It’s games, tech, books, shows, and music galore. This month’s media and lifestyle faves are hauntingly difficult to resist.
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October brought a fresh wave of excitement to our lives—and not just because there’s a long weekend—and we’re here to round up the highlights. From the tech that made life easier to the music (and musicals) that lives rent-free in our minds, this month’s favorites span all sorts of interests. Whether you’re looking for some new faves, new media to get hooked on, or even new trinkets to cop, these picks encapsulate the moments that made October feel a little brighter, a little more fun, and a lot more inspiring.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold – GELO QUIJENCIO, MULTIMEDIA ARTIST
Before the Coffee Gets Cold hooked me because the concept of time travel inside a cozy little café felt so simple yet magical. Each story was short, emotional, and easy to follow—perfect for my short attention span. The characters’ wishes and regrets pulled me in without feeling overwhelming. By the end, I realized I had finished the whole book without even noticing the time pass.
Hearts2Hearts 1st Mini Album – Focus – GELO QUIJENCIO, MULTIMEDIA ARTIST
I love any songs written in blue glitter pen and Hearts2Hearts pulled through. Their title track, Focus, is such an easy hear and is so addicting. Their visuals, choreography, and the vocal stims they put into the songs are top-tier. My top songs would probably be Focus and Flutter.
BAR BOYS: THE MUSICAL – NICA GLORIOSO, FEATURES & POP CULTURE WRITER
I caught Bar Boys: The Musical—its all-new staging!—and thoroughly had a great time. The performances were amazing, the new set looked incredible, and the story was still so resonant even if I have zero intentions of being a lawyer. It’s running until the end of November, so try to catch it when you can!
Wired Earphones – BIANCA LAO, SR. BRAND ASSOCIATE
In my roundup for this month, my latest tech-related obsession has been my wired Apple headphones, as I like it not only for the sound quality and the direct connection. I’m also quite a fan of the physical look and love the aesthetic that comes with it (see Pinterest).
It’s definitely friendlier to your wallet, and arguably provides a better quality of sound in comparison to some Bluetooth headphones.
Juniper Hill by Devney Perry – PRECY TAN, CREATIVE SERVICES COPYWRITER
Juniper Hill by Devney Perry will always be my favorite from The Edens series. I’ve always had a soft spot for small-town romances and the found family trope, but this one captures it in such a genuine, heartfelt way. The characters feel real, the emotions hit deep, and the setting feels like a place you could actually come home to.
It might sound cheesy, but whenever I’m in a reading slump or just need something to make me feel grounded again, Juniper Hill is the book I always find myself returning to.
specc studios – PRECY TAN, CREATIVE SERVICES COPYWRITER
As someone who loves photobooth pics, spotting Specc Studios at events is always a highlight. Their setups are fun, stylish, and totally Instagram-worthy, making it easy to capture candid moments with friends or strike a silly pose on your own. It’s such a simple way to create memories that last beyond the event, and every time I see their booth, I know it’s going to be a good time filled with laughs and photos I’ll actually want to keep.
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle – LUNA ZABALA, MARKETING COPYWRITER
Dehydration has met its match. I was someone who struggled to meet the prescribed daily water intake all throughout childhood, so I know what I’m talking about. I blame most of my aqua-aversion on my general distaste for water bottles — it’s a bit nitpicky to admit, but I hate how they can make water taste plasticky and/or metallic.
But then came the Owala FreeSip. I’m late to the trend, I know, but this bottle really deserves all the hype. No weird plastic- or metal-infused flavor; the straw mechanism is absolutely, effortlessly flawless; and it comes in the cutest colorways. You need this in your life.
Fears to Fathom Anthology – JAMES JACINTO, MARKETING MULTIMEDIA ARTIST
Lately, I’ve been spending my downtime watching random TikTok streamers on my FYP play through the Fears to Fathom anthology. There’s just something about those VHS/camcorder-style horror video games that hit different.
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