Alright, confession time. I've spent the last three summers obsessing over those Instagram-perfect Mediterranean patios while my own garden looked like something between a neglected allotment and where garden furniture goes to die. My partner keeps telling me we can't afford a villa in Sardinia (rude, but fair).
But LISTEN.
I stumbled across something at Dunelm yesterday that literally made me text my sister with seven exclamation points. They're selling this absurdly good cream parasol for just £39 that instantly gives any sad British patio that "I'm actually in Greece right now" vibe.
The Parasol That Made My Neighbour Jealous
It's called the Cream Crank Parasol (not the sexiest name, I'll admit) but it's flying off shelves faster than ice cream on the one properly hot day we get each summer. I actually watched a woman grab the display model while I was there. Savage.
The thing has this dead simple crank system that even my technologically-challenged dad could handle. No more wrestling with those manual ones that make you look like you're fighting an octopus in your garden.
Reviews are pretty stellar too - 4.4 stars from people who sound genuinely thrilled rather than those suspicious perfect reviews that make you go "yeah right, written by the CEO's mum."
Why Are We So Desperate for Mediterranean Vibes?
One lady wrote that it gives her "privacy and shade" and is "easy to put up and down" - which honestly feels like the bare minimum a parasol should do, but apparently that's worth celebrating in 2023. She called it "excellent value for money" which, in this economy, is basically a standing ovation.
Another shopper got a bit carried away calling it "chic" and "Mediterranean looking" - but after I set mine up with some fairy lights and a glass of Tesco's finest £6 rosé... I kinda get it.
I mean, it's just a parasol. It's not going to actually transport you to a beachside taverna in Santorini. But for £39? I'll take the illusion.
Wait... £200 Bar Stool for TWENTY QUID?!
While we're talking Dunelm bargains that make no sense (in a good way), someone in teh Extreme Coupons Facebook group just posted about finding a Lovato Bar Stool by Boucle marked down from £200 to £19.90.
That's 90% off, which is the kind of discount that makes me question either the original price or my understanding of basic math.
Back in 2018, I paid nearly £180 for a similar designer-ish stool that my cat immediately claimed as his personal scratching post. Still bitter about that one.
The Fine Print (Because There's Always a Catch)
The chair deal seems to be in-store only adn possibly just in certain locations. The website still lists it at the full £199 price, which feels like a cruel joke if you've just seen someone bragging about their £20 version online.
It comes in three different finishes - natural stained wood, dark stained oak, and black stained wood. No confirmation if all three are included in this mysterious sale.
My local Dunelm staff looked at me like I was speaking Klingon when I asked about it yesterday. "That's not possible," said the manager, before checking the system and muttering something about "head office mistakes." Poor guy.
So there you have it. A parasol that promises Mediterranean vibes for less than a tank of petrol, and possibly a unicorn bar stool deal if you're willing to hunt for it.
Summer 2025 might not be so bad after all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of money?
Money is a medium of exchange that facilitates transactions for goods and services. It serves as a unit of account, a store of value, and a standard of deferred payment, allowing individuals to compare the value of diverse products and services.
What is the difference between saving and investing?
Saving typically involves setting aside money in a secure account for short-term needs or emergencies, while investing involves using money to purchase assets like stocks or real estate with the expectation of generating a return over the long term. Investing carries higher risks but offers the potential for greater rewards.
What is the role of central banks in the economy?
Central banks manage a nation's currency, money supply, and interest rates. They implement monetary policy to control inflation, stabilize the currency, and foster economic growth. They also serve as lenders of last resort to the banking system during financial crises.
How can I start saving for retirement?
To start saving for retirement, begin by establishing clear retirement goals and determining how much you need to save. Contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as a 401(k), and consider opening an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Regular contributions and taking advantage of compounding interest can significantly boost your retirement savings over time.
What are the main functions of money?
The primary functions of money are as a medium of exchange, facilitating trade; a unit of account, which provides a standard measure of value; a store of value, allowing individuals to save and transfer purchasing power over time; and a standard of deferred payment, enabling credit transactions.
What are credit scores and why are they important?
Credit scores are numerical representations of an individual's creditworthiness, calculated based on credit history, payment behavior, and debt levels. They are important because they impact the ability to obtain loans, credit cards, and favorable interest rates, affecting overall financial health.
What is the importance of financial literacy?
Financial literacy is essential for making informed decisions about budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. It empowers individuals to understand financial concepts, evaluate risks, and navigate complex financial products, leading to better financial stability and long-term wealth building.
Statistics
- Research by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that individuals who receive financial education are 25% more likely to save than those who do not.
- According to a Gallup poll, 56% of Americans report that their financial situation is better than it was a year ago.
- A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at some point in the past month.
- As of 2021, the average student loan debt for recent graduates was approximately $30,000, according to the Federal Reserve.
- The average cost of raising a child in the U.S. is estimated to be around $233,610, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
- According to a survey by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), about 66% of Americans could not correctly answer four basic financial literacy questions.
- The average return on investment for the S&P 500 over the past 90 years is about 10% per annum.
- According to the Federal Reserve, approximately 39% of Americans do not have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency expense.
External Links
How To
How To Build an Emergency Fund Effectively
Building an emergency fund is essential for financial security. Start by determining how much you need; a common recommendation is to save three to six months' worth of living expenses. Open a separate savings account to keep your emergency funds easily accessible but separate from your regular spending. Automate your savings by setting up a monthly transfer from your checking to your emergency fund. Initially, focus on small, manageable contributions, gradually increasing them as your budget allows. Avoid using this fund for non-emergencies, and replenish it after any withdrawals to maintain your financial safety net.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://hellofaread.com/money/beloved-oxfam-bookshop-in-ludlow-closing-down-locals-devastated-as-charity-cuts-hit-home
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