By Debra Weiss, RTF Staff Writer

First Impressions

IntheTimes.com is a fun, unique, and exciting website. Their aim not only as a magazine but as a website is immediately clear. Every page feels like it supports the overall aim of In the Times.

The first impression also left my head spinning as the design feels a bit cluttered at first glance. While the background is fun, it feels distracting and pulls readers away from the content. A simple white background works wonders to correct this problem.

Tone

The tone of the magazine is chatty and upbeat, as though I were talking to a best friend or big sister. The topics covered are relevant to today’s teen and it doesn’t feel as if the editor is shying away from important issues such as purity, trusting God, putting Him first, and more.

Content

In the Times.com’s content is recent and updated daily. The blog format is an excellent choice for this website and the format feeds into the chatty, big sister tone. However, I would love to find a way to comment on the posts and perhaps interact with other readers in the process. Maybe allowing moderated comments would be a consideration for future versions of the site.

Interviews with recording artists such as Krissy Nordhoff, Tammy Trent, Lindsey Kane, and Cadia, provide fascinating entertainment stories that build up rather than tear down. The format “the story behind the song” is easy to read, even in a short amount of time!

Fashion and beauty tips are easy to use, even for girls just learning to apply make-up. The comparison between body lotion and perfume was not only well written but also one of my favorite pieces on the site.

Another plus: I enjoyed links to make-up products, music and more on the site. One click and I can instantly find the product that the editor recommends! How cool is that?

Flaws

While I love Inthetimes.com, I did find a few things lacking.

I could not find an about or FAQ page. When I’m visiting a website I’m unfamiliar with, my first instinct is to view the about or FAQ page for additional information, usually to get an idea of what the site is about and whether this is the site for me or not.

While I would love to try the products advertised on this site and the prices seem reasonable, I’d be hesitant to buy from a retailer that doesn’t include a statement of faith.

As a Christian seeking to be a good steward, I want to know what the editor and staff believe before I buy. For instance, is this magazine non-denominational? Or is it geared more toward a certain segment of the young Christian audience?

I also couldn’t find any contact information listed on the site. A simple email address, to contact the editor about broken links or let her know I loved a piece, would be great.

Conclusion

The small flaws I found arenʼt enough to keep me from reading the magazine or returning to visit, but they might negatively influence my decision to buy a subscription or other content from this retailer until I know more about who they are and what they believe.

Overall, I enjoyed this publication and will be returning to visit it frequently. I would also recommend this site to a friend looking for wholesome content from a Christian perspective. Four out of five stars.

Debra Weiss is a teen freelance writer living in South Carolina. In her spare time, she designs websites, bargain hunts, and collects postcards. You can email her at: debraweiss@rocketmail.com