Your first perfume could become your signature scent. Depending on what you end up buying, people could associate you with the lovely aroma of vanilla, lilies, sandalwood, and patchouli. Or you may prefer sweeter-smelling perfumes — think fruits and candy. The perfume you wear says a lot about you.

You may like the smell of freshly baked cookies that remind you of your grandma’s Sunday mornings or you may like the soft smell of powder from your mother’s dressing room. The smell of roses is equally inviting. Or maybe your father’s aquatic and fresh cologne is closer to your heart.

Now you too have the opportunity to be the one to inspire others. So choose something that truly matches your personality and your uniqueness. But where to get started? Before actually buying the perfume, here are some tips you will want to know.

What is behind that attractive aroma?

A perfume is like a song. Different notes mix and combine in harmony to send a message, to set the tone, and to create a mood. In the perfume world, you will often hear about top notes, middle notes, and base notes. Let’s talk more about them.

Top notes: These are the scent you smell immediately when you spray the perfume. Most of the time, these notes are light, bright and citrusy.

Heart notes or middle notes: This is the heart of the perfume which surfaces once the top notes fade. Common middle notes include freshly picked flowers, fruits, and spices. This is the smell you remember most.

Base notes: They combine with the base notes to determine the longevity and strength of the fragrance on your skin. Think of musk, amber, patchouli, and woody notes like sandalwood and cedarwood.

Where to buy your first perfume?

Buying a perfume is a great experience. You can share this experience with your friends or go all by yourself. Either way, go to a perfume shop and try what appeals to your senses. Be open to this journey and welcome advice from the shop assistant after you explained what you like and dislike. Some suggestions may surprise you in the best possible way.

While you may find the best bargain online, personally I don’t recommend that you get your first fragrance online. If you think you can find better price online, at least try that fragrance out at a physical location first.

Related: How to pick your daughter’s first perfume

Trying out the perfume

Don’t rush into buying a perfume based on the first spritz because that is not the actual smell of the perfume.

Take time to discover what you really like, and focus on three to four perfumes at the most. If you spray every single one you like, your nose will get tired soon and won’t smell anything or tell them apart. Remember to let your nose rest in between scents by either sniffing the coffee beans or better, grab a coffee at a nearby cafe. Your overwhelmed sense of smell will be back to normal after you spend some time getting fresh air.

If you’re not in a hurry, take a few samples and see how you react to these fragrances over the next couple of days. Then you can make a decision that will make you happy.

Choose a fragrance that matches your lifestyle

Your perfume speaks for you. It should be a perfect fit for your lifestyle.

If you’re still in school or working in an office, remember that your perfume should not keep colleagues away from you nor do you want to attract them in unintended ways, so you might want to consider clean and floral fragrances. If the perfume will be worn primarily on a date, you may want to consider a delicately sweet perfume.

Eau de toilette versus eau de perfume

Many people believe that perfume means fragrance for women and cologne means fragrance for men. But it is actually more complicated than that. There are different categories of fragrance, and they are differentiated by the concentration of fragrance (i.e. the essential oil) in them.

Perfume (Parfum) has the most fragrance in them and last the longest.

Eau de parfum (EDP) has more stable and lasting qualities; you could spray it early in the morning and would still have the scent close to you by the time you get home in the evening.

Eau de toilette (EDT) mainly consists of top notes, so this means the fragrance will be fresh and sharp. At first, it would smell strong buy it may be gone by noon. Despite the spelling, EDT has nothing to do with the toilet.

Eau de cologne (EDC) has an even lower concentration in terms of fragrance and can only last 2-4 hours.

This will give you a brief idea of what those foreign-sounding terms mean at the bottom of the fragrance bottle.

Remember the fragrance will smell differently on your body

Be open to suggestions. If you’re comfortable doing this, ask people what perfume they’re wearing when you think they smell fabulous.

At the same time, be aware that perfume you smell on other people will smell differently on you. Based on the reaction the perfume has with the pH (i.e. acidity) of your skin, the smell will be very different.

Perfume application tips for beginners

The hot points on your body, where you can feel your pulse, are the best place to spritz your fragrance. The underside of your wrists, behind the ears, the neck and inner elbows are the perfect spots to spray some perfume. These body points get warmer throughout the day and this helps project the perfume around you.

Conclusion

I am the first to admit it’s difficult to choose just one perfume to buy. I perfectly understand why you would hesitate but you should know that if you don’t absolutely love the perfume, you will probably not wear it. Be patient with yourself and take time to discover what you love and what speaks to your heart. After all, buying your first perfume should become the memory of a wonderful experience.

By the way, I found this fun article on the Smithsonian website while researching for this guide. The article talks about Jicky the first modern perfume. It’s an interesting read. Definitely go check that out if you have time.

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Piggy bank is the perfect way for kids and adults to save money. Keeping a piggy bank around helps to provide a home for all the loose change you have. Without a piggy bank, they get everywhere! Under the sofa, in your drawer — you get the idea. If you’re looking for a piggybank that is extra special, you’ll love the unique piggy banks that we’ve selected for you. Get ready to see some cool coin banks.

25 Cute Piggy Banks You Should Check Out

Whether you’re saving up for something super-exciting like a holiday or a car, or you’re simply putting money away for a rainy day, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be much more inclined to keep the saving habit up if you have a cute piggy bank to put your dough in! Below are some of our favorite piggy banks:-

Cool Piggy Banks

Fun piggy banks with cool design. Keep your hard-earned coins safe and sound in one of these cool coin banks that are cool as cucumbers.

1. Modern Piggy Bank

Kicking the list off, we’ve got a bit of a twist on the classic piggy bank. These modernistic piggy banks are super-chic pigs — they are not only funky and modern, but they’re available in six different color options and finishes, so you can be sure they really compliment your home decor.

2. Moana Pua Piggy Bank

Huge Moana fan? Who isn’t!? This cool piggy bank is a must-have for any Disney lover. It features the adorable Pua from Moana. It stands at 9 inches tall, ensuring you’ll fit plenty of savings in there! Now you’ll have a sweet little pig sidekick of your very own.

3. Minimalist Brushstrokes Piggy Bank

If you’re looking for something a little more matched to your decor, look no further than this gorgeous black and white ceramic coin bank. Black and white not quite your color scheme? Never fear – there’s plenty of coin banks to choose from. Win-win!

4. Adventure Fund Box

If you’re planning a sweet getaway, how about visualizing it every time you put money aside? That way you’ll have a constant reminder of the exciting trip you’re saving up for, making it easier to keep up the habit! This unique piggy bank will help you on your way to rest and relaxation.

5. Date Night Money Box

Perhaps you’re not needing to save for something quite as large as a holiday – maybe you’re just looking to put some money away for the little things in life. This Date Night money box will ensure you keep the date night tradition alive, and always have a bit of extra cash to splurge with your loved one.

6. Dictionary Piggy Bank

If the thought of leaving money around in an obvious spot sends shivers up your spine, you’re not alone. Thankfully there is a solution – this piggy bank is disguised as an English dictionary and will slip sneakily onto your bookshelf so no one will ever know.

7. Blue Starry Piggy Bank

Just wanting a piggy bank that is sturdy and large enough to hold all your change, that won’t fall apart on you and will look funky doing it? Check and check. This sweet starry piggy ticks all the boxes and then some.

8. Fluffy Piggy Bank

If you’re looking for more of a traditional-style piggy bank, but something perhaps a little more you, check out this piggy bank! Fluffy, cute, and oh so cuddly, this piggy bank is large enough to fit a bunch of savings in, as well as adding some cozy decor to your bedroom. Just try not to snuggle it, I dare you.

9. Whale Piggy Bank

How about whales? Whales are awesome This money box comes in a huge range of different color combinations and can be customized with a name to make it extra special.

10. Initial Money Box

Express yourself (and make sure you never forget which letter your name starts with) with this gorgeous wooden letter money box. Available in any letter and with the option of personalized engraving, this lovely money box will look wonderful in any home.

11. Unicorn Piggy Bank

Unicorns are very much the “in thing” at the moment, so get with the trend and grab this piggy bank that is a unicorn pig with rainbow! Unicorns may not be real, and unicorn pigs are both unreal and rare, but they sure take good care of your money. This piggy bank can also be customized with your name!

12. DIY Piggy Bank

Design your own piggy bank with the help of this DIY kit. This kit comes with everything you need to make a piggy bank that is totally, utterly you. So put your crafty hat on and get decorating!

Electronic Piggy Banks

It’s the digital era. While the good ol’ piggy banks still haven’t gained sentience, some of them have evolved: acquiring abilities to move, count, and in some cases — steal from you! I present to you the digital piggy banks.

1. Electronic Cash Box

If you’ve got sneaky siblings or housemates, you may want to up your piggy bank security! This electronic coin bank is secured by a passcode to ensure no one can get to your hard-earned savings. (Don’t worry though – there’s a secret way to get in if you forget your password. Shh!)

2. No Face Money Box

In normal circumstances, someone eating the money you’re trying to save isn’t exactly ideal, but when it’s No Face from Spirited Away we’ll make an exception. Sit a coin on No Face’s plate and he’ll eat your coin, storing it away for safe keeping. Too cute! This piggy bank is a battery-powered bank.

3. Stealing Panda Money Box

In keeping with the mechanical theme, it doesn’t get much cuter than a sweet little panda stealing your precious money. Don’t worry – he won’t keep it, he’s just making sure it’s in a safe place. Thanks, panda! Best electronic piggy bank for kids — definitely!

4. Pig Digital Bank

These aren’t ordinary pigs. They are pigs that can count. Always be in the know of how much money you have in these digital coin bank. See the numbers trickle up every time you save. It sure is a satisfying experience!

5. Counting Money Box

Who has time to sit and count the masses of money you’ve accumulated? That’s right, no one. And you don’t need to, because this digital piggy bank does it for you. Each time you put a coin in the slot, it’ll add it to your total, showing you just how many millions you’ve saved.

Elephant Piggy Banks

The gentle giant elephant is known in some culture as a symbol of power, strength, humility, and honesty. You can be certain that elephant coin banks will keep your pennies, quarters, dimes, and nickels safe.

1. Vintage Elephant Bank

This elephant piggybank is reminiscent of the circus in the early 18th century. Made of tin. This coin bank is expensive because it’s an actual vintage item from the 1940s-1950s. You can absolutely use this bank to safe-keep your coins, but you are more likely to use it as room decor or add it to your collection of vintage stuff.

2. Mid Century Elephant Bank

Another exquisite piggy bank. This vintage item is from the 1950s. This mid-century bank features a lively elephant in maroon color.

3. Elephant Piggy Bank

You can still get all the benefits of a piggy bank while also celebrating the coolest animal around – the elephant! This sweet bank is a beautiful green color, made from earthenware and just waiting to keep your savings safe.

Harry Potter Piggy Banks

Fans of the wizarding world, support your fellow wizard boy by getting a piggy bank that pays tribute to him. And of course, we’re talking about coin banks of Harry Potter.

1. Harry Potter Piggy Bank

Saving up for a new owl? Hogwarts robes looking a little tatty? Save up for the necessities with this cute Harry Potter piggy bank. Made from ceramic, it’s totally sturdy and will hold plenty of coins, plus it will look fantastic in any Harry Potter fan’s bedroom!

2. Harry Trotter Piggy Bank

Okay, I get it. You like the idea of a Harry Potter coin bank, but isn’t the point of a piggy bank that it’s an actual pig? You’re so right. Here’s a real piggy bank, disguised as your favorite Hogwarts wizard. You’re welcome.

Wooden Piggy Banks

Common piggy bank materials are tin and plastic. Dare to be different by getting yourself one of these exceptional coin banks made of wood.

1. Wooden Piggy Bank With Bark

Unique handmade wooden coin bank. This wooden pig is made from hardwood from the Black Forest region in Germany. You can get this wooden pig coin bank from Etsy.

2. Wooden Piggy Bank – Elephant

Abstract elephant piggy bank made from oak wood. It has a glass panel on its side so you can see how much money you’ve managed to save up in there. Get it on Etsy

3. Wooden Cube Money Box

I get it – as cute as actual piggy banks are, it can be hard to make them fit in with your decor. That’s why I love this wooden “piggy bank” – it’s totally stunning. Made from plywood and Walnut veneer, it’s beautiful and luxurious and will make you feel chic every time you pop money in it.

Get it on Etsy

And there you have it! Close to 30 unique and cool coin banks. Some of these banks are actually piggies, as in they are in the shape of a pig. They are made of tin, some from ceramic, plastic, and wood. Some of them are good ol’ fashioned coin banks while a few of them are digital banks that are capable of counting (and stealing) your coins.

If I had to pick which cool coin bank is my favorite I’d say probably the Stealing Panda or the No Face Man bank. An electronic coin bank that reacts to my coins is kinda awesome.

Have You Found the Piggy Bank that You’re Looking For?

What about you? Did you find a piggy bank that works for you? Perhaps you were shopping for someone else? An adult? or a kid perhaps? Let us know what are you getting and which of the unique coin banks above is your favorite.

Have you caught the saving bug yet? I know I have – now I just have to choose between all of these amazing piggy banks! What are you saving up for: a holiday? A special gift? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you.

The post 25 Cute Piggy Banks to Safe-Keep Your Loose Change appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Matching Couples Keychains You’ll Love

Looking for the perfect sweet, little gift to give to your special someone to show them how much they mean to you? Look no further than these cute couple’s keychains. There are so many great options, you’ll struggle to pick just one!

These matching couple keychains are the perfect couple gift. Get them for yourself and your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife or secret lover. They are ideal for your other half’s birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and just because. Did we mention that they are also excellent long-distance relationship gifts?

1. Drive Safe Couple Keychains

Sometimes it’s the little things that show just how much you mean to someone, which is why these matching keychains are so sweet. They’re the perfect reminder to drive carefully, as there’s someone special counting on you coming home.

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2. Quidditch Matching Couples Keychains

Are you both huge Harry Potter fans? This is the perfect give for your fellow Potterhead! Made with high-quality stainless steel, these Quidditch-themed keychains are the best way to tell your loved one that they’re a ‘keeper’.

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3. King and Queen Matching Keychains

Is he your king? Is she your queen? Then you need these keychains! They’re durable and unique, ensuring they’ll remind you of your loved one for a long time to come. The gold crowns also add a bit of bling, and the contrast between the crowns and your keys will really make them stand out.

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4. I Love You, I Know Couples Keychains

If Star Wars is more your style, show your very own Han Solo how much you love them with this gloriously geeky keychain. Of course, they already know… But I’m sure they won’t mind being reminded!

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5. Matching Avocados Pair Keychains

Avocados are definitely the food trend currently, and for good reason. They’re totally delicious! But did you realize they made adorable keychains too? Me neither! It’s no wonder, really, when each half hugs the other. Let your partner know it’s time to avo-cuddle with these sweeties.

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6. Black and White Dogs

It doesn’t get much cuter than this. These lovely pooches are the ideal way to not only match with your partner but add some canine love to your key set. (Bonus points if they resemble your own puppy!)

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7. Interlocking Matching Cats Couple’s Keychains

If you’re cat people rather than dog people, these keychains have you covered. These sweet kitties are reminiscent of a yin yang symbol, whilst spelling out ‘Her One’ and ‘His Only’. They interlock purr-fectly, so they will always remind you of the person who has the other half, no matter how far apart you might be.

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8. Mickey & Minnie Keychains For Couples

If you both have a soft spot for all things Disney, these Mickey and Minnie Mouse keychains are ideal. Each one features a sweet pop of color, and are the ideal way to compare your partnership with one of the cutest couples around!

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9. Matching Key and Key Fob

Cute key-to-my-heart keychains. These leather and gunmetal gray pendants are a gorgeous, understated way to show your love. The key fits through the lock perfectly, and the stunning dark gray color stays untarnished for the life of your keychains. Win-win!

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10. Customizable Calendar Keychains Matched Pair

The possibilities are endless when it comes to the date you could highlight on these gorgeous calendar keychains. Your first date? First kiss? Wedding anniversary? Whichever date you choose, you’ll be reminded of the special moment every day when you pick up your keys.

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More Matching Keychains For Couples

No? No worries, below are even more choices for you

11. Bottle Openers

Cute AND practical? You got it! Not only are these girl-and-boy keychains super sweet, but they’ll also ensure you’re never stuck with an unopened drink again. After all, what better way to be reminded of your loved one than to use something they bought you every day?

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12. Puzzle Couple Keychain Matching Set

This cute couple keychain set features two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly — representing you and your partner. No matter where you both are, they are guaranteed to remind you of your loved one.

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13. Guitar Picks Keychains

If the two of you have a shared love of music, these guitar pick keychains are ideal. Whether you play guitar or simply listen to music in your daily life, these great couple keychains are sure to remind you of the person you ‘picked’. They’re silver-plated, meaning they’ll keep their shine and quality for years to come.

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14. Peanut Butter and Jelly Couples Keychains

I don’t know about you, but I am a huge peanut butter and jelly fan. If I received these funny couple keychains from my other half, I would be taking that as a huge compliment! It’s basically one of the best flavor combinations in the world just like you two are the best couple combination around!

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15. Matching Home Sweet Home Keychains

Have you two just moved in together? What better way to celebrate than with a special couple keychain for your new house keys? Each one features one half of a house, with the both of you inside, as well as a sweet engraving of ‘Home Sweet Home’. Too cute!

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16. Elephants Couple’s Keychains

In the Hindu way of thought, elephants are thought to bring stability, honor and good luck making them such a good charm to carry with you on your keychain. These elephant couple keychains also feature gorgeous leather, giving them a lovely bohemian feel.

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17. Year 2017 Matching Keychains

Was 2017 your year? Celebrate how important 2017 was for you two with these gorgeous stamped coin keychains. They come packaged with a cute card saying “what a lucky year!” which is obviously was, because you found each other.

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18. I Like… Couples Keychains

Get a little cheeky with these naughty couple keychains! After all, it’s always nice to be reminded of your best assets. Every time you glance at your keychains you’re sure to smile how nice is that?

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19. Magnetic Piggies Couple’s Keychains

‘Love Me’ and ‘Choose Me’ – that’s what these too-cute-for-words magnetic piggy keychains say on their little tummies. If that’s not cute enough, each pig has a magnet in its snout, drawing the two pendants together when they’re close to each other the perfect symbol for the love between you and your partner.

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20. Game of Thrones Couple Keychains

Look out Game of Thrones fans, we’ve found the perfect couple keychains for you! Featuring the phrase that Danaerys and Khal Drogo said to each other, these gorgeous laser-engraved pendants are perfect to share with your very own Dothraki love.

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Did any of these couple keychains strike your fancy? I know it was hard to collate this list without wanting to buy them all. Let us know what you thought- we’d love to hear from you!

Where To Buy These Couples Keychains?

Amazon has plenty of options available and they are really convenient to buy from. The couple’s keychains on Amazon are usually quite affordable, however, as most things are nowadays, they are often made in China. You can sometimes find awesome keychains on Target.com and Walmart but they are usually rare. Etsy is an awesome marketplace for this kind of products. Their products are usually handmade but some are manufactured in a factory so you’ll want to pay extra attention to the details. Anyway, be ready to pay a lot more if you buy from Etsy.

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20 Matching Couples Keychains

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The post 20 Matching Couple Keychains You’ll Love appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.