Gone are the days when I can pick the themes of my kid’s birthday parties. George is completely Star Wars obsessed and requested a party to match that. We typically like to do “experiences” over parties, but this year we decided to do both. He was so excited to scroll through Pinterest with me and come up with ideas for his party.
I’ve gathered up everything we used to pull this off so you can easily re-create.
First of all, I wanted to start with saying that I know there is a lot of “push” for this sale. Don’t feel pressure to shop the sale, just to shop. I always find great staple pieces and wonderful finds, but never buy something out of “pressure.” The Nordstrom sale really pushes their credit card to shop the sale early. If a retail credit card is not the best decision for your family… DON’T DO IT!
If you’ve followed along in the past, you know this is like Christmas to me! It always falls on my birthday week so it’s become a tradition to shop it as a birthday treat. The big sale is a little different this year, but it’s still on and strong. This page will be periodically updated as more information becomes available, so be sure to bookmark and check back for the latest news and my style guides. I’ll be breaking down favorite finds in each category, how to style them and Nordstrom Sale best practices.
Since the stores are often extremely crowded during the sale, I wanted to make it easy to shop online this year from the comfort of your home.
WHY THE NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE?
The Nordstrom sale is so much different than your typical sale because it features heavily discounted brand-new, newly released items for Fall. It also features items that rarely ever go on sale. These NEW releases then go back up to full price post sale.
WHEN DOES THE SALE START?
Early Access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts on July 12, and the sale opens to everyone on July 28, 2021.
July 12: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
July 14: Early Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
July 16: Early Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
July 28: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public.
HOW DO I KNOW MY STATUS?
You can check your card status, RIGHT HERE to see how early you can shop.
SHOULD I SHOP THE SALE EARLY ACCESS WITH A CARD?
One thing I always like to note (typically not discussed) is that if opening a store card is not the right financial decision for you and your family, DO NOT DO SO FOR A SALE!!! We do not have store credit cards and were able to do the debit card option when that was available. (You still receive points, but it is a card that is linked directly to your debit card.) While I absolutely find the best deals and love this sale, it’s never worth jeopardizing your family’s financial well being over a pair of shoes. Make sure you only sign up for a card or shop on a card if it’s right for YOU.
First up, my absolute top picks of the sale. I’m a total crazy person and have searched through every single page in each and every category multiple times. There are a few things that pop up each year on the sale that I know to stock up on.
** Click on any of the below images to shop. **
THINGS I MISSED ONLINE BUT LOVED/PURCHASED IN STORE–
Getting outside (even if it’s in your own backyard) is so good for the soul. Soaking in some sunshine and enjoying quality family time has been the best way for us to stay happy and sane during this crazy time.
We have had a few things that make for fun nights at home and wanted to share.
Patio Cocktail Hour-
Here is a little bar for two that is under $200. You can check it out HERE. I also LOVE this wine chiller that holds the whole bottle of wine. It is currently on sale for 40% off.
Outdoor Movie Nights-
This is such a fun idea! You’ll need a giant screen and a projector to bring the theater feeling for this backyard entertainment.
This always makes a great gift idea too! The picnic cooler elevates any backyard picnic.
Toddler Lounging-
This toddler sized lounger is on sale for $89 and the perfect place for kids to relax outside. (So cute too!)
Kid Sized Adirondack Chairs are always a hit for around a fire. These can be personalized with their names and come in other colors as well.
Backyard Activities-
Tree Swing- The boys have been loving this! Be sure to check the dimensions and make sure you have a tree that will work for this one.
We liked that this trampoline was fully enclosed and lower to the ground. A bit safer for younger ones.
Water Activities-
This oversized blow up water slide has provided non stop entertainment for our boys for the last two seasons. There is a climb up, two slides, a bucket dump and the bottom is a little pool. It is currently on sale and ships quick! It is super easy to blow up as well. You do need to be careful when storing this. It needs to be dried completely each time before storing.
Dino Sprinkler– There are also several other giant sprinkler options. Rainbows, unicorns, etc.
If you love these backyard entertainment ideas, be sure to check out this charcuterie picnic blog post HERE!
