Autumn Years Fall 2024

PINTEREST

Pinterest has been around for a while and for good reason. At over 518 million active monthly users, it is a powerhouse social media app. Pinter est is known for its emphasis on design in all of its forms, which is what makes it an especially useful app for the holidays. Users range from global companies to savvy locals, all posting ideas and inspirations for food, outfits, decorations, music and really everything and anything. After signing up, simply search for topics of interest like Thanksgiving Recipes or Decorations and immediately see posts from users highlighting their favorites. Furthermore, as you like certain posts, your feed is updated to show you similar content. Users can post their own content and share content easily with friends. Of course, you will inevitably see some advertisements for products but luckily thanks to Pinterest’s tailored approach the ads you see are custom to the content you like.

SANTA’S BAG

When it comes to holiday shopping, it can be easy to get carried away and lose track of everything on everyone’s list. And of course, your having many extended family members, friends and significant others to shop for can result in a runaway budget. That is where Santa’s Bag comes in. The app brings out a user’s financial analyst by grouping and planning gifts for loved ones with a focus on budget. Users can add recipients and gifts respectively, while setting a total budget that actively updates as gifts are added to the lists. There is also a clear countdown to Christmas day for those worried about getting gifts in time. Additionally, there is a wish list feature that users can add to track specific items and costs for different loved ones with links to the websites for those items. Overall, Santa’s Bag is very useful if you are willing to spend the time to input planned and eventual purchases.

GOLDEN

The holidays are generally regarded as a great time for all, but the reality for many can be more difficult. There are a lot of families and individuals in communities all across the country that struggle especially hard during the holiday season. A great way to find fulfillment and connection to your local community during the holidays is to volunteer (a favorite tradition for many families is volunteering on Thanksgiving Day at the local food bank). The best app for finding opportunities like this is Golden. Golden is a posting board for charities and organizations to advertise events both virtual and in person in your community. It manages sign-ups and gives attendees access to details including date, time and other relevant informa tion. Users can sort events by type of charity, location or time and customize their experience by indicating personal availability. It is always advised to look up the event on the internet before attending to confirm accuracy of information, given the Golden app will not be the only place the event is posted.

FALL 2024 I AUTUMN YEARS 55