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Makeup Addict’s Guide To Saving More Money

From all walks of life, makeup addicts are not afraid to widen their collection of beauty products. Fortunately, you do not have to spend too much to feel like a million bucks! Save money by employing these simple hacks below.

#1: EXPERIMENT WITH COLORS AND SHADES

Play the role of a beauty scientist without having to wear a lab gown by mixing your cosmetics. A YouTuber named Safiya Nyagaard explored the possibilities of fusing her nude lipsticks and her eye shadow palettes. It resulted to her favorite product – the Franken lipstick.

Without spending a cent on additional colors, you can achieve your dream products! Mix or melt a couple of your lipstick, eye shadow, and foundation together to create a new look. This will come in handy when you buy a product that you regret. For instance, I bought a “hot pink” lipstick recently. I bought it mainly due to its organic formulation. To make it more wearable, I layer it with a pinkish nude shade.

#2: USE YOUR BRUSH, NOT YOUR FINGERS

There is a reason why makeup artists have distinct brushes for specific purposes! For starters, using a brush allows you to precisely apply the product where you intend it to be. Furthermore, using fingers primarily may result to wastage of the product.

I have to admit that I am one of those people who find it easier to apply foundation using my fingers. I seem to control the blending better using this technique. However, I frequently have to wipe off a pea-sized amount with tissue. The seemingly small amounts add up!

#3: GIVE DRUGSTORE BRANDS A CHANCE

It is tempting to purchase the latest products available at Sephora, especially if you have a loyalty card. Constantly searching for high-end products can lead to overlooking the drugstore counterparts and its potential savings. Give drugstore products a fair chance!

A true makeup addict knows that the drugstore brands are stepping up their game as they launch quality collections with competitive formulas. You may notice that some drugstore brands collaborate with famous celebrities. Take a look at the neutral capsule created by Gigi Hadid for Maybelline.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Maybelline along with Wet n Wild, Essence, and L’oreal are some of the best drugstore brands out there. Do not be afraid to explore cheaper dupes of your favorite high-end products!

Sources: 1 & 2

4 Healthy Snacks Under S$10

To an utmost degree, balancing one’s personal life and dual careers is common in Singapore. Our busy schedules hinder us from preparing sophisticated meals. Thus, a good portion of the population rely on instant or ready-made snacks. Maintaining this routine can sacrifice your health for convenience. This should not always be the case!

Just because you are challenged with the elements of limited time and tight budget does not mean that you have to undermine the health benefits of snacks. Stock up on these affordable and healthy goodies for next time!

#1: GREEK YOGURT

As an early childhood educator, I realized that you can mask nutritious fruits and vegetables by incorporating them in familiar desserts. Picky eaters will be delighted to know that there is a healthier alternative to ice cream. Simply mix your favorite fruits with Greek yogurt and freeze it overnight. You may grab DAIRY FARMER’s natural Greek Yogurt (S$7.35) at Cold Storage.

What makes Greek yogurt nutritious is its low sugar and low lactose content. This means that people who suffer from lactose intolerance can eat this snack without qualms. Its benefits are mainly due to the meticulous straining process, which results to a thicker and a creamier product.

Do not confuse Greek yogurt with Greek-style yogurt! The latter usually contains gelatin, gum blends, stabilizers, preservatives, and other add-ons to achieve a thick product despite of having a quick straining process.

#2: DRIED MIXED FRUITS

Reality check, please! We live in a fast-paced city where the mere act of peeling or chopping fruits is seen as a tedious task. However, there is an alternative to snacking on bite-sized fresh fruits. Go to FairPrice to check out a variety of packed dried fruits such as the Harvest Fields’ Dried Mixed Fruits (S$3.35). Dried fruits come in many shapes and sizes. Some companies are even bold enough to experiment by adding delectable treats such as the chocolate-coated dried mangoes from the Philippines. It goes without saying that dried fruits have a huge audience to satisfy.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Dried mixed fruits has been proven to contain twice as many as antioxidants as fresh fruits. I am not suggesting that you eat an entire bowl of dried prunes or raisins. Keep the serving size in mind during consumption. To ensure that you can maximize its nutrient content, please check the ingredients before dumping several packs into your shopping basket. Steer away from added sugars and syrups.

#3: PEANUT BUTTER

Whether you want to believe it or not, research has shown that the Peanut Butter packs a macronutrient-punch! This sweet spread is rich in carbohydrates (e.g., fiber), protein, potassium, and fat. Let us move on to the “calorie bank”. It is important to note that 100 grams of Peanut Butter only contains 588 calories. I am sure that you will control your serving when snacking on this. A healthier option is unsalted peanut butter. The “Adams Unsalted Peanut Butter” is available for S$5.90 at FairPrice.

Watch your favorite TV series by snacking on whole grain crackers smeared with the said spread. Drop by the nearby FairPrice to know the difference between plain crackers and Munchy’s Wheat Cracker (S$2.30).

#4: BANANA

Banana is an ideal snack for active athletes, growing children, tireless employees, and hungry minions. Humor aside, banana is a tropical fruit containing high potassium, soluble fiber, and easily digestible simple sugars.

Presenting itself as a snack with the slightest effort to prepare, the banana has been known as the “happy fruit”. Why is this so? Banana increases serotonin levels to improve your mood. Serotonin is a brain neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. Possessing positive emotions can prevent the risk of emotional binge eating.

Fortunately for you, I stumbled upon an organic online store that offers some of the best prices in the country. A quick search to organicdelivery.sg will bring you to the Organic Thai bananas that costs S$3.75 per 500 grams. Browse to their site to choose among the wide varieties of organic fruits.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

3 Budget-Friendly Animal Cafes In Singapore

Best known for writing the “Supreme Philosophy of Man”, American author Alfred Montapert once expressed his ideals on animals. For him: “Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal. Difficult standards for people to live up to.”

How can we compete with non-judgmental creatures that seek companionship and empathy? As much as you want to surround yourselves with adorable pets, you may be restricted by the law. You have to follow the neighborhood pet guidelines mandated by the HDB. Furthermore, you may be excessively preoccupied with work or school that you do not have enough time to maintain one. A good alternative to satisfy your fondness for cats, dogs, or birds is to visit an animal cafe.

Animal cafes may have been a rising trend in Singapore but, it has been prevalent in other parts of the world for years. Let us take Japan as an example. You will not believe the wide variety of animal cafes in Japan! From exotic reptiles to heartwarming bunnies, store owners explore unconventional pet possibilities. These cafes were primarily built to ease the stress of the country’s hardworking citizens. Previous studies support the therapeutic effects of interacting with animals.

Whether you want to chill at a relaxing environment or to build new relationships, consider visiting any of these places.

OFUR PAW CAFE

If your happy place consists of giving unlimited belly rubs then, Ofur Paw Cafe is perfect for you.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city is a gem called Ofur Paw Cafe. It is a pleasant addition to the sprouting dog cafes in Singapore. How is this so? For starters, the establishment offers Do-It-Yourself pancakes (from S$6.90) for your pup. Let your creativity run wild using their red velvet, strawberry, and chocolate batters.

You will not leave with an empty stomach as they feature an array of Western fusion cuisine. Personally, I am into their Pacific Salmon (about S$16.80) and Truffle Mushroom Pasta (about S$14.80).

Location: 21 Lorong Kilat, Bukit Timah Sun Court, #01-03, Singapore 598123
Website: facebook.com/ofurpawcafe

THE CAT CAFE

Living in a bustling concrete city does not mean that we lack the presence of furry felines! Spend a meaningful day with your family as you drop by The Cat Cafe. Before any cuddling and bouncing commence, you may take a sip of their freshly brewed coffee or a bite of their freshly baked pastery.

What separates The Cat Cafe from other establishments is its entrance fee of S$15, which includes a complimentary drink. You read that right! You do not have to pay per hour just to interact or to feed the animals (i.e., feeding portion is scheduled throughout the day). Yogurt, Tuxedo, and their friends cannot wait to meet you!

Location: 241B Victoria Street, The Cat Cafe, Singapore 188030
Website: thecatcafe.sg

PAWS N PANS

The glistening charm of Paws n Pans (or Paws & Pans) roots from its inspiring advocacy to promote a sustainable change in pet ownership. Its first outlet at Joo Chiat Road was aimed to help homeless dogs to find a haven in Singapore. In addition to this, the establishment works with various Animal Welfare Groups (AWGs) to increase awareness on the rights of pets. As an animal lover, how can you not support this great cause?

Let us move on to the eclectic dining experience. This pooch cafe serves food that can both be consumed by humans and their pets. It creates an environment that allows you exchange conversations with your fellow dog-owners. Try their popcorn chicken, Thai tea, and other treats found here. You may host an intimate party for your beloved pet by renting a room at their three-storey space.

Image Credits:
facebook.com/pawsnpans

Your children, no matter how young, can come with you inside the cafe. What’s more? Admission is totally free!

Location: 327 Joo Chiat Road, Paws n Pans, Singapore 427584
Website: pawsnpans.com.sg

BONUS: If your budget is more lenient, you can enjoy a lively lunch with the parrots of Jurong Bird Park. Expect to enjoy colorful performances as you indulge on a hearty buffet. Prices are S$25 for adults and S$20 for children. These prices exclude the exclude park admission fees.

Those are some of the budget-friendly animal cafes in the country. Which one is your favorite? Feel free to leave a comment below! 🙂

Coolest Places For Friendly Hangouts In Singapore

Are you looking forward to spend quality time with your childhood friends or co-workers? With a budget of S$25 or less, here are some places that you may enjoy.

FOR THE FOOD ENTHUSIAST

Nothing beats a simple gathering that ignites your love for food. Taste the various flavors that Singapore hawker centres offer by hopping into different stalls. Catch up with your beloved friends while you dine at the best yet affordable eateries. Five of the most famous hawker centres include Chinatown Complex Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, Tiong Bahru Market Hawker Centre, and Chomp Chomp Food Centre.

FOR THE FEED-CONSCIOUS

Embrace the seemingly crucial part of the modern age by delighting your “Instagram model” friend with a visit to Haji Lane. You can expect to take vibrant photos as you are backed by graffiti walls and vintage boutiques. Immerse yourself with the eccentricity of the place as you go window-shopping with your friend. When you are done posing and strolling, you may grab an Eisky Fabulous “smooshie” (combines slushie and smoothie in a cup) for only S$3.50.

FOR THE FIT WARRIORS

One of the most beneficial exercises for your cardiovascular system is swimming. If you and your buddies are into cultivating your physical health, showcase your strokes at the public swimming complex. Said complex is less crowded than Adventure Cove. Furthermore, the entrance is way cheaper! The entrance is about S$1.50-2.00 for adults and S$0.80-1 for children.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Some of the top public swimming complexes include Jurong & Sengkang Swimming Complex.

FOR THE ANIMAL LOVERS

Singapore houses some of the world’s rarest turtles and tortoises in a convenient place. The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum lets you get up-close and personal with the Matamata, Snake Headed Turtle, and Alligator Snapping Turtle among others. Admission to museum is about S$5 and you can pay an additional dollar for bucket of animal food.

FOR THE TREE-HUGGERS

Although farms are a rare sight in Singapore, there are still some of them in the concrete jungle. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city is the Bollywood Veggies. Enjoy the 10-acre exploration of the floras and faunas to build appreciation about the food sources. It is a rejuvenating experience to stroll and dine at this haven on earth.

Image Credits: facebook.com/pg/BollywoodVeggies

Admission to the farm is amazingly free!

Sources: 1 & 2

5 Dollar-Pinching Strategies For Halloween

The spooktacular time of the year will grace our calendars once again. Halloween festivities is just around the corner. Are you ready? Many Singaporeans love this event and hate the price tags attached with it.

Let us be honest! It is easy to mindlessly toss some items into your cart until you reach the cashier. As you dig in your wallet for payment, you may regret some of your hefty purchases. Certainly…there is a better way to celebrate this eerie event!

1. DECORATE IT YOURSELF

What makes Halloween unique is its spooky aesthetics. For a flat or an establishment, you can expect to spend around S$100 to transform the it into a stellar space. This price includes fake spiderwebs, vibrant inflatables, dangling decorations, and other appropriate ornaments. Lower your expenses by purchasing decors at the dollar store or by making your own decors.

Drop by the nearest dollar or discount store to collect basic decorations and supplies. You may unleash your craft bug by revamping small ornaments into massive centerpieces or wall decor. For instance, you can create a lasting impression by pasting “monsters” on your door. Use thick and colorful papers to cut the face, nose, eyes, and mouth. Let your children help you when it comes to creating the silly-looking monsters!

2. SAVE ON COSTUMES

There are two primary ways to spend less on a Halloween costume. You can either raid other people’s wardrobes or use the items that you already have. The former tip highlights the common dilemma of parents – underused costumes. So, ask your friends and family members if they are willing to lend their previous costumes for free. Just ensure that you or your child will keep it in good condition throughout the day.

The latter tip focuses on your artistic prowess. Take a look at your children’s closets as well as your own. Key items such as hats, belts, scarves, and over-sized shirts may be used as funky costumes. Use this list to get an idea.

3. CHOOSE AN ALTERNATIVE

No Halloween celebration is complete without giving out tricks and treats. In the market, there is a wide variety of candies and chocolates that you an choose from. You must not pick out the biggest bag of assortments that you can buy! It is wiser to shop around. It is usually cheaper to go for fruity and hard candies than chocolates.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Furthermore, buying sweets in bulk is cheaper at Value Dollar or Daiso. Walk the ailes of these discounted shops with a set budget in mind. Know how much you are willing to spend and stick firmly by it. Other alternatives for sweets include stickers and glow-in-the-dark bracelets.

4. SCORE FREE ACTIVITIES

If your budget is too tight for hosting spooky parties and you want to immerse yourself with the festive spirit, search for no-cost activities within your community. You will not believe how many there are out there! Said parties are generally organized by community centers, schools, museums, and parks.

Start by finding events on the local newspaper or the Facebook pages. I found one by visiting the Asian Civilisations Museum’s page directly. On October 28, ACM shall host a “Horror Mash Up”. This is an annual event which includes activities and performances inspired by their galleries. Activities will run from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm while the museum operates until 12:00 midnight.

5. TEACH VALUABLE SKILLS

It is impossible that your kid will like everything inside his or her loot bag. There is bound to be some organic popcorn or sour gummy bears that your child may not be interested in. This is a good opportunity to learn the value of negotiation.

After they have accomplished the trick-or-treating, encourage your children to trade with each other (or with their friends). Swapping their sweets can help determine how much they value a particular candy or chocolate. Is a Snickers Candy Bar worth three fruity lollipops? See for yourself!

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

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