MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

Perfume Addict’s Guide to Saving Money on Fragrance in Singapore

I’m enchanted by luxury perfumes, with Apogée by Louis Vuitton, Miss Dior by Christian Dior, and Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel being my go-to daily scents. However, indulging in the latest fragrances can be expensive. Thankfully, with some smart strategies, you can keep your collection fresh and varied without breaking the bank!

Here’s a comprehensive guide to saving money on perfumes in Singapore.

SHOP DURING SPECIAL EVENTS

Singapore is known for its grand sales events, such as the Great Singapore Sale, Black Friday, and mid-year sales. These are prime times to score discounts on high-end perfumes. Keep an eye on the dates and prepare your wishlist in advance. Many stores also offer significant discounts during festive seasons like Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya.

USE ONLINE PLATFORMS

Online platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora often have competitive prices and frequent promotions. They also offer discount codes, flash sales, and bundle deals that can significantly reduce the cost of your favorite fragrances. Additionally, international websites like FragranceNet and Strawberrynet ship to Singapore and often feature lower prices compared to local retailers.

BUY DECANTS, SAMPLES, OR DUPES

Instead of splurging on full-sized bottles, consider purchasing decants or samples. These smaller quantities allow you to enjoy a variety of scents without committing to the high cost of a full bottle. You can also find local sellers on Carousell who offer authentic decants and samples.

I recently came across Zara dupes for expensive perfumes, including Zara Sublime Epoque for Armani My Way, Zara Red Temptation for Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540, and Zara Nude Bouquet for Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet. Moreover, you can check out Bath and Body Works’ Oh, Cherry Fine Fragrance Mist, a dupe for Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry, and Petal Parade Fine Fragrance Mist, a dupe for Carolina Herrera’s Good Girl.

EXPLORE DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

If you’re traveling, Changi Airport’s duty-free shops are a treasure trove for fragrance lovers. You can find exclusive deals on a wide range of perfumes, often at lower prices than in regular stores. Remember to check if there are any additional discounts for travelers or special offers available. I remember buying my husband a Coach perfume at the airport that was much cheaper than at Sephora!

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JOIN LOYALTY PROGRAMS

Many perfume retailers have loyalty programs that reward you with points for every purchase, which can later be redeemed for discounts or free products. Joining mailing lists can also be beneficial, as subscribers often receive exclusive offers, early access to sales, and special discounts.

VISIT DISCOUNT STORES

Discount stores and outlets, such as Mustafa Centre, often stock a wide range of perfumes at lower prices. While the selection might not include the latest releases, you can still find many popular and classic scents at a fraction of the cost. Usually, discount stores provide small testers that you can take home.

OPT FOR SECOND-HAND

Purchasing pre-loved perfumes can be a great way to save money. Platforms like Carousell allow individuals to sell their lightly used fragrances at reduced prices. Ensure the seller has good reviews and the perfume is well-maintained. This option is particularly useful if you’re looking to try a scent without the full retail price commitment.

ATTEND FRAGRANCE WORKSHOPS

Sometimes, fragrance brands and retailers host workshops and events where participants can create their own perfumes or receive samples. These events can be a fun way to discover new scents and often come with complimentary goodies or discounts on purchases made during the event.

SWAP YOUR FRAGRANCES

Joining online communities and forums dedicated to fragrance enthusiasts can open up opportunities for swapping perfumes. Platforms like Reddit’s r/fragrance and various Facebook groups allow you to exchange scents with others, providing a cost-effective way to explore new fragrances.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By leveraging these tips, you can enjoy a diverse and luxurious perfume collection without overspending. Happy scent hunting!

Latest WFH internships posted from 20 to 23 May 2024

Looking for opportunities in investor relations, software engineering, and more?

We’ve got the latest WFH internship openings just for you this week.

Take a look!

#1: Gem Comm Pte Ltd – Investor Relations Intern

Website: gem-comm.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 2,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Not specified.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with the marketing and creative teams to understand project requirements and objectives.
Research and explore AI-driven tools and technologies for social media asset creation.
Responsible for the analysis of a list of stocks/companies (clients’) allocated by management;
Use all sources available to formulate a view of the stocks under your assigned coverage. This would include resources within the company as well as other industry sources such as peers and customers, and external sources such as sell-side brokers and third-party research providers;
Publish regular (quarterly) reports on assigned companies;
Communicate your views to sell-side analysts and investors via written reports, voice mails, emails, and face-to-face meetings;
Host company meetings on companies on your list when appropriate;
Provide an industry update annually on the industries under your assigned coverage;
Work with C-suite clients regularly;
To help perform a range of analyses that will include industrial analysis, competitive analysis, and comparative valuation;
To perform competitive and cross-divisional analysis of the industry peers and monitor the other public disclosures, like the various presentations made at the investor seminars, conferences, etc;
Responsible for monitoring the earnings seasons and for developing and preparing investors/analysts related press releases of quarterly earnings;
Assists in developing the Q and A’s for the investor community communicates the key internal developments that have occurred in the organization and provides valuable information regarding the company’s strategies, its operations, and overall financial performance;
Reporting to the Head of Research and CEO;
Include other ad-hoc duties such as coordination with vendors, and clients if the Company deems necessary.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your resume to [email protected].

#2: Changi Airport Group (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. – Business Data Analyst Intern

Website: changiairport.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Business, Economics, or other relevant fields
Proficient in using Business Intelligent Tools (eg. Power BI, Tableau) and MS Office for data manipulation and analysis
Familiarity with SQL, and Python will be an advantage
Knowledge of data modeling, database technologies, and statistical concepts
Innovative approach and positive attitude in problem-solving
Analytical and detailed-oriented, comfortable working with large datasets
Good team player, ability to communicate and collaborate cross-functionally
Acumen/interest in consumerism trends and eCommerce developments

Key Responsibilities

REPORTING AND DASHBOARDING:

Support feature enhancements and optimization of dashboards to improve efficiency
Assist in dashboard refreshes and preparation of reports to monitor business performance and identify trends

AD-HOC ANALYSIS AND INSIGHTS GENERATION:

Perform ad-hoc data extraction and analysis to generate insights and uncover business opportunities
Apply innovation to maximize insights distilled from internal/external data that help with business strategy

DATA MANAGEMENT:

Support data cleaning and management efforts to improve data quality and usability
Support troubleshooting and maintenance of data pipelines and tools

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply for this position by emailing your text CV to [email protected].

#3: HubbedIn – Software Engineering Intern (Frontend / Backend)

Website: hubbedin.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Experience working with React.JS / Node.JS
Strong, logical mind. If you love solving logical puzzles, this may be a good fit.
Communication – people who speak up and have their own thoughts
Ownership and pride – having pride and ownership in shipping out good code and good products

Key Responsibilities

Write clean, scalable code with an understanding of best practices in mind
Write secure, scalable, and optimized code
Understanding and implementing micro-frontend / backend structure
Solve technical challenges through discussions and research
Develop software in the AI tools space for career seekers
Understand business requirements and work closely with the Product and Tech team
Take ownership of your code, as poor-quality products shipped to market harm the company’s reputation
Fix bugs to ship out quality products

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Agnes via this link.

#4: Ruder Finn Asia Pte Ltd – Communications Intern

Website: ruderfinnasia.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Degree and/or post-graduate degree in PR / Political Science / Media/Communication or equivalent;
Language skills: Fluency in English. Command of another language is considered a plus;
Knowledge and interest in Communications and Public Affairs is a must
Computer skills: MS Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel
Strong research and analytical skills
Excellent communication & writing skills
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and perform under tight deadlines

Key Responsibilities

Assist in writing and distributing pitch letters, news releases, backgrounders, fact sheets, bios, newsletters, reports, and other communications material.
Create and maintain media lists.
Handle routine media inquiries.
Monitor media to report coverage that affects the client’s business.
Develop relationships with the media to convey the client’s message
Proactively identify media opportunities.
Conduct research for existing clients and new business proposals.
Develop an understanding of the client’s business and handle basic research of the business and the industry to maintain a current knowledge base.
May coordinate specific events and promotions for the client under the guidance of a supervisor.
Assist in account administration duties such as billing and activity report

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply directly.

#5: Annabella Patisserie Trading Pte Ltd – Graphic Designer (For Disney Products)

Website: shop.abp.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Ability to create photos for all products
Photography skills to take product photos will be a plus (optional)
Videography skills to create short 15s-30s video ads will be a plus (optional)

Key Responsibilities

Photo editing skills using Canva
Graphic Vector design using Illustrator (good to have) Photoshop (good to have)
Making use of available resources from Freepik and Vecteezy (paid license) to re-create seasonable graphics

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Wei Wen via this link.

Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.

4 accommodations under $100/night in Vancouver, Canada, if you can free yourself up over the National Day break in August 2024

Let’s face it, travel can often come with a hefty price tag, especially when it comes to finding a place to stay.

Fear not, budget-savvy wanderers, for we’ve done our search to bring you four fabulous accommodations where you can rest your head for under $100/night right in Vancouver, Canada.

Double bedroom in a home located in Victoria-Fraserview (neighborhood)

Price: $84/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 8 to 12 August 2024

First up, we have this double bedroom nestled in the Victoria-Fraserview neighborhood.

Wake up to complimentary snacks and coffee, then step outside to explore the area’s dining options, from Western classics to Asian cuisines.

When you need to recharge, retreat to the spacious shared yard for some peaceful relaxation.

With a 5-minute walk to the bus stop, getting around the city couldn’t be easier.

Fuss-free bedroom in Punjabi Market (neighborhood)

Price: $93/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 11 to 15 August 2024

Or enjoy a fuss-free stay in the Punjabi Market neighborhood of Vancouver.

This private room in a quiet, convenient, and safe area is ideal for single travelers or couples.

You will be part of a bustling South Asian community, with mouthwatering Indian restaurants and specialty stores.

Just a short 5-minute walk to the train and bus stop, you can easily explore the city.

The spacious, fully-furnished room comes with a queen-size bed, writing desk, and closet.

Wash up in the large, shared bathroom with dual sinks, or access the full kitchen and living room.

Step outside to the back or front yard for some fresh air whenever you feel like it.

With the airport just 8km away and downtown 6km away, this is the ideal home-away-from-home.

Minimalist room in a shared house near Kensington Park

Price: $94/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 6 to 10 August 2024

Escape the hustle in this minimalist room near Kensington Park.

You will find yourself in a shared house, with a private space and a shared bathroom, kitchen, and living room.

It’s also a convenient 13-minute drive to Metrotown and the parking spot out front makes this rental room a bonus if you’re planning to rent a car.

When you’re ready to explore, Victoria Street’s famous restaurants are just steps away.

With over 50 reviews and a 4.9+ rating, you can certainly trust that you will be in good hands.

Clean & bright bedroom in an ethnically diverse neighborhood

Price: $99/night (for 2 persons)

Travel dates: 6 to 10 August 2024

Last but not least, you may want to enjoy a clean, bright bedroom in Sunset, an ethnically diverse neighborhood in Vancouver.

This top-rated Airbnb listing features a classy renovated home with fresh amenities, stylish decor, and access to a kitchen and living areas.

Great for friends traveling together, the private bedroom comes with two single beds and is just a 10-minute drive from the airport.

Ranked in the top 5% of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability, it’s your “Sunset Sanctuary” for your upcoming Canada trip.

These four wallet-friendly accommodations under $100/night are proof that you can tread through Vancouver without a financial hangover. So go and mark your calendar for August 2024, book your flights, and have a wonderful trip to come 🙂

5 teeth whitening strips under $50 to try if you want to do something about your unpleasant yellow-looking teeth

Want a sparkling smile but on a budget?

Allow us to introduce to you some teeth whitening strips under $50 that promise to banish those bothersome yellow tinges.

These options could be your ticket to a brighter, more inviting smile.

Ray of Smile Bright White Teeth Whitening Strips

Price: $26.51

Smile bright and feel confident with the Ray of Smile Teeth Whitening Strips.

This sensitivity-reduced formula targets both surface stains and deep-set discoloration, delivering a dazzling smile in just 3 easy steps.

Peel, apply, and reveal a whiter, brighter set, all while enjoying a burst of minty-fresh flavor that freshens your breath.

No more painful whitening treatments with a formula that tackles stains without sensitivity.

Achieve the radiant smile you deserve, and let your pearly whites shine.

ZIMBA Teeth Whitening Strips

Price: $30.38

Or get a professional-grade teeth whitening treatment from the comfort of your home with ZIMBA’s advanced whitening strips.

Formulated with a gentle, icy-fresh mint flavor, these chemical-free strips safely and effectively remove years of stains without irritating sensitive teeth.

The strips’ superior adhesion ensures an even, whiter smile in just 14 treatments.

Enamel-safe and painless, this natural teeth whitener is an easy way to brighten your grin and boost your confidence.

PERSMAX Bright White Teeth Whitening Strips

Price: $37.67

Achieve a brighter, whiter smile with the PERSMAX Bright White Teeth Whitening Strips.

Formulated with professional-grade whitening ingredients, these easy-to-use strips safely and effectively remove stubborn stains from coffee, tobacco, tea, wine, and more.

Just 30 minutes a day for 14 days is all it takes to see amazing results—your teeth will be shiny and white for 3-6 months!

Plus, the mild mint flavor makes the process pleasant.

Say goodbye to dull, discolored teeth for good.

Crest 3D Whitestrips

Promo Price: $41.36

Ditch the coffee stains and wine-colored teeth with Crest 3D Whitestrips.

These dentist-approved strips use the same enamel-safe whitening ingredients as professional treatments, but you can enjoy a comfortable at-home experience.

Just wear the strips for 30 minutes a day for 10 days and you may see visibly whiter teeth—no dentist visit required.

Over 63,000 Amazon customers have already given these Crest Vivid White strips glowing reviews, so you know you’re getting a reliable whitening solution.

Sheer White! Teeth Whitening Strips

Price: $49.66

Last but not least, we have these strips powered by proprietary SheerFilm Advanced Technology.

They use a potent yet gentle formula of Carbamide Peroxide to lift stains and reveal your whitest smile.

Simply wear the strips for 1 to 2 hours per day, and you will see your teeth brighten up to 5 shades whiter.

The fresh mint flavor makes for a pleasant whitening experience, and the convenient 5-day kit ensures you will have a flashy grin in no time.

With Sheer White!, you can achieve professional-level results in the comfort of your own home.

The teeth whitening strips we’ve explored above offer a convenient and cost-effective solution to lift your smile from dull to dazzling. Consistency is key and with regular use, you could probably see results. Say goodbye to yellowish hues and hello to pearly whites without dropping by the dentist too often 😉

How to Make Money with TikTok

If you’re eager to monetize your TikTok presence, there are several effective strategies you can explore. Whether you’re a dancer, singer, comedian, or any other type of content creator, TikTok offers numerous opportunities to generate income. Here’s how you can turn your TikTok passion into profit:

SELL YOUR OWN PRODUCTS

Selling your own products on TikTok is a fantastic way to monetize your content. Creators can design and sell merchandise to their loyal fans, with options including cosmetics, t-shirts, tote bags, pillowcases, hats, mugs, stickers, and notebooks through print-on-demand companies.

Beyond generating revenue, selling branded merchandise deepens your fans’ connection to your personal brand. Each follower who wears your merch becomes a walking advertisement, spreading the word about your business.

CREATE IN-FEED ADS

While TikTok offers many organic marketing opportunities, paid ads can significantly expand your reach. Using TikTok’s ad manager, you can create in-feed ads that appear in users’ “For You” feeds and autoplay.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Paid ads allow you to target audiences likely interested in your products, ensuring your content reaches the right people.

AFFILIATE PARTNERSHIPS

Affiliate marketing is another powerful way to make money on TikTok. Brands running affiliate campaigns can easily collaborate with willing creators. As a creator, you can promote products and earn a commission for every sale made through your unique affiliate link.

SELL ON TIKTOK SHOP

TikTok Shop is an excellent tool for in-app shopping, allowing users with business accounts to create shoppable videos and livestreams. By tagging products in your videos, you can naturally draw viewers’ attention to items you want to promote.

Adding product information and buy buttons to your content can drive traffic to your affiliate partners or your own online store. If you use Shopify, you can integrate it directly with TikTok Shop, enabling users to browse and purchase items without leaving the app.

ESTABLISH CROWDFUND PROJECTS

Crowdfunding is a great way to secure a regular income stream while engaging your audience. If you’re dedicating significant time and effort to your content, offering an easy, no-pressure way for your fans to support you can be very effective.

Use TikTok to rally your followers around a specific project by setting up a funding goal and hosting live fundraising events. Whether you need startup funds or support for ongoing projects, crowdfunding provides a flexible and accessible funding option.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By leveraging these strategies, you can effectively monetize your TikTok presence and turn your passion into a profitable venture. Happy creating!

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