iShop $30 Gift Certificate Promotion

I have exciting news! "I Shop Crystal Lake" is offering a $30 gift certificate for purchases of $300 or more that are made between Friday, November 28th and December 24th. The "I Shop Crystal Lake Gift Certificate Program" rewards shoppers for doing their holiday shopping at Crystal Lake businesses by offering a $30 Chamber of Commerce gift certificate that is redeemable at all Crystal Lake businesses. 

Shoppers should submit copies of their original sales receipts for individual or combined purchases over $300 made at Crystal Lake businesses between November 28 and December 24, 2008, to the City of Crystal Lake. Mail copies to: $30 Gift Certificate Program, 100 W. Woodstock Street, Crystal lake, IL 60014. Purchases must be made at retailers, restaurants and hotels in the Crystal Lake City limits. To find out whether or not a business is within the city limits, visit ishopcl.com/ishopcl_promotions. Purchases of gift cards or certificates, professional services (such as doctors, lawyers, hair salons) are not applicable, nor are online purchases. Limit one gift certificate per person. Entry forms can be obtained online at ishopcl.com/ishopcl_promotions, in newspaper ads, at retailers throughout the City, and at City Hall. Gift certificates will be available to the first 3,333 applicants on a fist-come, first-served basis while supplies last - so shop now! The City requires that the forms be submitted with copies of the original receipts by no later than February 2, 2009. 

Let's all go out and SHOP CRYSTAL LAKE and GET $30 BACK.

Autumn Shopping in Crystal Lake

Autumn Shopping in Crystal Lake.... School has started. Fall is in the air.

I've been shopping EVERYWHERE!

It's true! I moved last month and I needed EVERYTHING! Clothes, because the weather is changing and my sweaters are in storage boxes. Home décor, because my new place has more wall space and is more colorful than my old place. Appliances, because the new ones are much more energy efficient. And, Crystal Lake was the place to get it ALL!!

Shoe- Village Shoes had cool, comfy NAOT metallic sandals. Conforming to the feet like a Birkenstock, but fashion-friendly, the metallic straps compliment everything from jeans to business attire.

Dresses- Kohl's and Dress Barn were great for sizes and styles. The Clothes Gallery made me feel fabulous. And, La Bellisima Lingerie made me glad I lost my bra in the move. (I wonder if it's still in the moving truck....Ed's Rental, will you check?)

Accessories- La Faux and Flair Boutique had super accessories.

Home Décor- World Market had a sale on a red leather chair that wasn't so big and chunky that it took over my living room. Oh, and the matching ottoman provided the extra storage I needed. I also got in on a few season-ending sales at Kmart, Sears, Linens 'N Things and Bed Bath & Beyond. I spent a few dollars, but saved a bundle. Marietta's shabby chic fits my design tastes while Wickham interiors added a classy, elegant component to my sitting room.

Appliance- Gulgren's was great. I bought a new washer and dryer on Saturday and was doing laundry on Tuesday. I love my new Fisher-Paykal energy efficient machines.

As I shopped, I enjoyed seeing neighbors, friends and meeting new people along the way. From local shops to Big Box stores, everyone was helpful and considerate.

Well, gotta run. I have to shop for my housewarming party. Joseph's. Sam's Club, Jewel, Dominick's and Cardinal Liquors....here I come!!!!

I Shop Crystal Lake

I found the coolest stuff while shopping in Crystal Lake. I don’t live in town, so I’m not really familiar with what Crystal Lake had to offer, but I drive by the downtown area frequently and always tell myself, “I have to stop and look around.” Well, the other day, I finally stopped.

The first store I visited was It’s My Bag. I’m a total purse addict and discovered this hidden world of handmade purses! And what a wonderful world it is! I decided to splurge and get this adorable pink and black number with a little bow on the handle. I couldn’t resist it even though I don’t have a lot of pink in my wardrobe. But, that changed shortly after leaving the store. Walking around the corner, I discovered The Clothes Gallery, popped in, and found a blouse to match my new bag-- perfect! And you wouldn’t believe what is right across the street? Dalzell & Co., a store that no female can resist, JEWELRY. After my browsing/drooling session was over, I figured it best to get out while I could. Don’t worry; I made out a list to give my fiancé.

It was getting late in the day, and my stomach was rumbling. I decided to grab a quick bite to eat at Le Petite Marche. What a great spot, with great food. It's a little slice of Paris in Downtown Crystal Lake. And the prefect place to enjoy a glass of wine before a night at the Raue Center.

My day of shopping in Crystal Lake was a huge success. But, as I headed home, I realized how many stores and restaurants I had missed. My next shopping day can’t come too soon. AND, my next trip will definitely include a few girlfriends.

Anonymous Shopper