Ca$h Money
Taxes are due this week and we hope if you’re reading this, you’ve all already filed. Aside from the rain showers, taxes are probably the most annoying and frustrating part of April… but those refunds though!
There is nothing better than that feeling of free money. Yes, it was yours taken out of your paycheck at one point, but none-the-less it seems free, ergo awesome.
So here you are with this free money burning holes in your pockets. What to do? You could save it….. OR you could spend it! Even better, you could save some and spend some!
We’re here to provide some inspiration for your splurge. Check it out!
THE GREAT ESCAPE
Use your tax refund to indulge in a memorable and much needed escape. Plan that trip you’ve always wanted to take, or plan a short weekend excursion.
Rather than blowing your new fortune on a pair of shoes (we’ve all been victims to this!), or something else pricy and regrettable, splurging on a vacation will bring you happiness, relaxation, and great memories that you definitely won’t regret.
Our top recommendations? Take a quick trip down to Music City for the weekend Aziz Ansari’s “Master of None” style and explore everything Nashville has to offer. Looking for something more exotic? We love Puerto Rico.
DECORATE
You know that really nice couch you wanted to buy when you moved into your place? That one you really wanted before deciding that $200 IKEA futon was more practical?
Well, you’re a grown up, sista! And NOW is the time to buy grown up furniture. Use your refund to splurge on some nicer pieces that will help elevate your space.
If you’re like us, you spend a decent amount of time in your living room. We’re talking NETFLIX binges, some serious HBO-watching, and those blurry wine nights. So why not have a space you truly love and enjoy spending time in?
Check out our fav spots for splurging on super chic grown up (but ya know, not toooo grown up) furniture!
1. Urban Outfitters
2. Anthropologie
4. ABC Home
MIX IT UP
Always wanted a fancy kitchen tool or appliance, but never been able to stomach the cost? A good mixer, blender, or even mixing bowl can make a serious difference in your cooking experience.
It’s not shocking to learn that you can save a ton of money by cooking at home, but did you know that on average buying lunch each day can cost around $2,000 per year!?*
So spend a little money on some great kitchen tools, and save money in the long run with all those delicious home-cooked meals! Our kitchen splurges?
1. KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer ($449.99)
2. VitaMix TurboBlend Two-Speed ($349.00)
3. Ceramic Mixing Bowls, Set of 7 ($99.95)
LEARN SOMETHING
Always wanted to learn how to paint? Thinking about getting your masters? Hoping to master chocolate making? Maybe you should spend your refund on enriching yourself.
Whether going back to school full time or taking a fun recreational course, spending some money on your education can be incredibly rewarding. Learn new skills to help you entertain, enjoy a new hobby, or change careers.
We are serious believers in education and are constantly taking classes to keep up on everything from current trends to the latest cooking techniques. Here’s where to start.
1. Institute of Culinary Education (Recreational Classes Start at $85)
2. The Art Studio NY (Beginner’s Drawing and Painting Class, 5 Sessions $249)
3. Upright Citizens Brigade Comedy Training Center (Improv Basics, 8 Sessions $475)
4. Princeton Review (Grad School Programs)
FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS
Have a great idea for a business, charity, or cause? It can be scary to take that leap and invest in yourself, but use your refund as an opportunity to finally follow your dreams.
Don’t let fears hold you back from what could potentially be a huge success, helping people and making people happy all over the city, country, or even the world!
No worries, you aren’t alone. There are certified professionals and web tools that can help advise you and set you up for success. Check it out.
1. Knowhow Non-profit (Knowledge Bank)
2. International Coach Federation (Credentialed Coach Finder)
3. CFP Board (Find a Certified Financial Planner)
Inspired to spend a little (or a lot) of your tax refund? If you’d rather just be smart and invest the money, check out our fav app for tracking all that complicated financial stuffs, Mint.
*Business Insider
