Frugal Family Finds

Friends, Wheatonians and Countrymen- send me your deals.  I have come to find you bargains not to break your wallet.  But Beware of the Ides of March Madness: avoid excessive spending on trying to win your office NCAA brackets, Spring Break spray tans and leprechaun paraphernalia and instead try some of these area deals on nails, food, bikes, shoes, bags, beads, fitness and more.

1. AliKat and Cosmos — Glen Ellyn

Deal:  Pre- spring break list: Mani Pedi, something new to wear and a martini to cope with the stress of logistics and packing. Done, done and done. AliKat is supporting local businesses through the 3/50 project by partnering with Cosmos Beauty Bar- a full service nail salon with a full service bar. Spend $50 at Cosmos on any service and receive a coupon for 10% off your entire purchase at Alikat - good for one month. To make an appt at Cosmos in time for spring break call 630.790.0713.

Good through:  Mar. 31

2. Casey’s — Naperville

The Deal: If time is money then this one-stop St Patty’s day feast purveyor hits the proverbial pot of gold. Casey’s bakery and deli will help you celebrate with these tasty items: Irish Soda Bread $3.49/loaf, Guinness Stew $9.99/lb, Shepherd Pie $5.99/18oz, Cabbage Wedges/Baby Carrots $4.99/lb and more. Plus, visit the meat department for fresh corned beef ready to cook in this easy recipe: Place beef in a large pot of cold water. Use enough water to cover the corned beef. When water comes to a boil, pour the water out and replace with fresh water. (This draws excess salt out of the beef.) Simmer slowly 2 to 3 hours. Add cabbage, potatoes and carrots the last hour.

Good through: Mar. 17

3. Midwest Cyclery — Wheaton

The Deal: Get out of the house and onto the Prairie Path. Rent a bike from Midwest Cyclery- for you, for your visiting in-laws, or for a place other than the car to keep the little ones as a captive audience. Adult Bicycles, Trail-A-Bike, and Child Trailers are available for per item: $17.00 two hours, $10 for each additional hour, $29.00 a day, and $85.00 a week. One-hour minimum rental.  All bikes in the rental fleet are recreational bikes including hybrids and comfort bikes. A valid driver’s license and credit card at time of rental is needed. Helmets are available for rental as well.

Good Through- Rates subject to change 

4.  Knippen Shoes – Wheaton

The Deal: If tired old shoes and holes in your toes have you doing a bit of sole searching – look no further than new arrivals from Merrell -- Mention “vacation” in a real loud and not so subtle- under- your-breath-sort –of-way and receive 10% off (not valid with any other offer).

Good Through- Apr. 15

5. The Genuine Article – Wheaton

Deal: Mardi Gras may be over but the beads live on. The Genuine Article is celebrating spring and Pat’s Day with 15% off all green beads in stock. (excludes natural beads other than stone).

Good through:  Mar. 31

6. M & EMs   - Glen Ellyn

Barter bags for bargains beginning March 16th by donating a gently used tote, backpack or duffle bag and receive $10 off a Cinda B. bag or accessory ($20 and over) OR donate 2 totes and receive $20 off a large Cinda B. travel bag ($60 and over). All donated totes will be donated to DuPage Pads, a charity that provides services for the homeless.

Good through: Mar. 20

7. HealthTrack — Glen Ellyn

Isn’t the name incentive enough? Get your health back on track-it’s not even too late to commit to that nearly abandoned New Year’s Resolution by joining this full service gym and fitness center. Join in March and pay a $99 flat enrollment fee. Contact Member Services Department for pricing information at (630) 942-9600 ext. 502.

 Good through: Mar. 31