Illustration by Margaret Spengler, The Sacramento Bee

The Elizabeth Arden Warehouse will be opening its doors for almost two weeks in May.

Save the date: May 1 – 5, then 8 - 12

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: 3030 Nicholas Avenue, Roanoke

Contact: 983-6594 for more information

FYI: This sale isn’t just for women, there are plenty of fragrances and other accessories for men as well.

ETC: No one under the age of 16 is permitted and all sales are final.

Reminder: Mother’s Day is two weeks from today — don’t forget! Use all of the coupons and big sales this week to get Mom something special.

This week you could receive up to four coupon booklets: Smartsource, Redplum, P&G Brandsaver and Pepsi Co. Moments to Save.

At Kroger this week there are lots of new 10/$10 deals, including: avacados, Chef Boyardee, Hunt’s snack pudding, Sweet Baby Ray’s, Manwich, Country Time, Kool-Aid, Tang, Kroger fruit snacks and toaster treats, Vitaminwater, Smartwater, Armour LunchMakers, Rosarita beans, donut holes, Hunt’s tomatoes and paste, Barilla pasta, Progresso soup, bell peppers and more.
Also, when you buy 10 participating drink products (like Gatorade, Sobe, Lipton Green Tea or Propel) you’ll receive 5 more for free.

Looking for a Mother’s Day gift? Check out the Sears ad, where you’ll find a coupon good for an extra 15% off fine jewelry, clothing, intimates, accessories, fragrances, cosmetics, footwear, mattresses, home fashions, luggage, recliners, and rugs — lots of gift options! This coupon is valid through May 3.

At CVS this week you’ll get a free 8-pack of Bounty Basic paper towels when you spend $30 on participating P&G products. Combine this sale with the coupons from your P&G Brandsaver and you can really stock up!
CVS is also continuing it’s Free Spree this week with tons of BOGO deals.

Kohl’s is offering $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent now through May 3. Additionally, all seasonal tops and bottoms for the family are 45 to 60% off.

Does someone in your family need a new bike? Then don’t miss the ads for Toys R Us or Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Dick’s Sporting Goods will take $25 or $50 off any new bike purchase with the trade-in of any used bike. Plus, you’ll get $10 off any new bike or skate helmet by trading in a used helmet. All of the used bikes will be donated to Bikes for the World.

Toys R Us has all of their bikes $20 to $40 off.  There’s also a coupon available for 20% off any one regular priced baby item (good through May 5).

AC Moore has a few new coupons for you crafty readers.
*40% off any one regular priced item
*57% off custom framing
*50% off any one regular priced item (May 5 only)

Office Max has loads of buy one, get one 50% off deals on Office Max brand products this week. Participating products include file folders, electronics cleaning supplies, notepads, paper reams, binders, pens, mechanical pencils, highlighters, markers and erasers, rubber bands, staples and staplers, clips, tape, sticky notes, glue and more. Start stocking up for next fall!

When you make your weekly Walgreens visit, keep an eye out for their May coupon book. The book has over $405 in savings! Some of the best deals in the ad this week include Swiffer, Febreze and Mr. Clean household products are all 20% off and BOGO deals on Kleenex, Hershey’s, toys, Pantene, L’Oreal, Nivea, personal care items, and more.
AARP members will get a coupon good for $3 off their next visit when they spend $10 on Walgreens brand products.
Also, transfer your prescriptions to Walgreens andyou’ll get a free $25 Walgreens gift card with the coupon on page 13.

Kmart’s Shop Your Way Rewards deal this week is a free jar of Ragu pasta sauce and Barilla pasta with the purchase of 80% lean ground chuck.
Also, the retailer will be doubling manufacturer coupons up to $1 when you purchase $25 or more in grocery, beauty and health merchandise (limit 5 coupons per customer per day).

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Mother’s Day is coming up in a couple weeks, so get ready to do some shopping once you get your Sunday paper.

Next week you could receive up to four coupon booklets, prepare to start clipping!

At Kroger there will be lots of new 10/$10 deals, and a great deal on select drinks.

Sears will have a coupon to save you extra, even off of sale prices, on gifts for Mom.

Next week at CVS there are lots of opportunities to rack up on freebies — combine the BOGO deals with coupons for the best price.

Kohl’s is offering $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent now through May 3. Additionally, all seasonal tops and bottoms for the family are 45 to 60% off.

Does someone in your family need a new bike? Then don’t miss the ads for Toys R Us or Dick’s Sporting Goods.

AC Moore has a few new coupons for you crafty readers come Sunday.

Office Max has loads of BOGO deals on Office Max brand products next week.

When you make your weekly Walgreens visit, keep an eye out for their May coupon book. There is also a special deal for AARP members next week, and an enticing offer from the pharmacy.

Kmart has a new Shop Your Way Rewards deal next week, plus information about a promotion for doubling coupons.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

I’ve got a big batch of printable retail and restaurant coupons for you, and just in time for the weekend.

Know of any other great deals out there? Share them!

**Macy’s is having their Friends and Family Sale now through Monday (April 30). With this printable coupon you can get an extra 25% off regular, sale and clearance priced merchandise (10% off electronics, furniture, mattresses, and rugs). If you’re an online shopper, use the code FRIENDS at checkout for the same deal.
Exclusions include: Everyday Value, cosmetics, fragrances, TAG Heuer, Tempur-pedic, products offered by vendors (like Luis Vuitton), special orders, gift cards, gift wrap and gourmet foods. This offer can’t be combined with any other additional savings passes or coupons.

**Smokey Bones is offering $5 off a $15 purchase with this printable coupon now through April 29.
Exclusions include: alcohol, gift card purchases, Daily Lunch Specials, Party Packs and bulk to go orders.

**Dollar General is offering $5 off of a $25 purchase with this printable coupon on Saturday, April 28 only. Combine this coupon with manufacturer coupons for the best price!
Exclusions include: gift card purchases, phone cards, pre-paid VISA cards, prepaid wireless handsets, lottery tickets, Rug Doctor rentals and alcohol.

**Petsmart just released this printable coupon good for $25 off a $100 purchase now through April 29. If you have furry mouths to feed like I do, take advantage of this huge deal and stock up on food, toys and care accessories.
Exclusions include: gift cards, charitable donations and Banfield services.

**Staples is offering $5 off a purchase of $25 now through April 28 with this printable coupon.
Exclusions include: HP ink and toner, Epson ink and toner, self-serve copy and print, gift cards, postage stamps, and phone cards.

Kohl's opened in Hunting Hills Plaza last September. Photo by Jeanna Duerscherl, The Roanoke Times.

Last week when I heard that there’s a possibility of Ulta moving into Valley View Mall, I was ecstatic — Ulta has been high on my list of stores I’ve always hoped would find their way to Roanoke. The retailer specializes in beauty products for everyone’s price range. You can find Covergirl and Smashbox cosmetics in the same location, for example.

Roanoke and its surrounding areas have stepped up their retail and restaurant game in the past few years. We’ve seen Kohl’s, Chipotle, McAlister’s Deli, Coldwater Creek, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Chico’s and a few specialty stores such as Bare Escentuals and Oliveto all move in.

Of course, we’ve also suffered a few losses with the closing of Ukrop’s and Five Guys Burgers and Fries. And then there are those close calls, such as Whole Foods tempting us by checking out the old Ukrop’s location.

So, let’s take a look back at the list of desired stores and restaurants that came out of Roanoke city’s website myretailroanoke.com, which launched in 2007 and asked residents to vote on which retailers they’d most like to see in our area.

Topping that list was Kohl’s, which successfully opened in September 2011 in Hunting Hills Plaza. Behind Kohl’s, the top five chains residents were most eager to see included IKEA, Cheesecake Factory, Trader Joe’s, Chili’s Grill & Bar and Costco. Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, Banana Republic and Nordstrom rounded out the list.

Of those remaining items on the wish list, I’d love to see a Trader Joe’s, Chili’s, Pottery Barn and Banana Republic. I can imagine them being the most successful for our demographic.

 After hearing the news about Ulta, I went to the store’s website (www.ulta.com) and signed up for the rewards program. This may sound a little too eager, but the retailer routinely sends out coupons and special offers to members. I figure that by the time the new store opens I’ll have my first coupon waiting in my mailbox. You can bet I’d do the same for the other retailers above should they decide to make a home in our area.

It has now been five years since the survey on myretailroanoke.com (the website has since been disconnected). Is there anything you would change on the list? What does your wish list for the Roanoke Valley contain in 2012?

Regal Cinemas just posted this message on its Facebook page:

“ATTENTION MOVIE FANS: There’s currently an offer floating around Facebook for “Four Free Tickets.”

DO NOT CLICK the link!

It’s a scam to access your personal information. We are not affiliated with this in any way and have taken the necessary steps to alert Facebook. Please share this post and let your friends know!”

There are  tons of “free” offers floating around Facebook these days and unless they are associated with the company’s official website or Facebook page then they’re most likely a scam. The best way to find out is to get in touch with the company itself.

As always, think twice, or maybe three times, before sharing any personal information online.

Don’t forget to submit a photo of your mom for our special Mother’s Day Photo Contest byThursday!

Send us a digital copy of a photo showing off the special relationship between you and your mother here , and then check back Friday through May 3 to start voting for your favorites.

There are three chances to win gift cards to Kroger: third place will receive $200, second place will receive $300 and the grand prize winner will receive $1,000.

Good luck!

Unfortunately there are no coupons this week, but there are plenty of other goodies to look forward to.

At Kroger you’ll find Arnold and Brownberry bread buy one, get one free, Coca-Cola 2-liters 4/$5, Powerade for 59 cents, Rice A Roni and Pasta Roni for 88 cents,Yoplait yogurt 10/$6, Vitamin Water 10/$10, Green Giant vegetables 10/$10, Kroger breaded shrimp buy one, get one free, Del Monte Fruit Naturals 10/$10 and eggplant, green beans, and squash for 99 cents/lb.
There are also details about Free Medication Disposal Day, which is happening April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 4488 Electric Road location.

CVS is promoting tons of BOGO deals this week. A few of the products you can earn free after an additional purchase include Lay’s chips, Arizona tea, CVS allergy relief, Arm & Hammer laundry products, Mars chocolates, Gatorade, Sobe Lifewater and various cereals.
There are tons of opportunity to earn high value ExtraBucks throughout the store, and not just on individual products. There are many cases where you can buy a certain amount of various products (and various brands) and earn $4 to $10 in EB.

Kmart is doubling manufacturer coupons up to $1 all week. There’s a limit to 5 coupons per day per customer, and you must purchase $25 or more in grocery, beauty and health merchandise to qualify.

Sears is touting their lowest prices of the season on products throughout their store, and additionally you’ll receive a $5 coupon good toward your next purchase when you spend $35 or more (must be a Shop Your Way Rewards member).

The only crafty coupons you’ll be getting this week come from AC Moore, so don’t miss them!
The coupons include: 50% off custom framing and 50% off any regular priced item.

Select dresses and cardigans at Target are marked down to $18 this week, so you can get yourself a springy outfit for under $40.
There’s also information about how you can get $50 in coupons for Earth friendly products online by visiting target.com/earthday.

All day today at Kohl’s you’ll get an extra 15%, 20% or 30 % off your entire purchase when you use your Kohl’s charge.

Don’t overlook the full-page Office Max coupon, offering 20% off your entire purchase. There are a few exclusions, but the coupon applied to regular, sale and clearance priced items — so there’s an opportunity to save big here!

There’s a new Rack Room coupon today offering $10 off a purchase of $60 or more. This coupon can be used in combination with Rack Room’s everyday buy one, get one 50% off deal.

Fashion Bug has a big BOGO promotion this week, offering products throughout the store buy one, get one 60% off. This deal can also be combined with the coupon, offering $10 off a purchase of $25 or more (including sale prices).

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

You’ll get a break from clipping this week. There are no coupon inserts on the way.

Kroger has tons of deals for right around $1 next week, so prepare to stock up.
There are also details about Free Medication Disposal Day, which is coming up in a couple weeks.

CVS is promoting tons of BOGO deals next week, and opportunities to earn high amounts of ExtraBucks by mixing and matching products.

Save your coupons for Kmart , they’ll have a special promotion for doubling coupons beginning on Sunday.

Sears is touting their lowest prices of the season on products throughout their store next week, and you can earn a coupon for your next visit with select purchases

The only crafty coupons you’ll be getting this week come from AC Moore, so don’t miss them!

Target will have summer apparel for the family on special next week, plus a special promotion for Earth Day (hint: it involves more coupons!).

All day on Sunday you’ll get an extra discount at Kohl’s when you use your Kohl’s charge.

Office Max has a giant coupon — in more ways than one — available on Sunday.

There will also be a new Rack Room coupon.

If you’re in need of a few new outfits, check out Fashion Bug next week, where they’ll be having a big BOGO promotion.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

I’ve had great success at these sales. Read more here and here.

At the end of March, Food Lion released a new strategy for its stores that included lower prices, clutter-free aisles, a better selection of produce and improved customer service.

About the same time, MVP Savings Centers — kiosks where shoppers can scan their MVP cards and receive special offers — were introduced. Since then, all 65 Food Lion stores in Southwest Virginia have converted to the new system and each will eventually have a kiosk.

After giving folks a while to experience the new system, I asked shoppers to tell me what they thought. I wanted to know if they had noticed the big points Food Lion was trying to improve upon — lower prices on more than 6,000 items, fresher and cheaper produce, and a better in-store shopping experience (faster checkout, new carts and aisles with less clutter).

Many responses were in Food Lion’s favor, though there are a few shoppers who still are disappointed.

Blog reader Dennis wrote: “The Food Lion on Wildwood Road, Salem, is the closest store to me and I go there when I just need a quick something. I also shop their specials, and I often buy marked down meat at great prices there. That store is bright and clean and the employees there are exceptionally friendly! I really enjoy going there. Their ‘old’ regular prices weren’t that good, but I have seen a change for the better w/in the past two weeks.”

Reader Debi also likes the new changes. She wrote: “I’ve been an almost-exclusive Food Lion shopper since I moved to this apartment. I shop at the store next to Salem Theater. The staff are very friendly, even the new ones that don’t ‘know’ me. I do like the new coupon dispensing machine and check it every visit. I buy a lot of produce and I think the selection is fairly good.”

However, she also added, “The only complaint I have about the store I normally go to is the parking lot. It needs to be paved. I am afraid I am going to trip over the uneven surface.”

In the open letter Food Lion publicized as the changes were implemented mentioned brighter parking lots but not paving.

On the other end of the spectrum were readers who haven’t been swayed by the grocer’s new plan.

Blog reader Cali wrote: “Notice that their new ads don’t list prices for BOGO offers so you can’t price compare — and don’t list the regular price if you don’t use MVP card. Makes it impossible to determine if their ‘sale’ price is a good price or not. No transparency for these ‘lowered’ prices.”

Other John wasn’t inspired enough to change his usual shopping habits. He wrote: “If I have a choice, I’ll shop at Kroger, or Wal-Mart, first.”

Many commenters also mentioned other changes they’d like to see in stores, specifically doubled coupons and more self-checkout lanes (which are not available at all stores).

Christy Phillips-Brown, director of external communications and corporate communications of Delhaize America, Food Lion’s parent company, said that the company has no immediate plans to implement double coupons, but they are always planning and collecting feedback for the future.

She also noted that the coupons available from the MVP Savings Center cannot be stacked with manufacturer coupons. However, there are a variety of coupons available from the kiosks, such as dollar amounts off of produce purchases and savings on national and private-label brands.

Larry Cassels, Food Lion’s director of operations for Southwest Virginia, suggested shoppers stay tuned for more changes. “Stay in touch with the ads,” he said.

If you would like to tell Food Lion what you think of their new store strategy or make suggestions, Brown suggests shoppers call 800-210-9569 or visit www.foodlion.com/customerservice.

It sneaks up on everyone — Tax Day. The big day is tomorrow, but to help make it a little better many businesses are giving away goodies. Here’s the rundown.

*Arby’s will be giving away free value size curly fries with this printable coupon.

*All day Tuesday Sonic will have drinks and slushes for half price, no coupon necessary.

*Hooters locations will be offering 20 boneless wings for $9.99. Dine-in only.

I’ve seen where various McDonald’s will have a BOGO deal on sandwiches and there’s a possible deal at Papa John’s as well, but I’m still working on confirming those.

I’ll be updating this list through Tuesday. Leave any deals you come across in the comments section!

*Note: All of these deals are for participating locations only. Most are participating, but you might consider calling ahead.

It’s the Sunday after a holiday, which means you’ll start finding coupons again in your paper.

There are three versions of Smartsource coupons available today — and you may end up with more than one in your paper box this morning.

There are loads of crafty coupons up for grabs this week. Here’s what you’ve got in each ad:
Joann Fabric
*50% off any regular-priced item (good today through Thursday)
*50% off any regular-priced item (good Friday and Saturday)
* 60% off a custom framing order (today through Saturday)

Michaels
*40% off any regular-priced item (good today through Saturday)
*60% off a custom framing order (good today through Saturday)
*25% off your entire purchase of Celebrate It, Basic Narrows, Basic Basic, Sheer Creations, Home & More and Mega Ribbon (good today through Sunday)
*Michaels is also advertising its lowest prices of the season on tons of products.

A.C. Moore
*50% off any regular-priced item (good today through Saturday)

CVS is having a Free Spree this week, which means tons of merchandise is eligible for a BOGO deal. Some products are buy one, get one free, some are buy two, get one free and some are buy one, get one 50% off.
There are also a lot of opportunities to earn Extra Bucks, especially on beauty and hygiene products.
One of the biggest things to check out this week are the additional coupons in your CVS ad.
In the center of your ad you’ll find coupons for allergy medications and relief. Some of these are manufacturer coupons, but some are store coupons — which means you can combine them with other manufacturer coupons for more savings.

Shop Your Way Rewards Members can earn a dozen eggs for free this week when they purchase Tropicana orange juice and Bar-S bacon at Kmart. Remember to browse the winter clearance apparel as well, where some items are marked down as low as $1.99.

Seniors, mark your calendars for Tuesday, when you’ll get 15% off your entire purchase at Hamrick’s. The retailer will also have select merchandise 50% off throughout the store all week.

At Walgreens this week you still have the opportunity to earn a coupon good for $2 off when you buy $10 of Nice! products. You can also earn $5 in Register Rewards when you buy $15 or more of participating Garnier products.
Additionally, you’ll find another full page of food coupons that can be combined with manufacturer coupons in the store. Other store coupons are scattered throughout the ad.

Summer apparel is on special for the entire family at Target this week — everything from T’s to shorts to sandals, and most of it’s under $15.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Happy Friday! In addition to the weekend, you have something else to be happy about — the coupons will return on Sunday!

In addition to manufacturer coupons, there are loads of coupons for your favorite craft stores on the way. Joann Fabric, Michaels, and A.C. Moore will all have coupons available.

CVS is is having a Free Spree next week, which is just what it sounds like. Plus there are a lot of opportunities to earn Extra Bucks.
One of the biggest things to check out this week is the additional coupons in your CVS ad.

Shop Your Way Rewards Members have a new freebie available next week at Kmart, and there are some exceptional prices on winter clearance apparel.

Seniors, mark your calendars for Tuesday, when you’ll get a special deal at Hamrick’s.

Target is the place to go next week if you have a family that needs summery apparel.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Also, if you haven’t done so yet, please share your thoughts and experiences on the recent changes at Food Lion here.

The Salem Red Sox have a special deal for VWCC students, faculty and staff on Saturday (April 14).

Simply show up and show your ID and you’ll get into the 6 p.m. game for free.

Additionally, Virginia Western will have informational booths set up throughout the stadium providing information on registration and enrollment and summer camps.

If you can’t make the game this Saturday, all season long anyone with a VWCC ID will receive $1 off single-game tickets purchased at walk-up.

For more information about the VWCC and Red Sox connection, you can contact Tara Nepper at 857-6492 or tnepper@virginiawestern.edu.

UPDATE:

Congratulations to Jamie and Maria, the two winners of MAC gift packs.
Jamie said, “I’m with Jordan on the hair.. Looking back at my formal pictures, I look like I got my hair done by the women from Toddlers and Tiaras.. I would’ve been happier and richer if I’d just done it myself!”

Maria added, “I’ve been making shoe clips for awhile now. Its easy, and fairly inexpensive to customize them to go with all kinds of outfits, from formal to casual.”

It’s that time of year. Department stores are filled with beautiful gowns and the windows of tuxedo shops feature bright, spring-colored ties and vests. Prom season is here.

Not only can formals be expensive, but everyone also wants to stand out and make a statement — you never want to be seen wearing the same thing as someone else.

That’s where a little bit of do-it-yourself initiative can come in handy. With a few minor details, you can have a prom ensemble unlike any other and even save a little money.

Snazz your shoes

For many girls, shoes are just as important as the dress. If you don’t want to invest in another pair of formal shoes that may never get worn again, consider adding a little glitter to glam up a pair from your closet.

Mix Mod Podge and fine glitter of any color together in a disposable bowl and apply to the heel and/or exposed sole (not the part you walk on) of your shoes with a sponge brush. Once dry, apply a light coat of Mod Podge over the glitter to seal it.

When I tried this project, I was able to pick up all the supplies at Jo-Ann Fabric for about $5.80 (I had one 50 percent off coupon).

Also consider painting a pair of flats or heels with spray paint or fabric paint. Just fill the inside of your shoes with newspaper and wrap the heels in painting tape to keep them paint-free, and then spray the outside in long, even strokes. I wouldn’t suggest this method for shoes you expect to wear often, as the paint usually will crack where the shoes bend after a period of time.

Shoe clips are another easy way to liven up a pair of plain shoes.

I picked up a strip of stretchy gold sequined fabric for $3.11 and bias tape for $2.29 at Jo-Ann Fabric for this project. Just cut a 4-inch strip of fabric and glue it into a loop. Fold the loop in half and tie a strip of bias tape around the center to create the bow shape. Then attach the bows to small paper clips (you may want to wrap these in the bias tape as well if the bows don’t cover them completely) and slide the paper clips onto the back or toe of your shoes. This is an excellent temporary solution for shoes.

In the future, I probably would choose regular ribbon instead of bias tape for this project. Bias tape is more fragile than ribbon and more expensive.

Fabric flowers

Fresh-flower corsages and boutonnieres are big expenses that have a short shelf life. It also can be difficult to find just the right piece to match your look.

Fabric corsages are a great, long-lasting alternative. You can pick from a wide range of fabrics and colors for your flower pieces and add your own bits of flare (such as rhinestones or tulle) to make the piece even more personalized.

For my examples, I bought remnant pieces from Jo-Ann Fabric. These pieces are always marked down to 50 percent off their original price, so it only cost me about $3.70 for almost two yards of satin fabric. In the wedding section of craft stores, you should be able to find prefabricated wristlets for corsages (about $2), or you could attach your flowers to a bracelet or other elastic band. The boutonnieres can be pinned to a tuxedo lapel with a simple straight pin.

The process to make a flower is a bit complicated, so you can find the detailed directions for these corsages on the blog.

Hair and nail bling

Brooches and pins aren’t an everyday accessory for many young ladies these days, but attaching these items to hair clips can give them new life.

I picked up two pins from the clearance bin at Jo-Ann Fabric for $1.97 each and hot-glued them to hair clips I already owned. They also could be glued or pinned to a shiny belt, shoes or a necklace. Another great place to look for pins is antique malls and thrift shops; just be aware that not all of them will be so affordable.

You also can spice up the average manicure with bright colors and glittery polish. Instead of white tips with your French manicure, try a color that goes with your dress. Or try glittery tips that fade into your nail beds. By picking up a manicure kit at the drugstore — for as low as $5 — you can skip the salon price.

Another MAC giveaway!

What is your favorite DIY project for formalwear, or which of these are you dying to try?

Leave a comment belowand you’ll be entered to winone of two MAC makeup gift bags, including lipstick, lip gloss, eye shadow, nail polish and eyeliner.

I’ll choose two winners at random on April 16 at 10 a.m.

Have you noticed any changes at Food Lion? Photo by Travis Long, Raleigh News & Observer/MCT.

Recently Food Lion rolled out a new strategy that was to include cheaper prices and a concentration on produce and store brand products. You may have read about it on Amanda Codispoti’s Storefront blog.

Since then, in-store kiosks have also started popping up, offering shoppers coupons and other perks for scanning their MVP card upon arrival.

It’s been a couple weeks since the changes have started taking place, and I’d like to hear your experiences. Are the prices any cheaper? Do you notice more fresh produce? Have you ever actually tried the coupon kiosk?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Even if you missed the ACM Awards last week you can still enjoy the music of the nominees thanks to People.com.

Just head over here and you can download 8 free tracks. The music will be downloaded via iTunes, but don’t worry if you don’t have that program — it’s free too!

The available songs for download include:

The Band Perry: “All Your Life“
Scotty McCreery: “Walk In The Country“
Chris Young: “I Can Take It From There“
Eli Young Band: “Even If It Breaks Your Heart“
Montgomery Gentry: “Damn Baby“
Love and Theft: “Angel Eyes“
Brantley Gilbert: “Country Must Be Country Wide“
Hunter Hayes: “Wanted”

This offer expires on May 31.

Because today is a holiday you won’t find any coupons in your Sunday paper. Some of you might be happy to have a day to catch up on your clipping, we’ve had a lot of coupons lately!

Here’s some of what you will find:

There are some good frozen food specials at Target. Smart Ones are $1.89, and when you buy six you’ll get one free (there are also some printable coupons, and coupons from packaging out there if you keep an eye out). Lean Pockets are 5/$10.

Once again, Walgreens has tons of store coupons for kitchen and food merchandise (these can be combined with manufacturer coupons!). There are also some nice BOGO deals throughout the store, on brands like Nice!, Revlon, Werther’s, Neutrogena, Sally Hansen, Maybelline, Clairol, Roc, Eucerin, Aussie, Herbal Essences, Summer’s Eve, Tampax, and various vitamins and supplements.
When you buy $10 in Nice! products, you’ll get a coupon good for $2 off your next purchase.
If you have a prescription to transfer, use the coupon on page 9 and you’llget a free $25 gift card in return.

At CVS this week you’ll get a free 18-pack of Cottonelle when you spend $30 on select products. Participating products include Huggies, Hershey’s, Kleenex, Aleve, Claritin, Scott and more.
Once again this week there are tons of BOGO deals. Some participating brands include Organix, Nivea, Centrum, CVS brand, Eucerin, Almay, Always, Stayfree, and more.
In the grocery section you’ll find products that are usually 10/$10 marked down to 88 cents.

Pick up $20 worth of participating products at Kroger this week (most are grilling/cookout related) and you’ll save $5 instantly. Pick up $10 worth and you’ll save $2.
When you transfer a prescription right now, you’ll get $25 in free groceries.

The Dinner Meal Deal at Kmart for Shop Your Way Rewards members this week is free Ragu pasta sauce and Barilla pasta when you buy Oscar Mayer grilled chicken strips.
All week, the retailer will also be doubling manufacturer coupons up to $1 when you purchase $25 or more in grocery, beauty and health merchandise. There’s a limit to 5 coupons per customer per day.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Because Sunday is a holiday you won’t find any coupons in your paper. Enjoy the break from clipping!

Here are some hints about what you will find:

There are some good frozen food specials at Target next week.

Once again, Walgreens will have tons of store coupons, and there will be some nice BOGO deals throughout the store. Anyone who needs to transfer a prescription will also have the opportunity to be rewarded.

At CVS you’ll find lots of BOGO deals, plus a lot of deals under $1.

You’ll get instant savings at Kroger when you mix and match certain products, and there’s an incentive to transfer prescriptions here, too.

There’s a new Dinner Meal Deal at Kmart for Shop Your Way Rewards members next week, plus a new coupon promotion.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Jewelry. Lunchboxes. Storage containers. Makeup. Candles. Utensils.

Each of these is a popular product being sold at direct-sale home parties. Consultants from companies such as Thirty-One, Avon, Mary Kay, Stella & Dot, Pampered Chef, Tasteful Treasures, Scentsy and Tupperware have customers host parties and invite their friends for a few hours of in-home shopping.

As a reward for hosting a party each company offers the host various incentives, but is it really worth it? Generally, the host of a sale party is asked to provide food and drinks for the guests. Don’t forget the time it takes to clean before and after.

If the payoff is worth it for you, use these details, some of which change month to month, to decide which company might be right for you.

Mary Kay: These ladies and their pink cars are classics in this industry and a well-known name in makeup.

You have three reward options here. First, you could receive up to 20 percent in free Mary Kay products. Rewards begin at $200 sold, and without booking any additional parties you’ll automatically receive 10 percent of the party sales in products. The amount of freebies increases if one or more of your friends also agrees to book a party — 15 percent with one party booked and 20 percent with two parties booked.

The second option is $75 worth of Mary Kay products for a reduced price of $35. You can earn this reward just by booking the party, so the amount of sales isn’t as important. The third option varies by independent consultants who may arrange their own promotions.

Pampered Chef: For foodies, Pampered Chef is a good option. The company offers high-end and unusual kitchen accessories.

Consultants can provide hosts with a cooking show, which features the consultant demonstrating some of the tools while preparing a recipe for guests (the host must supply recipe ingredients), or a catalog show, which just features the products available for purchase.

What’s offered to hosts is a percentage of the total party’s sales in free products, half-price and discounted products, 10 percent off purchases for a year and free shipping.

There’s also a special deal each month available to hosts. The host of a cooking show that has $600 in sales will receive $115 in free products, two half-price items, a 25 percent discount and free shipping, in addition to the 10 percent discount and free shipping for a year, according to the website. The free product values for hosts of a cooking show are higher than those of a catalog show. Rewards begin at $150 in sales.

Tasteful Treasures: These parties for adults only offer 10 percent of the total sales back to the host.

Thirty One: This maker of purses, lunchboxes, travel bags and more offers various levels of rewards to hosts, similar to the Pampered Chef system.

Hosts earn a percentage of the sales back in free merchandise, plus a certain number of half-price items. For example, if your party totals $200 in sales, you will receive $25 in free merchandise, one half-price item and one hostess exclusive item at a discount. Half-price items also include half-price embroidery. Rewards begin at $200 sold.

Scentsy: This line of fragrant waxes, air fresheners and warmers offers 10 percent to 15 percent of the party’s sales back to the host in free merchandise, plus various levels of half-price items. The rewards begin at $150 in sales. There are also additional perks if any of your party guests book their own party.

Tupperware: Another classic name for at-home-parties, Tupperware offers plastic storage containers and kitchen accessories. There are two reward options for hosts.

One option has three levels of rewards: 10 percent, 15 percent or 20 percent of the party’s sales in free merchandise, plus one to three half-price products. Rewards begin at $250 sold. You’ll also get additional offers when your guests book their own parties.

The other reward option changes each month, offering seasonal deals for booking a party and meeting certain qualifications.

Stella & Dot: The trunk shows by this line of accessories, mostly jewelry and handbags, reward the host in three different levels: 15 percent, 20 percent or 25 percent of the total sale in free merchandise, plus two, three or four half-price items. Rewards begin at $300 sold.

According to their website, the average host earns $250 in free merchandise and four half-off items. There are possible additional costs involved if you choose to have the consultant, or “stylist” in this case, send out party invitations for you.

There are tons of other direct-sale options to choose from, but these are some of the most popular in our area. The parties can prove to be a good time to gather with friends, but don’t get carried away with the idea that you’ll have big earnings. Also, try not to pressure any friends, family or coworkers into making purchases, which can be a big turnoff.

It’s best to plan your party during a slow month and when you know your friends won’t be throwing one of their own.

Have you thrown successful direct-sale parties? Share your tips in the comments section.

It’s been a while since I’ve compiled a good list of printable deals for you, but today I’ve found quite a few. Check them out!

Use this coupon at Hardee’s next time you buy buffalo chicken tenders and you’ll get a free small order of fries and a drink. This coupon is good through April 20.

Gymboree Rewards Members can use this coupon for 20% off everything in the store, even sale items. This coupon is good through April 8 and can also be used online.

If you’re planning a trip to Macy’s today or tomorrow be sure to take this coupon, which will get you $10 off a sale or clearance purchase of $25 or more. Some home items are even eligible for this deal! This coupon is good until April 4 at 1 p.m., so go now!

If you just can’t get enough ice cream (today is Ben & Jerry’s free cone day) then use this coupon at Baskin Robbins and when you buy one cone you’ll get one free. This coupon is good through April 6.

If your child has always wanted to visit Build-A-Bear, take advantage of this coupon offering $5 off of a purchase of $25 or more. This coupon is good through April 8.

On Old Navy’s Facebook page you can access a coupon now offering $10 off a $50 purchase. This deal is good through April 12.

Bath & Body Works has a great promotion going on. When you buy three body care products you’ll get three free, and you can mix and match. What makes this even better is that there’s no coupon necessary!

Know of any other deals I missed? Share them!

For the entire month of April Subway is offering 6-inch subs buy 1, get 1 free when you order before 9 a.m. You can mix and match breakfast and lunch items on the menu.

Combine this with April’s $5 footlong deal, a bacon, egg and cheese flatbread sub, and you’ve got a cheap couple meals!

This promotion is only good at participating locations. I can imagine most will be participating, but it doesn’t hurt to call your preferred restaurant and checking before venturing out.

For more information, click here.

Tomorrow, April 3, is Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s. Stop by your local shop (Roanoke and NRV are participating) between noon and 8 p.m. and you can pick up a free cup or cone of your favorite flavor.

The classic ice cream flavors, sorbet, and the company’s new frozen Greek yogurt will all be available.

What flavor do you plan on enjoying? Search for the Ben & Jerry’s closest to you by clicking here.

It’s the Sunday before a major holiday — you know what that means? Coupons!

You can find up to three coupon booklets in the paper today: Redplum, P&G Brandsaver and Smartsource.

In addition to these manufacturer coupons, tons of retailers have coupons of their own. Here are a few of the best, and other sales to look out for.

Smokey Bones has three coupons available, but one you’ll have to hang on to for a while. That’s ok! It just means you can afford to treat yourself down the road.
*$10 off a $20 purchase (good today through April 18)
*$10 off a $20 purchase (good April 19 through May 5)
*Free 4 wing sampler (good today through May 5, can’t be combined with other coupons)

Belk’s Easter Sale is offering 40% off kids dress and summer apparel, and 30 to 50% off dresses for women and juniors. Dress apparel for men is 40 to 50% off. Additionally, there’s a coupon good for an extra 15% off sale and clearance purchases (10% off home and shoes, or 20% off fine jewelry) today through Tuesday.

At the Sears Easter Sale you’ll find similar deals. Dresswear for kids is 55% off, dresswear for women and juniors is 40 to 50% off, and dresswear for men is 40 to 60% off. You can also get an extra 15% off clothing, intimates, women’s and kid’s footwear, accessories, fragrances and cosmetics with the ad’s coupon, which is good through Thursday.

Kohl’s has doorbusters all day today for their Easter Sale. Apparel, jewelry, shoes, and home goods are all included in the sale. There will also be other bonus buys today through Tuesday, so get out before Tuesday if you can’t go today! There are no coupons necessary for any of these deals.

CVS has some awesome deals this week thanks to BOGO and Extrabucks promotions.
Some of the BOGO free offers include: Cadbury eggs, L’eggs, Schick disposable razors, Oral-B toothbrushes and floss, Colgate Total, Infusium 23, various hair accessories, Whitman’s and Russel Stover chocolates, various vitamins and supplements and As Seen on TV products.
Even more merchandise is buy one, get one 50% off.
Some of the best Extrabucks offers can be achieved by purchasing Purina and Pedigree dog treats, iTunes and Visa gift cards, ThermaCare, M&Ms, Revlon cosmetics and Allegra.
Be sure you scan your card at the coupon center if you’re making any Easter purchases. You’ll be rewarded with a coupon good for $2 off any $10 Easter purchase — but this offer is only good today through Wednesday.

Walgreens has tons of store coupons that can be combined with manufacturer coupons this week. One of the best coupons offers five Coca-cola product 12-packs for $14.
AARP members can get a coupon good for $5 off when they spend $20 or more. Just show your card at checkout and you can use the coupon on your next visit.
Additionally, tons of popular beauty and hygiene brands are buy one, get one 50% off. Some familiar names participating include Head & Shoulders, Pantene, Gillette, Secret, Olay, Almay, No Nonsense, L’Oreal, Revlon and Nivea.

Toys R Us is offering a free reusable tote with any Easter purchase of $20 or more this week. On top of that, there are tons of BOGO deals available.
Products by LEGO, K’Nex, Mega Bloks, Totally Me!, American Girl, Project Runway, Melissa & Doug, Bratz, Star Wars and more are all buy one, get one 50% off.
All video games, movies and CDs are buy one, get one 40% off.
Hidden on page 9 is a coupon good for $5 off any formula purchase of $50 or more.

Michaels has tons of merchandise on sale this week, plus loads of coupons. Here’s a rundown:
*50% off any regular priced item (good Friday, April 6 only)
*30% off your entire regular priced purchase (good Saturday, April 7 only)
*50% off any regular priced item (good today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. only)
*20% off your entire purchase, including sale items (good today from 4 to 7 p.m. only)
*40% off any regular priced item (good Monday through Thursday only)
*An additional 10% off any custom framing order
*25% off your entire purchase of regular and sale priced wall and tabletop frames, framed art and display cases

A.C. Moore also has a ton of sale items and coupons this week. Here are the details:
*25% off total regular priced purchase (Friday only)
*50% off any regular priced item (today only)
*40% off any regular priced item (good Monday through Thursday)
*55% off any regular priced item (good Saturday only)
*50% off any regular priced item (good April 9 through April 14)
*60% off + $10 off a custom framing order

Rack Room Shoes has a new coupon good for $10 off a purchase of $60 or more. As usual, combine the coupon with sale prices and their usual buy one, get one 50% off deal for the biggest savings.

Dick’s Sporting Goods has a coupon available this week offering $15 off any pair of athletic footwear purchase of $59.99 or more.
Additionally, their oversized armchairs (the kind that folds up into a bag) are buy one, get one free. These are great for tailgating and sporting events, so stock up now!

If you’re itching to do some early Father’s Day shopping, check out the  Northern Tool + Equipment ad. When you purchase a DeWalt power tool, you have the choice of a $50 rebate or a free tool (5 choices available). This offer ends April 30.

Shoe Carnival is having a Spring Sale where you’ll find most shoes buy one, get one 50% off. There are also two coupons available: $5 off a purchase of $39.98 or more, and $15 off a purchase of $74.98 or more.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.