This Is the Only App You’ll Want to Use for Making New Friends

Jun 25, 2016

At the end of a long week there are a few things we can all look forward to. Perhaps for you that’s a bubble bath, a movie marathon or time out with friends. For us, it’s our round-up of the week’s best apps. (You love it, too!) This week’s apps include one that will help you keep your credit cards in order, a few that will jump-start your summer wanderlust and another that wants to help you make new friends. This summer’s looking pretty good with these new apps on your phone.

1. IDENTITY: When you get a new credit card, everything is annoying. Your old number is rejected at your favorite online shops, Netflix shuts down until you update and automatic payment on bills goes ka-put. This new app solves all those problems by automatically syncing your new card information to every service that uses it. Bonus: The app will make sure you know exactly who has stored your credit card information, so you won’t have any weird surprises.

DL It: Free on iOS and Android.

2. Radar: There are travel guides, and then there is Radar. The new app from Yahoo handpicks recommendations for new spots in cities you’re visiting and then tells you exactly why you might like it. Plus, it’s a super-convenient app that organizes your entire trip itinerary, notifies you of any flight delays and keeps hotel and car reservations in easy reach. Now get out there and start crossing places off your bucket list.

DL It: Free on iOS

3. Detour: One of the most highly regarded audio tour companies just came out with an app for Android. Detour will take you on a winding tour of new cities and then recommend great restaurants to pop into on the way. One of the coolest features is that it syncs up to friends your traveling with, so you can all experience the same tour at the exact same time. There are currently Detour tours available for San Francisco, New York, Austin, London, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona and Marrakech.

DL It: Free on iOS and Android

4. Hello: Making friends as an adult is hard. This new app aims to make it easier by connecting users with like passions. Once you get an account, you “express your passions” (running, cooking, traveling, drinking — seriously whatever) and the app will let you know who else shares your similar interests and even suggest that you two meet up if you’re close enough. You’re about to get a lot more popular.

DL It: Free on iOS and Android

5. Doozyrama: This app is kind of like if FourSquare and Emoji had a baby. It lets users add emoji reactions to their favorite places and describe what the vibe is like. (Imagine if Yelp reviews consisted of the tears of joy and beers clinking emoji.) Much like FourSquare, users earn points and compete to earn the crown for their favorite spots. It’s a fun way to keep up with friends and also put your emoji skills to the test.

DL It: Free on iOS

What was your favorite app this week? Let us know @BritandCo!

13 Easy Scary Halloween Appetizer Recipes for Your Potluck

There are plenty of things you can do besides trick-or-treating or Netflix-binging come Hallo-ween. For one, you can throw one hell of a Fright Night party. Don't know what foods to make? We've got you covered. Here are appetizer recipes that you and your guests will die for.

Halloween Snack Platter: Treat party guests to a variety of sweet and savory snacks. They'll be so impressed, they won't even be tempted to dip into your candy stash. (via Foxes Love Lemons)

Mummy Pizzas: Making your own pizza dough can be scary. Swap it for ciabatta loaves instead to make these easy mummy apps. (via Brit + Co)

7-Layer Spider Web Dip: Turn a classic appetizer into a Halloween favorite with just a little sour cream artistry and a handful of black olive spiders. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Spooky Halloween Pretzels: Your starters don't all have to be savory, so serve up a tray of chocolate-covered pretzels. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Halloween Monster Popcorn: Colored with candy melts and filled with other sweets, this monster popcorn really pops once you add a generous sprinkle of salt. (via Salty Canary)

Deviled Egg Brains: Savory deviled egg brains are bound to turn your party guests into hungry zombies. (via Brit + Co)

Bell Pepper Salad Cups: This time of year, our consumption of fresh vegetables is definitely lacking. Make up for it with a spirited presentation of salad. (via Fork and Beans)

Monster Sushi: A tray of monster sushi looks colorful and surprisingly stylish among your other appetizers. (via Brit + Co)

Spider Hot Dogs: We've all seen mummy hot dogs. Take things to the next terrifying level with these truly disturbing tube steak spiders. (via Plain Chicken)

Skeleton Snack Tray: Spend time on your costume, not cooking up a storm in your kitchen, by preparing a snack platter that requires no oven time. (via Cutefetti)

Monstrous Meatball Sliders: Cheese fangs and olive eyeballs transform plain old meatball sliders into an on-point app. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Mini Toad Holes: With a name like "toad in the hole," this dish was destined for October dining. (via Lavender and Lovage)

Little Potato Halloween Monster Eyeballs: Kids and adults alike are pretty much obsessed with potatoes, especially when cheese is involved (even if it does look like the eyeballs). (via Noshing With the Nolands)

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This post has been updated. Additional reporting by Grace Lee

15 Products That Will Seriously Elevate Your Outdoor Style (Under $100)

'Tis the season for outdoor entertaining and colorful outdoor decor! A fresh makeover can lift your mood and make you *feel* like you're on vacay, even if the current situation keeps you close to home. Here are colorful accessories and furniture — all $100 and less — to give your yard, deck, balcony a style upgrade.

West Elm Modern Melamine Dinnerware

Add some fun color to your table with a variety of pastel plates and bowls.

Room Essentials Incandescent Outdoor String Lights

Every evening get together needs some lighting! String lights (or fairy lightsif you prefer to call them that) are a great way to add a little bit of light to any space.

Textured Striped Roped Trim Outdoor Pouf

Whether you're birdwatching or delving into your favorite summer read, this is the perfect place to rest your feet.

Sunnydaze Outdoor Resin Hanging Basket Egg Chair

Trade your somewhat uncomfortable outdoor seating with a hanging basket egg chair that will have you taking naps everyday of summer. Talk about cozy outdoor decor!

CB2 Rex Open Weave Outdoor Armchair

Brunch, baby showers, and family reunions deserve cute outdoor seating.

Natalie Catalina For Deny Outdoor Throw Pillow

Throw pillows are one of our favorite ways to add some pizzazz to any space, and these fun picks are no exception.

Modern Round Accent Lightweight Side End Table

We'll take any home decor that's a shade of pink. We love the way the baby pink softens the fun, modern design.

Urban Outfitters Cat Pool Float

We're all smiles this summer, especially when this cute cat inflatable pool is involved!

Threshold 'Here Comes the Sun' Natural Doormat

We all need a reminder to soak up the sun so choose this cute doormat to brighten up your outdoor decor!

West Elm Fluted Acrylic Glassware

Fun colors, silhouettes, and details make this glassware a summery addition to any and every table.

Crate & Barrel Calas White Ceramic Lanterns

If you ask us, it's more important for a lantern to look pretty than provide a ton of light. We're in love with these decorative ceramic ones!

Bright Beige Monstera Hand-Printed Cloth Napkins

Swap your plain napkins for some fun printed ones instead.

Threshold Outdoor Patio Floor Cushion

Floor cushions are a much better alternative to just sitting on the ground, and this fun print makes us love it even more.

Crate & Barrel Metal Bird Indoor/Outdoor Planter

Planters are always a good idea, and this bird one will add extra character to your window sill or table.

Check out our online newsletter for more outdoor decor inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Additional reporting by Chloe Williams.

This post has been updated.

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What Would A TikTok Ban Mean For Small Businesses?

Amid dire concerns that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, bans against the app have spread like wildfire. Beyond just government devices, some universities initiated bans, with the latest policy talks going as far as to include personal devices as well. Though it’s unlikely that the platform will be completely banned (there are other proposed solutions, like selling the app or amending its data policies) due to free speech, the possibility of a ban raises another concern: the livelihood of small businesses.

TikTok is a central avenue for small businesses to promote their products and services, with special thanks to its algorithm, says Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO at Financer.com.

“The platform's unique algorithm, which prioritizes content discovery and virality, has enabled many small businesses to reach and connect with potential customers in a way that wasn't possible through traditional social media platforms,” says Larsson. “Since its growth has been exponential throughout the years as a key marketing channel, the ban triggered the markets for sure.”

TikTok also masters the art of connection. Your For You Page knows exactly what you like to see. This gives small businesses the ability to get closer to their audience and reach more success that way, says saysLynzee Krohne, Founder of branding agency LEO + LAINE.

"On TikTok, brands have the freedom and space to be more casual and less branded," Krohne said. "Because of the nature of TikTok, it allows brands to let their guard down a bit and create content that may be a little more rough around the edges—which helps them appear to be much more authentic to their audience."

Jessica Tran, founder of @jtmobiledetailing, says 60% of customers choose her car detailing shop because they saw it on TikTok. Jaz and Sam Sears, owners and operators of@aztaco.king, grew their business from a food cart in a parking lot to two restaurants in less than 6 months, due to their success on the app. Megan Gersch, a web designer and brand identity creator, says around half of her client base comes from TikTok, which often turn into 4 to 5-figure contracts.

This positive growth for small biz is commonly attributed to the app’s distinctive features that connect creators with consumers, such as live video streaming, a virality-driven algorithm, and the ability for users to personalize their daily feeds.

“TikTok has been a great tool for allowing me to connect with my audience on a deeper level,” says Gersch. “There's a special magic that happens with video marketing that you can't achieve with a text or static image post. Your audience gets to know your quirks, your mannerisms, and they start to feel like they know you, even though you've never met. Every time you see a new video from one of your favorite creators, it's like a FaceTime call from a trusted friend.”

In its absence, small business TikTokers would have no choice but to adapt and pivot their marketing strategies, which is not always easy when they’re doing it DIY-style, says Larsson.

“While small businesses may be able to find success on other social media channels, the competition for visibility and engagement is often more intense [than on TikTok], making it harder for them to stand out. The time and effort required to establish a new presence and create content tailored to the specific characteristics of other platforms could be a significant burden on small business owners.”

Small businesses pivoting to other platforms might face different struggles for exposure, due to consumers being very platform-specific, according to Krohne.

"If [TikTok] brands begin to focus their content efforts on Instagram, they’re up against multiple types of content, and competing in a more content-saturated world," Krohne told us. "TikTok mostly has one content offering, and that’s why it’s insanely popular. There’s a difference between platforms. Brands must diversify their content and show up in other places to keep a steady stream of touchpoints to remain top of mind and memorable."

Though Gersch is no stranger to restrategizing, a potential TikTok ban would still impact her business as a web designer and brand creator.

“I've been a marketer for 16+ years, and one thing that I have learned along the way is that you need to constantly test, look at your analytics, and create where the attention is,” says Gersch. “If TikTok goes away, there will be a huge gap in the market that will need to be filled.”

TikTok recognizes the work that small business owners take on in order to find success, which is why the platform has committed $1 million each to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to elevate entrepreneurship in the Latin community, and Black Girl Ventures to support Black and Brown women entrepreneurs.

“Five million US businesses turn to TikTok to take us inside their world in a fun, authentic way, and as a result, they are reaching new customers, hiring more employees and growing their business,” says Becca Sawyer, Global Head of SMB for TikTok. “By partnering with HHF and BGV and launching virtual workshops, we're strengthening our commitment to build an inclusive and supportive platform where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their story, find their audience and drive real business results."

We can’t make a solid prediction for the destiny of the beloved app for now, but we do know that it’ll be dearly missed by small businesses and consumers alike if bans (at any capacity) go through.

“I don't want Tiktok to be banned - not only is it an integral part of my business, but I have also been able to connect with so many incredible people that I wouldn't have met otherwise,” says Gersch. “It's my go-to source for inspiration, learning, and even a good laugh.”

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Illustration by Claire Shadomy

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Here's Your First Look At Auli'i Cravalho's "Moana 2"

From Disney princesses that make us feel beautiful to heroes of all kinds represented on screen, Disney movies make us feel so much bigger than ourselves. Thanks to the D23 Disney expo in Anaheim, California, we know about so many new Disney movies, and we simply cannot contain ourselves. From brand new TV shows to long-awaited films, these Disney movies and new TV shows will have you jumping, singing, and dancing for joy.

New Disney Movies Coming In 2024

Image via Disney Pixar

Inside Out 2 — In Theaters June 14, 2024

Following 2015's Inside Out, all of your favorite characters are back along with the now-teenage Riley. And that means they're going to be joined by the greatest of all teen emotions: anxiety. Watch the Inside Out 2 trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

Deadpool 3 — In Theaters July 26, 2024

Ryan Reynolds is back with some kick-butt action alongside Hugh Jackman and...Taylor Swift? Like the majority of Marvel's Phase 5, Deadpool & Wolverine will focus on the consequences of one particular anti-hero's time travel. Watch the Deadpool & Wolverine trailer here.

Image via Walt Disney Studios

Moana 2 — November 27, 2024

Moana's brand new adventure takes her (and Maui, of course) across Oceania to a part of the ocean she's never seen before. Auliʻi Cravalho just confirmed that she's coming back for the sequel, which also features brand new music from TikTok songwriters Barlow & Bear. We can't wait to hear their music! See the Moana 2 first look here.

Image via Disney

Mufasa: The Lion King — In Theaters December 20, 2024

This The Lion King prequel focuses on Rafiki, Timon, and Pumbaa, who tell the story of King Mufasa — and how he became one of the greatest kings the Pride Lands had ever seen — to a young cub.

Image via Disney

Snow White — In Theaters March 21, 2025

This live-action take on Walt Disney's first film stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen set on taking Snow White's beauty for herself. Not only is the cast amazing, but the film also features classic music and new songs from songwriters Benji Pasek and Justin Paul, who did the music Dear Evan Hansen and La La Land.

More New Disney Movies + Shows To Watch On Disney+

Image via Disney

The Little Mermaid

In this live-action remake of the beloved cartoon, mermaid Ariel (Halle Bailey) longs to be part of the human world and makes a deal with sea witch Ursula in order to leave the sea. Watch The Little Mermaid trailer here.

Image via Disney Pixar

Elemental

Elemental is inspired by real-life immigrants who live together in multicultural neighborhoods, and it explores how fire, water, land, and air residents — including fiery Ember and easy-going Wade — live together in one city. Watch the Elemental trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

The Marvels

After 2019's Captain Marvel, Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) joins forces with Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) and Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani) to figure out why using their powers causes them to swap places with one another. Watch The Marvels trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Percy Jackson & the Olympians

This long-awaited series stars Walker Scobell, Aryan Simhadri, and Leah Sava Jeffries. The series follows Percy Jackson after he learns that he's the son of Poseidon and joins other demigods at Camp Half-Blood. Watch the Percy Jackson & The Olympianstrailer and our interview with the cast on YouTube!

Image via Disney+

Andor

This 24-episode Star Wars series (which is set five years before the one-off Rogue One film) follows Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) on a journey of danger and intrigue as he turns into a rebel hero. Watch the Andor trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Hocus Pocus 2

Twenty-nine years after Max lit the Black Flame Candle, the Sanderson sisters are back in Salem, and it's up to three high-schoolers to stop them before dawn breaks on All Hallow's Eve. Rewatch this sequel before Hocus Pocus 3 comes out! Watch the Hocus Pocus 2 trailer here.

Image via Disney+

The Santa Clauses

Picking up after the Santa Claus trilogy, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) is approaching his 65th birthday and, after he realizes that he can't be Santa forever, he sets out to find the perfect replacement. Watch The Santa Clauses trailer here.

The Whole Family Will Love These New Disney Movies

Image via Disney

Strange World

Strange World follows a family — which includes Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, and Lucy Liu —who, after they discover a new world full of both exciting surprises and danger, must put aside their differences to save it. Watch the Strange World trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Disenchanted

Disenchanted picks up 15 years after Giselle (Amy Adams) and Robert's (Patrick Dempsey) wedding, and Giselle has grown disillusioned. The family decides to move to Monroeville, but the change isn't exactly the fix Giselle's been looking for, prompting her to use magic to set things right. The only problem? She accidentally turns Monroeville into a real-life fairy tale and threatens her family's happiness in the process. Watch the Disenchanted trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Willow

This live-action series returns to the world from the 1988 film, as a new group of heroes sets out to find the sorcerer Willow. Watch the Willow trailer here.

Image via Disney+

National Treasure: Edge of History

Based on the movies of the same name, Jess (Lisette Olivera) and her friends set out on a new treasure hunt to discover the truth about her father. Watch the National Treasure: Edge of History trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) team up with Hope's parents (Michael Douglas and Michelle Pfeiffer) and Scott's daughter (Kathryn Newton) to explore the Quantum Realm and encounter possibilities and dangers they thought were impossible. Watch the Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania here.

Image via Disney+

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

The story of Penny Proud (Kyla Pratt) and her family is far from over, and the new season of this series follows all of their antics and adventures. Watch the trailer for season 2 here.

Image via Disney/Paramount/Lucasfilm

Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny

Harrison Ford (who plays the titular character) got misty-eyed while announcing Indiana Jones 5 at the D23 expo. Ford is joined by Fleabag creator and star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who plays Indiana's goddaughter Helena. Watch the Indiana Jones 5 trailer here.

More New Disney Movies To Watch In 2024

Image via Disney

Win or Lose

This long-form series follows co-ed middle school softball team the Pickles during the week of their championship game. Each episode, which is told with a different visual style, is from the perspective of a different main character.

Image via Disney+

Iwájú

This long-form series — created in collaboration with Kugali, a Pan-African comic book entertainment company — follows Tola, an heiress from the wealthy island in Lagos, and her best friend and tech expert Kole from the mainland. It's full of color and life, and is a love letter to Lagos, Nigeria. Watch the Iwájú trailer here.

Image via Disney+

Peter Pan & Wendy

Starring Alexander Molony as Peter Pan, Ever Anderson as Wendy, Alyssa Wapanâtahk as Tiger Lily, and Jude Law as Captain Hook, Peter Pan & Wendy goes deeper into Wendy's story than ever before as she sets out on a journey to Neverland with Peter. Watch the Peter Pan & Wendy trailer here.

Image via Marvel Studios

Ironheart

Following Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) returns to the screen, blending magic and tech with her approach to building iron suits. Anthony Ramos costars as Parker Robbins.

Image via Disney

Haunted Mansion

Former Disneyland employee Justin Simien directs this new Disney movie, which focuses on a woman and her son who get a group of spiritual experts to help them clear their home of supernatural spirits. The cast list includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Tiffany Haddish, and Rosario Dawson. Watch the Haunted Mansion trailer here.

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Featured image via Walt Disney Pictures/Disney+/Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

This post has been updated.

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Target Spring Decor Pieces For A Home Refresh Under $100

The concept of a spring "refresh" usually comes in the form of spring cleaning, but I think a brand new season totally warrants some brand new home decor! Luckily, the decor at Target right now is perfectly fit for springtime, donning saturated colors and floral patterns. From bedding items that definitely give Anthropologie bedding to sweet-smelling candles that double as centerpieces, the current Target spring decor is just too adorable.

These Target spring decor picks are perfect for sprucing up *all* of your spaces, and the best part is they're all under $100. Score!

Threshold Bold Plaid Square Throw Pillow

Give me all the rainbow plaid this spring! This outdoor-indoor throw pillow is just the piece you need if your couch is craving a pop of color this season. It's crafted using a soft polyester filling and a UV-resistant exterior that helps retain the vibrant colors, even in the sun.

Hilton Carter Terracotta Embossed Ceramic Planter

This planter (available in a small size and a large size) takes your classic terracotta pot up a notch with a bubble design that encapsulates the playful tone of springtime. It's fitted with a single drain hole and a matching saucer for practical plant reasons, but looks so chic whether you display it inside or outside!

DVF for Target Tall Glass Drinkware Set

Got a garden party planned this spring? Bring some eye-catching color to the table with this 4-piece glassware set from the Diane von Furstenberg collection for Target. Now, your spring cocktails (or mocktails) have a proper place to be sipped from!

Threshold Striped Border Doormat

Why greet your guests with a bland doormat? This bold graphic design makes a statement with blocked lettering and a green striped border. It's made from a medium-pile, coarsely-textured material that keeps dirt at bay and makes cleaning easy.

Threshold Boho Sunflower Pillow

This floral pillow is absolutely serving Anthropologie dupe. With intricate flower illustrations and thoughtful stitching throughout, you're getting Anthro quality at a fraction of the price. It's the perfect piece for adding strong spring energy to your bedspread!

Threshold Boho Earthy Vines Quilt

Same thing goes for this adorable boho quilt! The color scheme and stitch work are super reminiscent of what Anthropolgie's doing in their bedding department, and this design instantly warms up your room the same exact way. This quilt, available in sizes full, queen, and king, is actually reversible – it has a yellow side and a nice light blue side that you can play with when you decorate!

Threshold Neroli + Ivy Ceramic Candle

There's nothing like opening up your windows, lighting a candle, and letting the fresh air come in on a sunny spring day. This scented candle (only $10!) that smells like neroli and ivy supplies such a fitting scent for days where you just wanna kick back, relax, and watch the sun calmly trickle in through your window.

Threshold Happy Spring Wall Hanging

Honor the season of blooms with this darling flag that flaunts different designs of springtime, from butterflies to bees. It's *so* cute, you'll wanna hang it up every year!

Threshold Colorful Floral Framed Canvas

Of course, your wall art has to be on-theme with spring! This $45 canvas comes with the entire package – a frame and hanging hardware – to get your gallery wall game going. This way, you can display a bouquet without actually having to buy flowers every week!

Opalhouse Floral Printed Cotton Percale Sheet Set

Complete your spring bed set-up with these sheets dotted with pink and yellow petals! These sheets are made of 100% percale cotton, which ensures softness and breathability with every sleep. The set is available in sizes twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king for just $50, and is shoppable in 3 other color schemes and patterns.

Costway 6 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Your home office could *definitely* benefit from a lively color palette, and this practical Target spring decor piece brings it all with added practicality for holding papers, art supplies, cords, and the like. It moves around on lockable rolling wheels if you like to take your work on the go!

Threshold Multi Plaid Napkins

Another amazing Target spring decor piece for tablescapes, these reusable rainbow plaid napkins bring a spirited vibe. They'd be so cute as a wrap for colorful silverware!

Room Essentials Seashell Throw Pillow

This seashell throw pillow works in those vacation vibes without you ever having to leave the house (except to make a Target run, of course)! The pale yellow color is super on-trend this year, and you could even decorate with this piece beyond spring, into summer.

Room Essentials Printed Plush Floral Throw Blanket

Cozy up against this throw blanket that delivers both on comfort and spring colors! You can snag it for just $10 in two different colors – blue or pink – both of which have a variety of different floral prints. When you're not cuddling up, it'll make your sofa or bed look the part for the season.

Threshold Floral Doormat

Make coming home an absolute treat with this floral doormat that boasts every color from an electric chartreuse to a deep purple.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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