunk shows and Ladies Night Out events which is a perfect way to kick off the new year.

Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira Shop Small Business Saturday 037 Wardrobe By Wardrobe & Nadira

Half Baked Patisserie is another bakery located on the 1st floor at 11 W. Main Street and their cupcakes are delicious.  With more than a dozen varieties to choose from including these seasonal flavors; Peppermint Patty, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Chocolate Chip Cheesecake, Sweet Potato Pie

your taste buds will definitely thank you.  I can’t say which is our ultimate favorite, but my husband’s goal is to try one of each before the end of the year – wish him luck!

Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie Half Baked Patisserie

Middletown has such great history and it’s nice to see that there are shops in town that have been around for years, including Middletown Hardware.  Each year a Lamp Post Design contest is held with each of the shop owners participating and customers can fill out a form voting for their favorite.

Small Business Accountant Shop Small Business Saturday Lampost Contest Shop Small Business Saturday Small Town Middletown

Femme Fatale Boutique is a high end shop that offers personalized shopping, free gift wrapping and has a nice selection of many accessories including the Pandora Bead collections.

Femme Fatale Boutique Femme Fatale Boutique Shop Small Business Saturday 046

Purple Sage Teas is also one of my favorite places to shop and this year marks their 10th Anniversary – so mention this when shopping to receive an additional discount off your total purchase.  More than teas, you can also find a large assortment of coffees, Troll Beads and Zum Bar Goat’s Milk Soaps.

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Another landmark in Middletown is The Gibby.  For the holiday season you need to check out their great handcrafted jewelry, fine art, stain glass, wooden pens, and clothing. These items are all handmade by local artists, so please support your local art center and shop The Gibby.

The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby The Gibby

My sons are in college, but if you have little ones to shop for there are two locations that I recommend.

First and Little, sells the most adorable clothing and nursery items.  Previously a DEDO PopUp, they are now celebrating their 2nd year in Middletown.  You will definitely find a unique gift for the little one in your life.

Shop Small Business Saturday 060 First and Little First and Little First and Little Shop Small Business Saturday 066

Jewelapalozza is more than a shop for the little ladies, they also carry accessories and clothing for women as evidenced by my purchase of a burlap tote bag.  In addition to unique gift items, they also carry Alex and Ani bracelets and conduct a Santa’s Workshop where children can make 3 handmade gifts, jewelry, ornaments and handprint canvas art for only $25 per child.  The workshop is available on November 22nd, 29th & December 6th, no appointment needed.

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“Jesus is the Reason for the Season” so stop in at Saving Grace Christian Bookstore the best place in town for not only Christian books and Bibles, but also for religious maps, jewelry, clothing, home décor and accessories.

Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store Saving Grace Christian Book Store

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Candy Connections.  This newly open candy store on West Main Street will remind you of your childhood with it’s large assortment of sweets in glass jars more than enough to fill the biggest Christmas stocking.

 

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If after a long day of walking and shopping you need to take a break and get some rest and relaxation please step into La Dolce Vita Spa for Wellness on 2nd West Main Street.  Now is the perfect time to schedule an hour facial or massage.  This oasis of serenity also offers hair and skin care as well as body treatments and waxings.  An Open House is scheduled for December 10th so make sure to stop in and then perhaps purchase a gift certificate for that special someone in your life.

La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa La Dolce Vita Wellness Spa

However, if you plan to end your shopping day a home with a glass of wine, make sure to stop in at Fromage, to pick up a few pieces of gourmet cheese.  This cheese boutique is located on Main and Broad Streets and the knowledgeable and friendly owner will provide you with plenty of samples to help you choose just the right cheese to satisfy your palate or compliment your holiday meals.

Fromage Cheese Boutique Fromage Cheese Boutique Fromage Cheese Boutique

Shop Small Business Saturday is definitely the most exciting day of the holidays season for me and I hope you enjoyed yours as well. Christmas in Middletown Fromage 1 Fromage 2 Fromage 3 Middletown Transcript

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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OOTD – Khaki & Creme

Hello friends and Happy FRI-YAY!!

I love this time of the year, the autumn colors are so vibrant and the air is crisp and clean ~ “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas”.  Here we are, one week before the infamous “Black Friday” shopping frenzy, though some stores are opening on Thursday now being labeled as “Black Thursday”.  Will you be out shopping or standing in long lines waiting for the latest gadget or gizmo?  I’ve never done it but really want that $99.00 camera deal being advertised by Target – aah I can wait.

Today is casual Friday so I decided to wear a khaki skirt with a sweater and booties.

Attention Booties – Kmart // Khaki Skirt  – Goodwill // Khaki Creme Striped Top – Kmart

The beauty of autumn colors is breath taking!

 

Today I am linking up with Casual Chic Mom – hop on over and meet a new blogger

 

Have a fantabulous afternoon – Smooches!


OOTD – Khaki & Creme

Hello friends and Happy FRI-YAY!!

I love this time of the year, the autumn colors are so vibrant and the air is crisp and clean ~ “it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas”.  Here we are, one week before the infamous “Black Friday” shopping frenzy, though some stores are opening on Thursday now being labeled as “Black Thursday”.  Will you be out shopping or standing in long lines waiting for the latest gadget or gizmo?  I’ve never done it but really want that $99.00 camera deal being advertised by Target – aah I can wait.

Today is casual Friday so I decided to wear a khaki skirt with a sweater and booties.

Attention Booties – Kmart // Khaki Skirt  – Goodwill // Khaki Creme Striped Top – Kmart

The beauty of autumn colors is breath taking!

 

Today I am linking up with Casual Chic Mom – hop on over and meet a new blogger

 

Have a fantabulous afternoon – Smooches!