6 Clever Items to Simplify Your Life

A sharp, spadelike edge enables this ergonomic ice cream scoop to glide easily through rock-hard rocky road (no more waiting for it to soften).

To buy: $50, belle-v.com.

Featured April 2014

If your smartphone often ends up buried deep in the abyss of your bag, keep it on a short leash. The 12-inch phone leash attaches to a purse strap and lets you summon your device with a quick yank. Available in four finishes.

To buy: Starting at $16, phonefetcher.com.

This kitchen multitasker serves eight functions—funnel, citrus juicer, spice grater, egg masher, cheese grater, jar grip, egg separator, and measuring cup (phew!)—and takes up precious little space.

To buy: $40, momastore.org.

Thanks to its long, flexible neck, this wind-resistant outdoor lighter can start a fire just about anywhere. (Yep, even those impossible-to-reach lanterns on your porch.)

To buy: $20, zippo.com.

Whether you’re planning a picnic or need a place to park the gang at the airport, this portable mat creates a barrier between you and a questionably clean floor. The machine washable, water repellent mat features corner weights and loops for grounding, tabs for keys and toys, and rolls up into a convenient carry pouch for easy transport. Available in eight colors.

To buy: $20, monkeymat.com.

It’s time to plan your dream wedding, but where, oh where to start? Once you’ve printed out the ultimate wedding planning checklist, take this site’s free quiz to unveil your big day style. Based on your preferences, the site will present a shoppable, curated design package (complete with a color scheme, stationery suite, flower arrangements, and more). Each package includes an array of detailed images designed by wedding expert Linda Howard, handpicked products to recreate the look, and tools and tips for executing the design.

To buy: $49, lovedetailed.com.

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