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CNET
a day ago
- Business
- CNET
This Is the Least Rewarding Card in My Wallet. Here's Why I Still Use It
CNET/Getty Images As a credit card writer, I carefully curate my wallet. I have cash-back cards that earn rewards on everyday spending, travel cards with useful perks and other cards that I've picked up for one reason or another. Most of them earn between 2% and 5% rewards in different categories or provide benefits such as trip insurance. Then there's my humble Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card*, which earns a flat 1.25x miles on all purchases and comes with relatively few travel benefits. It's not a bad card for its niche -- a no-frills travel card meant for those who don't want to pay an annual fee -- but I personally have more rewarding options in my wallet. So why do I use it? For one specific feature: Capital One's virtual credit cards tool. It's invaluable for keeping my card information secure when shopping online. This alone makes my VentureOne worth using over my other, more rewarding cards. What's a virtual credit card and how does it work? A virtual credit card is a unique, randomly generated card number you can use in place of your real card information when making purchases online. The benefit of a virtual card is that you don't have to share your real card number during the transaction, giving you some extra protection from hacking and fraud. A digital wallet like Google Pay and Apple Pay provides similar benefits, but not all merchants accept this payment method. You can use virtual credit cards anywhere online that you'd use a normal credit card. Some issuers will give you a temporary virtual card number for a newly opened card so you can start spending while you wait for the physical card to arrive. But Capital One's virtual cards feature lets you create and manage new virtual cards at will, which is what really makes it useful. How to use Capital One's virtual credit card Capital One's virtual card is available on most of its credit cards, not just the VentureOne. So if you have one of Capital One's other consumer or business cards, you can still use this feature. There are two ways to generate a virtual credit card for your Capital One credit card: Use the Eno browser extension, which lets you automatically generate a virtual card at checkout when shopping online. Manually generate virtual card numbers through the Capital One online account portal or mobile app. To create a virtual card in the online portal, click on your profile picture in the top right corner, then select "digital wallet manager" in the drop-down menu. Screenshot by Raina He/CNET You'll be directed to a new page. Click on the "virtual cards" tile to go to your virtual cards manager. Screenshot by Raina He/CNET Here, you can see and manage all your existing virtual cards. You can check the card information and lock, unlock or delete them. Screenshot by Raina He/CNET If you click on the "create virtual card" link at the top, you'll be prompted with a pop-up to choose which credit card you want to link your virtual card to (if you have multiple compatible Capital One cards). You can then give your virtual card a nickname. You can also choose whether you want to limit the virtual card to a single use. By default, each virtual card is good for repeated use at one store only. Once you create your virtual card, you'll be presented with a virtual card number, CVC and expiration date. Use this card like you would your physical credit card when shopping online. When I use my VentureOne virtual card (and when I don't) Because the VentureOne's 1.25x flat rewards rate is lower than what most of my other cards earn, using its virtual card feature typically means losing out on some rewards or benefits. But I think the trade-off is worth it for these situations: Online purchases on sites I don't completely trust: Whenever I buy something from a website I'm not familiar with or I don't trust completely, I'll use a virtual card for some extra security. Depending on whether I think I'll shop there again, I'll either generate a single-use virtual card or a repeated-use card for the specific merchant. In the latter case, I'll lock the virtual card after purchasing and keep it locked until I need it again. Whenever I buy something from a website I'm not familiar with or I don't trust completely, I'll use a virtual card for some extra security. Depending on whether I think I'll shop there again, I'll either generate a single-use virtual card or a repeated-use card for the specific merchant. In the latter case, I'll lock the virtual card after purchasing and keep it locked until I need it again. Services that require me to keep a credit card on file: Some services, like rideshare apps, require you to keep a payment method on file. I'll use a virtual card for these services so that if my account is hacked, my real credit card won't be at risk, and I can easily disable the virtual card in my Capital One dashboard. Some services, like rideshare apps, require you to keep a payment method on file. I'll use a virtual card for these services so that if my account is hacked, my real credit card won't be at risk, and I can easily disable the virtual card in my Capital One dashboard. Subscriptions, memberships and free trials: I currently don't have many subscriptions or memberships, but if I did, I'd use a virtual card for them. I've heard horror stories about subscriptions that are easy to sign up for but hard to cancel, and I'd want an easy way to cut off payments if a company doesn't honor my cancellation request. The same goes for free trials, which often automatically turn into ongoing subscriptions if you don't cancel in time. Using a single-use virtual card can help prevent this. And here's what I don't use the card for, because I either don't need to or I don't think the trade-off is worth it: Anywhere I can use my digital wallets: While creating a virtual card through Capital One's tool is relatively simple, it's still an extra step. When a site lets me use my digital wallets, which offer the same protections as a virtual card but are more streamlined to use, I'll use that instead. While creating a virtual card through Capital One's tool is relatively simple, it's still an extra step. When a site lets me use my digital wallets, which offer the same protections as a virtual card but are more streamlined to use, I'll use that instead. Expensive purchases from trustworthy sites: For high-value purchases on sites I trust, the potential for additional rewards outweighs the security risks, so I'll use the card with the highest rewards. Generally, that means a tiered rewards card or a 2% flat rewards card (depending on the purchase). For high-value purchases on sites I trust, the potential for additional rewards outweighs the security risks, so I'll use the card with the highest rewards. Generally, that means a tiered rewards card or a 2% flat rewards card (depending on the purchase). Travel purchases (with a caveat): I use my Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for most travel purchases to activate the card's various trip protections. However, sometimes I'm forced to book travel through sites whose security I'm not entirely confident in. In these situations, I weigh the risk of not having my Chase Sapphire Preferred's travel protections if something goes wrong versus the risk of having my credit card information potentially compromised, then make a decision on a case-by-case basis. I use my Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for most travel purchases to activate the card's various trip protections. However, sometimes I'm forced to book travel through sites whose security I'm not entirely confident in. In these situations, I weigh the risk of not having my Chase Sapphire Preferred's travel protections if something goes wrong versus the risk of having my credit card information potentially compromised, then make a decision on a case-by-case basis. In-person purchases: Since I can't use a virtual card to make in-person purchases (except through a digital wallet, which makes a virtual card unnecessary), I'll generally use my other, more rewarding credit cards over my VentureOne card. There are many different Capital One credit cards, and some offer competitive rewards in their category. Depending on which card you have and what you're buying, your virtual card may well be your most rewarding card. In that case, feel free to use it for everything. Other tips to keep your credit cards safe Using a virtual card is one good way to keep your money safe, but it shouldn't be your only line of defense. Here are some other strategies I personally use and recommend: Lock any cards you aren't regularly using: I have a lot of credit cards, and some see more frequent use than others. Any card I'm not using on a daily basis, I keep locked, which blocks new purchases but generally allows established recurring transactions to go through. Most banks allow you to lock and unlock your card at will through your account dashboard. If you have virtual cards that allow repeated use, lock those too when you're not using them. I have a lot of credit cards, and some see more frequent use than others. Any card I'm not using on a daily basis, I keep locked, which blocks new purchases but generally allows established recurring transactions to go through. Most banks allow you to lock and unlock your card at will through your account dashboard. If you have virtual cards that allow repeated use, lock those too when you're not using them. Don't save payment methods in your browser or online accounts: I try to avoid saving my credit card information in my browser or on any website that doesn't require it. The convenience isn't worth the security risk if your account gets hacked or the site experiences a data breach. I try to avoid saving my credit card information in my browser or on any website that doesn't require it. The convenience isn't worth the security risk if your account gets hacked or the site experiences a data breach. Regularly monitor your accounts and report any unauthorized transactions immediately: Make a habit of going through your credit card transactions on a regular basis. If you find anything that looks wrong, report it to your issuer immediately. This way, they can deactivate and replace your card to prevent further unauthorized transactions, as well as potentially refund your money. And if your physical card has been stolen or you suspect your card information has been compromised, you should also report it, even if no unauthorized transactions have occurred. *All information about the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- General
- Daily Mail
I bought some shelving online before being sent a letter that said I had to pay a hidden customs charge. What should I do? DEAN DUNHAM replies
I bought a shelving unit online and have received a letter saying I have to pay customs duty as the goods are being shipped from China. I had no idea this was not a UK seller – what are my rights? R.H., via email.
CNN
16-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
11 of the best places to buy patio furniture online, according to designers
Gone are the days of spending hours at a brick-and-mortar store, pacing through endless rows of patio furniture to find a set you like. Now the era of online shopping has made it easy to get everything you need for your outdoor oasis delivered to your home in just a few clicks. But before you press 'buy' on that new outdoor sectional or poolside lounger for your home, there are a few things to consider to ensure you're getting something worth spending your hard-earned money on. We asked four interior designers for their recommendations on the best places to buy patio furniture online, so you can get beautifully designed outdoor pieces that won't need to be replaced after a few seasons. Design duo Teal Davison and Wendy Scott from Teal & Scott said West Elm has quietly become one of their favorite brands for outdoor furniture. The retailer carries everything you need to bring your space together, from sofas and dining sets to barstools, benches and more, as well as decorative elements like rugs and pillows. West Elm even denotes certain pieces it carries as 'contract grade,' meaning these items are designed to withstand the demands of both commercial use and residential leisure. West Elm Portside Outdoor Sofa With clean lines and comfy cushions, the Portside sofa looks like it belongs inside, but the moisture-resistant mahogany and eucalyptus wood frame will help make sure it lasts outside in the elements too. West Elm Martini Side Table Jackie Mosher, co-founder and COO of Dzinly, said that among its variety of high-end looking furniture, West Elm also has a great selection of side tables like this bestselling recycled aluminum one. West Elm Syros Indoor/Outdoor Waterfall Coffee Table This industrial-looking table is made of glass fiber reinforced concrete, which is designed to have all the same durability as normal concrete but is lighter and easier to maneuver around your space. Designed for all-weather style, Pottery Barn's outdoor furniture is a favorite of Mosher's. With a great selection of water- and fade-resistant fabrics, plus plenty of customization options, you can find sectionals, chairs and accent pieces for practically any style space you're dreaming of. Pottery Barn Woodside 5-Piece Outdoor Sectional Mosher said that this Woodside sectional looks great in almost any outdoor area and, though the cushions don't come included in the base price, you can get in-stock styles or custom-made cushions in one of more than 65 fabric options for extra comfort. Pottery Barn Abbott Concrete and Acacia Outdoor Dining Table Mixing rich acacia wood with durable concrete, this dining table can comfortably seat up to six people — perfect for casual lunches and dinner parties alike. Pottery Barn Malibu Metal Outdoor Kitchen Island If you're all about making your outdoor space an entertaining hot spot, get some help from this metal island, which has two built-in ice buckets, storage drawers and wheels to easily move around your space. Polywood is most known for its iconic Adirondack lounge chair, but it's a brand beloved by designers for its entire lineup of sustainably made, weatherproof and incredibly durable outdoor pieces. Striking a balance between affordability and durability, Polywood crafts a majority of its furniture pieces with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) lumber. 'This particular type of material has UV protection and the color fully integrated into the lumber, which requires little to no maintenance or waterproofing,' Mosher said. Polywood's sturdy pieces are also carried by other online retailers like Birch Lane, Wayfair, Amazon, The Home Depot and Lowe's. Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair The most well-known piece from Polywood's line is this Adirondack chair, which has become a staple in many patios, decks and backyards due to the long-lasting and easy-to-care-for build. Polywood Long Island Side Table As a companion to your chairs, grab this matching side table, which comes in 17 finishes and is well equipped to hold your drinks, snacks, books and other lounging essentials. Polywood Modern Studio Urban Counter Chair 3-Piece Balcony Set Perfect for outdoor dining in smaller spaces like a balcony or terrace, this three-piece set is designed to withstand storms and strong winds. Plus, it won't overcrowd your outdoor space. You can get pretty much anything on Amazon these days, including patio furniture. While there are plenty of options available for quick delivery on Amazon, Davison and Scott said they normally pass on making major furniture buys from the site. Still, they said Amazon's selection of affordable outdoor accessories, like furniture covers and storage units, is unbeatable. Amazon Basics 3-Seater Outdoor Couch and Patio Furniture Cover Furniture covers are essential for keeping your patio pieces shielded during inclement weather and the off-season, but you don't need to splurge to get something that will protect effectively. This Amazon Basics cover is waterproof and has secure clip straps to hold it in place even during windy conditions. Keter City Resin Outdoor Storage Box, 30-Gallon Perfect for storing garden tools, pool accessories and spare cushions or pillows, this resin box can also double as an extra patio table to rest your belongings on top of. Purple Leaf Square Cantilever Patio Umbrella This 10-foot cantilever umbrella from Purple Leaf is an affordable option compared to many other umbrellas its size. The extra-thick pole and aluminum canopy bracing provide increased strength and durability, so you'll have reliable shade for years to come. Whether you're outfitting a garden space or chic poolside escape, Frontgate is a one-stop outdoor shop for all your furnishing needs. With collections featuring aluminum, teak and wicker builds, Frontgate also offers a 10-year structural warranty on its residential furniture frames to ensure they last in your space for years to come. Frontgate 9-Foot Round Outdoor Market Umbrella Keep the sun's rays at bay with this spacious 9-foot patio umbrella, available from Frontgate in over 60 canopy fabric options. Frontgate Baleares Daybed in Latte This tropical, all-weather wicker daybed is a multifunctional piece; it can act as a private lounger when you want some solo relaxation or it can break apart into four pieces that provide seating for six people when you're ready to socialize. Frontgate Isola Dining Bench in Weathered Teak & Washed White Wicker Add this sturdy teak-frame bench to your outdoor dining table or porch to create extra seating for your friends and family. Wayfair is one of our favorite places for finding affordable furniture that can fit into indoor and outdoor spaces of any size. The site's massive selection includes everything from conversation sets and dining tables to storage sheds, overhead awnings and outdoor rugs. Though with so many products to sift through, our experts recommend reading customer reviews to ensure that your outdoor pieces are easy to assemble and match the quality shown in the product pictures. You can also look for items that carry the Wayfair Verified seal, which denotes they've been inspected by Wayfair's in-house experts using a 20-point checklist for an extra dose of quality assurance. Wade Logan Araneli Premium All-Weather Wicker Conversation Set With Cushions Made with metal frames wrapped in wicker rattan, this three-piece conversation set is perfect for unwinding on your backyard patio, balcony or front porch at any time of year. Wildon Home Sutiya 6-Person Rectangular Outdoor Dining Set Grab everything you need for your patio in one fell swoop with this Wildon Home set, complete with six swivel chairs, a steel table and an umbrella that will have you dining alfresco instantly. Freeport Park Jowers Lighted Cantilever Umbrella For under $300, this patio umbrella will give you 10 feet of shady coverage on sun-soaked days. Plus, it has built-in solar-powered LED lights to keep your patio illuminated well into the evening. Davison and Scott are also fans of these modern, maintenance-free pieces from Loll Designs. Loll's all-weather pieces are made from high-density polyethylene, partially derived from recycled plastics like milk jug containers and shampoo bottles. The brand carries a range of outdoor pieces, including high-rise lounge chairs perfect for a waterfront deck and dining sets in vibrant finishes that create an alfresco space welcoming to all ages. All Loll Design's products are also proudly crafted in the USA. You can shop select Loll Design furniture pieces at alternative retailers like 2Modern, Urban Natural, Design Within Reach and Lumens. Loll Designs Lollygagger Lounge Chair Davison and Scott said this Lollygagger lounge chair is the 'ultimate zero-maintenance' piece for your patio that will still look fresh year after year. Loll Designs Lollygagger Picnic Bundle Create a quaint family dining space in your backyard with this dining set, which includes a picnic table, two benches and two stools with the option to mix and match different colors. Loll Designs Platform One Coffee Table While this platform coffee table is made to accompany Loll's other furniture pieces, the low-top design can easily pair with a variety of preexisting outdoor setups. Stylish without trying too hard, CB2's outdoor collection is a top pick for Davison and Scott. Mixing durable materials with striking sculptural lines, CB2's line is perfect for those who want outdoor pieces that bring a sophisticated flair. Re-create the feel of a European summer garden party with the brand's line of black powder-coated steel seating or keep it breezy and modern with a stunning teak centerpiece to anchor your outdoor space. Some outdoor pieces from CB2 are also available at retailers like Havenly. CB2 Brava Outdoor Dining-Lounge Wicker Armchair This stylish black-and-white armchair has an aluminum frame and an all-weather resin wicker seat that's as sturdy as it is chic. CB2 Mermelada Estudio Cana 3-Piece Outdoor Patio Sectional Sofa Perfect for a boho or beachy vibe, this three-piece sectional can be arranged in an L-shaped formation to create a casual conversation corner or set up in a straight line to create an ultimate personal lounger for one. CB2 Idle White Sun Lounger, Set of 4 Great for adding to poolside spaces, these aluminum loungers have a mesh seat for relaxing in comfort and easy cleaning. If you don't have the space for four loungers, though, don't worry: You can also purchase a single chair or a set of two. Burrow isn't a new name to us at CNN Underscored; we've tried everything from the brand's sleeper sofas and couches to its mattresses and standing desks. But Burrow also makes some of the most stylish outdoor furniture you can buy. Plus, many of Burrow's seating options are modular, so you can gradually add to your outdoor setup as you need. Some of Burrow's products — like the sleek, teak Dunes collection — come pre-built, so all you have to do is put on the legs, unfold the backs and connect the seats to get your space together. Burrow's furniture pieces are available at other online retailers like Havenly. Burrow Dunes Teak Outdoor 4-Piece Sectional Burrow's modular Dunes line makes it easy to design a fully coordinated space. Choose from three all-weather fabric colors for the cushions and get ready to enjoy your outdoor space in an instant, since these sectional pieces come preassembled. Burrow Dunes Teak Sun Lounger Soak up the sun with this pair of teak loungers that features a mid-century style silhouette and marine-grade hardware to protect against rust and degradation. Burrow Cape House Indoor and Outdoor Rug Round out your patio space with one of Burrow's rugs. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, this Cape House rug is made with stain and shed-resistant recycled fibers for maximum durability. Though definitely more of a splurge when it comes to outdoor furniture, Outer's pieces are both solidly built and beautifully designed. We tested Outer's three-seat sofa ourselves and especially loved the brand's patented, protective OuterShell, which zips onto the cushions and covers them quickly to shield them from the elements. In addition to being comfortable for any kind of lounging, Outer's pieces are also modular, making it easy to add or rearrange pieces without disturbing the aesthetic of your space. You can also find select pieces of Outer's furniture on sites like Amazon and Perigold. Outer 3-Seat Wicker Outdoor Sofa Outer's pieces are made to fit your needs, so you can reconfigure this three-seat sofa into a love seat and chair, or grab more pieces to extend your seating as the needs of your space our review Outer Marine-Grade Aluminum Outdoor Umbrella Make sure your outdoor space is comfortable to use — even during scorching summer days — with a patio umbrella. This one from Outer is made from sturdy, marine-grade aluminum. Outer Ascent Adirondack Perfect for surrounding a low gathering table or fire pit, these Adirondack chairs are made of weather- and wear-resistant materials. Plus, you can add on a chair cushion to make lounging even more comfortable. Colleen Bennett, founder and lead designer of CBB Design Firm, likes the upscale design collections offered by Harbour. Each of Harbour's pieces is crafted with durable materials like powder-coated aluminum or sustainably sourced teak and is padded with upholstery made to withstand a variety of climates. This luxury look does come at a luxury cost, but if you're willing to invest in handcrafted and thoughtfully designed pieces — and don't mind waiting a few months for them to be custom-made — Harbour's offerings won't disappoint. You can also find some of Harbour's outdoor pieces on additional sites like Perigold. Harbour Amalfi 2-Seat Armless Sofa Inspired by the lushness of Italy's Amalfi coast, this armless sofa has a contemporary design that can be nestled into spaces of any size, from small to sprawling. Harbour Formentera Daybed With twisted rope covering its aluminum frame, this daybed gives a nautical nod that's ideal for any coastal outdoor space. Harbour Newport Teak Oblong Coffee Table This geometric, oval-shaped table is made with teak wood legs that support a stunning travertine stone top, which is as durable as it is beautiful. Shopping for patio furniture online will give you a wider selection than browsing in brick-and-mortar stores, but Mosher said you'll lose the ability to touch, feel and test the pieces firsthand, which can make it harder to assess the overall comfort and quality. Buy from reputable brands Our designers all recommend sticking with reputable brands when shopping online and carefully reading customer reviews to see if the items delivered in real life match the online product photos. You should also look for clear contact information for the brand, information on product warranties, return policies and an active customer service line. 'I always like to call and see if there's an actual human on the other side of the line,' Bennett said. 'That is the most important. Dealing with companies that do not have a callback number: do not buy.' For ensuring quality, Bennett likes to shop from brands like Lane Venture, Brown Jordan and Janus et Cie, which let you purchase directly through a retailer and visit showrooms across the country. Though shopping with these brands online requires jumping through a lot more hoops than direct-to-consumer sites like Wayfair or West Elm. Invest in the pieces you'll use most Patio furniture can quickly become expensive, especially if you're outfitting a whole space with new pieces. Our designers stressed that you should invest in durable pieces that can withstand outdoor elements and frequent use so you aren't left looking for replacement pieces after just a few years. If you're trying to adjust your budget accordingly, our designers recommend splurging more on the pieces you will use the most, like your dining set, lounge chairs and sofas or sectionals. 'These will quickly become an extension of your living space,' Mosher said. 'Comfort and easy maintenance are key, so investing in well-made, long-lasting pieces pays off. You can save on accent items like side tables or throw pillows, which are easier to swap out over time.' Plan ahead Before you buy any outdoor furniture online, Mosher said to measure your space first to make sure everything will fit comfortably. 'Consider how you'll use the area, whether a dining setup or relaxed lounge seating better suits your lifestyle,' she said. 'Think about how many people you typically entertain and what kind of seating will meet those needs.' You should also consider the weather and elements your patio will face — such as direct sun, rain or wind — so you can select fabrics and materials that will be more durable for those conditions. The following FAQs have been answered by designers Jackie Mosher, Colleen Bennett, Teal Davison and Wendy Scott. What's the best month to buy patio furniture? What's the best month to buy patio furniture? 'The best time to buy patio furniture is usually late summer to early fall, when retailers start clearing out inventory and offer deep discounts,' Mosher said. 'However, selection can be limited by then, with many popular styles already sold out. If you're looking for a balance between savings and selection, Memorial Day is often the ideal time to shop, as it kicks off the season with strong promotions and a full inventory.' In addition to shopping the shoulder seasons of summer and fall, Scott and Davison said that you can snag furniture deals as late in the season as Black Friday, though stock options can be hit-or-miss that late in the year and you should only pounce on a deal if you have your eye on something specific. I also previously consulted with our own in-house deals team here at CNN Underscored to answer this question. Senior deals editor Rikka Altland said the biggest deals events for patio furniture typically happen at the beginning of spring and the end of summer. Our deals editors also noted that some major savings events for patio furniture correspond with holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day. What outdoor patio furniture lasts the longest? What outdoor patio furniture lasts the longest? To determine which outdoor furniture will last the longest in your space, Mosher said you'll need to consider a few things, like how much exposure your pieces will have to the elements and how much wear the piece might take based on the expected use by adults, kids and pets. 'I recommend Sunbrella fabric for cushions because it's both durable and washable,' Mosher said, adding that neutral-toned fabrics can help conceal noticeable fading more than brightly colored ones. 'For longevity, materials like teak, powder-coated aluminum and HDPE wicker are excellent at withstanding the elements.' Scott and Davison said they also look for powder-coated aluminum pieces and those made of high-performance resin composites from brands like Loll Designs and Polywood. Other materials like FSC-certified wood and teak can make beautiful additions to your space but require a bit more care to maintain over time. Is expensive patio furniture worth it? Is expensive patio furniture worth it? Outdoor furniture is often much more expensive than its indoor counterparts, since it's made to withstand harsher elements like wind, water and sun in addition to the regular wear and tear of constant use. All our experts recommend investing in quality pieces up front instead of opting for a cheap patio set you'll have to replace after a few years. Bennett recommends checking the brand's warranty and passing on those that only offer short one- or two-year warranties. She recommends buying from brands that will back the quality of their products with 10- or 15-year warranties instead. Finding the balance between affordability and quality can be tough, but there are some telltale signs you can look for. 'As with most things, 'you get what you pay for,' so be cautious if a deal looks too good to be true,' Mosher said. 'Customer reviews and user photos are incredibly revealing and should never be skipped. Finally, a solid return policy often signals that the company stands behind the quality of its product, so always check the fine print before purchasing.' For this article, we consulted the following home designers to gain their professional insights. Jackie Mosher, co-founder and COO of Dzinly Colleen Bennett, founder and lead designer of CBB Design Firm Teal Davison, designer at Teal & Scott in Portland, Oregon Wendy Scott, designer at Teal & Scott in Portland, Oregon CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted four designers to get their recommendations for the best places to shop online for patio furniture.
Entrepreneur
13-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Entrepreneur UK's London 100: Dig This Deal
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Industry: e-commerce Tech entrepreneur Ashley Bailey has launched Dig This Deal, a revolutionary online shopping assistant designed to help consumers save time and money by promoting the sustainable purchase of pre-loved and refurbished products. Based in Richmond, Bailey draws on his extensive experience working with Google USA and Telefónica/Wayra to develop Dig This Deal. The platform leverages cutting-edge AI-driven product matching and price comparison technology, aimed at making online shopping more efficient and cost-effective. The inspiration for the business stemmed from Ashley's own frustrations with shopping for specific items. As he explains: "I was looking for a specific item for our home, and it took me over 4 hours to find the make, model, and year of this product. I'm a savvy shopper and wanted to ensure I was getting the best deal, but unless an online retailer pays for top-ranking placement, their products don't even show up. I struggled to compare new versus pre-loved items, which sparked the 'Eureka!' moment that led to the creation of Dig This Deal." Available as an Android app and Chrome extension, Dig This Deal aims to list up to 5 million products by spring 2025. Bailey is confident that this innovative platform will help customers save both time and money. "Tech innovations for consumers are improving every year. We believe AI will help users find the best deals faster, cutting down on wasted time and ultimately saving them hundreds of pounds," says Bailey. Born and raised in Manchester, Bailey's early career saw him navigating the fast-paced recruitment industry, honing invaluable skills in sales, account management, and the ability to think quickly on his feet. Growing up, he was always curious about how products worked. "I've always loved technology, I would take cameras and old computers apart to see how they functioned inside, then try and build them back together," he explained. This innate curiosity and passion for the ever-evolving world of technology led him to pursue a career in business becoming the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey. "I love how it can change people and industries by streamlining and improving people's lives," he added. "I've been lucky to grow up with the mobile phone, desktop and laptop so I've seen some impressive technology progression." Looking to the future, Ashley's ambitions for Dig This Deal extend beyond the UK. "We have big plans for growth, including expanding into new product categories and launching in the USA once we've established a solid presence here."
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Woman Accidentally Sends Online Order to Her Old Address. Despite Photo Evidence, the New Homeowner Denies Receiving It
A Mumsnet user shared that she accidentally used the incorrect delivery address for a recent online shopping order The woman claimed the workout clothes she bought got delivered to her old address, according to a delivery photo She confronted the new homeowner at the address, who denied receiving the packageA little retail therapy turned into a big headache for one shopper. Taking to the community forum Mumsnet, one woman explained that she ordered workout clothes from an online store but 'stupidly' set her delivery location to her old address. Once the package was delivered, she went to pick it up and had a confrontation with the new homeowner. 'Yes, I know it's annoying and stupid, so I don't need that lecture,' she admitted of her delivery mishap. 'Once I clocked what had happened, I went over to collect it a couple of days later.' 'The woman who bought the house off me completely denies having received it, despite the courier's photo showing it being accepted at the front door,' she continued. 'I can see two sets of children's feet at the door, and I recognize the doorstep since I lived there for nearly 20 years.' The woman then detailed how she approached the homeowner. 'I did not shout or accuse, I was very polite, I said I was 'puzzled' and that there must have been some sort of confusion, but she was adamant she hadn't had it,' the shopper said. 'It was a shoebox-sized parcel so not massive to store and not easy to lose either.' 'Do you clever lot have any idea if there's anything I can do?' she asked the forum, before jokingly quipping, 'I half expected her to come to the door wearing my gym gear.' Fellow Mumsnet users offered varying takes on what to do next. is now available in the Apple App Store! Download it now for the most binge-worthy celeb content, exclusive video clips, astrology updates and more! 'I would go through the delivery company or clothing company and say you never received it,' one person suggested. 'We had this happen with a parcel recently and we did get a refund eventually.' Another reader called the situation 'annoying' and commented, 'It's $27 so I would just kick myself for being careless and write it off.' Read the original article on People
