Walletpop Canada http://www.walletpop.ca/blog Walletpop Canada http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/media/feedlogo.gif Walletpop Canada http://www.walletpop.ca/blog en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Mortgage Rates: How Low Should You Go?http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/mortgage-rates-how-low-should-you-go/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/mortgage-rates-how-low-should-you-go/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/mortgage-rates-how-low-should-you-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

If you're in the market for a new house or simply looking to
renew your existing mortgage, I'm sure you've noticed the "Mortgage War" being waged by most of Canada's big banks. RBC, TD, Scotiabank and BMO have been offering long term, fixed rate mortgages for 2.99 per cent. This is among the lowest fixed rate mortgages you're likely ever to see.

On the one hand, this has been a bit of a strange move from an industry that has expressed worries in the past about mortgage debt in Canada. On the other hand, now might be a terrific opportunity for first-time buyers to get into the market. So, what should you be conscious of if you're thinking about a rock-bottom mortgage rate?

Continue reading Mortgage Rates: How Low Should You Go?

Mortgage Rates: How Low Should You Go? originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>amortizationbmoBNSfirst time home buyersFirstTimeHomeBuyershome buyershome buyinghome pricesHomeBuyersHomeBuyingHomePriceshouse pricesHousePriceshousing marketHousingMarkethttp:www.walletpop.cacompare-personal-finance-ratesproductmortgainterest ratesInterestRatesmortgage ratesmortgage rates risingMortgage Rates Stay LowMortgageRatesMortgageRatesRisingMortgageRatesStayLowmortgagesrbcRYTDMartha WorboyThu, 26 Apr 2012 12:00:00 ESTFive Ways to Improve Your Concentration and Energy Levelshttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/five-ways-to-improve-your-concentration-and-energy-levels/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/five-ways-to-improve-your-concentration-and-energy-levels/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/26/five-ways-to-improve-your-concentration-and-energy-levels/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With the warmer season upon us, it certainly becomes easier to let our minds wander. As sunshine filters in through the office window, it's much more tempting to think ahead to summer vacation at the cottage or what patio you're heading to after work. Here are some proven ways to keep your mind focused on the job in front of you. Let's face it, if you work hard you'll have even more time to play harder during the summer months.

Click on a photo below to see what five simple things you can do, to boost your concentration and productivity at work.

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Continue reading Five Ways to Improve Your Concentration and Energy Levels

Five Ways to Improve Your Concentration and Energy Levels originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>caffeineconcentration at workConcentrationAtWorkemploymentEnergyjob tipsjobsJobTipsLNKDnutritionproductivityworkwork tipsworkplaceworkplace issuesWorkplaceIssuesWorkTipsMartha WorboyThu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30:00 ESTGo On, She Deserves It: Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Under $50http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/25/go-on-she-deserves-it-mothers-day-gift-ideas-for-under-50/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/25/go-on-she-deserves-it-mothers-day-gift-ideas-for-under-50/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/25/go-on-she-deserves-it-mothers-day-gift-ideas-for-under-50/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

With Mother's Day approaching, I find myself shamelessly
hinting to my husband and kids about what they can treat me to that will show their appreciation for me simply being the Mom of the family. I have to admit, Mother's Day is one of those occasions when I actually do feel like I deserve a bit of pampering or a thoughtful gift for the many sleep deprived nights I've experienced -- not to mention the many diapers I've changed and seemingly endless clean-up tasks I've endured. For anyone looking for gift ideas to appreciate all that Mom has done for you, here is some guidance on what Moms really want. In the under $50 range, you can actually go quite far with your money.

Continue reading Go On, She Deserves It: Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Under $50

Go On, She Deserves It: Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Under $50 originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>cookbookgift guidegift ideasGiftGuideGiftIdeasGPSjewelrykorsmakeupmommothers daymothers day gift ideasmothers day giftsMothersDayMothersDayGiftIdeasMothersDayGiftsperfumeperfumespresentsspa treatmentsSpaTreatmentsSZYMwineYOCMartha WorboyWed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:00 ESTExtracurricular Programs To Inspire Your Child's Future Careerhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/19/extracurricular-programs-to-inspire-your-childs-future-career/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/19/extracurricular-programs-to-inspire-your-childs-future-career/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/19/extracurricular-programs-to-inspire-your-childs-future-career/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's hardly been any job growth in Canada in the last little while -- in fact, a recent Statistics Canada report shows that employment growth has stagnated. Meanwhile, nobody seems quite sure where the economy's heading. As a parent of two young boys I find myself worrying about what opportunities will exist for them when they're ready to embark on their own career paths.

What I'm realizing is that when it comes to kids and their future, there's no time like the present to start teaching them skills that could eventually turn into employment. There are many classes and camps for kids offered as after school programs or on weekends that could be fun ways to learn skills or spark an interest that will help them find their way to a career later in life.

Continue reading Extracurricular Programs To Inspire Your Child's Future Career

Extracurricular Programs To Inspire Your Child's Future Career originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>activities for kidsactivities for young childrenActivitiesForKidsActivitiesForYoungChildrenafter schoolafter school activitiesAfterSchoolAfterSchoolActivitiescampcareer adviceCareerAdvicecareersclasses for kidsClassesForKidseducationjobskidsprogramsMartha WorboyThu, 19 Apr 2012 22:00:00 ESTSpring Clean the Smart Way: How to Be Fast and Efficienthttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/17/spring-clean-the-smart-way-how-to-be-fast-and-efficient/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/17/spring-clean-the-smart-way-how-to-be-fast-and-efficient/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/17/spring-clean-the-smart-way-how-to-be-fast-and-efficient/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's that time of year when no matter how busy we are, we get the
urge to exile every last stale winter dust specimen from our homes. Perhaps it's the extra light we're getting throughout the day that shows up the excess particles floating around. Or could it be with the arrival of spring comes the instinctual urge to renew and refresh? Whatever it is, a thorough clean is something that takes a lot of time, which most of us don't have. I spoke with Molly Maid franchise owner and cleaning expert Amelia Mackie to get some tips on how to be efficient and pick priorities during a spring clean.

1. Set goals and get organized
Being prepared and setting attainable goals are important to keeping your sanity. Make sure you have all the necessary cleaning tools before you start and make sure you have time to finish each task. Organize your work into smaller jobs, like cleaning level by level or room by room.This way, focusing on smaller areas can be less intimidating. Draw yourself a cleaning task map, so to speak, and your journey will be a smooth one.
Helpful tip before you start: Decluttering is probably one of the most important tasks to perform prior to spring cleaning -- it's the only way to clean efficiently and effectively.






Continue reading Spring Clean the Smart Way: How to Be Fast and Efficient

Spring Clean the Smart Way: How to Be Fast and Efficient originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>cleaningcleaning productsCleaningProductsdustingfloor cleanerfloor cleaningFloorCleanerFloorCleaningsetting goalsSettingGoalsspring cleaningspring cleaning advicespring cleaning essentialsspring cleaning tipsSpringCleaningSpringCleaningAdviceSpringCleaningEssentialsSpringCleaningTipsvacuumMartha WorboyTue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 ESTCasinos: Good or Bad for the City You Live In?http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/casinos-good-or-bad-for-the-city-you-live-in/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/casinos-good-or-bad-for-the-city-you-live-in/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/casinos-good-or-bad-for-the-city-you-live-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Many cities in Canada have placed their bets on casinos to help drive economic activity and stimulate development. With the economy continuing to sputter along, many places are looking to felt covered tables and one-armed bandits as saviours. Once thought of as 'Toronto The Good', Ontario's capital is the latest municipality thinking of going Vegas, but is the glitz and glamour all it's made out to be? Let's take a look at how a casino can help or hinder a city.

Tax Revenue
Gambling in Canada is big business. Last year, all legalized gambling contributed $13.7 billion in net revenue to governments. Casinos contributed 34% of that total. While this certainly sounds great, some research shows that governments that build casinos don't always spread their new wealth as expected. Instead of building roads and schools, for example, there is evidence that governments use gambling revenue on other priorities like debt reduction, which don't have the same immediate impacts on the people living in the shadow of the casino.

Continue reading Casinos: Good or Bad for the City You Live In?

Casinos: Good or Bad for the City You Live In? originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>careerscasinoscitiescrimegamblinggambling addictgambling addictiongambling habitGamblingAddictGamblingAddictionGamblingHabitjobsmoney launderingMoneyLaunderingrevenuesToronto casinoTorontoCasinotourismurban planningUrbanPlanningMartha WorboyTue, 10 Apr 2012 15:00:00 ESTHow the Budget Affects Youhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/how-the-budget-affects-you/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/how-the-budget-affects-you/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/10/how-the-budget-affects-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Another year another federal budget. This is Canadian political theatre so, of course, we mostly just tune it out. At best, Canadians tend to shrug when the federal budget is announced. At worst they ignore it all together. This year though there are a few things in the budget you should take note of because they're going to impact you.

Old Age Security
This year's budget might determine when you retire. The Old Age Security (OAS) program currently pays benefits of $540 a month to qualifying Canadians age 65 and older. Beginning in 2023 though, only Canadians over the age of 67 will be able to start collecting their cheques. This means everybody who is currently under the age of 54. Many Canadians rely on a combination of company pension payments, RRSP savings, Canadian Pension Plan payments and OAS payments to get by in retirement so delaying when you can access one of these can have a pretty big impact. Everybody keeps telling me that 40 is the new 30 so I guess 67 is the new 65.

Continue reading How the Budget Affects You

How the Budget Affects You originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>budgetcross border shoppingCrossBorderShoppingemployment insuranceEmploymentInsurancefederal budgetFederalBudgetihgOASold age securityOldAgeSecuritypenniespennypensionspublic servicePublicServiceretirementretirement planningRetirementPlanningRRSPsshoppingMartha WorboyTue, 10 Apr 2012 09:45:00 ESTGood Nutrition on a Budgethttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/09/good-nutrition-on-a-budget/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/09/good-nutrition-on-a-budget/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/04/09/good-nutrition-on-a-budget/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

nutritionJust like everything else, the cost of food is rising, making it more difficult for most of us to eat well on a budget.

Pricing of food has risen by 4.4 per cent, according to a recent report from Statistics Canada. Food staples such as milk, eggs, fresh vegetables, coffee and bread are not immune from the price hikes, meaning the bottom line on everyone's grocery bill will be effected.

Registered dietitian Cassandra Reid at Cleveland Clinic Canada offers some advice on affording good nutrition throughout the year.

Continue reading Good Nutrition on a Budget

Good Nutrition on a Budget originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>dietdieticianfoodMealPlanningnew years resolutionsNewYearsResolutionsnutritionMartha WorboyMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 ESTLast Minute Budget Destinationshttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/15/last-minute-budget-destinations/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/15/last-minute-budget-destinations/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/15/last-minute-budget-destinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

You told yourself you couldn't afford it and that you could forgo a vacation this year.

But as grey day turns into greyer days you find yourself needing some sun and relaxation or at the very least a change of scenery but you've got nothing planned.

The same thing happened to me a year ago and I've learned my lesson. Though we greatly enjoyed getting away to a warmer climate, my family endured many extra costs resulting from our last minute decision.

As Travelocity Canada's in-house travel expert Brian Simpson said on Walletpop recently, if you book last minute you may not end up with an "ideal" vacation. But if you're cautious and do a bit of research (which we didn't) you can end up saving and still having a stress-free time. Here are some last minute budget destinations that won't have you regretting your impulsiveness.

To view the gallery, click here or on the picture below:

Last Minute Budget Destinations originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>AC.BBudgetTravelBudgetVacationscmcsaDISEXPElast minute dealslast minute travelLastMinuteDealsLastMinuteTraveltravel dealstravel discountsTravelDealsTravelDiscountsWJAMartha WorboyThu, 15 Mar 2012 13:30:00 ESTThe Five Most Hated Taxeshttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/13/the-five-most-hated-taxes/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/13/the-five-most-hated-taxes/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/13/the-five-most-hated-taxes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It seems like every year we get collective amnesia as tax season rolls around. It's like we've all forgotten how much we hate it.

We grumble as we reflect on how much of our hard-earned cash is deducted from our paychecks but at least the rationale for income tax is pretty straightforward: as a society we have to pay it in order to maintain a decent standard of living.

What really drives us all nuts are those taxes that are not at all clear, and just seem downright unfair. In honour of tax season, here are the top five most irritating money grabs:

PHOTO GALLERY: Click image below to see "The Five Most Hated Taxes."



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The Five Most Hated Taxes originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>airport transport taxAirportTransportTaxGSThomeHSTland transfer taxLandTransferTaxproperty taxproperty taxesPropertyTaxPropertyTaxesreal estateRealEstatetax seasontaxesTaxSeasontravel tipsTravelTipsMartha WorboyTue, 13 Mar 2012 11:30:00 ESTInvest in Yourself: Study Short-term and Enjoy the Pay Off Long-termhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/12/invest-in-yourself-study-short-term-and-enjoy-the-pay-off-long/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/12/invest-in-yourself-study-short-term-and-enjoy-the-pay-off-long/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/12/invest-in-yourself-study-short-term-and-enjoy-the-pay-off-long/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

How long has it been since you've invested in yourself? It's easy to get caught up in investing for retirement but one of the best investments is in continuing education because you control the return. The harder you work the more the investment will pay off (and out). Here are some classes to consider that don't cost much but could be a huge benefit to your financial situation.

Financial Management
What better way to improve your fiscal fitness than understanding the ins and outs of money management. Many colleges have basic accounting courses you can take at night. You could also look into Credit Canada's Financial Coaching Series, which involves six sessions of basic financial coaching (each session costs $120 or you can attend all six for $600). This would be more personal than a basic college course since you're assigned a finance coach who will analyze your own situation and help you explore your own goals and beliefs about debt, credit and your financial future.

Liked this article? Don t miss another one. Follow us on Twitter or Facebook.

Continue reading Invest in Yourself: Study Short-term and Enjoy the Pay Off Long-term

Invest in Yourself: Study Short-term and Enjoy the Pay Off Long-term originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>back to schoolBackToSchoolcareerscontinuing educationContinuingEducationemploymentfinancial managementFinancialManagementInternetinvest in yourselfInvestInYourselfjobsnew skillsNewSkillssave moneySaveMoneyweb designWebDesignMartha WorboyMon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 ESTGive Yourself a Lift: Spring Fashion for Under $30http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/07/give-yourself-a-lift-spring-fashion-for-under-30/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/07/give-yourself-a-lift-spring-fashion-for-under-30/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/07/give-yourself-a-lift-spring-fashion-for-under-30/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Even if spring lasts for only about two weeks in Canada, I always like to upgrade my wardrobe this time of year after a season of wearing dark woolly sweaters and winter coats.

But it doesn't make sense to blow your budget on items you'll only wear for a short time. The good news is, trends considered by the fashion crowd to be de rigeur this season are easy to achieve and easy on the bank account if you know where to shop. Here are a few tips to get you started.

PHOTO GALLERY: Click image below for "Spring Fashion for Under $30" Gallery



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Give Yourself a Lift: Spring Fashion for Under $30 originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>clothingfashionGPSJewelleryLmakeupPGPSSREVSCshoppingshopping and dealsShoppingAndDealsspring fashionspring trendsSpringFashionSpringTrendsMartha WorboyWed, 07 Mar 2012 22:45:00 ESTWhere the Jobs Are: A Breakdown Province by Provincehttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/04/where-the-jobs-are-a-breakdown-province-by-province/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/04/where-the-jobs-are-a-breakdown-province-by-province/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/04/where-the-jobs-are-a-breakdown-province-by-province/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

jobsIt's no secret that with the weak economy, job growth has stagnated in Canada. A recent report from Statistics Canada shows that there has been minimal job growth over the past year, with a 0.7 per cent rise across all sectors. British Columbia, Alberta and Prince Edward Island were the only provinces to see job growth of over one per cent while employment was on the decline in Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador.

With so few gains being made, and a lot of Canadians looking for employment, it begs the question, if there are any jobs, where are they? Depending on where you live in Canada, the job prospects may differ.

Let's break it down by province. Click below to launch the gallery or continue reading below:



where the jobs are in Canada




Western Canada
British Columbia saw gains in the utilities and natural resources sectors as well as in construction, transportation and warehousing industries (the latter of which means there has been job growth in the areas of air and rail transport, trucking, postal services and in storage facilities).

Continue reading Where the Jobs Are: A Breakdown Province by Province

Where the Jobs Are: A Breakdown Province by Province originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>career choicescareer helpCareerChoicesCareerHelpeconomic recoveryEconomicRecoveryemployment opportunitiesEmploymentOpportunitiesjob growthjob prospectsJobGrowthJobProspectsMartha WorboySun, 04 Mar 2012 13:00:00 ESTTop 10 Bridal Shower Mistakeshttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/top-10-bridal-shower-mistakes/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/top-10-bridal-shower-mistakes/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/top-10-bridal-shower-mistakes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You've been entrusted with an important life event -- throwing a bridal shower -- for a friend/sister/cousin. The pressure's on. Now don't blow it. Here are some mistakes to avoid if you don't want to look back on the event with regret and an empty pocket.


PHOTO GALLERY: Click image below for top 10 bridal shower mistakes

tips for planning a bridal shower



1. You forget to consult the most important person -- the bride.
This is a mistake that could actually effect the bride financially. A bridal shower is, in essence, to celebrate the bride but also to help her on her way and gifts often play an important role. Ask the bride if she wants a theme for the party -- does she need kitchen appliances, or a washer/dryer that everyone could go in on?

2. Your invites lack clarity.
If you're not clear in your invites what the cost of entry is to the shower (whether guests are expected to give money towards an afternoon at a spa for the bride or buy from her gift registry), then guests will give what they think is appropriate which might not be appropriate.

Continue reading Top 10 Bridal Shower Mistakes

Top 10 Bridal Shower Mistakes originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>bridal partybridal showerBridalPartyBridalShowerbudgetinggismistakesparty planningPartyPlanningtop ten listTopTenListMartha WorboyFri, 02 Mar 2012 10:00:00 ESTYou Go Girl: Throwing a Bridal Shower on a Budgethttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/you-go-girl-throwing-a-bridal-shower-on-a-budget/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/you-go-girl-throwing-a-bridal-shower-on-a-budget/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/02/you-go-girl-throwing-a-bridal-shower-on-a-budget/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Now that we're almost past winter, before we know it spring will arrive and with it the high emotions and great excitement (or stress, depending on how you look at it) of wedding season. Meaning the cold winter months are prime time for planning bridal showers. I myself will be throwing one as the Maid of Honour at my sister's wedding. What with all the events, gifts, dresses, and travel that go hand in hand with being in a wedding party, costs add up. Here are some tips I can offer from my planning to help you stay in the black while still making the bride feel spoiled.

1. It's okay to ask people to co-host
I asked a good family friend to help out, and this way we can split costs and both put the work in to make the shower a success. If you are the Maid of Honour, it is tradition for you to throw a bridal shower but this doesn't mean it has to be a solo task. If it's a big wedding party, chances are there will be a lot of people to invite so ask several bridesmaids to help.

Continue reading You Go Girl: Throwing a Bridal Shower on a Budget

You Go Girl: Throwing a Bridal Shower on a Budget originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>bridal showerBridalShowerpartyplanningweddingwedding-partyMartha WorboyFri, 02 Mar 2012 09:45:00 ESTTop Financial Fights and Ways to Resolve Themhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/01/top-financial-fights-and-ways-to-resolve-them/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/01/top-financial-fights-and-ways-to-resolve-them/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/03/01/top-financial-fights-and-ways-to-resolve-them/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Turning over a new leaf can mean tossing out a few old things that just don't work anymore including relationships, according to experts.

While money issues likely didn't drive recent well-known splits, like that of Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries or Katy Perry and Russell Brand, financial differences are consistently cited as a top stress in partnerships.

Marriage and family therapist Michal Regev -- who runs her practice in Vancouver -- recently spoke with me about common financial issues couples argue about and productive ways to deal with the conflict that can arise from having a different value system and different approaches to money. Regev says over 50 per cent of couples who go to therapy report having money disputes and that money fights -- if left unresolved -- can lead to divorce.

Here are some common money problems couples experience and some strategies suggested by Regev on how to get through them.

Continue reading Top Financial Fights and Ways to Resolve Them

Top Financial Fights and Ways to Resolve Them originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>argumentscounsellingcouplesCouplesMoneyFightingmarriage-advicemoney and happinessMoneyAndHappinesspartnersresolveSBUXMartha WorboyThu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 ESTWhat You Need to Do to Stand Out At Workhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/27/what-you-need-to-do-to-stand-out-at-work/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/27/what-you-need-to-do-to-stand-out-at-work/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/27/what-you-need-to-do-to-stand-out-at-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Recently New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman declared the end of the average worker.
"In the past, workers with average skills, doing an average job, could earn an average lifestyle," he writes. "But, today, average is officially over."

Friedman blames the innovation of technology and cheap foreign labour as causes for the depleted options for those seeking stability.

Adding to the uncertainty is a recent Statistics Canada report that says employment in Canada has greatly stalled since last summer and the unemployment rate has risen.
Diminishing options and a soft economy are giving Canadians greater reason to value their current jobs. So forget average - here are 10 ways you can stand out as an extraordinary employee at work.

PHOTO GALLERY: (Click on image or continue reading story below)


hOW TO STAND OUT IN THE WORKPLACE


1. Focus on Speaking or Leading
Even if you'd rather drink castor oil than speak publicly, volunteer to lead the odd meeting if your manager is unable to do it or find reasons to speak in front of a group the odd time at work to show you have leadership abilities.
When I was just out of university and working a temp job at a company in London, England, I volunteered to give my team's update at a company meeting which lead to a few pats on the back and other people in the company becoming familiar with who I was.

Continue reading What You Need to Do to Stand Out At Work

What You Need to Do to Stand Out At Work originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>career tipscareersCareerTipsemployeesemploymentjobsopportunityStandOutFromTheCrowdThomas FriedmanThomasFriedmanworker productivityWorkerProductivityworkersworkplaceMartha WorboyMon, 27 Feb 2012 09:45:00 ESTCareer Lessons Learned from Five Oscar-Nominated Filmshttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/23/career-lessons-learned-from-five-oscar-nominated-films/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/23/career-lessons-learned-from-five-oscar-nominated-films/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/23/career-lessons-learned-from-five-oscar-nominated-films/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Whether we acknowledge it or not, many parts of our lives are influenced by Hollywood, including what we wear, what we say and where we travel.


But dig a bit deeper and the movies can offer us some more substantial insights, including work and career lessons. With the Oscar's upon us (February 26th), here are some tips from a few of this year's contenders on how to make your work life more meaningful.


Click on the image below for Oscar-worthy career lessons:


career lessons from Oscar nominated movies

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The Artist, directed by Michel Hazanavicius
Nominated for: Best Picture, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay (among others)
Plot synopsis: This black and white film follows french actor Jean Dujardin (nominated for Best Actor) as Hollywood silent picture star George Valentin who resists moving into the era of the talkies and endures hardship as a result.
Lesson Learned: There are second acts. If you're not finding fulfillment in your current role, leverage your strongest skills and pursue a job that might suit you better. It may take re-training and will likely be humbling but will be well worth it. (SPOILER ALERT!) It took great inner courage (and a deflated ego) for Valentin to accept he had to change with the times, but when he did he found a new niche built on his old skills.

Continue reading Career Lessons Learned from Five Oscar-Nominated Films

Career Lessons Learned from Five Oscar-Nominated Films originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>brad pittBradPittcareer lessonscareer tipsCareerLessonsCareerTipsjean dujardinJeanDujardinJessica ChastainJessicaChastainMidnight in ParisMidnightInParisMoneyballoscarssteve jobsSteveJobsthe helpTheHelptree of lifeTreeOfLifeviola davisViolaDavisWoodyAllenworkMartha WorboyThu, 23 Feb 2012 10:45:00 ESTFrom the Red Carpet to the Water Cooler: Your Style at Workhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/from-the-red-carpet-to-the-water-cooler-your-style-at-work-with/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/from-the-red-carpet-to-the-water-cooler-your-style-at-work-with/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/from-the-red-carpet-to-the-water-cooler-your-style-at-work-with/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

You are what you wear, the old saying goes. While, of course, that's not exactly true, how you dress conveys an important message about yourself. That message is particularly important at work where not it's not just your memos and your bright ideas that are being judged. With the Grammy's behind us and the Oscar's almost here (February 26th), it's a perfect opportunity to appreciate the important role style plays in conveying one's brand. As hard as it may be to believe, the red carpet is actually the celebrity's workplace and they don't spend tens of thousands of dollars on stylists and designers for nothing. Here are some celebrity examples of how style can reinforce one's personal and professional brand.

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Lady Gaga -- Confident
You know you're great -- maybe even better than all of your colleagues combined. Take some cues from Lady Gaga and you'll be booking squash courts with the boss in no time (where you'll crush her or him). Always daring, at the Grammy's Lady Gaga wore a custom Chanel ensemble, her face covered in fishnet. Although not many jobs call for fishnet, you could add some splash to your wardrobe by donning tights with interesting detail or a bright hooded scarf for on your way to work which at the office could then be worn around your neck. Don't go too far though lest you be known as the office weirdo.
Where to get the look for less: Betsey Johnson often has great deals (check the sales rack) on unique pieces you could get away with at the office. Also, the sales racks at Holt Renfrew are full of shirts, skirts and scarves only a diva could wear. (Be sure it fits in with your office "code" though and isn't something you'll only wear in the change room).

Continue reading From the Red Carpet to the Water Cooler: Your Style at Work

From the Red Carpet to the Water Cooler: Your Style at Work originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>adeleaeoangelina jolieAngelinaJolieBruno MarsBrunoMarscareersfashiongeorge clooneyGeorgeClooneygolden globes 2012GoldenGlobes2012GPSGrammy Awards 2012GrammyAwards2012grammysKaty PerryKatyPerryLady GagaLadyGagaoscarsricky gervaisRickyGervaisrihannaSZYMworkplace fashionWorkplaceFashionMartha WorboyWed, 22 Feb 2012 14:00:00 ESTTen Free Ways to Improve Your State of Mindhttp://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/ten-free-ways-to-improve-your-state-of-mind/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/ten-free-ways-to-improve-your-state-of-mind/http://www.walletpop.ca/blog/2012/02/22/ten-free-ways-to-improve-your-state-of-mind/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

seasonal affective disorder
Cold weather. Dusk at 5pm. The constant search for your misplaced glove. This time of year there are almost more excuses to justify feeling grumpy than energetic and chipper. But if you can see past the bleak horizon and align yourself more with the arrival of spring -- a time of energy and renewal -- you may just find yourself in a better state of mind and consequently a more productive person. To get there, you don't need to go on an extravagant vacation or spend a lot of money on vitamin infusions. Try some of these simple steps to improve your state of mind for free.

1. Take a hike
Yes, it's (sort of) cold outside, but so what? Bundle up and get out there for a walk. It will elevate your senses on all levels, make you a fitter person if you do it regularly and you may even get some vitamin D the natural way if you leave some skin exposed between your hat and your scarf.

Continue reading Ten Free Ways to Improve Your State of Mind

Ten Free Ways to Improve Your State of Mind originally appeared on Walletpop Canada on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>bookscomedydeclutterexercisefreehappinesshealthmoviessimplifytv showsTvShowsMartha WorboyWed, 22 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EST