#they better have this apple car at the used car dealership and it better be dirt cheap bc that's in my budget
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was talking to my therapist today about how, assuming i learn to drive successfully and pass my road test, i'll be buying a car eventually and i was like "i've never imagined myself actually doing that. it feels like everyone else is allowed to do something like buy a car but i'm not" and then she asked if -- now that i was seriously considering it -- i had a better idea of what car i might want. i didn't give her an answer bc unfortunately this is what kept coming to mind
i'm only ever gonna be that guy in the apple. i wonder how much his monthly payments are. what's the insurance look like for that dude.
#and then we were talking about loan payments and insurance and gas prices and i was like “there's no way i can ever pay for all of this”#and i never want to think about money again#they better have this apple car at the used car dealership and it better be dirt cheap bc that's in my budget
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At the end of the day the average civilian wishes to be catered to like an old money steel baron or perhaps one of those chaps from Downton Abbey. The entirety of modern society has come together to enable this, mass-producing cheap facsimiles of fortunes that should rightly either be built on child labor or perhaps serfdom.
Their lawns, taking up what could otherwise be used to grow crops or serve as "outdoor garage space," exist to ape the wide ranging estates meant for the nobility to chase down a fox while adorned in silly jackets. Their houses sport columns and stupid windows meant to imitate three different classical artforms at the same time because of something called "economies of scale." They even have male-centric social clubs meant for parlour games, discussing sports, and dining with friends, in this case franchised out under such names as "Buffalo Wild Wings."
This aping of the upper class continues to the hire of "artisans" to do relatively simple work deemed too complicated to warrant the time of the average citizen. It's not that the jobs are too taxing for your average person, but rather that the market has crystallized around the desire to live like budget royalty. Therefore they take their wafer-thin computers to artisans (now more commonly called "experts" or "Apple geniuses") for repair and have democratized the position of carriagemen to 22 year old dealership lube techs named Ryan who will turn a 15 minute job into a 30 minute endeavor thanks to frequent vape breaks and a brief brush with what the industry refers to as "a misplaced drain bolt."
The mid-40s project manager and mother of 3 is no less competent when changing oil than her grandfather before her who knew what "Valve Lash" is, but what separates the two is a series of wars in the 1900s that required an entire generation of men to become very familiar with operating and repairing machines better than the Germans and Japanese (an exercise that Chrysler would later abandon in favor of the phrase "if you can't beat em, join em").
This conflict ended with a surge of able-bodied men finding themselves returning to their project management jobs (like their granddaughters after them) but armed with captured German weapons and a comprehensive understanding of tubochargers. Just as a line can be drawn from troop drawdowns to political violence, there's a distinct correlations between GIs returning home and the violence with which Ford Flathead V8s were torn apart by inventive supercharging methods paired with landspeed record attempts.
Give a man a racecar and he'll crash it on the salt flats in a day. Teach a man to repair a racecar and it will sit in the garage of his suburban house for a few years in between complete engine rebuilds required by what can only be described as "vaporized piston rods."
Of course this hotrodder generation created the circumstances we live in today, as the market saw their fast cars cobbled together from old prewar hulks and simply stamped out new ones from factory, faster and more convenient for the next generation than building one from scratch. Now the project manager mother of 3 drives a 4wd barge with climate controlled seats boasting more computing power than the moon mission and an emissions-controlled powertrain with more horsepower than her grandfather's jalopy and her fathers factory muscle car combined. And she doesn't care at all.
Yet Amongst the average civilians there walks a rare breed: people who know how to change their own oil. We the chosen move among you silently, bucking the system, operating outside the cultural helplessness and trading in forbidden knowledge in almost-abandoned forum threads (flame wars over conventional vs synthetic).
While we do have a marked air of superiority about this, I can't say I haven't stooped to imitating the rich myself. I've been known to wear a silly jacket from time to time.
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I had to move my OB appointment from next week to tomorrow because I had scary high blood pressure at the rhumatologist today. So I have been feeling pretty stressed out this evening and it's very hard for me to tell if I feel sick because of stress or if something is wrong.
I had an alright day though. I would have bursts of energy and things would be okay for a lot of the morning. I slept a little better last night I guess. Though I did wake up after I had a pretty intense nightmare. And then I pulled a muscle in my side that was incredibly painful. It wasn't the worst sleep but it was not the best I've had.
When I woke up I texted James to see if they had left for the oil change appointment yet. They hadn't, so they came up to give me a hug before they headed out.
I feel really bad about this because the appointment was at 930 but they wouldn't get home until 2! It's insane that this happens every time. And we discovered today that we had to pay for the oil change?? The only reason we keep going to the dealership is because it had been free with our warranty. I guess we will find a new place going forward.
While James was gone I was trying my best to be productive. I would finish my floor mat project. Which may fit in the baby basket? Unsure about it in there be ause it's all folded on the sides but that doesn't mean there isn't a way for it to work. And I would had an apple and peanut butter for breakfast. I would lay out my larger puff quilt and start to add the stuffing. But I would only get a dozen stuffed before I started feeling to tired and had to come back upstairs.
I took a short break before putting together a mini hospital bag. Just in case stuff. Lotion, deodorant, Vaseline, chapstick. Underwear. Leggings. Socks. Sweatshirt. Charger. Nothing crazy but just things that I think would help me feel comfortable if I had to go to the hospital sooner then planned. Especially with how bad I've been feeling.
I would lay down for an hour. Just watching nonsense. I realized that my phone has been staying on my data and not switching to WiFi so I used so much that they had put me in a slow down until the end of the month. Super obnoxious that this happened. I would manually turn it off and was just a bit annoyed with myself for not being more careful.
I really wanted string cheese and was excited when James let me know that we had a brand new package in the fridge. I had two of those and some leftover stuffing for lunch. And that would give me another bit of energy to finish stuffing all of the squares of the puff quilt. I still need 4 more squares of the white yarn but 9 of the 10 rows are ready to be sewn together. I want to be able to work on that during our long drive this weekend so I would safety pin all of those squares together. I did three sets of three rows for manageability. I was very happy with this.
I came upstairs and decided to mix two of my new Burt's bees chapsticks together. I have a vanilla and a peppermint and now I have two vanilla peppermints and it's perfect. I used to do this all the time and it's just such a nice mild mix. I don't know why they don't just make it.
I cleaned that up and was hanging out waiting for James to come home. They got back here right after 2 and we basically just got back in the car and we were off for my appointment.
James would grocery shop while I was in the doctor's. The ride there kind of sucked. Bad traffic and bad drivers. But we got there and things were fine.
I am hoping I was just a bit stressed. Between the drive and the sort of uncomfortable conversation I had to have with the medical assistant (she was the one I had last time that made me bleed really bad), my blood pressure was very high. Worryingly high. She said I should call my OB. So while she went to mix my meds I would shoot them a message. About the blood pressure, the vomiting, the broken capillaries, the headaches. And within an hour they were calling me to move my appointment up. I missed the call but the voicemail seemed very concerned. The office was closed and I couldn't figure out how to get through the prompts so I sent a second message and was able to navigate moving my appointment and now it's tomorrow at 2.
And honestly since then I have been feeling really stressed and vaguely nauseous. The car ride home was not good for me. I felt sick and I think it was more I was upset. When we got back here I just wanted to lay down. I laid on James for a while, which isn't something I often do but I just really needed them. They kissed the top of my head a bunch and tried very hard to make me feel comfortable ans comforted. And it helped. Even if my belly hurts still and I had pains in my legs.
I would lay upside down with my legs on the wall and that helped. James made dinner. They didn't make my quesadilla how I wanted and I never ask them to remake stuff but I had to this time and they didn't make me feel bad but I did feel bad. I really enjoyed my second try quesadilla and I lovey husband for taking care of me.
After dinner I went in the studio to cut the yarn for September's rectangle for the temperature blanket. I had some cereal. I accidently lost the end of my yarn and James tried to help me untangle it and eventually I was able to sort it out. Glad to have that ready to go.
I hung out with James in the living room for a while. My sinuses started bugging me and I was having to turn from side to side to breathe properly. Icky.
I took a shower and it helped but it wasn't a very nice shower. The water took forever to get warm and I was just grinding my teeth to get through it. I am cozy in bed now though.
While I was in the shower I had a revelation about where I may have thought up our baby's name. It's a character from one of my favorite fictional podcasts. I don't know why it just popped into my head but it made me laugh out loud. It doesn't make me want to not use the name but man it surprises me when one of the lines from the show ran through my head with the name in it. I had to call James upstairs to tell them. They thought it was pretty funny too.
I am not feeling as bad anymore. Like I am still not comfortable. But I'm not hurting in a scary way anymore. I am just ready to sleep.
Tomorrow I'm going to camp to set up my NAFT program for Wednesday but then I'll probably just go straight to my appointment. We'll see how the day works out. I don't want to push myself to hard with how I've been feeling. It's just so I'm hard to make those calls.
I hope you are all having a good night. I hope you sleep well. Goodnight everyone. Until tomorrow.
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hey i need to know what cars austin hanna's children canonically drive. thank's.
yayyyyy i love assigning cars to muses ^_^ i'm not as good at these sort of lists as u but i'm gonna try hard and really believe in myself and you're gonna smile and nod at all of it because what;s the alternative? to challenge me and look like a total bitch? exactly.
cora i want to say drives something like a 2017 kia forte, in the dark reddish maroon color. she bought it second hand after crashing her former and first car, an older pontiac sunfire. it was also secondhand and shitty, but she insisted on saving and spending all on her own. she could've had something better, but unfortunately has a brain disease that makes her repel her loving and helpful parents.
ezra strikes me as a station wagon guy. i think he could have wanted to make it happen on his own, in which case i see him in something like a 2000s subaru outback in the green color. austin clapped him on the shoulder for that one. if you see him in something more modern, i'm thinking a white 2019 tiguan.
zoe is a jeep renegade girlie, in graphite grey (i think? i toyed with black and white and the blue color). i'm thinking something more generic like the grey because she's for sure leasing it on her teacher's salary. maybe leasing to buy, but definitely leasing. she's the sort of girl that has decorative coasters in her cup holders and some macrame something orother hanging from her rearview. she's got a sparkly bath and body works fragrance holder on her driver's side visor and she's always got a fresh warm vanilla sugar insert on deck
maisyn drives a 2009 ford focus, in the blue/grey sort of color. there's a taco bell 5-layer burrito stain on the upholstery, right where she dropped in between her legs eating one-handed on the road. she's got a fat stack of CDs that are always spilling out of her center console, the cases of many having cracks in the plastic for being stepped on in her passenger seat. when people get in her car, she has to get out and remove the canvas totes and birkenstocks tossed into and never removed from her back seat along with the week-old dunkin' bag she was using to collect trash like napkins and straw rappers. she does this outside of people's houses, btw. doesn't prepare in advance.
ayla drives a mercedes gle coupe, in maybe a white or a red depending on how bougie we see her. this is all based off of you saying she appreciates the name brand and sensuality of a dove bar. we've never discussed her but i love your characterization. she's the kim kardashian of this family; she's hot and she's got main character syndrome. you know she feels hot as hell driving around in her little black slit sunglasses. she's got an off-white flower hair clip clapsed to her passenger side mirror, whole car smells like expensive perfume and her marc jacobs tote bag is perpetually riding shotgun. she uses apple carplay to stream music and be alerted to new text messages, which she replies to by manually texting and driving. fortunately, she's got decently quick reflexes (years of practice?) so she hasn't yet rear-ended anyone doing so, but she's definitely had a few close calls.
rylan oh you know he drives a hybrid of some sort (again based on waht you said about him and ice cream) and won't let anyone forget it. maybe a 2017-ish toyota prius prime. austin went with him to help pick it out; talked a big game about helping him navigate the dealership, but ultimately ended up folding to an outrageous offer too soon. fortunately, rylan walked in there with a plan and was able to negotiate for himself. austin was so proud, and when he recounted the story to camryn later, he claimed it was his plan all along to see how the kid did for himself.
orla is a only a baby, so jot that down. maybe she's a late bloomer or maybe she's failing to launch, but i do think she's indulged by camryn and austin a little. they're adamant they're not enabling her, because she has had stuff going on and benefits from the healthy, cozy environment in the hanna home. she doesn't have a car of her own, but borrows her parents' when she needs to get around. she's scratched up the honda pilot in the past, so her privileges have officially been revoked per austin. i think they're a two-car household and i could see camryn with something cute and sleek like maybe a black mazda 3, especially as the kids are older and she needs to transport less. that one is much easier for orla to navigate in.
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Refurbished electronics can be a great way for you to save money and make the most of your technology investments. Refurbishment is the process by which products are sent back to the original manufacturer, repaired, tested for defects, and sold at a discounted price. Refurbished products are most often electronics: laptops, cell phones, televisions, and computers among them. However, there are a few things to keep in mind as you search for refurbished products.For starters, there is a major difference between refurbished technology and used technology. Refurbished products have been properly tested, safely vetted against possible defects, and you can purchase them lower than retail value. Although they are technically “used,” they’ve undergone a thorough inspection process that puts them into a separate category.Used Vs. RefurbishedWhile you can certainly purchase the same brand or similar brands as “used” via online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist, there are some major differences. Used products should be purchased with caution, as they may have possible defects that the buyer isn’t aware of. For example, you might purchase a used iPhone that appears to be in working condition, but doesn’t last long because of water damage to the motherboard, which is naked to the untrained eye.It’s fair to think of refurbished products in the same way you’d think of the used car market. Reputable dealerships can sell quality used cars, which are tested before they’re put out of the floor for potential buyers to see. Just because these cars aren’t coming directly from the assembly line and aren’t fresh on the market doesn’t mean they aren’t in great working condition.Different Types of RefurbishmentManufacturer refurbishment refers to products that are inspected and re-sold by the manufacturer, and typically follow stringent guidelines for re-selling. As the actual manufacturer of the device, there’s often no better company to test its effectiveness and usability. They understand the product better than anyone else and uphold a high standard level to maintain their brand’s reputation. Third party refurbishing refers to products refurbished by a company other than the manufacturer. Of course, there are pros and cons to choosing a third party refurbishment service over one offered directly by the manufacturer. For starters, in many cases, a third party seller will sell a product cheaper than the manufacturer. Furthermore, some manufacturers--like Apple--will only refurbish their latest models. Because of this, if you had a tight budget and wanted to purchase an earlier version of a MacBook Pro, you wouldn’t be able to get a verified Apple-refurbished item. On the other hand, guidelines for refurbishment may not always be as strong as those used by manufacturers. Warranty, though not always offered with refurbished products, tend to come with manufacturer refurbished items. However, on some sites like eBay, warranty is offered through third-party insurance companies like SquareTrade. As a safety precaution, always be sure to read the fine print for available tech insurance policies. Seller refurbished is another category, and is the riskiest of all. Seller refurbished products refer to items refurbished by the individual seller themselves. The reason this is so risky is that there’s no verifiable way for consumers to gauge the quality of their services or replacement parts. Certainly, some independent refurbishers are good at what they do, but because they aren’t certified, it’s often a gamble the buyer takes. It’s critical that you work with official refurbished companies—especially if you plan to use your refurbished tech for business. For example, if you’re on a lean startup budget, you’ll need to ensure the electronics you’re bringing on board are completely wiped and free of malware. In addition to choosing reputable sellers, you should work with a secure data storage and colocation company to protect the integrity of your personal and professional data.
Thanks to retail giant Amazon, vendors have also been added to the equation. Vendors are sellers on Amazon who ship independently of the company. Back in 2016, Amazon launched a program called “Certified Refurbished,” which qualified certain vendors to sell refurbished products with a stamp of approval. The system was put in place to help restore confidence in buyers who are purchasing “used” goods. The criteria for passing as a “Certified Refurbished” vendor are strict. According to Amazon, “only select marketplace sellers and vendors who maintain a high quality and performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products.”Where do Refurbished Products Come From?As previously mentioned, refurbished products are returned to the manufacturer, but these returns can happen from many different places. In many cases, they’re returned from the user. They could also be refurbished if the products were used in demonstrations, sales displays, and field tests, or products that were sent back to the manufacturer because the box or item was damaged during shipping. Sometimes, they also come from businesses who have downsized and returned some of their items.
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Android Auto
How Will Android Auto and Apple Car Play Impact the Future of In-Car Entertainment in Houston?
Smartphone integration platforms like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are changing how Houston drivers use their cars. These technologies make driving safer and more fun by offering easy connectivity and better entertainment. They're shaping the future of in-car entertainment in Houston.
Houston drivers love the ease and benefits of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. They let drivers connect their phones with their car's system easily. This makes driving safer by reducing distractions and giving access to features without needing to use their hands.
The Rise of Smartphone Integration in Vehicles
The car industry has changed a lot in recent years. This change is thanks to smartphones becoming part of car infotainment systems. Now, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, drivers in Houston can use their phones in a new way while driving.
Seamless Connectivity with Your Mobile Devices
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay let users see their phone's screen on the car's display. This makes using the car's features easy and straightforward. Drivers can enjoy things like maps, music, messages, and voice assistants without looking away from the road.
Enhancing the Driving Experience
Adding smartphone integration, in-car infotainment, and hands-free features has made driving better for Houston drivers. Now, drivers can use voice control to manage different functions. This keeps their hands on the wheel and makes driving safer and smoother.
The growth of smartphone integration in cars has started a new chapter in connected driving. As technology gets better, we'll see more ways to link our phones with our cars. This will make driving even more convenient and enjoyable.
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Android Auto in Houston and Apple CarPlay in Houston
Car dealerships in Houston are now offering smartphone integration in vehicles. This is because more people want to use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These systems are key for in-car entertainment and connectivity.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have changed the game for drivers in Houston. They let users access their favourite apps, music, and navigation easily. This makes driving more fun and engaging.
Now, it's easier for Houston folks to get android auto and apple carplay at dealerships. As more people use these technologies, we'll see more cars with smartphone integration. This will make driving in Houston even better.
The Battle for In-Car Entertainment Supremacy
Google and Apple are fighting hard for top spot in car entertainment. Houston drivers get to enjoy this intense competition. Android Auto uses Google's big network of services and apps. It connects well with Android phones, letting us use Google Maps, Assistant, and more right in our cars.
Apple's CarPlay, on the other hand, aims to make driving easy with a familiar iOS interface. It mirrors our iPhone, making it simple to use apps like Apple Maps and Siri. This makes CarPlay a go-to for iPhone users.
The fight between Android Auto and CarPlay is getting fiercer. Both sides want to win over Houston drivers. This competition has led to big improvements in car tech. Now, we get the best in-car entertainment thanks to their ongoing updates.
FAQ
What are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay let us connect our phones to our car's entertainment system. They make it easy to use apps like maps, music, and messaging without taking our eyes off the road. This keeps our hands on the wheel.
How are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay transforming the in-car entertainment experience in Houston?
These technologies are changing how we enjoy music and stay connected in Houston. They offer a simple way to use our favorite apps in the car. This makes driving safer and more fun.
What are the key benefits of using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay in Houston?
Using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay in Houston means easy phone connection, hands-free control, and voice commands. They give us access to lots of entertainment features. This makes driving safer and more enjoyable.
How are local car dealerships in Houston responding to the growing demand for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Car dealerships in Houston are adding Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to their cars. This meets the growing need for these technologies. More people in Houston are enjoying the benefits of these platforms.
How do Android Auto and Apple CarPlay differ in their approach to in-car entertainment?
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay change how we enjoy car entertainment in different ways. Android Auto uses Google's services and apps for a smooth Android experience. Apple CarPlay gives us an Apple-focused experience, letting us use iOS apps in the car.
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The BMW X1, a compact luxury crossover SUV, has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its blend of performance, luxury, and affordability. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the BMW X1 car prices, offering insights into the factors that influence these prices and how they have evolved over time. BMW X1 Car A Brief Overview of the BMW X1 The BMW X1 is the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup, but it packs a punch in terms of performance and features. It's powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The X1 is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, offering flexibility for different driving conditions. The X1 is also well-equipped, boasting a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, and a rearview camera as standard features. Optional features include a Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. These features contribute to the overall cost of the BMW X1, making it a value-for-money proposition in the luxury compact SUV segment. Historical Overview of BMW X1 Prices The BMW X1 was first introduced in 2009, and since then, its prices have seen a steady increase, reflecting the enhancements in features, technology, and performance. The first-generation X1, launched in 2009, was priced at around $30,000. Fast forward to 2023, the starting price of the BMW X1 is around $38,600, marking a significant increase over the years. This increase in price can be attributed to several factors, including inflation, advancements in technology, and the addition of new features. However, despite the increase in price, the BMW X1 continues to offer excellent value for money, given its extensive list of features and strong performance. Current BMW X1 Models and Their Prices The BMW X1 is available in several models, each with its own set of features and price point. Here's a look at the current models and their starting prices: sDrive28i sDrive28i sDrive28i: This is the base model of the BMW X1, and it starts at $39,600. It comes with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a host of standard features. xDrive28i xDrive28i xDrive28i: This model features all-wheel drive and is priced at $41,600. It shares the same engine as the sDrive28i but offers better traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions. M35i M35i M35i: This is the performance-oriented model of the BMW X1, featuring a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 355 horsepower. The M35i starts at $48,100 and comes with several performance enhancements, including an M Sport suspension and M Sport brakes. These prices are the manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) and do not include optional features, taxes, or dealership fees. Actual prices may vary depending on the dealership and the options chosen by the buyer. Factors Influencing BMW X1 Car Prices Several factors influence the price of the BMW X1. One of the primary factors is the cost of manufacturing, which includes the cost of materials, labor, and technology. The BMW X1 is a luxury vehicle, and it uses high-quality materials and advanced technology, which adds to the cost. Market demand also plays a crucial role in determining the price. If the demand for the BMW X1 is high, the price may increase. Conversely, if the demand is low, the price may decrease. Competition is another factor that influences the price of the BMW X1. BMW competes with other luxury car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Lexus. The prices of these competitors' vehicles can influence the price of the BMW X1. Comparison of BMW X1 Prices with Other BMW Models When considering the purchase of a BMW X1, it's helpful to compare its price with other models in the BMW lineup. For instance, the BMW 2 Series starts at a lower price point than the X1, while the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series are priced slightly higher.
The BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series are in a different league altogether, with prices starting significantly higher than the X1. It's important to note that while the price is a significant factor, it's not the only one to consider. Each BMW model offers a unique set of features, performance capabilities, and style. Therefore, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. How to Get the Best Deal on a BMW X1 If you're in the market for a BMW X1, it's important to know how to get the best deal. Here are some tips: Do Your Research: Understand the market prices for the BMW X1 and compare prices from different dealerships. Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price with the dealer. Remember, the sticker price is often higher than what the dealer is willing to accept. Consider Financing Options: If you're not paying cash, consider your financing options. Shop around for the best interest rates and terms. Time Your Purchase: Dealerships often offer discounts and incentives at certain times of the year, such as the end of the model year or during holiday sales events. The Future of BMW X1 Car Prices As we look towards the future, it's expected that the prices of the BMW X1 will continue to evolve. Factors such as inflation, advancements in technology, and changes in market demand will likely influence these prices. Additionally, BMW's commitment to innovation and luxury means that new features and enhancements could be introduced, potentially impacting the cost of the X1. While it's difficult to predict exact prices, prospective buyers can keep an eye on trends in the automotive industry and BMW's announcements to get an idea of what to expect. Expert Opinions on BMW X1 Car Prices Many experts agree that the BMW X1 offers excellent value for its price. Its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality sets it apart in the compact SUV segment. However, like any vehicle purchase, it's important to consider your personal needs, preferences, and budget. Here are a few expert opinions on the BMW X1 and its pricing: "The BMW X1's price might seem high for a compact SUV, but it's in line with other luxury models. Plus, it offers a driving experience and interior quality that are truly worthy of the BMW badge." - Car and Driver "With its mix of comfort, quality, and performance, the BMW X1 is a standout among compact luxury crossovers." - Edmunds "The BMW X1 is a small crossover that offers style, fun driving and a premium feel in an attractive package." - Kelley Blue Book Final Thoughts The BMW X1 is a compelling choice in the compact luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. While its price is higher than some competitors, many find the cost justified by the vehicle's quality, features, and the prestige of the BMW brand. Whether you're considering a new or used BMW X1, it's important to do your research, understand the factors influencing its price, and consider your budget and needs to ensure you make a decision that's right for you. FAQs Why is the BMW X1 so expensive? The BMW X1 is a luxury compact SUV that comes with a host of high-end features, advanced technology, and superior performance capabilities. These factors contribute to its higher price compared to non-luxury compact SUVs. Is the BMW X1 worth the price? Many owners and experts believe that the BMW X1 offers excellent value for money. It combines the luxury and performance of a BMW with the practicality and versatility of a compact SUV. How much does a used BMW X1 cost? The price of a used BMW X1 depends on various factors such as the vehicle's age, mileage, condition, and the market demand. It's best to check with local dealerships or online car sales platforms for the most accurate prices. Does the BMW X1 hold its value? Like most cars, the BMW X1 depreciates over time. However, BMW vehicles are known for their quality and durability, which can help maintain their value over time.
Are there any hidden costs when buying a BMW X1? When buying a BMW X1, you should consider additional costs such as sales tax, insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. It's also important to consider the cost of any optional features or packages you choose to add. #Wiack #Car #CarInsurance #CarRental #CarPrice #AutoLoans
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The BMW X1, a compact luxury crossover SUV, has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its blend of performance, luxury, and affordability. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the BMW X1 car prices, offering insights into the factors that influence these prices and how they have evolved over time. BMW X1 Car A Brief Overview of the BMW X1 The BMW X1 is the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup, but it packs a punch in terms of performance and features. It's powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The X1 is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, offering flexibility for different driving conditions. The X1 is also well-equipped, boasting a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, and a rearview camera as standard features. Optional features include a Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. These features contribute to the overall cost of the BMW X1, making it a value-for-money proposition in the luxury compact SUV segment. Historical Overview of BMW X1 Prices The BMW X1 was first introduced in 2009, and since then, its prices have seen a steady increase, reflecting the enhancements in features, technology, and performance. The first-generation X1, launched in 2009, was priced at around $30,000. Fast forward to 2023, the starting price of the BMW X1 is around $38,600, marking a significant increase over the years. This increase in price can be attributed to several factors, including inflation, advancements in technology, and the addition of new features. However, despite the increase in price, the BMW X1 continues to offer excellent value for money, given its extensive list of features and strong performance. Current BMW X1 Models and Their Prices The BMW X1 is available in several models, each with its own set of features and price point. Here's a look at the current models and their starting prices: sDrive28i sDrive28i sDrive28i: This is the base model of the BMW X1, and it starts at $39,600. It comes with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a host of standard features. xDrive28i xDrive28i xDrive28i: This model features all-wheel drive and is priced at $41,600. It shares the same engine as the sDrive28i but offers better traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions. M35i M35i M35i: This is the performance-oriented model of the BMW X1, featuring a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 355 horsepower. The M35i starts at $48,100 and comes with several performance enhancements, including an M Sport suspension and M Sport brakes. These prices are the manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) and do not include optional features, taxes, or dealership fees. Actual prices may vary depending on the dealership and the options chosen by the buyer. Factors Influencing BMW X1 Car Prices Several factors influence the price of the BMW X1. One of the primary factors is the cost of manufacturing, which includes the cost of materials, labor, and technology. The BMW X1 is a luxury vehicle, and it uses high-quality materials and advanced technology, which adds to the cost. Market demand also plays a crucial role in determining the price. If the demand for the BMW X1 is high, the price may increase. Conversely, if the demand is low, the price may decrease. Competition is another factor that influences the price of the BMW X1. BMW competes with other luxury car manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Lexus. The prices of these competitors' vehicles can influence the price of the BMW X1. Comparison of BMW X1 Prices with Other BMW Models When considering the purchase of a BMW X1, it's helpful to compare its price with other models in the BMW lineup. For instance, the BMW 2 Series starts at a lower price point than the X1, while the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series are priced slightly higher.
The BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series are in a different league altogether, with prices starting significantly higher than the X1. It's important to note that while the price is a significant factor, it's not the only one to consider. Each BMW model offers a unique set of features, performance capabilities, and style. Therefore, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. How to Get the Best Deal on a BMW X1 If you're in the market for a BMW X1, it's important to know how to get the best deal. Here are some tips: Do Your Research: Understand the market prices for the BMW X1 and compare prices from different dealerships. Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price with the dealer. Remember, the sticker price is often higher than what the dealer is willing to accept. Consider Financing Options: If you're not paying cash, consider your financing options. Shop around for the best interest rates and terms. Time Your Purchase: Dealerships often offer discounts and incentives at certain times of the year, such as the end of the model year or during holiday sales events. The Future of BMW X1 Car Prices As we look towards the future, it's expected that the prices of the BMW X1 will continue to evolve. Factors such as inflation, advancements in technology, and changes in market demand will likely influence these prices. Additionally, BMW's commitment to innovation and luxury means that new features and enhancements could be introduced, potentially impacting the cost of the X1. While it's difficult to predict exact prices, prospective buyers can keep an eye on trends in the automotive industry and BMW's announcements to get an idea of what to expect. Expert Opinions on BMW X1 Car Prices Many experts agree that the BMW X1 offers excellent value for its price. Its combination of luxury, performance, and practicality sets it apart in the compact SUV segment. However, like any vehicle purchase, it's important to consider your personal needs, preferences, and budget. Here are a few expert opinions on the BMW X1 and its pricing: "The BMW X1's price might seem high for a compact SUV, but it's in line with other luxury models. Plus, it offers a driving experience and interior quality that are truly worthy of the BMW badge." - Car and Driver "With its mix of comfort, quality, and performance, the BMW X1 is a standout among compact luxury crossovers." - Edmunds "The BMW X1 is a small crossover that offers style, fun driving and a premium feel in an attractive package." - Kelley Blue Book Final Thoughts The BMW X1 is a compelling choice in the compact luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. While its price is higher than some competitors, many find the cost justified by the vehicle's quality, features, and the prestige of the BMW brand. Whether you're considering a new or used BMW X1, it's important to do your research, understand the factors influencing its price, and consider your budget and needs to ensure you make a decision that's right for you. FAQs Why is the BMW X1 so expensive? The BMW X1 is a luxury compact SUV that comes with a host of high-end features, advanced technology, and superior performance capabilities. These factors contribute to its higher price compared to non-luxury compact SUVs. Is the BMW X1 worth the price? Many owners and experts believe that the BMW X1 offers excellent value for money. It combines the luxury and performance of a BMW with the practicality and versatility of a compact SUV. How much does a used BMW X1 cost? The price of a used BMW X1 depends on various factors such as the vehicle's age, mileage, condition, and the market demand. It's best to check with local dealerships or online car sales platforms for the most accurate prices. Does the BMW X1 hold its value? Like most cars, the BMW X1 depreciates over time. However, BMW vehicles are known for their quality and durability, which can help maintain their value over time.
Are there any hidden costs when buying a BMW X1? When buying a BMW X1, you should consider additional costs such as sales tax, insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. It's also important to consider the cost of any optional features or packages you choose to add. #Wiack #Car #CarInsurance #CarRental #CarPrice #AutoLoans
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jeep dealers connecticut
These kinds of vehicles include the Dodge Magnum, Nissan Maxima, and Subaru Impreza. We appreciate your enthusiasm for a new Dodge, Jeep, or Ram car.
You can bring your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram to one of Gengras' many top-notch repair facilities. Just do it; don't put it off any longer.
Jeep dealers connecticut Chrysler first sold this vehicle under the Gengras nameplate. Dodge In East Hartford, Hartford, or Manchester, Jeep Ram is the best place to purchase a new or used car. We are in a great position to oversee and coordinate operations on a global scale thanks to our headquarters in Connecticut. The day's discussions centered on classic texts in our discipline. No matter how old they are, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles can be trusted. We guarantee to look for the most cost-effective solution available. We promise that no other website on the internet offers auto components at a lower price. Before offering any recommendations, we will look into the problem and discover more about your demands. Making people in need go through needless red tape is inexcusable. We ask for your patience as we attempt to put ourselves in your position and view the world from your perspective. The purpose of this report is to acquaint the reader with the topic at hand.
jeep dealers connecticut
If you live in Middletown or New Britain and want to see a Chrysler production line in operation, go visit Gengras. These dealerships have salespeople who are knowledgeable with Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models. Although we service clients from all throughout Connecticut, New Britain and Middletown are our two core markets. Nearby Middletown and New Britain both feature first-rate, round-the-clock medical facilities. The company flew its leaders from Hartford, Connecticut, to New York City in luxury by hiring a private aircraft. Call us at the above number if you have any inquiries or would like to arrange a test drive in a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. This explains why we provide so many different methods of payment. These days, low-mileage used cars in good condition are cheaply priced. You should contribute if you have the means to do so. There is no way to measure the peace of mind that comes from looking forward to a world without risk. It's acceptable, but you are not required to do that. Until we find you an affordable version of the car, truck, or SUV of your dreams, we won't give up looking. Nobody around here would ever purposefully mislead a customer.
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The Dodge 1500, Chrysler 1500, Jeep 1500, and Ram 1500 are all F-150 rivals. Locating the Required Documents The Genegras family established the Chrysler Group. The Honda Accord is a fantastic alternative to take into consideration if you need a new car but are on a limited budget. The Toyota competes well because to its powerful V6 engine. Dodge was a lifelong resident of East Hartford. At Toyota Jeep Ram, new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram automobiles are easily accessible. For the dealership to succeed, it was essential that it located close to East Hartford. Two of the best-selling cars in the world are their Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300 models. The results of your online survey won't be read if it isn't presented in an engaging way. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance. The latest recent details regarding this vehicle and its capabilities are provided in this paper. Our most recent products come with formerly optional features as standard fare. SALES: 860-952-3085 This cutting-edge car has a USB port and is compatible with Apple CarPlay. Better parts are provided with newer models.
All "Certified Pre-Owned" vehicles must have a minimum warranty of 12 months or 12 000 miles.
Vehicles from the Chrysler Group (Fiat, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram) can be donated. One of these alternatives might be more practical if resources are restricted. We promise to keep our word and do everything we can to earn your trust. By acquiring a used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram, you can save a lot of money. There has never been such widespread participation in the history of humanity. The change might increase interest in previously owned cars. If you're shopping for a used car, go to Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Connecticut. You'll find more folks who are a good fit for you if you expand your search. You can personalize the outside of the car to suit your desires. Your feedback is crucial to the development of our business.
Help me find a new place to live, please.
Your greatest local option for buying a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram is Gengras. You'll need to put down a sizable deposit whether you're buying new or old. Customer satisfaction is always our main priority. Regardless of the state of your credit, we will make every effort to assist you in obtaining financing for your upcoming purchase or lease. The majority of loans and leases allow for modifying the terms. You'll experience far less strain if you and your bookkeepers can speak freely. Despite having less than stellar credit, you have a pressing financial need. A savings account will make it easier for you to handle financial turbulence. The loan application procedure ought to go without a hitch. if you have an urgent issue that has to be resolved right now.
Dealing with a dependable dealer, like Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, has many benefits. Both positive and negative customer opinions are taken into consideration. If things continue to move at the present rate, how much longer do you think we will have to wait? If you would like to visit our office, which is situated in the center of East Hartford, Connecticut, please get in touch. We'll start tackling the problem as soon as you arrive here. These businesses and people have been granted the ability to export.
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jeep dealers in ct
This segment's top models include the Dodge Magnum, Nissan Maxima, and Subaru Impreza. We value your interest in a brand-new Dodge, Jeep, or Ram automobile.
Any service or repair need you might have for your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle can be handled at Gengras Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. Don't push yourself; you can accomplish this.
Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is the place to go if you're looking for a new or used automobile in East Hartford, Hartford, or Manchester. From our Connecticut headquarters jeep dealers in ct, we are in a great position to supervise and coordinate global operations. We read books on the subject nonstop for the entire day. No matter their age, vehicles made by Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram can be trusted. We promise to look for the most affordable solutions for you. We guarantee that you won't find cheaper auto parts online. We vow to investigate this thoroughly and consider all of your alternatives in order to reach a workable solution. Assistance for individuals in need must be available immediately. We are trying to imagine life from your perspective, so please be patient with us. The pertinent data are briefly summarized in this report.
jeep dealership ct
You can visit Gengras' facilities in Middletown or New Britain to view the Chrysler assembly line. These dealerships are experts in the sale and maintenance of Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. Although our main target areas are New Britain and Middletown, we accept customers from all around the state of Connecticut. The two major cities in the region, Middletown and New Britain, both have sizable hospitals that are open round-the-clock to assist people in need. From Hartford, Connecticut, to New York City, corporate leaders flew privately. We welcome you to call us at the phone provided above with any questions you may have or to arrange a test drive of a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. Because of this, we offer a wide range of payment methods. Used automobiles with little mileage are easily available and affordable. If at all feasible, your time and resources won't be wasted. It is a great relief to know that you are protected from danger in the future. That's also unnecessary, but it's absolutely fine. We'll keep looking if we can't find a vehicle, truck, or SUV that satisfies your needs and price range. No one here would ever purposefully provide a customer with misleading information.
In recent years, new Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram models have frequently been released.
It is very alluring to consider driving to work in a Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, or Ram 1500. Finding the Correct Paperwork The Chrysler Group was first founded by the Genegras family. The Honda Accord ought to be among your options if you're looking to buy a new car. Like the others, the Toyota has a V6 engine. Dodge In the East Hartford, Connecticut area, Toyota Jeep Ram is the ideal place to purchase a brand-new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. The ease of being so near to East Hartford has been essential to the success of the dealership. The Chrysler 300 and Jeep Grand Cherokee are two of their most well-liked vehicles, and both are wise picks. If the answers of your online survey are not presented in a way that appeals to your target audience, they will be ignored. Give us a call if your car, truck, or SUV is having problems, or if you're just shopping and unsure which model is ideal for you. The information provided here is the most latest information about this car that is currently available online. On our newest models, we've made a few previously pricey features standard. SALES: 860-952-3085 This cutting-edge automobile has a USB port and supports Apple CarPlay. Better features are included in newer models' standard equipment.
Any "Certified Pre-Owned" vehicle comes with a minimum warranty of 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Donations are accepted for cars made by Fiat, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram (all a part of the Chrysler Group). You ought to be able to solve your financial problems using one of these strategies. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your confidence in us. It makes sense to purchase a secondhand Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. There have never been such high engagement percentages in human history. The updated design could be advantageous for the used-car market. Visit Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram if you're searching for a used car. You'll find more pertinent results if you extend the scope of your search. You can customize the car's look anyway you wish. Your expertise is essential to the growth of our business.
Locating Me a New Residence
Gengras is your best option if you're looking for a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram in the region. A car is a significant investment whether you choose to purchase new or old. The satisfaction of our customers is first on our priority list. We will make every effort to get you approved for a loan or lease, regardless of how your credit history appears to be. The limits of a loan or lease can be relaxed through conversation and negotiation. If you have clear and enjoyable communication with your bookkeepers, anxiety can be greatly decreased. You don't have the best credit, but you urgently need money. Start saving money as soon as you can to pay off the loan. There shouldn't be any issues with the loan application process. In case you require quick assistance, call (860) 856-9182.
We include both labor and parts coverage in our service agreement.
If you have access to a dependable mode of transportation, you are welcome to use our services. Don't wait to have your car mended if you've noticed any of the aforementioned problems. The mechanical problems with the car may theoretically be resolved. We guarantee that your car will receive the finest attention and care while it is in our care. We'll need to work out a way to travel around if you are unable to bring your automobile. You'll always be able to move about freely and effectively. Your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram from any year will be purchased by Gengras. It's critical to perform routine maintenance on both people and machinery. One day all newly purchased fleet vehicles may be required to have these cutting-edge upgrades.
Working with a reputable dealership like Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has several advantages. Companies that cherish their clients maintain constant lines of communication. How long do you anticipate the line-waiting period to last? Call us at (860)785-6557 to make an appointment if you'd like to stop by our office in East Hartford, Connecticut. As soon as you get here, we'll start working on the problem. The following jurisdictions are eligible to submit export requests.
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Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
The Dodge Magnum, Nissan Maxima, and Subaru Impreza. Thank you for considering a new vehicle from the Dodge, Jeep, or Ram lineup.
If you have any issues with your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram, Gengras Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram is here to help. Have no fear; they provide an abundance of transportation options.
If you live in East Hartford, Hartford, or Manchester and are in the market for a new or used car, Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is your dealership of choice. Our Connecticut headquarters is well placed to manage and coordinate operations across the globe. We spent an entire day looking into it jeep dealership near me You can rely on a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram, whether it's brand new or pre-owned. We promise to offer the most affordable rates in the industry. Our vehicle components are the lowest priced you'll find anyplace on the web. We guarantee that we will investigate thoroughly and try every possible course of action until we find a satisfactory answer. Help is always there for those who ask for it. Is there something we can clarify for you or do to help? The most important information for the reader is summarized on one page.
Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram should be your first stop if you're in the market for a new vehicle.
Dodge, Jeep, and Ram are Motor Corporation brands that are sold and serviced by Gengras Chrysler dealerships in Middletown and New Britain. Although New Britain and Middletown hold a special place in our hearts, we welcome clients from all around Connecticut. Middletown and New Britain serve as the state's de facto ER epicenters. The company's executives took a chartered jet from their headquarters in Connecticut to New York City for the meeting. Please call us at the number above if you have any questions or would like to schedule a test drive in a new or pre-owned Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. This is why we accept so many different forms of payment. A wide variety of high-quality pre-owned automobiles are available here at competitive costs. Because we value your time and money, we will never rush you into a choice or charge you more than necessary. It's a huge weight off your shoulders to know that you'll never be hurt on purpose again. Nothing of the sort will happen jeep dealer near me that I can promise you. We won't give up until we find the right vehicle, truck, or SUV for you at a price you can afford. Not a single one of my staff would intentionally mislead a client.
Recent years have seen the introduction of all-new Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram models.
Imagine how much better your daily commute would be with a fresh new Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, or Ram 1500. Chrysler Specifics for Proof of Identity: A. comes from a long line of Gengras. The Honda Accord is the most popular automobile worldwide. Under the hood of the Toyota is a V6 from an Acura Integra. Vehicle Type: Accord Honda Isuzu Mitsubishi Toyota Dodge New Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram shoppers in the East Hartford, Connecticut area should visit by Jeep Ram. The dealership's success in East Hartford can be attributed to its location near a dense population. The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300 are two of Chrysler's most renowned vehicles. Until you can demonstrate that you have actually looked into the matter online, no one will take you seriously. If you're having problems with your present vehicle or if you're not sure which car, truck, or SUV would be ideal for your needs and budget, don't hesitate to give us a call. The latest data on this automobile is presented here. Many of our newest items come standard with functions that were earlier considered extras. SALES: 860-952-3085 This cutting edge automobile is compatible with Apple CarPlay and includes a built-in battery charger. The technology in these new cars is state-of-the-art.
Automobiles labeled as "Certified Pre-Owned" have been through a rigorous factory inspection and come with the remainder of the original warranty.
Vehicles manufactured by Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram) can be donated. If you choose one of these options, you won't have to worry about debt. We value the opportunity to work with you and the confidence you have placed in us. You can save a lot of money by purchasing a used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram. Currently, traffic is really heavy. The new pricing structure may encourage more individuals to purchase used automobiles. If you're looking for a used car, stop by Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. If you change your search terms, you'll get better results. The car's exterior can be customized to your liking. The health of our business depends on your satisfaction.
Facilitating the Housing Search
Gengras is your source for new and pre-owned Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models. You must have the option of purchasing a new or used car. Customer happiness is a top priority for us. Regardless of your credit history or current financial situation, our experts will do all in their ability to help you get a loan or lease. Loan and leasing agreements with negative terms might be renegotiated. The bookkeepers at our organization are wonderful people who are always happy to lend a hand. If you need cash quickly, it's best to apply for a loan and figure out a repayment plan as soon as possible, even if your credit is less than perfect. Your loan request has no reasonable grounds for rejection. If there is any way we can help you, please give us a call at 860-856-9182.
All repairs and replacements are fully covered by our service contract.
No matter when you acquired your car, you can get it serviced. Please bring your car in as soon as possible if you've noticed any of the above problems. It appears that this strategy will fix the car's technical problems. We promise to treat your car with the utmost care and respect while it is in our possession. We'll have to make alternate transportation plans if you can't bring your car. We pray that you log many happy and worry-free miles in your car. Gengras is capable of handling all of your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram maintenance and repair requirements. Preventative maintenance is essential for both humans and machines. All newly purchased fleet vehicles may soon be required to have these cutting-edge upgrades.
There are a lot of benefits to working with a trustworthy dealership like Gengras Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Businesses that genuinely value consumer feedback will actively seek it out. Do you think there will be a long wait if a line forms? If you would like to visit our office in East Hartford, Connecticut, please call (860)785-6557 to do so. As soon as you come, we will start tending to your requirements. We are pleased to offer our wares in the following international markets.
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I wouldn't not get one because of what other people thought, I'd not get one because it's unreliable. Here's my practical argument for not getting one that has nothing to do with hating elon musk or thinking electric cars are gay.
They break down and catch fire for no reason and in cases i've seen of that happening the owners got little to no help.
They freeze in the winter, people had to sleep in the freezing cold in their cars on the side of the highway because their batteries froze in gridlock on the highway in the middle of the night.
They are tracked and monitored more easily because it's essentially like driving an ipad you can sit in.
blackouts/grid failures or government mandated energy rationing would mean you can't drive.
Apparently they can even remotely control teslas and have used this for repossessing cars.
Also because they run silent you're more likely to hit pedestrians who can't hear you coming.
And depending on where you live you will either have very limited access to charging or long lines/waits for charging access.
I'd also look into typical repair costs and inquire what typically goes wrong with them mechanically. Because I'd be suspicious of a prohibitive repair costs scheme in the manner that apple tries to make you buy a new device every couple years. Like i'd want to know if the battery goes will you A.) be able to find a place that can repair it...most mechanics work on regular cars so would that make you beholden to the dealership/tesla for all repairs and B.) will the replacement parts be so expensive that they tell you you're better off buying a new vehicle. rmemeber the only reason they are affordable at all is because of subsidies that tesla gets, I doub't the consumer is getting the same benefit if they need to buy parts.
would you all hate me if i got a tesla, they are not expensive and i test drove one last week and they really work... and i live in a very confusing and congested geographic area for driving and am not an experienced driver so i think it's one of the safest options for a first car...
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Why You Need to Purchase the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe
Are you looking for a new full-size SUV? Then you need to treat yourself to the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. This SUV has been around since the 1990s, and it’s not going anywhere soon. It was given an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars by the NHTSA, but that’s not all. This vehicle is also packed with amazing features! Want to learn more? Then keep reading to see why you should buy the 2023 Chevy Tahoe. Five Great Trims If you need plenty of choices, then you’ll love the available Tahoe trims. You can choose from the LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country models. What’s even better is that the price differences aren’t huge between the trims. The basic LS trim starts at $52,800, while the top High Country trim starts at $73,400. Whichever one you choose, you won’t have a spend a fortune to get an SUV that’s chock full of convenient features. Powerful Engines Not only can you choose from five trims, but you also have three engine options. All trims come standard with the V8 engine, which is capable of 355 HP. You can upgrade to a 420-HP V8 engine if you wish. Your third choice is a turbodiesel engine. It’s capable of 277 HP, has great acceleration, and, most importantly, has outstanding fuel economy. Roomy Interior Too many SUVs look huge on the outside, but then feel claustrophobic on the inside. But that won’t be the case with the 2023 Chevy Tahoe! This vehicle holds between seven to nine people. No matter where they sit, they’ll have plenty of head and leg room. This is true for even the third-row seats, which makes this car one of the best Chevy models for families. As for cargo space, you’ll get 72.6 cubic feet of room behind the second-row seats and 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row. If you fold down both rows, then you’ll get 122.9 cubic feet total. User-Friendly Infotainment System The Tahoe comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, which is upgradable to 10.2 inches. It also has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, voice recognition, six USB ports, wifi hotspot, satellite radio, and a six-speaker audio system. While all these features sound intimidating, the system isn’t hard to use. It’s very intuitive, and you’ll be familiar with all its little details in no time flat. The 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe Is Fantastic Those who are in the market for a new car in the new year need to choose the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. This spacious SUV is not only safe, but will keep you entertained for hours if you’re on long road trips. It also has several excellent powertrain choices, guaranteeing that you’ll get power behind the wheel. So what are you waiting for? The next step is to get to your nearest dealership so you can give this SUV a test drive! Are you interested in other Chevy cars? Then check out our article on the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox. https://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png https://localcarshopper.com/why-you-need-to-purchase-the-2023-chevrolet-tahoe/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-you-need-to-purchase-the-2023-chevrolet-tahoe
#carshopping#localcar#localdealer#buylocal#dealandservice#cardealerships#buyinglocally#carshoppers#trustedlocalguide#vehiclepurchasing
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come out, come out wherever you are
in which y/n agrees to do something really stupid, and harry is a bit of a shit
word count: 5k
pairing: vampire!h and y/n (different au from my other vamp!h fics, though)
warnings: drug use, mentions of drinking and alcohol, mentions of blood (duh, he’s a vampire).
author’s note: okay so i know that i put vampire!h in the pairing, but this h is a wierd succubus x demon x vampire mix where he can feed off the emotions he wants to?? i’ll explain it in the story. enjoy your reading :)
She shouldn’t have agreed to play hide and seek in a cornfield.
At night.
During a full moon.
On Halloween.
Y/n’s logic always disappeared when she was… under the influence. Whether that be with alcohol or other sorts of… fun substances. That was not to say that she was an alcoholic, or a drug addict, she just… hated to be a party popper. When her roommate invited her to college parties, she didn’t say no to the red solo cup because she knew that some way or another, she would end up giving in by the end of the night. Or when it was just her and her closest friends passing around a freshly rolled joint, she didn’t say no because she didn’t want to be the odd one out.
Plus, it didn’t hurt that she enjoyed it… most of the time.
This? This was not one of those times.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Josephine, her roommate, had barged into her room with a smile over her lips as the brightness of her phone lit up her face from the bottom up, casting spooky shadows since y/n’s room was dark and she was falling asleep.
“Y/n, look!” She said, turning the phone so beams that felt like they came from hell illuminated y/n’s pinched face, marks from her pillow decorating the place above her lip. She mumbled something, and Josephine kept speaking, “Travis just sent me an invitation to one of the frat’s Halloween parties! Come with me, it’s gonna be so much fun!”
And to get her to leave her room, she agreed. She must have, because the next morning as she was getting ready for her 10 a.m. literature class, she was bombarded with a series of costume ideas and questions about what was considered cheesy or overdone. Josephine had made it clear that it was okay that they didn’t match, especially because of their differences in clothing choices. Jo was more risqué, and y/n liked to dress in what she felt comfortable in.
It didn’t take her a long time to figure out what she was going to go as for Halloween. That same morning, just before she walked into class, y/n stopped to stare at a framed art print in the hallway.
La Belle Dame sans Merci by John Keats was a poem that she knew by heart, and the painting was one that she could get lost in for hours. Stopping to stare at it before walking into class was not an unusual occurrence for her, but that time an idea came to her, almost like it was written in the long locks of her red hair.
Y/n would go as a Victorian princess. The dresses had always fascinated her, with the intricate lace details and elegant rippled of muslin fabric that flounced in a puff around the hips of Countess, or trailed behind the average cottage girl as she frolicked in fields full of daisies. She could picture it in her mind, and it made her giddy to know that there was a possibility she could look as pretty as one of the poet’s muses. She spent the entirety of the class switching from writing notes to browsing the five pages worth of gowns on Amazon, looking for something pretty yet within her price range.
By the end of the period she’d had what she wanted in her cart. A baby-blue wisp of a dress with intricate lace detailing at the neckline that curved like the top-hald of a heart to cup her breasts. The sleeves bunched around her arms mid-bicep, and scrunched again around her wrists, the transparent fabric looking as if her arms were wrapped in the sky. Built in ribbing created a corset that added an extra curve to her waist to make way for the heaps of fabric that exploded from her hips and cascaded down to the floor like the foaming spray of a waterfall.
It fit like a dream. When it arrived a few days before the party she dropped everything she was doing to try it on. The moment Josephine patted her shoulder to tell her that she was finished zipping up the back, y/n twirled around in the limited space of their dorm room to see herself in the narrow mirror at the end of her bed.
Every penny she had spent on it was worth it. Sure, it was snug around the bust and refrained her lungs from expanding the extra millimeter they needed, but it made her feel… nice. Pretty. She liked the way it cinched her waist, how her wrists looked dainty covered in the lacy ends of the sleeves, and the way her breasts looked… accentuated by the frilly detail.
Jo had squealed once she had a full look at her friend, and wouldn’t stop talking about how good they were going to look walking in together. She was going as Cat-Woman, complete with the latex suit, boots, mask, and all. She looked every bit as fantastic as y/n, only on opposite ends of the Halloween costume spectrum.
Building up to the day of the party, the pair talked make-up and hair details, both of which Josephine would be taking care of because she was better at them. At one point, y/n thinks she even dreamt about making a grand-entrance, boys and girls gawking at how amazing she looked, and the most handsome guy stepping forth to profess his undying love for her.
Which wasn't really how it went the night of, but she attained the same satisfaction.
The party was located a little ways away from the city, at a plantation-style frat house in-front of a huge cornfield. Carved pumpkins with candles illuminating them from the inside out lined the pathway up to the front-doors, the trees nearby created crunchy pathways of orange and yellow leaves, and the moon was out; yawning tiredly, but glowing an eerie yellow color over the scene.
It looked like the opening scene of a horror film.
Y/n did receive a lot of stares, though. Most of them were from guys whose beady little eyes pointed straight to her chest, and the ones she got from girls were on the nastier side of envy. She could tell. But, oddly enough, she liked the attention.
Josephine y/n’s hand and led her through the mass of costumed-bodies. There was a variety of ‘sexy’ professions (the usual: nurses, cops, cowgirls, and school girls) and those that come from fandoms (Hogwarts’s students, Eleven from Stranger Things, Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction, multiple heroes from the Avengers) or those that came for shits and giggles (T-rex blow-up costumes with tiny hands, Joe Exotic, sumo-wrestlers, those things that sway outside car-dealerships, and even a Trojan condom packet). There was a lot to see, and honestly, it was beginning to overwhelm y/n.
Not only was it slightly disorienting to see everyone disguised, the interior itself was something to look at. Chandeliers and velvet sofas, gold lamps and fancy carpets and curtains. The epitome of privilege. She felt trampled, every once a while there was a tug on the ends of her dress.
“How about a shot to start off the night, y/n?” Josephine asked her, hooking a latex coated arm around hers. The music was a rumble on the backs of their heads, shaking them through and through as some nameless rapper sang of drugs, sex, and money. What it always came down to.
She agreed, and took the plastic shot cup. On normal nights, she would’ve usually required some type of coaxing, but not then. Y/n was almost looking for the hangover the next morning. She wanted fun.
Three shots later and her fingers were dragging in front of her face. Her knees were wobbly and cheeks tinged with spirits. Everything was funny and if you asked her what two plus two was she’d tell you five. There was a new swagger in her step, and some might say that was the influenced hand-eye coordination, but to her it was newfound confidence. She felt good, she looked good, and she was having a damn good time. Laughing, making the best conversation she’d ever made, and when Jo suggested they go dance, she danced the best she’d ever had.
And sure, she was drunk out of her mind. A light weight. Everything was under a glamourized rose filter. It only made sense that the crowd parted like the Red Sea at God’s feet.
Y/n’s lungs stopped working the moment her eyes locked with his.
He was her counterpart. Literally.
Dressed in a navy blue Victorian prince’s suit decked in gold trim and gold medals pinned to the breast. The tan pants that hugged his muscular thighs like they were made just for him, and his hair was slicked back. Jaw a sharp, smug line that worked as he popped a piece of pink bubblegum between his molars. A gleam of appreciation sparking in the forest of his eyes as they raked a path on her figure.
It was like the work around them stopped, put on pause by some higher power so they could relish the moment of their discovery. What was that shit called? Divine Intervention? The millisecond before and after and between the time Eve’s teeth sunk into the taught skin of that forbidden red apple, and the snake’s tongue slithered out to see her. He was a stranger to y/n, but it seemed as if the feeling he stirred deep in the core of her being was one she’d always known, one from a past life. Besides her, Jo stopped doing whatever lucrative dance she was doing to see what had caught her friend’s attention. Y/n stood, tongue dry, feet glued to the ground as the handsome stranger approached her, a clear path in front of him.
Then, he takes one step forward and whatever conversation he had been involved with before was no longer of importance. Besides her, Jo stopped doing whatever lucrative dance she was doing to see what had caught her friend’s attention. Y/n stood, tongue dry, feet glued to the ground as the handsome stranger approached her, a clear path in front of him.
“Oh,” Jo huffed in her ear, “he’s hot.”
“I-Is he?...” Y/n’s question died on her tongue.
“Coming right for you, girl. Good luck,” Jo pressed a kiss to her cheek and disappeared in the crowd.
The stranger stops closer than she would have thought him to; a finger away from her nose, and when he spoke, she could feel the vibrations of his speech through her breasts where they nearly grazed his chest.
“I don’t believe we’ve ever met before... princess?” His voice is deep, raspy and filled with grooves like the bark on a tree. He mocks a bow (given their costumes) and their nose touch before he straightens again. Up close, y/n can see the flecks of gold in his eyes, and she hopes her mouth doesn’t stink (it probably does, given the alcohol she’d had). A chilled palm grips her bicep, and the fabric of her sleeve sinks under his touch, “Would you like to get off this shitty dance floor and speak somewhere else?” He asks her.
Her heart is pounding and she wonders if he can hear it because she certainly can, rushing in a taunting, roaring stream past her eardrums. Y/n nodded her agreement; yes, she did want to speak with him. A thrum of warmth comes from where he holds her, and he tugs her so that she’s standing in front of him, her back touching his chest as he pushes her through the crowd.
Her fingers shake as she lifts the fabric of her dress to avoid tripping, and her saliva goes thick. Not because of what might happen, but because the man who ripped her bicep tenderly, like she was made of the most fragile china, was the most good-looking man she had ever seen. Her mind ran images of things to compare him to, and almost all of them were of the Greek statues put up in museums for all to admire.
He leads her past the crowd and the kitchen where everyone was making drinks, past the wrap around stairs on the inside of the house, and even past the calmer sitting areas where couples were making out or groups of friends passed a smoking joint. He leads her right through the open back doors of the house so they faced the seemingly endless cornfield and the barn that was a speck behind it. The deck was less populated than the couches where kids smoked weed, but y/n guessed that it wasn’t to his liking because instead of turning off to the side so they could have a much less strained… conversation, he continued to walk- this time standing beside her instead of behind her.
Grass crunched under their feet as they got closer to the stalks of corn. Confused, y/n spared a glance to what she was leaving, and then to him. He stared straight ahead, but she caught his eyes flickering in her direction, and a smirk quirking cockily on his lips before they returned to the yawning face of the moon.
There was a short wooden fence separating the house from the cornfield that reached her hip, and he stopped there.
“Finally,” he sighed, “Some peace and quiet.” He makes a gesture to the fence, and pops his gum.
Dizzied, the tequila still in her head, she watches his tongue gather the gum back into his mouth, his lips shining with his own spit. Y/n doesn’t register that the movement towards the fence was his way of telling her to take a seat on the wooden bars.
“C’mere,” he murmured. Placing his hands on her waist, he lifted her up so she could sit on the wooden fence, and her hands went to his wrists instinctively, trying to keep herself steady.
Suddenly out of breath, her eyes shot straight up to his. There’s no way he can’t hear my heart right now, she thinks. He’s so close to her, his breath on her face. He smelled like pink bubblegum, cologne, and a liquor much more sophisticated than what she had to drink. His eyes held the same spell that she felt she was under.
“What’s your name?” He asked, his hands still on her waist. He didn’t look like he was in a rush to step away from her, and that was okay because she didn’t want him to.
“Y/n,” she whispered. It was physically impossible to raise her voice any louder. The stupid corset was making it harder for her to breathe, along with the added pressure of being in his presence. “You?”
“Prince Harry, at your service,” he smiled then, and y/n got a glimpse of shockingly sharp canines. They had to be fake. Longer than most in length, and she swore she saw one of those cartoonish-diamond glitter at the knife-like tips of his teeth.
She pointed to his mouth and said, “Are you a vampire prince?”
He looked at her strangely, his brows furrowing and his tongue running along the inside of his cheeks. Then, he laughed. “Something like that.”
“I-” She was gonna say something along the lines of ‘I think you’re a very good looking vampire prince’ until he cut her off.
“How about we play a game?” One of his hands lifted from her waist, and she let go to steady herself by grabbing onto the plant. Y/n hoped that her dress wasn’t getting dirty, but the moment that Harry brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear it flew out the window.
Her eyes fluttered closed, and she leaned into his touch like a purring kitten. She blamed her blatant carelessness on the alcohol. “A game?”
“Yes, y/n. A game,” he muttered, watching the way her eyes twitched under her eyelids.
“Which game?” Her eyes fluttered open again, and her breasts pushed against the corset as she took a deep breath, “I thought you wanted to talk?”
“Oh,”he glanced down, to her lips and for half a second, to the repressed mounds of her tits, “I promise the conversation is going to be much more interesting after a game of hide and seek.”
“Where would we even play t-that?”
“Right,” he pinched her chin with two fingers so that her lips smushed together, and gently tilted her head towards the field of corn. “There.”
That’s how she found herself, running for her life in the middle of a corn maze, at night, on Halloween.
What had started off as her giggling and running had soon into a panting, scared-shit-less run for no reason. Maybe it was because she just couldn’t get Harry off of her tail, or maybe it was that she was running with no direction into a cornfield she was sure was lost in. Maybe it was a combination of all those things.
Harry yelled, “Come out, come out, wherever you are,” and it only made her want to cry.
It was strange, really. Y/n didn’t know where this fear was coming from, it started out with them actually having fun, the tips of his fingers tugging at the fabric of the skirt before he let her run a bit, calling out how he was going to get her, how he was gonna catch the princess and she was giggling, turning to see him disappear when she turned.
Then he went quiet. The footsteps stopped. And his tone of voice dropped to something much more… sinister.
“Come out, little one,” he said, a clear whisper poured directly into her ear.
Y/n turned, and she felt him getting closer so she tried to run faster. But she was getting so, so tired, and it felt like she couldn’t get any air into her lungs. All she knew then was the moon, with her tired face, and the intimidating, tall stalks of corn.
Harry supposes that he’s doing her a favor. A lot of people wish they could run through a field wearing a dress like the one y/n has on. He was a bit of a shit, sure, setting her up for failure given he had abilities that she did not possess, but, he knew just as he knew the sky is blue- that she liked and wanted to walk into the corn field. Now, it wasn’t because Harry happens to be really good at reading people, no.
As an empath- one of the terms in the fine print of the being he was- he was able to connect into the funnel between her veins, the curved out thrum of what she was feeling. The witches he knew compared it to reading an aura, but it was much more than that. There was no need for interpretation of colors because it was like he was her, feeling what she was feeling. And she liked it.
Up until, of course, he switched up his game.
After a few minutes of running around and playing with her like she was a mouse, Harry decided that he wanted to scare her. He wanted to give her a taste of himself. He wanted her to be scared- to not like him. Because he was something that shouldn’t be liked. It was a sick thing, really, that he happened to be so good looking when he was a literal monster. Harry fucking drank human blood. He wasn’t something that should be thought of as Greek statues.
The part of him that remained human throughout the years felt bad for doing this to her. But, he had to. It made him feel better when he sunk his teeth into a victim’s skin. Almost like… he’d warned them, and it was their fault that they hadn’t taken the signal.
A scarecrow loomed overhead, and her lungs were running out of air, so he decided to go ahead and make his final jump on her.
When y/n broke through the final turn to reach the very small clearing in the center of the field where a scarecrow stood in between a few bales of hay, she felt his breath at the back of her throat, and her knees buckled.
She’d never really been much a screamer during a jump scare. Instead, she sucked her breath in, really loud and sudden, and because she was having such a hard time breathing, that instinctually breath caused black dots to litter her vision and suddenly those weak knees contributed to a faint.
Harry caught her, and picked her up, huffing a small laugh to himself as he laid her across the piles of hay.
She really was a sight to see. Flushed, hair a mess from all her running. Her lips were dewy and her waterline was agitated, he could see the moisture in the place where her eyelashes sprouted.
With a few pats to the cheek, her eyes fluttered open, he was still hovering over her. Harry did not make a move to scoot back.
“You’re awake, princess,” he said, smirking.
Y/n blinked, her eyes wide, and… gasped when Harry pressed a kiss to her cheek. His lips were cool against her heated cheek, and the curved ends of his slicked back hair tickled her chin.
“You chased me,” she gulped, “for a long time.”
“Yes, I did. And you liked it. Didn’t you, little one?” He allowed the tip of his nose to follow the line of her jaw, testing the waters. She liked it, he could feel the shudders it sent to her heart in his bones.
“I did.” Her eyes furrowed at her own admission. Why was she being so carefree? Why was she allowing herself to continue to stay in this cornfield? What was stopping her from questioning further what the fuck was going on? Her attraction, and his implied interest, that’s what.
Harry’s tongue slipped out of his mouth, and licked at her jaw before he placed another kiss to it, “Good. What do you say we have some more fun?” “What kind of fun?” Her head titled, and he was given direct access to what he wanted. Her neck. The column of her throat was pulsing with the beat of her heart, and the veins he could almost taste criss-crossed beneath her skin.
“Fun is fun, pet. But if you must know, the kind of fun I’m talking about involves a lot of mouth to mouth,” He moved so his face was directly in front of hers again, and his palm gripped her waist beneath him. Unconscioslu, her legs parted and Harry had more space to slide both of his thighs between hers, one of his knees resting on the bales of hay she rested on.
Y/n was no longer worried about the state of her dress, but rather, where his mouth would land, and where she would put her hands. Her eyes bounced between his, but they struggled to remain still under his intense hold. “O-okay. I’d like that.”
“The prettiest princess I’ve ever seen,” he mumbled into the hollow underneath her jaw. And it was true. He’d seen a lot of royalty all throughout his wretched life, and none of them had been as pretty as she was. He felt a shiver of arousal go through her at the same time the air came fresh into his lungs, and it felt like he was going to explode from the inside out.
“I think you’re the most handsome prince I’ve ever seen.”
Y/n wanted to slap a hand over her mouth the moment those words left her lips, but Harry only chuckled and the vibrations felt heavenly against her skin.
“You've been seeing other princes’, little one?” Harry teased, his mouth tracing their words against her lips. He pressed forward and kissed her; just a peck, testing. Again, she liked it.
“No, just you,” she shivered. Her words were coming out in pants now. The fabri of her dress was too thick and too abundant to allow for any frisky actions, but his mouth was enough. One of his fingers was running over the tops of her breasts. Her mouth opened, she wanted more. Harry tasted of pink bubble gum. She wondered where it went.
He chuckled and kissed her once more. “Then how do you know you know I’m the most handsome?”
“I just do,” she said, arching into his touch. His finger was hooking into her sleeve, and he let it snap into her skin.
“You do?” He licked her bottom hip, and she whined. This game, whatever it was, she wanted it to be over. It was too much for her to handle.
“Yeah,” y/n said in a dreamy, far-off voice. “I mean, yes. Yes.”
Harry relished in what she felt, and soon enough, his cock twitched in his trousers. He never let himself become… involved in his meals emotions, but it was different with her. She was tender, and sweet. Willing and not a nuisance that he drowned out before biting.
“Am I handsome enough... for you to let me bite you?” And that was another thing.
Harry never asked for permission. Y/n was drunk enough that she’d wake up the next morning and think that he was just some kinky dude who’d left a sick hickey on her throat, as all of his ‘victims’ were, but still. Harry had asked for permission.
“Bite me?” She was confused, head fuzzy with the same feeling that was heating in her groin. The lacy knickers she wore were probably soaked through. The bale on her bum was beginning to hurt.
“Yes, princess. Bite, right,” he licked a stripe right where her pulse was the strongest to accentuate his intentions. “Here.”
“Okay, Harry.”
He was handsome. And she was horny (with a mix of other things), she didn’t see a reason to say no.
“Thank you, pet.”
It was the same as it always was. Harry nuzzled into the spot, sniffing like a dog meeting a new friend, and with no preamble, he bit into her. The tips of his teeth pierced her flesh, and he allowed them to retract once the blood started to flow. When the first drop touched his tongue, he groaned. She was good, one of the best he’d ever had, and the heady flavor was just as sweet as she was. He was so caught up in his own satisfaction that he didn’t notice the moment her hands bunched the fabric of his suit from the late 1700s into fists, or her body going tense before he slowly relaxed, her heartbeat an irregular mix as she decided whether or not she should be panicking.
But, he knew that she continued to enjoy what she was doing.
“H-harry, I-” She went limp in his arms, and the small squeak that left her mouth was the mermaid’s song that enchanted Harry.
He knew this wouldn’t be the last time he’d see her again.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
hi! happy halloween babies! or better yet, happy harryween! i hope you enjoyed this peice, it was for sure out of my comfort zone and something new for me. if you haven’t yet, please check out my fanfic on wattpad in which harry owns a more aesthetic version of playboy mag. you can read it here.
#hunflowershalloweenchallenge#Harry Styles#harry styles fanfic#harry styles one shot#harry styles oneshot#harry styles imagine#harry styles angst#harry styles smut#vampire!harry#harry styles fanfiction#harry styles blurbs#harry styles blurb
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Waves: The Dinner
A/N: Not a single soul asked for this, but I couldn’t shake the idea, so here we are. Let me know if you like Waves content where the twins are older or naw.
Words: 3.5K
Warnings: None
TAGS: @babe-im-bi @notacamelthatsmywife @missyperle @queenoftheworldisdead @tashawar @valkryienymph @letsshamelessqueen-m @liquorlaughslove @lettytheletdown @hello-therree @missdforever @mani-lifes @toni9 @koko-michelle
Waves
“You ask him.”
“Me?”
“No. Doggy. Yes, you, dummy.”
Elysha ignored the insult and settled for her initial follow-up question. “Why me?”
“Because he likes you better.”
“Bullshit,” she scoffed, reaching to steal one of Emmett’s pretzels. She scowled, however, when he snatched it from her and swallowed it whole. “Creep.”
“Lee, you know the rules.” The twins neglected to hide their surprise when Christopher sauntered into the kitchen, a faux stern expression on his face. “No bullying each other when the other person can hear it.”
While Elysha smirked, Emmett rolled his eyes and muttered, “told you.”
Christopher chuckled and walked to the fridge, leaning over to pull out the pack of meat he’d pulled from the freezer the night before. “So, I take it you don’t want us to go to the dealership this weekend, eh?”
As Emmett’s eyes lit up with excitement, Elysha groaned and crossed her arms. “Papa, that’s not fair. Why is it he gets a new car and I don’t?”
“Because your brother held up his end of the bargain, while you, my beautiful little girl, did not,” Christopher reminded, handing the meat to Emmett who placed it on the counter and waited for his dad to reach him the rest of the ingredients. He checked the time on his Apple watch and mentally cursed. Damn, it was already time for dinner.
Elysha was seconds away from pouting and stomping. “Papa, I saved up money, too.”
“Yes, you did,” Christopher agreed, closing the fridge with a bottle of beer in one hand. “And you spent it all on a pair of boots.”
“But they were Gucci!”
“Good luck driving Gucci to school next week.”
“Shut up, Emmett!”
“What did I just say about bullying?” Christopher lectured as he instructed Emmett to hand him the stainless steel skillet. “Not when the other person can hear it.” A beat. “And you’ll be driving your sister to school, mate, so don’t be too smug.”
Elysha rolled her eyes and caught the way Emmett nodded his head in their father’s direction, eyes widening to convey the unspoken but urgent message.
Do it now!
Clearing her throat, she sauntered over to the counter where her father was starting to prep, hopping up, and earning a sideway glance.
“You’re lucky your mom’s not here,” he murmured, failing to tell her to get down. “Alright, what is it and how much is it gonna cost me?”
She shrugged casually. “Nothing.”
“Nothing?” Christopher wasn’t even trying to hide his disbelief. “Elysha, do I need to call our lawyer?”
“Papa,” she interjected with the sweetest smile that she could muster. “Emmett and I were wondering, if, well-” She took a deep breath while playing with her fingers. “We want to invite two people over for dinner.”
Christopher looked over at the meat. “How much do you think they’ll eat?”
“Not tonight,” Emmett interjected. “Maybe this Friday?” He took a deep breath, scratching the back of his neck. “And it’s not just any two people, dad. It’s….the two people we’re talking to.”
Deep down, Christopher knew what his kids were trying to tell, err, ask him. However, if he wasn’t anything else, he was stubborn and could play the hell out of the obtuse role. “Jesus, all the people you have in my house for parties and you mean to tell me you two only talk to two of them?”
“No, papa, he means talking to, as if, ya know, dating.” A beat. “And mama said this is her house, you’re just a renter.”
“What? When did she say--never mind.” He could come back to that. One problem at a time. “So, why invite them over for dinner? Why not just throw another party you think your mother and me won’t find out about?”
Emmett ignored the sly remark about the parties. His dad was right. “Because we actually want you guys to meet them.”
Christopher carried the bowl over to the sink, turning on the faucet. “Is that so?” He saw the kids nod out the corner of his eye and asked, “have you asked your mother about this?”
“Not yet,” Elysha answered. “We figured we’d ask you first since you actually do all the cooking.”
“And because we were also hoping you could ask her for us.
“See, push long enough, and the truth always comes out from you two.” As the twins exchanged nonverbal communication, Christopher pondered their question. In the long line of expensive and wild things his kids had requested over the years, this was relatively tame, and it would cost nothing. Nothing monetary, at least. “Fine. Friday at 5. I’ll talk to your mother.”
“Seriously?” Elysha didn’t want to give him time to rethink his answer. Hopping off the counter, she gave him a tight side hug. “Thank you, papa. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
“Yeah, yeah,” he grumbled dismissively, seconds before Elysha buzzed out of the kitchen to call Jason and tell him that they were on.
“Thank you, dad.” Emmett kept it brief, squeezing his dad’s shoulders while sliding his phone out his pocket to see if Madi could Facetime when Christopher called out.
“Where are you going, mate? It’s your night to help me fix dinner.”
“But--”
“Unless you want to switch shifts with your sister, so you clean and she helps.”
He could have put up a fight, but considering Christopher had already agreed to both the dinner and talking to Summer for them, Emmett realized he had to pick his battles.
“What do you need me to do?”
------
“What are they even doing dating in the first place? They should be focused on school.”
“Babe, they’re straight A Honor Roll students.”
“Well, then, their sports.”
Summer sighed, securing the silk scarf around her edges. “Both are captains.”
“Work with me here, Elsa.”
She looked at him through her vanity mirror, eyebrow raised. “You want my help?” Standing up, she sauntered over to her husband, placing her arms around his waist. “Let it go, Kristoff.”
“Summer, our children are in the middle of a teenlife crisis. This is no time for games.”
She rolled her eyes and pushed him away, going to remove the decorative pillows from their bed. “Most parents would kill to have their kids let them know who they’re dating--”
“They’re not dating them. They’re talking.”
“--Our kids are inviting them over just so they can meet us, and you’re upset?” Hearing it aloud made her laugh. “Baby, people are dying. Find something else to grow gray hairs over.”
Christopher paused, watching her peel back her side of the blankets and climb in. “That’s low, swimming pool. Even for you.” A beat. “Maybe they’re being blackmailed.”
Summer sighed as he finally joined her in bed. She moved her body across the mattress, pressing herself into his side as he wrapped his arms around her. “You need a hobby.”
“How can I enjoy life when my children are suffering?”
“Oh my god.” Summer sat up in the bed and forced him on his back, climbing on top of him, hands restricting his wrist. “Christopher, the kids are alright. You, however, I am starting to worry about.” Any trace of humor depleted as she frowned while caressing his cheek, fingers playing with the hair of his beard. Scruffy Christopher was always her favorite. “Our babies are growing up, babe. We can’t stop it, no matter how much we may want to. We just have to be there for them, be supportive of them, so long as they’re not hurting themselves or anybody.” She moved her index finger to his mouth to silence him. “You will be fine, sir.”
He sighed, gently moving her hands up and down her sides. “How can you be so calm about this?”
“Oh, I’m imploding on the inside,” she admitted casually, lowering herself so her lips grazed his. “But, I’m also an EGOT winner, baby.” She moved her mouth to his ear, giving a slight tug with her teeth. “I can fake anything.”
Summer yelped when he switched so that his body was over his. “Not anything.”
------
“This is a bad idea. A terrible idea.”
Emmett looked over at Madi who was currently looking into her compact mirror, applying another unnecessary layer of mascara. She caught him looking and motioned to the road. “Focus.”
Emmett rolled his eyes and reached over, placing a hand on her lap. “Would you relax? They’re going to love you.”
“That’s easy for you to say. They’re your parents.” She leaned her head against the car window, mindful of her bun. It wasn’t easy fighting box braids in a bun, and she surely did not have time to do a redo. “You don’t get it. Your parents are….you freaking mom is….she’s my idol. She’s every little black girl’s idol, and now I’m just supposed to walk up to her, extend my hand, and say, ‘Hi, Mrs. Hemsworth. I worship you. Also, I’m dating your son.”
Emmett shrugged. “Sounds good to me.” Madi reached over and shrugged him when Emmett grabbed her hand and brought it to her mouth. “I promise it’s going to be fine.”
She sighed, leaning back and looking at him while she gently asked. “How do you do that?”
He chuckled. “Do what?”
“Make me feel better so easily.”
Emmett smiled and winked. “I got my daddy’s charm.”
Madi smirked and lowered the armrest. “You also have his car.”
Emmett sucked his teeth. “I’m getting mine soon.” She laughed. “I’m serious.”
“I’m sure you are, baby. I’m sure you are.”
------
“Are you insane, Elysha?”
She sighed, switching out her textbooks. “I don’t see what the big deal is.”
Jason’s eyes nearly doubled in size as he stared down at her. “Your dad is going to kill me. That’s the big deal.” Elysha laughed, checking the time on her watch. Being late for class was a pet peeve of hers. There was no excuse. “Oh, I’m glad you find my upcoming murder funny. Why don’t you just livestream it, too?”
“You are completely overreacting,” she sighed, shutting her locker and keeping her hand flat on the locker. “My dad isn’t like that. He’s super chill.”
“Chill?” He repeated her term while accepting the books she handed him so that she could adjust her uniform top. “I’m sorry, but have you seen your dad? He’s freaking huge.”
Sighing, she relieved him from the books after being satisfied with her tie. “Okay, and?”
As she began to walk, Jason kept the same pace with her, lowering his voice so that the other students couldn’t overhear. “Wait, are your uncles going to be there too? Fuck. I’m so screwed.”
While she understood his concern, she couldn’t help but find the whole thing humorous. Everyone seemed to believe her dad’s size meant he was a holy terror when it was the complete opposite. “Jason, my uncles are even more chill than my dad. Trust me.”
“On your mom’s side too?”
She laughed. “Oh no, they’re all crazy.” Elysha placed her arm around his waist when he moved his around her. “No, I promise my parents are going to love you, and that includes my dad.”
“I’m the first guy you’ve ever introduced to them, huh?” Her silence didn’t help. “Even better.”
She stopped walking, forcing him to do the same. Naturally, people walked around them, no one wanting to interrupt one of the “it” couples on campus. “Look, Jason, if you don’t want to do this, then you don’t have to. I just-I just wanted you to meet my parents, because I want them to know about you.”
“Stop,” he interrupted, shaking his head and cupping her cheeks. “I’m sorry, I just, I really like you, and I just-I want to make the best first impression that I can.” He dropped his hands, taking hers in his. “I want them to know how crazy I am about their daughter.”
She smiled, looking down to hide her bashfulness, only for him to bring his finger under her chin. He matched her smile. “What time do you want me to be there?”
------
“They’re here!”
Summer and Christopher shared a look, his sigh of exasperation forcing her to walk over to him, placing her hands on his chest. “Be nice.”
“I’m letting them in my house, aren’t I?” Summer slapped his arm, forcing him to relent. “Fine. I’ll be fair. For now.”
“There will be no embarrassing stories or threats of violence issued, do I make myself clear?” Summer wagged her finger and turned away, purposely switching her hips, hiding her smirk when her husband slapped her ass and whistled.
“Mama! Papa!”
“Coming,” Summer called out, speeding up her pace as she made her way out the study and down the hall, allowing a kind smile to grace her face as she was met with her children and their friends.
Elysha was the first to speak, clearing her throat. “Mama, this is--”
“Jason,” she guessed, withholding her laugh when Elysha seemed surprised, while Summer pointed to the tall young man with striking green eyes and dark brown hair that grazed past his ears. Strangely enough, he reminded her of Christopher in some of the family albums she’d been shown during one of the many family dinners with her in-laws.
“I told you I have eyes in the back of my head.” Jason gave a nervous laugh that prompted her to take it easy on him. He seemed terrified.
Finally, he spoke, giving a weak clearing of his throat.. “Yes ma’am. It’s so nice to finally meet you.” Elysha cleared her throat, reminding him about the flowers in his hands. “I’m sorry. These are for you.”
“Thank you.” Her smile widened as she sniffed them. “Gardenias. One of my favorites.”
He seemed relieved by that information, prompting her to turn to the young wide eyed girl who also looked as though she was close to passing out.
Emmett took advantage of the opportunity to introduce Madi. Summer smirked when she saw he had his hand on the small of the young lady’s back. “And mama, this is-”
“Madi.” Again, Summer was correct and almost offended by the surprise on their faces. “Do ya’ll not believe me when I tell you that I know everything?” She didn’t wait for an answer. “It’s so nice to meet you as well--”
“--Madi.”
“--I love you.”
They spoke at the same time. Summer laughed and placed her hand on Madi’s shoulder who was clearly mortified by her unintentional confession.
“I mean--I don’t--I mean, I do, but….” Madi shut her eyes and quietly murmured, “I’ll just shut up now.”
Summer shook her head, never once dropping her friendly smile.
“You both need to relax. I promise you have nothing to be nervous about.” She nodded in the direction of the dining room. “Come on.” Summer guided the four to the room, stepping aside to allow them to enter while she turned around to direct them to their seats when Christopher finally decided to make his presence known.
“Sorry about that.” He rubbed his hands on the towel in his hands before tossing it over his shoulder. He approached Madi first. “Madison?”
She was clearly awestruck, eventually shaking her head to accept her handshake. “Please, call me Madi, Mr. Hemsworth. It’s so nice to meet you.”
He waved her off and smiled. “Chris is fine.” That smile dimmed when his eyes landed on Jason. “Hello.”
Elysha grabbed his hand, giving a light squeeze. “Papa, this is Jason.”
“Nice to meet you, Jason,” Christopher forced, squeezing Jason’s hand tighter than necessary but just enough to get his message across. “You play any sports, mate?”
“No. I mean, yes--basketball.” He swallowed deeply, remembering something else. “I also surf as well, Chris.”
“Mr. Hemsworth will be fine,” he corrected.
Summer rolled her eyes and shoved him. “Pay him no mind. Ya’ll sit down and make yourselves comfortable.”
“I’m sure you already have, though.” Christopher joked, earning a glare from Summer. “Come on, babe. No one throws a party like the twins.” A beat. “Speaking of, I’d say we could give you a tour, but I’m sure you both already know your way around.”
“Ignore him,” Summer interjected, shooting him a glare. “He’s still upset that you kids are able to throw a party better than we ever could when we were your age.”
That seemed to alleviate more of Jason’s nerves. “You used to party, Mrs. Hemsworth?”
“Boy,” she laughed. “If you don’t call me Summer.” Elysha smiled up at him, giving him a slight squeeze of his hand. “And what do you mean used to?”
Madi was also fully invested in the conversation, her fangirling almost impossible to contain. “You really are even nicer in person.”
“Don’t be fooled. It’s all an act.” Christopher interjected, walking over to pull the chair out for her. He noticed how Jason did the same for Elysha, and of course, Emmett with Madi.
“Ignore him. He’s actually hired help.”
Summer and Christopher shared a look as he rolled his eyes while murmuring. “Cute.” Sitting in his own seat, he jumped into the questions. “So, kids, tell us about yourselves.”
Madi and Jason shared a look when he told her to go first. Again, something else Christopher noticed.
“Well, I’m a junior, an only child, and my dad is in the Navy--”
“So, your family is stationed here?” Summer surmised.
“Yes ma’am.” Christopher and Summer exchanged a look, but unlike the previous ones, this was not a warning from wife to husband. This one was of silent concern. Madi wasn’t an Australian native. She would eventually return to the states. Both mother and father quietly wondered if that was something Emmett was taking into consideration.
After briefly discussing the shared commonalities of having active duty family members, Christopher turned the question back to Jason. “And what about you, young man?”
Summer contained her sigh at the way his eyes widened before he tentatively spoke. “Well, sir--”
“Chris is fine.”
Both Summer and Elysha looked over at that last statement, Summer with a smirk and Elysha with a small smile. Chris looked at his daughter and shot her a wink.
Jason, to Summer’s happiness, seemed thrilled by the stripping of the formal address.
“I, well, my family is originally from Melbourne--”
“Melbourne native, eh?”
“Yes, sir. My, uh, dad got a job up here when I was eight, and we’ve been here ever since.”
“Any siblings?”
Jason chuckled. “Believe it or not, two. I’m the middle child.”
“Nothing wrong with that.” Christopher shrugged. “I’d say we’re the best.”
“Elysha and Madi.” Summer stood up and nodded to the kitchen. “Help me prepare the toss salad.”
“Yes ma’am.” Elysha also stood up and shot a reassuring look to Jason while Emmett gave one to Madi as well. As soon as the ladies were in the kitchen and the swinging doors shut, Summer released a sigh of relief. “Finally, that was too much testosterone.”
Madi laughed. “You and Mr--Chris are really nice, Summer.”
Elysha nodded and playfully bumped Madi with her hip. “Told you they were chill. Even my dad is being surprisingly nice to Jason.”
“Ladies, trust me, if Chris didn’t really like either of you, he would let you know. He’s just giving Jason a hard time because Elysha is his little girl. He’s always going to be protective.” She reached the bowl to Madi while speaking. “Just how I’m protective of my little boy.” Madi’s smile dimmed. “So you can imagine how proud I am to see his amazing taste in women.” She winked and laughed when Madi placed her hand over her chest.
She straightened up and spoke truthfully. “I really do like Emmett, Summer. He’s….he’s amazing.”
“He’s a jerk.”
“Shut it, Elysha,” Summer warned with a small head shake. “You know, Madi, you should join Lee and me on one of our spa days.”
Her jaw dropped. “A-are you serious?” She looked at Elysha who seemed just as thrilled by the idea of a spa day with her mom and good friend.
“Of course, and Emmett told me you’re in theater with Lee, so if you ever need any advice or have any questions, I’m always available.”
“I’m going to pass out.”
Summer laughed and gave Madi a side hug. “Welcome to the family, Ms. Madi.”
Just as Elysha and Madi shared excited squeals, Emmett stuck his head in the door.
“Mama, ya’ll almost done?”
“Boy, don’t rush us.”
He lifted his hands in surrender. “Sorry, mama, it’s just that Uncle Liam is here--”
“What?” She interrupted, hand on her hip. “What the hell is he doing here?”
“I don’t know, but dad just asked Jason how he feels about weekly, random drug tests.”
“Christopher!”
#chris hemsworth#chris hemsworth fanfiction#chris hemsworth fanfic#chris hemsworth x black!reader#chris hemsworth x reader#chris hemsworth x black!oc#fic: waves
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UX/UI design
What is UX design?
Simply put, user experience design is the process of planning the experience a person has when they interact with a product.
UX design focuses on the interaction that a human user has with everyday products and services. The goal of UX design is to make using these products and services, both digital or physical, easy, logical, and fun.
You may have spent your fair share of time searching reviews for a new coffee maker. In essence, you’re not only looking for a new appliance, but a product with features that will deliver you, the user, a great experience. For example, an anti-drip spout, auto-shut off, and a reusable basket are all features that meet the user’s needs, make it easy to use, and give the user control and freedom when using. This is similar to the way UX/UI designers think when developing a web application. They want the user experience to be easy and intuitive.
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The term “user experience” has been around since the ‘90s. It was coined by Don Norman, a cognitive scientist at Apple, back before Apple became the household name it is today. He focused heavily on user-centered design, which placed the user at the front of the product design process. While “user-friendly” is a term you probably know well, it wasn’t all that popular at the time.
But, not only are physical and digital products part of UX, but it encompasses all aspects of the end-users interaction with the company, its services, and its products.
About the U in UX: determine what is important to the user
So, let’s start at the beginning: the “U” in UX. Why?
As Apple founder Steve Jobs aptly put it, “You've got to start with the customer experience and work back toward the technology – not the other way around.”
The user is the person who is going to live, eat, and breathe your products. It’s your job as a UX designer to give them an enjoyable, useful experience.
But first, you have to know who they are. Designing a user persona (which is done by a UX researcher, whose role is more back-end and data-based) lets us come up with an ideal user and examine their desires, wants, and frustrations with current solutions.
The bottom line: You have to know who your user is to make something that works well for them.
By placing the user persona at the forefront of the design process, we ensure that we eliminate the user’s pain points and ensure a user-friendly product that they will rave about for years to come (or until you come up with a newer and better version).
Once we’ve established a user persona, the job of a UX designer and his or her team is to think through every step of a user’s journey with the product. All parts of that journey should be memorable and add value to the user. Understanding the target user and the user journey allows designers to delight customers at every stage.
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For instance, let’s look at Matt’s user journey with Carvana, a popular website used to sell and buy used cars.
Matt is looking for a new car. He’s tired of haggling with salesmen at the car dealership when he sees an ad for Carvana, the car vending machine. He heads over to Carvana’s website. Excited, he saves a few cars to his wishlist.
Still a little uncertain, he chats with a sales person at Carvana and then with an acquaintance who recently used Carvana. Feeling ready, Matt finally chooses a car and puts in his payment details. A week later, his shiny new vehicle shows up on his doorstep. This is no doubt the best car-buying experience Matt has ever had!
In this example, it’s clear that Carvana put Matt at the center of their business. They figured out who their target user is and his pain points (hates haggling at the dealership). Then, they thought through every step of Matt’s buying journey in order to make the entire product easy to use, incredibly useful, and downright magical.
What is UI design?
UI (User Interface) design is the user-centered approach to designing the aesthetics of a digital product. In essence, they create the look and feel of a website or application’s user interface. An interface is the graphical layout of the application. These interfaces should not only be functional, but they should be easy to use and visually appealing.
UI designers are focused on visual touchpoints that let users interact with a product. This can include typography, color palettes, buttons, animation, and other imagery. Think about all the things you might do on an app – slide to delete, pull down to refresh, enter text, etc. All of these visual elements or animations that allow you to interact with the app must be designed. There’s a lot of similarities between UI and graphic design, but they are not the same thing.
This is where the “nitty-gritty” of Matt’s experience with Carvana happens. Can he easily scan the filter options on the site, do they function accurately, etc. Does he have to log in to their system or can he log in with an existing account like Google or Facebook?
User interface can also refer to other interfaces:
· Voice-controlled interfaces (i.e. Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.)
· Voice user interfaces (VUI’s) are currently improving the user experience, making it easier and faster for users to get the information they need or complete certain tasks. However, for the purposes of this article, we’re sticking to digital interfaces (screens).
To sum up, UI designers are graphic designers whose aim is to create product interfaces that delight users aesthetically while allowing them to easily complete a task.
What is a UX designer, and what do UX designers do?
If you have a background (or interest) in design, brand strategy, or technology, then becoming a UX (User Experience) designer may be the job for you. But first, what does a UX designer actually do?
UX designers act as advocates for the user.
Sometimes, you (the user) feel like you’re the problem when you can’t figure out how to use a product or website. Most of the time, though, it’s not your fault. It’s the UX designer’s job to design with you in mind. They are there to make products and technology not only useful, but enjoyable and easy to use.
Before designing a product, UX designers start by researching.
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User research usually starts with in-person interviews. These interviews let them understand user motivations and frustrations. The designer also runs user tests to observe user behavior.
By identifying both verbal and non-verbal stumbling blocks, they refine and iterate to create the best possible user experience.
UX designers also ensure that a product logically flows from one step to the next: If a user has a “goal,” then what is the most intuitive way for them to achieve it?
Thinking back to the user persona and user journey, they must always keep the end-user in mind. They also analyze data and patterns. In the ideation stage, they formulate ideas, which they later use to build prototypes and run experiments with real users.
UX design is iterative, meaning the designer's work is rarely “done.” Instead, they continuously test and improve products over time.
In sum, UX designers have a wide range of job responsibilities:
· Design user personas and conducting user research
· Design user flows and wireframes
· Create product prototypes
· Test products on real users
· Improve products over time through continuous testing
The types of projects they work on can vary widely.
UX designers work on apps, websites, and products across every industry. For the most part, UX designers are not responsible for aesthetic design, but instead focus on the customer interaction and journey with the product.
Some UX designers, however, do user interaction design, which primarily concerns the visual styling of an app or website. Others may focus on service design, which concerns itself with designing an overall experience, such as a guest stay at a five-star hotel.
What skills do UX designers need?
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Being that the work is quite specific, UX designers need a technical skill set, like design and prototyping with tools like Sketch, Figma and Adobe XD. They also need to understand the design thinking process in order to participate in all aspects of the design process.
In addition to hard skills, successful UX designers also have the following soft skills, or abilities that enable them to function well in the workplace.
Research — Research is a key UX design skill. Designers must make actionable insights from the data they collect, both in the initial phases and when testing with real people.
Problem-solving — UX designers explore many different approaches to solving a specific user problem in a process known as “ideate.” They not only solve problems during initial prototyping, but they constantly develop and improve products or services as needed to make them more user-friendly.
Communication — Communication is crucial as UX design is a highly collaborative process. UX designers also need a level of empathy that lets them look at a product from the user’s point of view. This includes understanding the user’s needs and goals when using the product and being able to communicate them clearly within the team and to stakeholders.
What is a UI designer and what do UI designers do?
UI designers often have a background in graphic design, interior design, or visual arts. They are responsible for making user interfaces that are easy to use and satisfying for the user. These are graphical in nature, and include websites, apps, and video games, to name a few.
It’s the UI designer’s job to bring the UX designer’s ideas to life.
Once the UX team has finished their process and hands over a wireframe, UI Designers are in charge of designing how the product is laid out visually. On websites, they are in charge of the elements on each screen or page in which a user interacts.
Of course, they must design from the user's point of view. So, although they might be great artists, the design is about the user, not them. What do users desire? They want to navigate a site with ease, intuitively clicking through the pages and finding the information they need without a thought. Therefore, it’s your job as a UI designer to provide just that: an easily navigable product that’s so intuitive it’s almost invisible!
This includes incorporating basic design principles (like balance and contrast) and studying interaction design. It also means carefully choosing the typography, menu styling, buttons, icons, etc. to both represent the brand and satiate the user.
Tasks of a UI designer might include:
· Execute all visual design stages from concept to final hand-off to web developers
· Create wireframes, storyboards, user flows, site maps
· Establish and promote brand’s design guidelines, best practices, and standards
The different types of UI
There are several types of user interfaces to get to know when considering a career in the field.
Command-line interface
The command-line interface (CLI) is a program that accepts text input to execute functions in your machine’s Operating System. It’s nothing new. In fact, it’s the way early computers were used. Rather than clicking with a mouse, users had to know the machine’s language to interact with the computer. It was also linear, meaning the user would type a command, and the machine would respond in either printed output or by displaying a message on the monitor.
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The CLI is a powerful tool that allows developers to install software, run programs, and navigate folders with just a few words. Learning to navigate the CLI allows for greater flexibility, especially when dealing with large amounts of data or files.
Graphical User Interface
A GUI, graphical user interface, allows users to interact with digital products through visual elements with very little text input. This is the primary interface used by most people today. GUI’s are intuitive and visually appealing, thus making them easier to learn and use. For example, windows, scroll bars, folders, are all part of the graphic interface. Because some resources are diverted to displaying graphics, GUI can be slower than machines running CLI.
Voice-based interfaces
Voice-based interfaces (also known as VUIs, voice user interfaces) permit users to interact with a system through voice or speech commands. Recent advances in natural language processing made it possible to create products like Amazon Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and the Google Assistant. Voice-based interfaces are becoming more popular and have a low learning curve because they require less time spent learning how to use them.
What skills do UI designers need?
Some hard skills are required to become a UI designer. To expand, UI designers must be up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques, and technologies. As far as graphic design, they must have an understanding of visual design, interface design, brand design, layouts, etc. They must also have proficiency in visual design and wireframing tools (Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, Mockplus). Experience working in Agile/Scrum development processes and learning HTML, CSS, and Javascript for rapid prototyping are also helpful.
In today’s workplace, both hard and soft skills are equally important. If you are a career changer, you will find the following soft skills you have honed to your benefit.
Creativity — UI designers must conceptualize ideas in a visual manner. This means taking sometimes complex ideas or roadblocks and presenting them in a simple, beautiful, and user-friendly way. This takes creativity.
Teamwork and communication — The UI designer must be a team player. They work closely with product designers and web developers, so they need to communicate clearly in order to create a successful final product.
Adaptability — Technology is constantly changing. Good UI designers embrace change and stay on top of industry trends in order to continuously improve their products and services.
What's the difference between UX and UI?
UX and UI design are often used interchangeably (which is wrong), but they are two different career paths. While both UX and UI design focus on the end-user, there are some basic differences between the two. It may be best summed up by Web Developer Dain Miller, “UI is the saddle, the stirrups, & the reins. UX is the feeling you get being able to ride the horse.”
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The horse riding example again describes the roles of UX and UI perfectly. They are inextricably linked, but hold two separate roles. Each one contributes to the user’s final experience of riding a horse. Each one must know their target user and the outcome he or she is trying to achieve.
However, UX design is focused more on the user’s journey and solving his problem. In this case, it’s all about the thrill of riding the horse. On the other hand, UI is focused on a product’s tangible elements — how its surfaces look and function in order to complete the task (the saddle, etc).
A UX designer is typically concerned with the conceptual aspects of the design process and focuses on the user and their journey with the product. They come up with user personas, user journeys, do research, ideate, prototype, and test. They bring ideas to fruition.
On the other hand, UI is focused on the visual and technical elements of the product. Designers create a series of touchpoints in order for users to interact with products. They make sure that users can complete their tasks in an easy and visually pleasing manner.
To put it another way, there are some shared job responsibilities like wireframing, prototyping, and accessibility as well as beneficial soft skills.
UX encompasses all the experiences a person has with a product or service, from beginning to end. UI design is specific to the individual means by which people interact with a product or service. The “face” of the experience, if you will.
What is a UX/UI designer?
If they are two separate roles, why are there job postings for UX/UI designers? Sometimes these are considered two separate fields — UX focusing on research and ideation and UI focusing on aesthetics and branding — but, they are both essential in product design.
UX and UI designers work in tandem, and some companies may hire one person to complete both roles. This is dependent on the industry and company structure, but there may be a good reason for it, as explained below. Additionally, it’s imperative that UX designers understand UI and vice versa.
To this end, UX designers with an understanding of interface design and UI designers with knowledge of user-friendly design can integrate their knowledge into their work. This leads to better ideas, more efficient use of company time, and ultimately, a more marketable hire.
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Many companies are now hiring for positions that are UX/UI designer, as a combined role, because it’s important for one person to understand both sides of the equation in order to create the best digital product. Further, a company may want one person — a UX/UI designer — to shepherd the digital product through the entire creation process and this individual can act as a true advocate for the user since they have been involved with the product from the ideation phase.
What are the key skills of a UX/UI designer?
Overall, UX/UI designers are concerned with looking for ways to continually improve products and services. They may start from scratch, or they may make existing products easier to use, faster, or sleeker. To illustrate, how often does your favorite app update? UX/UI designers are always iterating — collecting data, making insights, seeking out the latest trends, testing — in order to make products more useful and user-friendly.
The job description of UX/UI designers varies widely, and posts are found in many different fields. Some small in-house firms may only have enough work or the budget for one designer. Thus, they may hire one person to do both roles.
Others still may prefer to hire people with both skill sets in order to build a large, diverse team and to allow for growth within the company. Then again, product design combines both UX and UI to create functional and intuitive software programs. There are also UX researchers, who take on the brunt of the research and graphic designers, who focus on design only. Sometimes, these roles are combined!
Whatever the case may be, the good news for job-seekers is that UX/UI designers are in demand. UX/UI designers participate in both the design thinking process and execute a visual product. Therefore, they need a range of technical skills like UX research, wireframing and prototyping, interaction design, visual communication, and information architecture.
UX/UI designers also need to show that they are good communicators, team players, are curious, and flexible. They must have an empathetic understanding of the user in order to come up with and execute amazing websites, apps, and physical products.
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Lastly, since the titles are often confused or used interchangeably, a business may actually be looking for a UX designer, UI designer, or a product designer. Be sure to read the job posting carefully before applying.
Is UX/UI a good career?
In short, yes.
UX/UI is a good career field to get into if you are both a technical and creative thinker. You also get to help people as you improve the products they use on a daily basis!
But those aren’t the only reasons to get into UX/UI design. Here are some of the top reasons why UX/UI is a good career.
· In demand — UX/UI designers are in high demand, and the job outlook is good. This is true especially in regards to websites and apps. If people can’t figure out how to use them, it can negatively impact business.
· Salary — The field offers a good starting salary with opportunities for growth.
· Technical skills — Anyone with desire and motivation can learn the technical skills that UX/UI designers need to thrive in their careers.
· Soft skills — Skills like communication, collaboration, and flexibility are just as important as hard skills. This is great news for career changers who bring these skills and prior knowledge to the table.
· Empathy — The field is all about helping others and solving problems to everyday tasks. If you’re looking for a career that allows you to make a difference, you can do that through UX/UI design.
How do I become a UX/UI designer?
There is no one way to become a UX/UI designer. If you have a passion for user-centric design, you could self-teach, attend a bootcamp, or even go back to school. In any case, you’ll need to learn a set of technological skills and build a design portfolio.
Self-teaching
If you’d like to learn UX/UI design on your own, you’ll need some self-discipline and plenty of time. With those two things in place, you’ll find plenty of free tutorials online and books on the subject. You could even meet other designers locally for advice.
The pros of self-teaching UX/UI design
· The good things about teaching yourself UX/UI design are that it’s free and you can go at your own pace.
· You also don’t have due dates to contend with, which can be challenging if you’re also working a full-time job.
The cons of self-teaching UX/UI design
· Amassing the knowledge needed could take several years.
· You also do not obtain a certification or degree for your effort, which could be a turn off.
Bootcamps
Digital bootcamps are popping up online, offering courses that run from as little as a few weeks to over six months. Bootcamps like Flatiron School’s Product Design program are the most practical way to gain the skills and experience you need quickly. They vary in time commitment and expectations and are much like an intense semester in college.
The pros of UX/UI design bootcamps
· Many students benefit from the structure of a bootcamp
· If you learn best through a combination of independent and guided instruction, a bootcamp is a good choice.
· Bootcamps are also quick to complete and include job-ready portfolio creation, meaning you’ll be on your way to your new job in UX/UI in a matter of months. Some bootcamps — including Flatiron School’s product design course — include 1:1 career coaching, an absolute must for those looking to level up their interviewing and resume skills.
The cons of UX/UI design bootcamps
· While much cheaper than a four-year degree, bootcamps are still a financial investment, and you may even need to pay a lump sum upfront. But, there are loans and scholarships available.
· The time commitment and working with remote teams can be a challenge for some.
College
If you’re starting college or would like to obtain a Master's degree, there are a number of available programs to kickstart your career. Schools offer degrees in Human-Computer Interaction, Human-Centered Computing, Interaction Design, and Information Architecture, to name a few.
The pros of going to college for UX/UI design
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· If you’re concerned about prestige, obtaining a formal degree from a college will be your best bet
· Because college is typically interdisciplinary, you will learn a lot that you can apply to many positions, giving yourself a leg up on your competition.
The cons of going to college for UX/UI design
· Getting a degree takes longer and is expensive.
· Some degrees are very broad, and you may graduate without hands-on experience or 1-on1 career coaching.
If you’re interested in becoming a UX/UI or product designer, Flatiron School’s product design course teaches you everything you need to know to launch a career as a full-stack designer.
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