Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2022-11-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Thanksgiving is only a few days away, and that means last-minute menu planning and trips to the grocery store. While many consumers may be focused on ordering the perfect turkey, is that really what guests want? In its inaugural State of the Sides report, Campbell’s^® discovered that 66% of Americans prefer sides to their holiday entrée. From top side dishes to must-try recipes and flavors, the trends report sets out to find common holiday food preferences and some of the results may surprise you.

1. Americans are not skimping on sides

This holiday season, consumers are shopping more consciously with their wallets in mind. According to the survey, 69% of respondents plan to buy the same or smaller size turkey, with 52% of those planning to go smaller to save money.

One area in which Americans are not cutting costs on their holiday table is the sides. The results show that 90% of consumers plan to serve the same number or more sides this season. Also, more than half plan to buy the best brands when cooking their holiday meal to ensure quality for the special occasion.

2. Popular holiday sides

When it comes to selecting sides to serve at holiday meals, some dishes are more popular than others. The survey found that the top five most popular holiday side dishes include: mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing and mac and cheese.

By state, two carb-filled sides reign as the clear frontrunners for top side: mashed potatoes or stuffing. While most states have a clear preference for one or the other, Massachusetts is the only state in which folks are evenly split on the topic. If you plan to visit family in Massachusetts, make sure to prepare both so everyone can enjoy!

3. Traditions can be tweaked

While those five classic side dishes remain popular, many people are looking to put a twist on traditional Thanksgiving recipes. In fact, 54% of consumers plan to try new recipes this season.

One popular flavor trend consumers are interested incorporating into their holiday meals is spiciness. For example, a Jacked Up Mac & Cheese adds the super-spicy jalapeno flavor to everyone’s favorite comfort food.

If you’re looking to take your holiday meal to the next level, consider trying something new, like this Hot Honey Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe. This update to the classic sweet potato dish is sure to excite your holiday guests.

4. You’re going to need a bigger plate

If you’re frustrated about not having enough space on your plate for all your holiday dishes, you’re not alone. The nationwide survey revealed that 73% of respondents complained about running out of space on their plates for all their sides.

Some people may even skip turkey to make more room for their favorite dishes, noting half of the United States would be content with only sides on their holiday plate.

5. Thanksgiving lunch or dinner?

While it’s commonly referred to as Thanksgiving dinner, most people actually eat a Thanksgiving lunch. According to the survey, the most popular time to eat a holiday meal is between noon and 3 p.m. Not only does this provide a more casual, relaxed ambiance for your meal, but it also means that there’s plenty of time for people to recover before going back for seconds!

While making your Thanksgiving meal shopping list, keep these five meal trends in mind. Even small tweaks to your usual holiday meal planning can make this year the best gathering yet.

To see the full Campbell’s^® State of the Sides report and find recipes for your Thanksgiving meal, visit SidesSeason.com.

2022-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Do you suffer from itchy eyes, a runny nose or a scratchy throat during winter? Do you often find yourself coughing, sneezing and having trouble breathing? Chances are you may have indoor allergies.

Allergens are not just found outside in trees or grass. The indoors can host many allergy triggers like mold related to water leaks, pet allergens, and dust mite and cockroach allergens.

Indoor allergies are a year-round problem, but you’ll notice them more during the winter because you spend more time at home. Also, because of the colder weather, you’re likely keeping doors and windows shut to keep the cold out. By doing that, you’re also sealing allergens indoors with you, and your heating system will recirculate the indoor air and any allergy triggers.

You don’t have to accept indoor allergies as an inevitable fact of the winter season. Using these five tips from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), you can be proactive and manage your winter allergies.

1. Clean regularly

It may seem like a simple solution, but cleaning house is one of the easiest ways to deal with indoor winter allergies. Dust, mold, pet dander and dust mite and cockroach droppings can hide anywhere and cause sneezing, coughing and congestion.

To limit your exposure to these indoor allergens, keep a regular cleaning schedule. Dust and vacuum frequently, especially under and behind furniture, where allergens can easily build up. Wipe down counters and other surfaces that you use often. During the holidays, wipe off holiday decorations, especially if you’ve stored them in areas where dust and mold proliferate.

2. Reduce pet allergy triggers

It can be difficult to balance your love for your pets and indoor allergy management. Just like you, your pets are spending more time indoors, increasing your exposure to pet dander and saliva.

While you may enjoy snuggling with your pets before bed, keeping them out of the bedroom will help with any allergies you experience at night that can disrupt your sleep. During the day, keep the door to your bedroom closed, so your furry family members aren’t tempted to go in.

When petting your cat or dog, make sure to wash your hands afterward, so you don’t accidentally touch your face and provoke an allergic reaction. Finally, remember to groom your pets regularly to reduce indoor air allergens.

3. Protect your bedding from dust mites

According to the ACAAI, dust mites live and multiply in warm, humid places and are often found in pillows, mattresses, carpeting and upholstered furniture. Even if your home is visibly clean, dust mite allergen particles are too small to be seen.

Use mite-proof zippered cases for your mattress and pillows to limit your exposure to dust mites. Every week, wash and change your sheets, blankets and other bedding in hot water to eliminate any lingering dust mite droppings.

4. Find and prevent indoor mold

Did you know that there are roughly 1,000 species of mold in the U.S.? Many molds aren’t visible to the naked eye, and mold spores can cause allergic reactions when they become airborne. Because mold can grow in your basement, bathroom and under the sink, avoiding mold allergens can be difficult.

If you suspect you have indoor mold, it’s best to contact a professional who can find and clean up existing mold in your home. To prevent mold related to water leaks, quickly stop and clean up any standing water. Also, make sure to reduce moisture and humidity in bathrooms and kitchens. If humidity control is a problem, consider a dehumidifier.

5. Find an allergist

Consulting an allergist is the best way to identify and treat your winter indoor allergies.

“Allergists are the best trained medical professionals to treat allergies and asthma,” said Kathleen May, M.D., ACAAI president. “They can help you get tested, get treated and get better so you can enjoy the holiday season and beyond.”

After a consultation, your allergist may perform tests to diagnose your allergies and identify potential causes. An allergist can also prescribe a variety of treatments to give you relief from your allergic symptoms.

Using these five tips, you can better manage your indoor allergies this winter so you can enjoy the cozy colder months without suffering from allergies. To learn more about indoor allergies and find an allergist, visit ACAAI.org/Locate-An-Allergist.

2022-11-17T10:01:00

(BPT) – Each phase of life provides an opportunity to find new things that provide a sense of purpose, activities that get us up in the morning and bring fulfillment. Beyond the feeling, there is mounting evidence that shows a higher sense of purpose in life is associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions.

Intentionally fostering a sense of purpose is especially important as we age and the things that once kept us going no longer require our attention, like a job or raising children. Fortunately, many things can deliver a sense of purpose, and they don’t need to be exotic or extravagant. They need only capture your interest and keep you motivated, giving you an extra push to overcome any obstacle that might arise. With the results of a recent national AARP Services survey as inspiration, here are five ways to do just that. Your AARP member benefits give you access to products and services that you can use to foster your purpose.

1. Pursue a Passion for Food

There’s a saying, “Some eat to live, others live to eat.” According to AARP Services research, 73% of surveyed individuals agree that a good meal makes life worth living. Fortunately, with more time comes more opportunity to try out new restaurants or recipes, so explore the local dining scene, take a cooking class or use a new cookbook.

To ensure you are able to enjoy those delicious meals, keep your mouth healthy with frequent brushing and flossing, and by visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. AARP members have access to Dental Insurance Options that help make it easier to maintain good dental health with individual or family coverage for the most common dental procedures.

2. Discover Who You Are

Becoming a grandparent and watching your family grow is an exciting life change. As you sprout new branches on the family tree, you might be inspired to learn more about your roots through genealogy research.

Ancestry provides a great resource to access records and online tools to search, save and share family history. AARP members save 30% on the first year of an All Access or a World Explorer subscription. If you’re new to Ancestry, you’ll receive the discount on the first year of your subscription only. If you already have an account, you’ll receive the discount when you renew your subscription for a year.

3. Find New Outlets for Fun

Retirement can mean the freedom to find new sources of fun. Most people over 50 agree that it is time well spent. Only 24% of those surveyed felt that spending money on fun is frivolous. It is, after all, a great way to relieve stress, boost mental health and renew your sense of purpose.

Why not pursue a passion for live entertainment? Enjoy a local concert or a trip to the theater with your friends or family members. AARP members save on tickets to select shows and events through Ticketmaster. Offers include 2-for-1 tickets, Me + 3 (4-packs) and events with select tickets under $40. (Conditions apply.)

To make sure you don’t miss a minute of the performance, get your hearing checked by taking advantage of AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing. AARP members can save 20% on hearing aids and 15% on accessories, plus receive a hearing test at no cost and personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers.

4. See the World

Travel is a popular pursuit as we age. Crossing new destinations off your list is a rewarding endeavor, especially as many are eager to try something new, with 67% of those 50+ agreeing that new experiences are important. AARP members save $50 per person on select river cruises with Collette. Destinations include the fjords of Norway, China’s Yangtze River and the Nile River in Egypt.

Traveling by land more your speed? AARP members save 5% on worldwide rail vacations, tours and select train tickets in the U.S., Canada, Europe and beyond with Vacations by Rail. Itineraries include the Canadian Rockies, America’s National Parks & Monuments and many more.

Traveling and being on the go doesn’t mean you have to fall behind on prescriptions. AARP^® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx^® gives you access to a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on all FDA-approved medications. If you’re an AARP member, you can receive additional benefits such as deeper discounts and home delivery, so you can save time while packing or traveling.

5. Take Care (of Others)

Just because your children are grown doesn’t mean your days of caring for others are over. Most people (89%) consider taking care of family to be a priority and there are myriad ways to do that. Offering support, whether it’s babysitting, picking up from school or running errands, is generally appreciated and provides a significant sense of purpose.

Taking care of family also means ensuring the unexpected doesn’t become their responsibility. Fortunately, long-term care options can help protect your assets and lifestyle. You can access customized solutions that can help address your specific needs and budget.

You can also flex your caregiving muscles with a four-legged family member. Pets are lovable and fun and help boost your mood and keep you active. Making sure they’re healthy, happy and fed instills a great sense of purpose, and pet insurance can make caring for them easier and more affordable. With Fetch by The Dodo Pet Insurance, AARP members save up to 10% on monthly premiums for the lifetime of their pet’s policy. Plans can cover qualifying care, treatments and procedures at any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. and Canada.

As we age, our purpose doesn’t disappear; it simply changes. Consider it an opportunity to expand your horizons and try something new. Whether it’s a hobby, activity or taking care of family, AARP members likely have member benefits available to support it. To discover more options, visit aarp.org/save.

Neither AARP nor its affiliates is the insurer. AARP and its affiliates are not insurance producers, agents or brokers, and do not sell or service insurance products. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2022-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you excited about the holiday season or are you dreading it? While this time of year can be filled with cheer and joy, it can also be incredibly overwhelming. In fact, 2 in 3 Americans are stressed about this holiday season.

What exactly are they stressing about? Their budgets, according to the latest Consumer Spend Report from Affirm.

Affirm’s survey found that 9 in 10 Americans plan to shop for the holidays this year, yet 1 in 3 will do so without saving money beforehand. Read on for some other surprising results.

Buying gifts is stretching wallets — and patience

Budgeting and buying gifts for friends and family are at the very top of Americans’ lists of concerns this holiday season. So, it’s no surprise that Americans reported to be nearly just as stressed out about Black Friday and Cyber Monday (38%) as they are for Thanksgiving (43%).

Money isn’t the only pain point when it comes to holiday shopping. Stressed gift shoppers pointed to waiting in long lines (68%) and getting stuck in traffic or crowded transit (54%) as the things they dread the most.

“While the burden of gifting, budgeting, long lines and holiday traffic may take away some of your holiday cheer, Affirm can help bring it back. A valuable budgeting tool, paying with Affirm is one smart choice you can make this holiday season to stay in control of your finances,” said Ashmi Pancholi, Affirm’s Trends Expert.

Americans are dodging their holiday obligations

Whether it’s attending the mandatory office gift swap or a crowded road trip to Grandma’s, it’s no secret that holiday obligations can be anything but jolly. The result? 1 in 5 Americans admitted to getting out of their unwanted holiday plans.

Of the guilty ones, 36% have lied about their availability, 24% have faked an illness and 22% ghosted without any excuse. Nearly 1 in 10 have gone so far as to intentionally miss a flight.

Some people are even willing to spend money to get out of their holiday obligations. 70% of men would spend more than $50 to avoid unwanted to-do’s like the obligatory holiday party or awkward family dinner, compared to 51% of women.

Gen Z & Millennials are especially stressed, but they are focused on the future

75% of Gen Zers are stressed about the holidays, compared to 67% of Boomers and 65% of Millennials. But, many are especially focused on improving their financial health: almost half of Gen Z (42%) and over a quarter of Millennials (28%) say saving money is their #1 New Year’s resolution.

Unlike most credit cards and other pay-over-time options, Affirm shows you exactly what you’ll pay upfront, never increases that amount, and never charges any late or hidden fees. Using its pay over time option allows you to buy all the holiday gifts on your list without draining your savings or building unhealthy debt.

To learn more, visit Affirm.com. While you’re there, check out the gift guides, which can help you find and finance the perfect gifts for all your loved ones.

Results are based on a survey of 1,007 respondents conducted by Suzy on behalf of Affirm November 2, 2022.

2022-11-17T09:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re taking a stroll in a local park or ambitiously hiking a new trail, being outdoors helps you feel more grounded and connected to nature. But you may not realize the numerous physical and mental benefits that time spent outdoors has on the human body.

Mother Nature has a profound positive impact on people of all ages, but especially kids. Children’s natural curiosity makes the outdoors a place with endless possibilities. It’s where imaginations can take flight, they can observe biodiversity and learn more about their world around them, not to mention, move their bodies and breathe in some fresh air.

With an increasing number of popular TV shows focusing on different aspects of being outdoors — from travel spotlights to survival skills — more children than ever are inspired to get outside and explore. For 14-year-old Cameron, no one excited him more about the outdoors than adventurer and TV star Bear Grylls. However, because he has a critical illness that required a kidney transplant, Cameron was not always able to do as many things outdoors as he’d like.

Following the launch of their new batteries with Power Boost Ingredients, and with a strong desire to inspire kids about the importance of spending time outdoors, America’s most trusted battery brand, Duracell, joined forces with Bear Grylls and Make-A-Wish^® to grant a dozen wishes this past summer for kids across the country, including Cameron and wish kids like him.

Through this unique collaboration, Duracell and Make-A-Wish were able to power some incredible outdoor wishes as a life-changing source of hope for wish kids and their families. To learn more and see Cameron’s story, visit Duracell.com/Powerboost.

Be inspired by these strong kids who have a passion for the outdoors and plan your next adventure with your family. Remember to stock up on Duracell batteries with Power Boost Ingredients, designed to help you get the most out of the moments that matter — so regardless of the outdoor adventure you choose, your devices stay powered to keep the fun going. Here are some outdoor ideas that you can do any time of year with your family:

1. Visit a hiking trail you’ve never been to before, or try an evening hike and bring along a headlamp or flashlight to guide the way.

2. Explore free outdoor programs in your community at parks and nature centers.

3. Learn about astronomy and head outdoors at night to observe the stars.

4. Try your hand at geocaching, where you use a free app on your mobile device to find hidden spots.

5. Organize a game of backyard flashlight tag with family, friends and neighbors.

6. Try a new outdoor activity you haven’t done yet, especially in the winter months, like skating, snowshoeing or skiing.

7. Go outside and talk about how nature impacts the different senses — How does it feel, taste, sound, etc.?

9. Have a picnic outdoors! Or even try eating outside in the evening with flashlights and headlamps for extra fun.

2022-11-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – While growing older can be amazing, sometimes we all need a little help to remain independent. Whether it is finding transportation to a doctor’s appointment, taking a falls prevention class or signing up for a volunteer opportunity, it is important to know how to get connected to local aging programs in your community.

But, where to start? This is where the Eldercare Locator comes in. Contacting the Eldercare Locator helps ensure that older adults, families and caregivers can get connected to reliable and trusted information about local programs that are right in their community!

The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide, federally funded hotline that links older adults and caregivers with Area Agencies on Aging and other community-based organizations that offer services and provide information on topics pertaining to COVID-19, vaccines, transportation, support services, housing and more. Whether you or an older family member or friend need assistance with meals or home care, or a caregiver needs training, education or a break from caregiving responsibilities, the Eldercare Locator is here to connect you with the resources you need.

In addition to general aging resources, the Eldercare Locator can also connect you to information about COVID-19 and how to find a local vaccination site or schedule transportation to and from your appointments.

Visit eldercare.acl.gov to browse the library of resources or to enter your ZIP code to find services in your community. Trained staff can assist you via online chat, by email at eldercarelocator@usaging.org, or by phone at 1-800-677-1116 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday-Friday; callers can request to speak to a specialist in any language.

The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration for Community Living and is administered by USAging.

2022-11-16T09:27:01

(BPT) – The holidays are the perfect time for families and friends to gather and enjoy time together over good food and celebrations. However, holiday revelry shouldn’t preclude safety. In fact, you may want to be even more vigilant than at other times of the year given the increased risks the festive season can bring.

HGTV star and Carrier Healthy Homes Ambassador Egypt Sherrod says, “From decorations and candles to cooking for many, the holidays also bring unexpected concerns and risks, which is why fire and carbon monoxide (CO) safety should continue to be top of mind. Prepare your home and your loved ones with fire safety resources and escape routes to mitigate fire and carbon monoxide risks and prevent incidents from occurring or becoming fatal.”

According to a nationwide survey¹ commissioned by Carrier, more than 30% of people plan to host their loved ones for the holiday festivities this year. And yet, amid the preparations — from decorations to gifts and celebrations — 42% shared that potential fire and CO risks are a top concern heading into the season. To help you navigate the holidays safely, Sherrod shares safety tips to help prepare and protect your family and home this festive season:

‘Tis the season for fire safety!

Although it is important to be cautious of fire safety all year round, the increase in electrical decorations and the use of open flames and lights during the holiday period comes with a heightened risk of house fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles caused 45% of home decoration fires during December between 2015 to 2019. It’s important to be aware of the risks and know how to stay safe with the increased amount of fire hazards around the home during the holidays.

Fire safety tips for the holiday months:

• As eye-catching as string lights are, left unattended they can heat up and become a fire hazard. Consider using LED lights instead to minimize risk.
• Always unplug lights when you leave a room or the house to ensure that no hazards are left unattended.
• Keep candles away from inflammable surfaces, children and pets. Use either flameless LED candles or blow out real candles when you aren’t close by to monitor them.
• Ensure the smoke and CO alarms in your home are working properly ahead of the holidays. For greater control and peace of mind amid the celebrations, Sherrod says, “The Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Indoor Air Quality Monitor has the modern homeowner in mind, proving whole home interconnectivity and all the capabilities you need to manage your home safety systems with confidence — for one less thing to worry about this season.”

Cooking safety on, accidents off

The holidays are a time to indulge in plenty of delicious food, but this also leads to an increase in home fires across the U.S. In fact, Thanksgiving has the highest recorded rate of cooking related fires, followed by Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Of these fires, cooking equipment is involved in one out of every five (19%) home decoration fires due to decorations being left on or too close to the stove. And yet, of people surveyed¹ by Carrier, 37% report they don’t currently have a fire extinguisher in their home if a fire occurs.

Cooking safety tips:

• Don’t use the stove if you’re sleepy or have had too much alcohol.
• Stay in the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.
• Equip your home with one to two fire extinguishers on every floor within easy reach to help create a path to safety and prevent a small fire from becoming fatal.

Temperature drops can cause higher risks

Winter’s colder, frigid temperatures bring the peak period for CO poisoning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year approximately 50,000 people go to the ER due to accidental CO poisoning. Colder temperatures and winter storms can quickly lead to frozen pipes and unforeseen water leaks too, causing costly damage to homes during a month when expenses are already high. Mitigate these unexpected concerns with proactive, simple tips and proper safety resources such as a working CO alarm.

Safety to-dos to protect your home during the colder months:

• Check that your ovens and stoves are installed properly; do not use them to heat your homes.
• Don’t use unvented space heaters or generators in an enclosed space.
• Ensure your space heater meets the latest safety standards, including an automatic cut-off device and guarding around the heating coils and burners. Position the heater at least three feet away from inflammable materials and turn it off when you’re not near.
• Clear debris and open ventilation points, such as chimneys and fireplace dampers.
• Install Kidde Water Leak and Freeze Detectors around your home. The Wi-Fi enabled device connects to the Kidde App, for notifications to be sent directly to a smartphone when there is a risk of flooding or temperatures dropping too low.

Follow these important home safety tips this year to ensure you and your family and friends stay safe and can enjoy the season’s festivities stress-free.

¹Carrier Corporation Google Survey of 1,000 U.S. consumers aged 18+ fielded Oct. 27-30, 2022.

2022-11-16T08:19:00

(BPT) – Looking for exciting new ways to celebrate the holidays this year? Why not think outside the gift box and head to The Beach. In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you and your family can start a memorable new tradition that will take your holidays from ho-hum to ho-ho-ho!

For the young and young at heart, Myrtle Beach offers holiday events and venues to dazzle and delight — plus 60 miles of gorgeous, sun-drenched coastline to enjoy. Consider embarking on a magical trip to give your family memories to last a lifetime, which could become a favorite new tradition.

Let the treetops glisten

Nothing sparks holiday cheer like twinkling holiday lights — and the more, the better. To satisfy your craving for wonder and awe, check out these amazing light displays to enthrall your entire family.

Winter Wonderland at The Beach: This event’s second year is better than ever, with spectacular light displays along the gorgeous mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. A brand-new Family Fun Zone offers holiday activities for all ages, tons of entertainment near the SkyWheel, oceanfront photos with Santa and special events all season long. November 17-December 23.

Nights of a Thousand Candles: Brookgreen Gardens comes to life with the soft glow of over 2,700 hand-lit candles and countless sparkling lights. Stroll the garden pathways with a cup of cider, cocoa or wine while listening to holiday music and carolers singing. November 26–January 1.

Ripley’s Festival of Trees: The halls of Ripley’s Aquarium are decked so even the marine life can enjoy the holiday spirit! With over 55 trees decorated for each state and territory in the U.S., the entire aquarium is transformed into a winter wonderland. Monday-Saturday in December.

Great Christmas Light Show: This annual celebration captures the spirit of the season with a drive-through light show featuring over 2 million lights. Plan your visit for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights to visit “Santa’s Village” with holiday activities for all ages. November 21–December 30.

All the world’s a stage

The thrill of live theater is unparalleled — and the excitement and energy of a live performance is even more magical when combined with iconic holiday themes and music. Myrtle Beach offers live shows to take the humbug out of any Scrooge, and you may just be tempted to see them all.

The Carolina Opry Christmas Special: “The Christmas Show of the South” open its 37th season of enchanting holiday shows with a Christmas special blending stunning new performances with time-honored tradition, acclaimed artists and long-standing Opry favorites. November 1–January 1.

Christmas at Pirates Voyage: In this unique show, a Mystical Christmas Spirit takes Captain Scrooge on a journey seeking the meaning of Christmas. Cheer as giant Christmas toys come to life and perform acrobatics above a lagoon, laugh at the comical castaway and gaze in awe at a live Nativity and an angel with a special message for landlubbers and pirates alike. November 3–December 31.

Hot Jersey Nights: This holiday experience blends holiday classics with tunes from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons that will get your toe tapping. Take a walk down memory lane as vocalists join in a Christmas Wonderland onstage to sing hit songs. November 1–December 30.

The South’s Grandest Christmas Show: The Alabama Theatre’s award-winning holiday production offers incredible talent, scenery and special effects for a spectacular new holiday musical experience sure to put you in the spirit of the season. November 1-December 31.

Motown Christmas Tribute: Enjoy an evening of soulful entertainment as you embark on a musical journey through Motown. Tap your feet and sing along with performers featuring hits from musical titans of the ’60s and ’70s. November 1-December 26.

Shop like a boss

No matter how long your holiday list, you’re bound to find just the right gifts for friends and family at Myrtle Beach.

Broadway at The Beach: This 350-acre outdoor shopping center and entertainment complex is great for the whole family, featuring a magnificent 46-foot-tall Christmas tree. While shopping you can also enjoy live music, street dancers, a tree lighting ceremony and more.

Tanger Outlet Centers: Find your favorite designer brands at prices you’ll love in two convenient Tanger Outlet locations in Myrtle Beach — the perfect place to find all the items on your list.

Market Common: Myrtle Beach’s “uptown downtown” upscale and trendy Market Common offers unique boutiques, local craft shops and popular national chain stores, along with flower-lined streets and twinkling lights to put you in the holiday mood. Take a shopping break with quality dining and entertainment, including a movie theater and bowling alley. On Tuesdays from November-December you can even enjoy a free horse-drawn carriage ride from 4-7 p.m.

Hammock Shops Village: This shopper’s paradise in Pawleys Island hosts quaint southern stores and boutiques, including the Original Pawleys Island Hammock Shop selling famous handmade Pawleys Island hammocks.

Anyone in search of a warm welcome this holiday season will find more than just a day at The Beach at Myrtle Beach, including vibrant entertainment and family attractions, world-class golf and fresh coastal Carolina cuisine. Excited? Head to VisitMyrtleBeach.com or check out this year’s holiday vacation guide to get started.

2022-11-16T14:01:00

(BPT) – It’s nearly that time of year again, and with stores starting to line the shelves with all things holiday-related, it’s not too early to start a game plan for this year’s decorations. So, start getting into the spirit and save yourself some trouble while you’re at it with a few helpful tools from Arrow Fastener — they’ll come in handy for around the house, and especially when you’re ready to dig out those string lights.

Yes, that’s right — you can hang your holiday lights with a staple gun! Instead of tricky light clips or intrusive nails, you can pick up a low-voltage wire staple gun, like the Arrow T25 staple gun, to hang holiday lights quickly and efficiently, and keep them in place throughout the season.

Check out Arrow on TikTok for a quick demo on how easy it can be to get those lights up and learn more about the necessary tools below!

With Arrow’s T25 professional low-voltage wire/cable staple gun, stapling light strings is made easy. This best-selling wiring staple gun is a favorite among professional installers, featuring a jam-resistant rear load mechanism to avoid slowing your projects down, along with a curved blade for consistent performance. In other words, hanging up your holiday lights will be a breeze with the T25.

The tool, best paired with Arrow’s T25 staples, can also be used for low-voltage applications, including thermostats, doorbells, garage door openers, and alarm systems.

When it’s time to take the lights down, you’ll want to cause little to no damage to your home. So, reach for Arrow’s SL24D staple lifter. This must-have tool removes staples quickly, cleanly, and safely, featuring a hardened steel body to withstand the toughest of staples. Plus, the lightweight ergonomic grip makes it super comfortable to handle. Use this tool to remove lights or have it ready for your upholstery projects or home repairs.

Looking to add more must-have tools to your collection? Visit arrowfastener.com or follow Arrow on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for more ideas.

2022-11-16T12:01:00

(BPT) – Thanksgiving is approaching, so it’s time to start planning your holiday meal. It’s also a fantastic time to gather with friends you haven’t seen in a while or who may be local but are too busy to get together regularly. Whatever your reason, make your Friendsgiving extra special this year using the following six tips.

1. Set the tone

Casual and relaxed? Fancy and formal? Whatever your style, set the tone starting with the invitation. You can send physical invitations or digital cards — make sure to include the time, location and theme if you choose to have one. You can also add instructions for how to RSVP.

Have fun with the invite and have the art or design reflect the tone of your dinner. This way, you can make sure your friends know what to expect. You don’t want them showing up in their nicest outfits if you are planning for a lowkey, cozy evening.

2. Statement decor

Use a few statement pieces to make the meal feel festive and fun. Visit your grocery store and find colorful pomegranates, gourds and fresh flowers. Or, head to your local craft shop. While you’re there, you can pick up dried flowers, ribbon and wreaths to decorate your door or common areas where everyone will congregate. For a special touch, add personalized place cards, and add candles for soft lighting.

3. Get guests involved

According to Kachet Jackson-Henderson, lifestyle expert and founder of The Kachet Life, a fashionable lifestyle brand for the modern woman, your No. 1 goal as a host is to ensure everyone is comfortable and feels involved.

“Offering a glass of wine as guests arrive is a great way to start,” said Jackson-Henderson, “then put them to work! Having a little job can make guests feel at ease. Think setting the table, arranging a bouquet of flowers or helping out in the kitchen.”

4. Prepare a menu

Plan out a menu, but don’t feel the need to make everything from scratch. You can easily pick up premade or take-and-bake items to supplement your meal. Ask guests to bring a dish or order a few favorite takeout items. You can dress them up with great serving dishes.

5. Don’t forget the drinks

As a finishing touch, think about some delicious drinks that pair with everything on the menu. Plan to have enough beverages on hand for guests to enjoy throughout your gathering, from appetizers to dessert.

“I like to keep wine on the table during a meal,” said Angelina Mondavi, consulting winemaker for Flat Top Hills and member of the fourth-generation member of the C. Mondavi family. “It feels less formal and more inviting. If you’re looking for a quintessential selection this time of the year, pick up a Pinot Noir. It’s incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of menus. Also, a rich, luscious Buttery Chardonnay is a great dessert pairing.”

To learn more about these wines and find a selection for your Friendsgiving dinner, visit FlatTopWines.com/Shop.

6. A memorable ending

A parting gift makes the meal even more memorable! Ask guests to bring food containers or buy a cheap set to send them home with leftovers. For an extra special touch, give guests a little bag of cookies or even a pastry to enjoy the next morning!

Show your friends how much you appreciate them and spend quality time with your chosen family this Thanksgiving. Using these six tips, you’ll host a Friendsgiving your guests will want to repeat year after year.