Amp Up You Look With These Hair Salons

As I celebrate one of the biggest company events of the year, I decided to reinvent my look. Firstly, I let the stylist cut my shoulder-length hair into a bob cut. Then, he dyed it by mixing the colors of Ash Blonde and Light Brown. I was in awe of the results! Simply cutting your hair short may result freshen up your look and how you feel about yourself!

On that note, here are some of the best salons that can help you with your hair makeover.

#1: BE SALON

In the institution that I work for, we believe that each learner is an individual who learns in uniquely from his or her peers. The same can be said with Be Salon. Be Salon believes that everyone’s hair is different. When it comes to maintenance, there is no one-style-fits-all! Hence, the stylists at Be Salon customize your treatments to fit your personal lifestyle and hair nature. Their individualized approach enable them to recommend the most suitable hair colors for you.

What’s more? Be Salon has free specialized consultations that will enable you to ask as many questions as you want within a given time. Taking a leap of faith is not scary after all, especially when your decisions are backed by hair stylists. You will be able to choose a treatment based on the expert’s advice. Furthermore, the expert will give you advice on how to take care of your hair at home.

This salon’s haircut starts from S$49 and the hair color starts from S$119. With complimentary beverages, head massages, and blankets, Be Salon’s service will pamper you beyond what you expected.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#2: SALON VIM

Endorsed by some of the most popular influencers, it goes without saying that Salon Vim is renowned in Singapore. It is best known for its hair coloring results. You see, Salon Vim is a flagship store of L’Oreal. It introduces mythic hair treatments, using powerful Mythic oil to deeply nourish and protect hair color.

Much like Be Salon, Salon Vim’s hair stylists give you their expert opinion to renew you with the most suitable hairstyle. No matter what style or color you want, Salon Vim will turn your dreams into reality. Haircut starts from S$60 for men and S$80 for women. Hair coloring starts from S$105. While, hair strengthening and hair perming rangers from S$200-S$320.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#3: CHEZ VOUS HAIR SALON

A few months ago, I have tried the Keratin treatment. This treatment enables you to have soft and shiny hair while retaining its volume. However, the salon I went to did not perform very well. The effects of the treatment did not last for long.

Enter Chez Vous Hair Salon! There is a reason why Chez Vous Hair Salon’s Hair Botox (about S$375) was named the Best Hair Treatment for Damaged Hair by Her World, Shape, CLEO, and many other industry insiders. Hair botox is an extensive keratin treatment, which is customized to your hair type and hair condition. Furthermore, those who have tried this said that it has incredible lasting effects.

Another thing that you will be have about is its aesthetics. Chez Vous Hideaway is Instragrammable due to its pop-up museum decor. Moreover, you will get to enjoy the complimentary scalp fix at their Relaxation Lounge. This is only for customers who arrive early! The early bird truly catches the early worm.

Sources: 1 & 2

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How To Choose The Best Stock Broker For You

Money does not come from trees! Choosing what is best for you should be influenced by strategic research on the available brokerage firms in the country. Consider these factors…

STICK TO THE BUDGET

It goes without saying that your performance in the stock market depends on your budget. If you want to start investing, but do not have thousands of dollars in your arsenal then, you can start with as little as S$1,000.

Say that you want to own stocks through the CDP (The Central Depository) then, you will have to set up a CDP securities account. The CDP account is operated by the Singapore Exchange. It provides integrated clearing, settlement, and depository facilities for customers in the Singapore securities market.

To be eligible to open an account, you must at least 18 years old and not an undischarged bankrupt. You can deal with as many brokerage firms as you want with one CDP account.

COMPARE THE BROKERAGE FEES

Brokerage firms allow you to buy and sell shares on the stock market. It is important to note that they charge you brokerage or commission fees for every transaction you make. When you buy shares, you get charged. When you sell shares, you get charged. These fees add up!

Most investors want to buy low and sell high. Expect to be charged commission fees multiple times by doing so. On the other hand, commission fees won’t make much difference to your if you just want to “park” your money.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCES ONLINE

Kids, there was a time when investors where required to call their brokers to deal with them directly. Do not get me started with how stock prices and other information were passed down! Those days are gone!

Nowadays, investors are blessed with online trading platforms that allow them to check stock prices and complete deals on the go. Some brokerage firms even have mobile applications.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

It is good to familiarize yourself with these online features before you open an account. For instance, day traders need to have a live and streaming data to get started. Choose a broker whose online features (e.g., daily news, company reports, or strategy guides) are suited to your lifestyle. Consider opening several trial accounts with many online brokers to immerse yourself with their service before signing up.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Budget-Friendly Places To Purchase Cleaning Supplies Against nCoV

Are you trying your luck in expanding your cleaning supplies? These days, “OUT OF STOCK” is plastered all over the physical and online stores when cleaning supplies are concerned. The zero traces of stocks correlate to the nCoV panic brewed in the shoppers all over Singapore.

The novel CoronaVirus (nCov) is a severe acute respiratory disease that can affect both animals and humans. It was first discovered in China last December 2019. With hundreds of deaths worldwide, The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the novel coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Singaporeans must strengthen their immune system and ensure that their homes are clean to combat nCoV. On that note, here are some cleaning supplies that you may purchase as well as the places where you can find them.

#1: VACUUM CLEANER

A good vacuum cleaner can effortlessly keep the floors and carpets debris-free. Prevent dusts, food crumbs, human hair strands, and pet furs from accumulating by using the vacuum cleaner once a week. Increase the frequency if you have young children or several pets inside the house. Courts Singapore carry multiple brands and types of vacuum cleaners including the cordless handheld vacuum by Karcher, which retails for only S$398.00.

#2: BATHROOM CLEANER

Toilet and faucet handles are premium breeding grounds for virus and bacteria. I, for one, can attest that it is hard to keep the bathroom clean. However, keeping it clean can help you reduce the spread of germs. FairPrice has several toilet cleaners in stock including their own brand for S$3.70 and the Mr. Muscle value pack for S$6.15.

#3: DUSTING GLOVES

Keeping your nest as dust-free as possible will help you control dirt and other allergens. Moreover, it will freshen up the appearance of your living space. Control dust in a fun way by using microfiber gloves such as the eight-dollar Leifheit dusting gloves from Lazada Singapore.

Run your microfiber dusting gloves all over your house! The microfiber gathers up the mess without scratching the surface or scattering dust into the air. Once you are done, you can simply toss your gloves into the washing machine and use it again in your next cleaning session.

#4: ANTI-BACTERIAL MULTI-PURPOSE CLEANER

Anti-bacterial multi-purpose cleaners are believed to leave your premises free from germs and to prevent the spread of viruses. It can be used on different surfaces such as ceramic, enamel, and stainless steel. You can purchase this at Horme Hardware for as low as S$6.

Horme Hardware is a virtual hardware that houses more than fifty thousand products in its inventory. No matter how specific your cleaning item is, you will find most of what you need in here. You may also head down to one of its trade centers at Ubi, Changi, and Jurong East.

#5: ANTI-BACTERIAL HANDSOAP

Never touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands as germs spread this way. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds or the entire “Happy Birthday” song.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

I found two places where you can stock up on your anti-bacterial handsoap. I am referring to Amazon Singapore and Lazada Singapore. The former has Dial Complete Anti-bacterial Foaming Hand Wash for S$35.58 (i.e., pack of 4). While, the latter has Dettol Profresh Strawberry Anti-bacterial Handwash for S$25. Both are marketed to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria.

Stay safe and protected! 🙂

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10 Greatest Songs Ever Written Surrounding Money

Many musicians did not start out with huge paychecks, lavish cars, and bling on their necks. They have gone through the tribulations of life and paid their dues. Believe it or not, some of the greatest songs ever written surround interesting perspectives about money. Moreover, you can apply these songs to your own finances. This is when art imitates life.

So, sit back and relax. Turn your speakers on and immerse yourself in the “10 Greatest Songs Ever Written About Money”!

ABBA: “MONEY, MONEY, MONEY”

“I work all night, I work all day to pay the bills I have to pay. Ain’t it sad. And still there never seems to be a single penny left for me.”

It is troubling to listen to someone go through this situation. If you are living off from paycheck to paycheck, it is time to take a closer look at your finances. Are you saving a portion of your money for yourself? Consider asking for a pay raise or reducing your expenses to avoid letting your bills take up all of your wages.

BARRETT STRONG: MONEY (THAT’S WHAT I WANT)

“Money don’t get everything it’s true. What it don’t get. I can’t use.”

It goes without saying that this is one of the famous money songs out there. It is a classic and rightly so! The first lyric is “the best things in life are free”. I agree! Money cannot buy everything such as lasting relationships and happiness. It is all about striking a balance between your financial goals and your personal life.

THE NOTORIOUS B.I.G.: MO’ MONEY, MO’ PROBLEMS

“It’s like the more money we come across, the more problems we see.”

As I said, money cannot buy everything. Getting richer will not necessarily enrich your life. Money can become an instrument to reaching your financial goals. However, it is up to you to use it responsibly in order to help yourself and others around you. Remember that it is easy to be blinded by power and greed.

DESTINY’S CHILD: INDEPENDENT WOMEN

“All the women who independent, throw your hands up at me! All the honeys who makin’ money, throw your hands up at me.”

The late 90s and early 2000s brought-forth the age of women empowerment through girl bands such as Destiny’s Child and Spice Girls. This song is all about financial independence and not relying on someone else to succeed. You can relate this message to Singaporeans of all genders and all ages.

THE BEATLES: CAN’T BUY ME LOVE

“I may not have a lot to give, but what I got I’ll give to you. I don’t care too much for money, money can’t buy me love.”

The Beatles are iconic for fusing important experiences and fantastic tunes. This song is a good reminder that you are not defined by how much you make. No matter how much you earn or how much you strive to earn, always remember the important things in life. Prioritize your “own currencies” and work towards these.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

PITBULL FEAT. NE-YO: TIME OF OUR LIVES

“I know my rent was gon’ be late about a week ago. I worked my ass off, but I still can’t pay it though. But I got just enough to get off in this club.”

Yes! It is tempting to give in to the YOLO movement. However, you must be realistic. If your finances are suffering due to your entertainment costs such as going to the clubs or casinos regularly then, you should stop. Take care of your responsibilities first!

CEE-LO GREEN: FORGET YOU

“Yeah I’m sorry I can’t afford a Ferrari. But that don’t mean I can’t get you there.”

Many people fall into a trap by keeping up with their neighbors. You do not have to waste your money to impress someone. Otherwise, you will end up poking a hole in your wallet and having a relationship with someone that is superficial. Invest on things that will benefit you in the long run!

THE BEATLES: FIXING A HOLE

“I’m fixing a hole where the rain gets in, to stop my mind from wandering.”

This band is making another exposure in this list as this song highlights the simple solutions in life. Whenever I am faced with a problem, I always focus on the solution. Solutions do not have to be expensive. It pays to learn to do small improvements on your own than hiring a professional to do it for you.

ROLLING STONES: CAN’T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT

“You can’t always get what you want,
But if you try sometimes,
You just might find.
You get what you need.”

One of the biggest issues in trying to save funds is determining the difference between needs and wants. The essentials must come first while saving up for your wants. Over time with hard-work, you will be able to get both your needs and wants.

<MACKLEMORE AND RYAN LEWIS: THRIFT SHOP

“I am stunting and flossing and saving my money”

Take it from Macklemore and Ryan! You do not have to break the bank to look good or feel good. Singapore has tons of flea markets, thrift shops, and charity shops that can help you grow your wardrobe without spending too much.

Moreover, saving money on clothes can help you focus on more important financial goals!

Sources: 1 & 2

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How To Start Investing With S$100 A Month

Oh, adulting! It comes in a slate of responsibilities thrown at a person all at the same time. To survive the challenges of life, one must establish a healthy savings plan. Long-term savings include having an insurance policy, a good credit score, and an emergency fund. Many people grow their savings thru investing.

Investing is an overwhelming idea for many Singaporeans as they perceive it to be expensive. Few people outside the financial industry have thought of investing their money for themselves. However, you do not need to have S$10,000 or more to start investing. You can grow your wealth with just S$100 per month.

Here are some strategies that you may apply.

#1: MAKE SMALL INVESTMENTS REGULARLY

It comes as no surprise that one advantage of making small invest regularly is that you are not trying to time the market. Instead, you are relying on your money’s “time in the market”. This is important because stocks have their ups and downs, but their prices tend to increase as time passes. This is a strategy known as dollar-cost averaging, which will average out the cost of share purchases in a period of time.

For as little as S$100 a month, you may start investing in DBS Invest-Saver as it allows you to buy an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) that mirrors the performance of the Singapore stock market or a bond ETF.

#2: CONSIDER REGULAR SHARES SAVINGS

One of the most affordable ways to get inside the Singapore Exchange (SGX) is through Regular Shares Savings (RSS) plans. RSS can be opened with the help of a local brokerage firm or bank.

The broker of the financial institution will invest a fixed amount of money every month based on your instructions or financial capabilities. For instance, you may choose to invest S$100 each month into the Straits Times Index (STI) Exchange Traded Fund (ETF).

Control is one of the best parts of RSS plans. If you wish to invest money in different companies each month, you may do so. If you wish to stop investing in a company each month, you may do so. Simply instruct your broker and adjust your monthly investments. Some financial institutions allow you to take control of your RSS plan through online platforms.

#3: APPLY FOR UNIT TRUSTS

If you prefer to have someone else control your investments then, you may choose to invest in unit trusts. Unit trusts work by collecting money from many investors. A professional fund manager will take this pool of money and grow it following a specific investment strategy. It is a collective investment, which is why you do not have personal control over the individual components of the investment portfolio.

A common misconception about investing thru unit trusts is that you do not need to do anything. This is not true! As an investor, you must do your research before deciding which unit trusts you wish to invest in. By doing your research, you will know that both DBS and OCBC unit trusts allow you to either invest a lump sum of S$1,000 or S$100 per month.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Good luck with your investment journey!

Sources:1 & 2

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