7 Tips to Stretch Your Dollar While Raising Kids & Fur-Kids Under One Roof

My late-night scroll led me to a video of a mom getting her two-year-old to train alongside her dogs. One of the pups has a history of biting, so she was teaching her daughter to be gentle while helping the dogs adjust to her presence. Parenting and pet parenting don’t come cheap, especially in Singapore.

Consider these no-fluff ways to stay financially sane while keeping your baby and pets happy.

#1: DITCH THE FANCY PET FOOD

You don’t need to splurge to give your pets healthy meals. Many premium pet food brands like Wellness Core and Taste of the Wild come in affordable “family pack” formats or generic equivalents with similar ingredients. Remember, look for real meat as the first ingredient and avoid meat by-products or corn.

#2: AVOID SPENDING ON PET FASHION

Yes, they look adorable in tiny tutus. But instead of splashing out on pet couture, invest in essentials like a durable collar, ID tag and comfortable leash. Your pet doesn’t care about trends, but your wallet will definitely feel it.

#3: GET INSURANCE FOR YOUR BABIES

Vet visits in Singapore can cost hundreds or even thousands. For instance, a single emergency surgery could set you back S$3,000 or more. So, consider pet insurance providers such as Happy Tails by AIA and Liberty Insurance. These insurance providers offer plans from S$24 per month with coverage up to S$10,000 per year.

The same goes for your baby. MediShield Life automatically covers Singaporean newborns. You can opt for a life insurance plan to protect your family if anything unexpected happens to you.

#4: DIY GROOMING AT HOME

Professional grooming can cost between S$50 and S$100 per session. With the right tools like a good brush, nail clippers and pet shampoo, grooming your pet at home becomes simple and affordable.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Tip: Flea-fighting shampoos with ingredients like tea tree oil, oatmeal or coconut extract provide a natural and effective boost.

#5: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GOVERNMENT BABY GRANTS

Take full advantage of Singapore’s Baby Bonus Scheme including cash gift, Child Development Account (CDA), and dollar-for-dollar matching up to S$15,000 (depending on the child’s birth order). Moreover, CDA funds can be used for preschool fees, medical expenses, and purchases from approved merchants like Watsons or Guardian.

#6: REVAMP YOUR HOUSEHOLD BUDGET

Children and pets bring along a range of new and ongoing expenses such as formula, nappies, vaccinations, checkups, grooming, and gear. It’s important to revisit your household budget regularly to reassess priorities, distinguish between essentials and non-essentials, and set clear financial goals. From baby enrichment classes and pet training to long-term tertiary education planning, there’s plenty to factor into your overall financial strategy.

#7: BUILD A MONEY BUFFER

Unexpected costs are bound to pop up. Whether it’s an emergency trip to the vet, a sudden medical bill, or replacing the stroller your toddler just destroyed mid-outing, having a safety net of three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved up can make a world of difference in keeping your finances stable and stress levels low.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Raising toddlers and pets in Singapore doesn’t have to come with financial stress. With smart planning and a few practical changes, you can give your kids and fur-kids the best things in life.

Sources: 1 ,2,3, & 4

6 vanilla-scented products from $10 to get for a vanilla fragrance fan

Know of someone who is a vanilla fragrance fan?

We’ve curated a list of vanilla-scented products from $10 to delight their senses.

From moisturizing hand creams to body & massage oils, these finds from Bath & Body Works will add a touch of vanilla to their everyday routine.

Vanilla Romance Hand Cream

Price: $10

First up, we have Bath & Body Works’ Vanilla Romance hand cream, a treat in a tube.

The fragrance bursts with creamy vanilla absolute, cardamom, and smoldering woods—igniting the senses like a love affair.

Its velvety texture is infused with shea butter and vitamin E.

Each application envelops skin in hydration, leaving hands soft and supple.

Dermatologist-tested and utterly addictive.

Cozy Vanilla Almond Gentle & Clean Foaming Hand Soap

Price: $15

Vanilla orchid.

Sugared almonds.

A whisper of sweet musk.

This hand soap is a gentle cleanse made with natural oils, vitamin E, shea, and aloe leaving hands soft and nourished.

The light foam lathers up quickly with its formula.

Lavender Vanilla Travel Size Ultimate Hydration Body Cream

Price: $15

This lavender vanilla body cream cocoons in 24-hour hydration and a heavenly aromatic haze.

Rich butters and oils like shea, cocoa, and vitamin E melt into a creamy formula that sinks in with a lavender vanilla fragrance that’s unbelievably dreamy.

No parabens or artificial dyes are added, just clean, dermatologist-tested ingredients.

Even the bottle gets an eco-conscious thumbs up with 82% recycled plastic.

Cinnamon Spiced Vanilla Single Wick Candle

Price: $30

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of sugar and spice wafting through the air—unless, of course, that spice comes from this cinnamon vanilla candle.

With notes of fresh cinnamon, sugar crystals, and Tahitian vanilla bean, this soy wax blend candle smells so warm you might mistake it for a fresh-baked treat.

Burning for up to 50 hours, this spiced vanilla candle creates an atmosphere so nostalgic you may never want to leave home.

So go ahead, light a wick, and chill.

Warm Vanilla Sugar Body Wash

Price: $31

This warm vanilla sugar body wash is a fragrance blend of creamy vanilla, white orchids, sugar crystals, fresh jasmine, and sandalwood’s sultry embrace.

Lush and velvety, like sinking into a plush cashmere blanket, this body wash melts away life’s stresses.

Yet its delights are guilt-free, infused with pro-vitamin B5 and soothing aloe to reward your skin.

Rose Vanilla Body and Massage Oil

Price: $37

Last but not least, prepare to swoon over this rose vanilla body and massage oil.

Inspired by romance, the floral and vanilla notes envelop you in a close-knit embrace.

It’s made using nourishing oils and butters—including rose essential oil, vitamin E, shea, and argan.

Quick-absorbing with a dry finish, the lightweight formula leaves no uncomfortable greasy residue.

Simply massage it in for long-lasting hydration, or use it to set the mood for a relaxing couple’s rubdown.

Cha-Ching! How Much Are SG Influencers Really Making?

Scrolling through Instagram, you might catch glimpses of influencers living the high life with luxury trips, designer wardrobes, and glamorous parties. But when a video surfaced of an influencer reportedly being paid six figures by a Dubai public figure just to attend a party (with a marriage proposal on the table, no less), it got me wondering: how much do SG influencers actually make?

The truth? It varies a lot. From casual product placements to full-blown brand campaigns, the price tag depends on follower count, engagement rates, and star power.

MONEY BREAKDOWN

In Singapore, influencer rates fluctuate widely, but here’s a general breakdown based on follower count:

A. Nano-Influencers (500-10,000 followers): S$10 to S$100 per post

B. Micro-Influencers (10,000-50,000 followers): S$100 to S$500 per post

C. Mid-Tier Influencers (50,000-100,000 followers): S$500 to S$5,000 per post

D. Macro-Influencers (100,000-500,000 followers): S$5,000 to S$10,000 per post

E. Mega-Influencers (500,000+ followers): S$10,000+ per post

While nano-influencers might only score a free meal or a couple of bucks for a sponsored post, macro- and mega-influencers have turned their personal brands into serious business. At the upper tier, these influencers can rake in tens of thousands of dollars for a single Instagram post or a polished TikTok video.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

OTHER REVENUE STREAMS

For influencers who play their cards right, the opportunities extend far beyond Instagram grids and TikTok trends. Many Singaporean influencers also earn from:

A. Brand Ambassadorships: Long-term collaborations that can pay out monthly retainers.

B. Event Appearances: Think red carpet gigs, product launches, or yes, even private parties.

C. TV Commercials & Media Campaigns: A more traditional (and lucrative) route.

D. Affiliate Marketing: Earning a commission for every sale driven through their unique links.

A Reddit thread even spilled the tea on how SG influencers leverage these platforms to pull in hefty paychecks, particularly those with sharp business acumen and a loyal fanbase.

IS IT ALL GLAMOUR?

Not quite. The influencer hustle isn’t just posing with the latest skincare drop. Successful influencers juggle content creation, audience engagement, and brand negotiations. Plus, the competition is fierce, especially in a small market like Singapore.

But for those who make it? The perks range from free designer goodies to eye-watering paydays. And while not everyone will be whisked off to Dubai for a lavish proposal, a well-crafted Instagram feed can still open the door to some seriously lucrative opportunities.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Just ask some of Singapore’s top influencers, such as Naomi Neo, JianHao Tan, and Andrea Chong, who’ve turned their digital personas into thriving businesses and brands!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

Here are the best-selling Korean toner pads from $28+ to try in 2025

If you’re a K-skincare fan, you would know that toner pads are an “in” thing.

It’s not hard to understand with their convenience and (almost) instant results.

Want to give them a try?

Here are some best-selling Korean toner pads from $28 making waves this year you can add to your skincare routine.

From Dermatory

Dermatory Salicinic Pore Clear Black Pad 70P Set (+Refill 70P)

Promo Price: $44+

Your pores are crying out for a deep-cleaning detox and it’s time to answer the call with Dermatory’s Salicinic Pore Clear Black Pad Set.

It has a pore-targeting essence formula to help unclog blackheads and purify your complexion for a better skin texture.

Great for acne-prone or sensitive types, the sebum-regulating botanical extracts work to minimize excess oil production.

Watch your pores shrink before your very eyes!

Dermatory Hypoallergenic Cica Gauze Pad 80P (+80P Refill)

Promo Price: $45+

If redness and irritation are all too familiar foes, this gentle jelly gauze is about to become your best friend.

These hypoallergenic pads are packed with a calming complex of 10,000 PPM cica, centella asiatica, and guaiazulene to help soothe angry skin.

Simply pat on to instantly quell inflammation and discomfort.

The soothing botanicals get to work calming redness and irritation.

Dryness, eczema flare-ups, or just plain sensitivity don’t get a chance to attack.

From Biodance

BIODANCE Vita Niacinamide Gel Toner Pad 60 Sheets

Promo Price: $33+

These BIODANCE Vita Niacinamide Gel Toner Pads are hydrating gel sheets saturated with niacinamide, a brightening ingredient that fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

It also contains pineapple water to treat skin with moisture with glutathione delivering an antioxidant boost.

Fruity pear and melon extracts join the party too in the container of 60 sheets.

BIODANCE Bio Collagen Gel Toner Pad 60P Set (+4P)

Promo Price: $28+

Are pores getting you down?

Then you need BIODANCE’s Bio Collagen Gel Toner Pads packed with low molecular collagen that sinks below surface level, boosting elasticity from the inside out to help tighten and smooth those stubborn pores.

Clinically shown to improve 7 signs of pore concern (size, density, number, volume, depth, overall volume, and surface roughness), these hydrating gel pads gently coat the skin with an essence enriched by BIODANCE’s proprietary Collagen Synergy blend – promoting collagen synthesis and connection to improve elasticity fundamentally.

From Medicube

Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 70P Refill Set

Promo Price: $49+

Medicube’s Zero Pore Pad 2.0 Refill Set contains dual-textured toner pads to get down to business on pores, using AHA fruit complex to exfoliate away dead cells and clear out dirt and debris.

A patented botanical blend helps control sebum production and tighten pores for a more radiant appearance.

Salicylic acid gives pores an extra deep clean while the hypoallergenic, hydrating formula pampers sensitive skin.

It’s a refreshing, irritation-free toning solution you need.

You can also consider this alternative for calming effects: Medicube Exosome Cica Calming Pad 100P (+Refill 100 sheets).

Latest WFH internships posted from 1 to 4 April 2025

Hope April’s been treating you well and not like a fool 😂

This week we have opportunities in PR, business risk services, and more so take a look through and send in your applications as you please.

Best of luck! 🤞

#1: Mutant Communications – Public Relations Intern (6 Months)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mutant Communications (@we.are.mutant)

Website: mutant.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

You are a recent graduate with a desire to launch a career in Public Relations.
You are able to commit to a minimum of 6 months as a full-time intern.
You’re ready to work with a bunch of cool clients in lifestyle, technology, and startups!
You have a killer command of the English language and can write like a boss!
You are a team player who is eager to learn, open to feedback, and not afraid to share your thoughts and ideas.
Most importantly, you’re a blast to be around, and love working with a tight-knit team!
You must be able to commit at least 6 months (Jul-Dec’25)

Key Responsibilities

You will communicate frequently with clients and the media, primarily through phone and email.
You will acquire the skills to write engaging articles, blogs, and other materials as necessary.
You will assist the team in monitoring various forms of media, such as newspapers, magazines, journals, broadcasts, newswires, social media sites, and blogs, to identify potential opportunities for clients.
You will be the primary point of contact for preparing client reports and participating in client meetings.
Researching, crafting, and disseminating press releases to specific media outlets are among your areas of expertise.
You’ll be promoting news stories and features to the media; collating, analyzing, and evaluating media coverage
You will be helping with event management, like press conferences, and promotional events, and making arrangements for studio or location photography.
You’ll learn about commissioning market research, creating targeted content for clients, and mastering the basics of managing social media.
You will gain experience in building professional relationships with clients, colleagues, and media contacts.

How to apply?

View the job post here and email your updated resume over to [email protected].

#2: Foo Kon Tan Services Pte Ltd – Business Risk Services Intern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Foo Kon Tan LLP (@fookontanllp)

Website: fookontan.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently pursuing a degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
Detail-oriented with a keen interest in audit and risk management

Key Responsibilities

Assist in understanding risks and internal control objectives of business processes.
Develop a general awareness of internal audit standards, corporate governance, and internal control frameworks.
Support in conducting interviews and walkthroughs to assess internal control designs and identify design gaps.
Assist in testing the operating effectiveness of internal controls.
Draft preliminary findings for assigned areas under guidance.

How to apply?

View the job post here and apply via this link.

#3: Koocester Group Pte Ltd – Livestreaming Intern

Website: koocester.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,050 monthly

Job Qualifications

Passion for live streaming, social media, or digital content creation.
Familiarity with social media platforms.
Basic knowledge of streaming tools (TikTok Shop) is a plus.
Strong communication skills and ability to engage an online audience.
Self-motivated, organized, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in planning, setting up, and executing live broadcasts.
Monitor live chats, engage with viewers, and moderate discussions to foster community interaction.
Collaborate with hosts, guests, and team members to ensure smooth streaming operations.
Edit and repurpose livestream content for social media platforms (e.g., clips, highlights).
Research trends in livestreaming (TikTok Live) to suggest innovative ideas.
Troubleshoot technical issues.

How to apply?

View the job post here and send your resume, a brief cover letter (or video pitch!), and links to any relevant content (e.g., past streams, social media profiles) to [email protected] with the subject line “Livestreaming Intern Application – [Your Name].

#4: Foodnews PR Pte Ltd – Public Relations Assistant

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SG 🇸🇬 Rebecca Seah (@rebeccaxseah)

Website: foodnews.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 monthly

Job Qualifications

Speak and write fluent English
Meticulous and an independent worker

Key Responsibilities

Writing of press releases
Disseminate and follow up with press releases
Manage all media-related materials
Media tracking (traditional and new media)
Events management (when required)
Organize media tastings and interviews
Prepare monthly/weekly media reports

How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Ivy via this link.

#5: Hubble Pte. Ltd. – Marketing Intern

Website: hubble.build

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Current student or recent graduate in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field
Creativity & storytelling — You enjoy crafting compelling narratives and engaging content
Digital marketing interest — Experience with social media, SEO, or performance marketing is a plus
Tech-savvy — Familiarity and working knowledge with tools like Canva, Figma, WordPress/Strapi, and HubSpot
Analytical thinking — Comfortable with data-driven decision-making and measuring campaign success
Self-starter — You’re independent, proactive, and eager to learn
Strong communication skills — both internally and externally with clients, partners, and more

Key Responsibilities

Content creation — Assist in writing blog posts, social media content, case studies, product marketing materials, videos, and more
Marketing campaigns — Help plan and execute marketing initiatives across multiple channels
Performance tracking — Use analytics tools to monitor campaign results and refine strategies
Website & App Store updates — Ensure content is accurate, fresh, and optimized for engagement
Sales & marketing collaterals — Develop brochures, EDMs, pitch decks, customer testimonials, success stories, etc.
Event coordination — Support planning and execution of events, roadshows, and industry engagement
Brand consistency — Ensure our messaging and visuals remain cohesive across all platforms
Ad-hoc marketing support — Work on special projects and new marketing experiments

How to apply?

View the job post here and apply via hubble.build/careers.

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