SMACK(Magazine)2nd ISSUE -4. December-

Hey there, besties! You’ve officially made it to the second issue of SMACK, your ultimate guide to all things life, love, and keeping it totally fab. After the incredible response to our first issue (you’re all amazing), we’re back with even more juicy topics, must-have tips, and everything you need to survive and thrive this season.

We’re also spilling tea on the song of the season, answering your burning advice questions, and diving into some major self-love vibes because, let’s face it, you’re the real MVP of your story.

So grab your favorite snack, settle into your coziest spot, and get ready to laugh, relate, and maybe even learn a little something along the way. SMACK’s second issue is here, and trust us—you don’t want to miss a single page.

Here's your self help book "Be Your Own Bestiee"

Welcome to the ultimate self-help guide for teens who are learning to navigate the ups and downs of life. If you’ve ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or just a little bit lost, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, and this chapter is all about learning how to be your own best friend—because the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself.

Why You Need to Be Your Own Best Friend:
Think about the people you turn to when you’re feeling down or confused—your besties, your family, maybe even that one teacher who’s always there to listen. But here’s the thing: before you can truly connect with others, you’ve got to learn to connect with yourself first. Being your own best friend means treating yourself with the same kindness, patience, and support that you give to others.

When life gets tough—whether it’s school stress, friendship drama, or that boy who just won’t text you back—you need to be able to rely on yourself. That’s where this chapter comes in. By learning to care for your own needs, speak kindly to yourself, and take time for self-care, you’ll build up the confidence and resilience you need to face whatever comes your way.

Step 1: Speak to Yourself Like a Friend

Ever catch yourself saying things like, “I’m so stupid,” or “I can’t do anything right”? Stop right there. If your best friend said those things to herself, you’d be the first one to tell her to knock it off, right? Well, it’s time to do the same for yourself. Your inner dialogue is powerful, and what you say to yourself matters.

Instead of beating yourself up over mistakes, try saying things like, “It’s okay to make mistakes. I can learn from this.” Or, “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.” Treat yourself with kindness—just like you would a friend who’s having a tough time.

Step 2: Show Yourself Some Love

You’ve probably heard this one before, but it’s worth repeating: self-care is essential. It’s easy to get caught up in the busy whirlwind of school, friends, and life. But taking time to relax and recharge is just as important as doing everything else. Whether it’s treating yourself to a bubble bath, binge-watching your favorite show, reading a book, or just listening to music, make sure you’re carving out time for things that make you feel good.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about listening to what your body and mind need and making time for that. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, showing yourself some love can make a huge difference in your overall mood and well-being.

Step 3: Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

Being your own best friend also means knowing when to say “no.” Sometimes we try to please everyone around us, and that can leave us feeling drained and unappreciated. Setting boundaries is a way of respecting your own needs and making sure that you don’t stretch yourself too thin. Whether it's telling a friend you can’t hang out because you need some downtime, or politely turning down an invitation you’re just not feeling, it’s okay to put yourself first.

Remember: saying “no” is not selfish; it’s necessary. You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others.

Step 4: Forgive Yourself

One of the hardest things to do is forgive ourselves for past mistakes. We’re our own worst critics, and it’s easy to get stuck in negative thought patterns. But here’s the truth: You will mess up. You will make mistakes. And that’s okay.

Being your own best friend means learning to forgive yourself, just like you’d forgive a friend who made a mistake. Instead of beating yourself up, look at what you can learn from the situation, then let it go. The past doesn’t define you, and you have the power to move forward.

Step 5: Celebrate Your Wins (Big and Small)

Don’t wait until you’ve achieved some huge goal to feel proud of yourself. Every win, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated. Did you finish that big project? Celebrate it! Finally made it through a tough week of school? You did it! Even if your “win” is simply getting out of bed on a rough day, that’s something to be proud of too.

When you treat yourself like a best friend, you’ll start to notice all the little victories you’re achieving along the way—and you’ll feel more confident and empowered to keep going.

Being your own best friend is a journey. It’s not about being perfect or having it all together; it’s about learning to show up for yourself, even on the tough days. The more you practice self-love, kindness, and forgiveness, the more confident and resilient you’ll become. You’re your own biggest supporter, and once you realize that, you’ll be unstoppable.

So go ahead—be kind to yourself, celebrate your wins, set those boundaries, and show yourself some love. You’ve got this. 

Ultimate 2000s Movie Night: Must-See Films

Grab your comfiest blanket, pop that popcorn, and fire up the DVD player (or, okay, your favorite streaming app)—because it’s time for the ultimate 2000s movie night! These iconic flicks defined a generation and are packed with laughs, drama, and unforgettable quotes that still live rent-free in our heads. Whether you’re reliving the era or diving in for the first time, these films are the perfect way to escape, laugh, and maybe even learn a lesson or two. Let’s dive in!

The Must-Watch List

Here’s your go-to guide for the movies that every 2000s queen needs to watch (or rewatch):

Mean Girls (2004)
"You can’t sit with us!" This Tina Fey masterpiece taught us the perils of cliques, the power of self-confidence, and the importance of wearing pink on Wednesdays.

The Princess Diaries (2001)
Awkward teen Mia Thermopolis transforms into a literal princess, proving that sometimes, you just need a good makeover and a tiara to embrace your inner royalty.

Clueless (1995)
Okay, technically from the '90s, but it reigned in the 2000s too! Cher Horowitz’s epic wardrobe, unmatched vocabulary ("As if!"), and heartwarming storyline still make this a must-see.

Legally Blonde (2001)
Elle Woods showed us that being underestimated is the ultimate superpower. Bonus points for the Bend-and-Snap—it works every time!

High School Musical (2006)
“We’re all in this together,” and this Disney Channel classic remains the ultimate sing-along favorite. Wildcats forever!

13 Going on 30 (2004)
Jennifer Garner nails the “thirty, flirty, and thriving” life in this feel-good flick that’s equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.

The Perfect 2000s Movie Night Checklist

No movie marathon is complete without the perfect setup. Here’s everything you need for an epic night:

Comfy Outfits: Think oversized hoodies, fuzzy socks, and pajama pants. Bonus points if they’re bedazzled or Juicy Couture vibes.

Snacks: Go classic with buttered popcorn, or level up with themed snacks like pink-frosted cupcakes (Mean Girls style) or pizza bagels (The Princess Diaries moment).

Soundtrack: Blast a 2000s playlist before the movies start to set the mood. (“Since U Been Gone,” anyone?)

Photo Op: Create a DIY photo booth with silly props like tiaras, oversized sunglasses, and feather boas. Perfect for those Clueless-inspired selfies.

Which 2000s Teen Drama Would You Be In? (Mini Quiz)

1. What’s your high school vibe?
   a. Super social and into all the extracurriculars
   b. Kind of awkward but figuring it out
   c. Fashion-forward and lowkey running the show
   d. All about making a big statement

2. Your dream hangout spot?
   a. The mall
   b. Your BFF’s house
   c. A cute coffee shop
   d. Center stage at a big event

3. What’s your go-to fashion accessory?
   a. Hoop earrings
   b. A backpack full of secrets
   c. A tiny handbag
   d. A bold statement piece

Results:

• Mostly A’s: You’re giving Mean Girls energy—queen of the cafeteria!
• Mostly B’s: Welcome to The Princess Diaries! You’re navigating life and finding your sparkle.
• Mostly C’s: Cher from Clueless would totally be your bestie.
• Mostly D’s: Legally Blonde vibes. You’re not afraid to stand out!

DIY 2000s Movie Playlist

No movie night is complete without music! Curate your own playlist with these 2000s hits to set the perfect vibe:

“Complicated” by Avril Lavigne
“Oops!... I Did It Again” by Britney Spears
“Hot in Herre” by Nelly
“Beautiful Soul” by Jesse McCartney
“Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani

DIY Tip: Add some of your current faves to mix old and new vibes. Write your custom playlist down and share it with friends. You could even make a group playlist for everyone’s input.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your squad, your snacks, and your sense of nostalgia, and make your 2000s movie night totally iconic. It’s the perfect way to unwind, laugh, and remind yourself why this era of movies (and music!) still rules. 

Queens of the 2000s: The Icons We Still Stan

The 2000s were an unforgettable era for music, movies, and pop culture—and at the center of it all were the queens who defined a generation. These women weren’t just stars; they were icons. From dominating the charts to setting trends that are still serving inspo today, these queens owned the decade and made sure we never forgot their impact. Let’s take a look back at the ultimate 2000s icons who shaped our playlists, wardrobes, and dreams.

Britney Spears: The Princess of Pop 

Britney was the moment. Whether it was rocking the stage in that sparkly red catsuit for “Oops!... I Did It Again” or dancing with a snake at the VMAs, she gave us one iconic pop culture moment after another. Britney wasn’t just a singer—she was a movement. From her groundbreaking music videos to her unforgettable performances, she taught us to be fearless and unapologetically ourselves.

Why We Stan:

• "Toxic" is still a party anthem.
• Her choreography inspired dance-offs everywhere.
• She made us all believe in the power of a good crop top and low-rise jeans.

Paris Hilton: The OG Influencer 

If there’s one thing Paris Hilton knew, it was how to make an entrance. With her That’s hot catchphrase, her sparkly outfits, and her paparazzi-ready lifestyle, Paris embodied the glamour of the early 2000s. But she wasn’t just about the glitz—Paris basically invented being an influencer before Instagram was even a thing. And let’s not forget her reality show, The Simple Life, which gave us endless laughs (and quotes).

Why We Stan:

• She turned tiny dogs into a must-have accessory.
• Her velour tracksuits are back in style, FYI.
• She made every red carpet a fashion moment.

Hilary Duff: The Relatable Queen 

If you grew up in the 2000s, chances are Hilary Duff was your girl. From her role as Lizzie McGuire to her transition into pop music with hits like “Come Clean”, Hilary was the ultimate girl-next-door who showed us that being kind, goofy, and ambitious was super cool. She balanced acting, singing, and inspiring us to live authentically—basically, a triple threat.

Why We Stan:

• The Lizzie McGuire Movie is still a classic.
• She was the queen of natural beauty and low-key glam.
• Her music? Underrated bops for days.

Rihanna: The Fashion and Music Chameleon 

When Rihanna burst onto the scene with “Pon de Replay”, we knew she was something special. But she didn’t stop there—she evolved into one of the most versatile and bold artists of the decade. From “SOS” to “Umbrella”, Rihanna gave us hit after hit, while also breaking fashion rules left and right. Her fearless attitude and innovative style made her a trendsetter who’s still influencing culture today.

Why We Stan:

• Good Girl Gone Bad is an iconic album.
• She brought Caribbean vibes to mainstream music.
• Her red carpet looks were always ahead of their time.

Christina Aguilera: The Voice of a Generation 

While Britney brought the bubblegum pop, Christina brought the powerhouse vocals. From “Genie in a Bottle” to “Beautiful”, her songs carried emotional depth and undeniable talent. Plus, Christina wasn’t afraid to take risks with her image—her Stripped era was all about independence and embracing who you are.

Why We Stan:

• She gave us the ultimate empowerment anthem with “Fighter.”
• Her fashion choices (and her piercings!) were bold AF.
• She always stayed true to her voice—literally and figuratively.

Honorable Mentions: More Queens Who Slayed

• Avril Lavigne: The punk princess who made skater chic a thing.
• Alicia Keys: The soulful singer who gave us piano ballads like “Fallin’.”
• Jennifer Lopez: From music to movies to THE green Versace dress, J.Lo owned the 2000s.
• Shakira: Her hips don’t lie—and neither does her impact on music and dance.
• Gwen Stefani: The Harajuku queen who made us obsessed with bold prints and red lipstick.

Why These Queens Still Reign

Even years later, these 2000s icons continue to inspire us. Whether it’s their music that’s still on our playlists, their movies that we rewatch on Netflix, or their styles that have come full circle, these queens remain a part of our lives. They didn’t just dominate the 2000s—they helped shape pop culture as we know it.

So, who’s your ultimate 2000s queen? Let us know, and don’t forget: they walked so we could strut. 

Are you Britney, Christina, Paris, or Rihanna? Let’s find out!

Your perfect day looks like…

a. Performing on stage in a sparkling outfit 
b. Hitting the studio and belting out heartfelt lyrics 
c. Shopping for designer looks and snapping selfies 
d. Writing music and setting trends 

What’s your go-to accessory?

a. A microphone (duh) 
b. A funky scarf or statement necklace 
c. Oversized sunglasses 
d. Hoop earrings and a killer bag 

Pick a signature catchphrase:

a. “Hit me baby one more time.”
b. “You are beautiful, no matter what they say.”
c. “That’s hot.”
d. “Don’t stop the music.”

Your dream vacay is…

a. Performing at a sold-out show in Las Vegas 
b. A tropical getaway to recharge your voice and soul 
c. Jet-setting to Paris or Milan 
d. Chilling on a tropical beach 

Results:

• Mostly A’s: You’re Britney Spears! You’re all about the glitz, glam, and owning the spotlight.
• Mostly B’s: You’re Christina Aguilera! Passionate, soulful, and never afraid to speak your truth.
• Mostly C’s: You’re Paris Hilton! The epitome of luxe and glam—everyone knows your name.
• Mostly D’s: You’re Rihanna! Effortlessly cool and a true trendsetter.

The Ultimate Guide to 2000s Boyband Fever

We’ve gushed about our pop queens, but now it’s time to turn our attention to the boys who had us swooning and plastering our bedroom walls with their glossy poster pics. The 2000s were a golden age for boybands, serving us with endless hits, dramatic music videos, and the kind of synchronized choreography that made us believe in love at first sight. Whether you were an *NSYNC die-hard or a Backstreet Boys devotee, boyband fever was an obsession we all shared. Let’s break down the fandoms, the songs, and the drama that defined the decade.

The Big Two: Backstreet Boys vs. NSYNC

Backstreet Boys
The Backstreet Boys were the kings of emotional ballads and catchy pop anthems. With hits like “I Want It That Way” and “Larger Than Life”, they cemented their place in the pop hall of fame. Their harmonies? Flawless. Their music videos? Legendary. Every girl had her favorite—whether it was sweet Kevin, dreamy Nick, or bad boy AJ.

Signature Moments:

• The Millennium album—iconic from start to finish.
• That white outfit moment in the “I Want It That Way” video.
• A fanbase so loyal they’re still touring today!

*NSYNC
Then there was *NSYNC, the ultimate rival. These guys weren’t just a boyband; they were a phenomenon. From “Bye Bye Bye” (and its iconic marionette video) to “It’s Gonna Be Me”, *NSYNC captured hearts everywhere. With Justin Timberlake leading the pack and Lance Bass giving us total heartthrob vibes, they brought energy, charisma, and style to the 2000s pop scene.

Signature Moments:

• The choreography in “Bye Bye Bye” (admit it, you still remember it).
• Justin’s ramen noodle hair—peak 2000s.
• Going head-to-head with BSB fans in the ultimate boyband debate.

Honorable Mentions: More Boybands We Loved

98 Degrees
Known for their romantic vibes, 98 Degrees gave us gems like “Because of You” and “I Do (Cherish You)”. They were the guys you’d slow dance to at your middle school dance, with Nick Lachey stealing hearts long before his reality TV days.

O-Town
Formed on Making the Band, O-Town was reality TV’s gift to boyband culture. “All or Nothing” was the ultimate love song, and their meteoric rise was the drama we couldn’t stop watching.

B2K
For the R&B girlies, B2K brought smooth vocals and killer moves. “Bump, Bump, Bump”  was a party anthem, and Omarion became a solo star in his own right.

The Drama: Fandom Feuds and Breakups

Boybands weren’t just about music—they were about loyalty. Fans took sides, often dividing into *NSYNC vs. Backstreet Boys camps. Who was better? Who had the best harmonies? Who was the ultimate heartthrob? These debates were the stuff of lunchtime arguments and sleepover discussions.

Then there was the drama within the bands themselves. Members left (sob Zayn Malik vibes, anyone?), went solo, or clashed with management. The most painful moment? When *NSYNC went on "hiatus" and never officially came back. :(((

The Legacy: Why Boybands Still Rule

Boybands didn’t just dominate the 2000s—they influenced pop music forever. From One Direction to BTS, the blueprint laid by these iconic groups is still alive and thriving. But let’s be real: nothing hits quite like a 2000s boyband anthem. Those songs? Pure nostalgia gold.

Your Ultimate Boyband Checklist

Must-Have Tracks for Your Playlist:

1. “Bye Bye Bye” – *NSYNC
2. “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys
3. “All or Nothing” – O-Town
4. “Bump, Bump, Bump” – B2K
5. “Invisible Man” – 98 Degrees

So, which boyband was your fave? Did you swoon for JT’s curls, or were you all about Nick Carter’s charm? Let us know in the comments or tag us with your ultimate boyband playlist! And remember: no matter which band you loved, the 2000s were better because of them.

Before We Drop the Beat…

Wow, today’s issue of SMACK has been a wild ride through all things 2000s. From reliving boyband drama to hyping up our pop queens and even planning the ultimate movie night, we’ve covered it all—and then some! Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite icons, dreaming up your next sleepover, or debating which teen movie squad you’d totally vibe with, we hope you’re feeling all the nostalgia feels.

But don’t think we’re done just yet. There’s one more thing to cap off this fab day: the Song of the Day! This is the jam that will soundtrack everything we’ve talked about, bringing the perfect vibe to wrap up this issue.

Grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let’s close it out with a bang. Ready? Here we go! 

(Scroll down for today’s track!)

Song of the Day: "Evacuate the Dancefloor" by Cascada

Let’s blast back to 2009 when Cascada dropped the epic dance anthem “Evacuate the Dancefloor.” If you were living your best life in the late 2000s, there’s a good chance you heard this track at every party, school dance, and club. With its electrifying beats and energetic vibe, this song was an absolute banger, and it still has the power to get you moving!

Why It’s the Perfect Song for Today:
"Evacuate the Dancefloor" is all about that one moment at a party when the energy is so high, you just know the dancefloor is about to explode. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s the kind of song that makes you feel unstoppable. Whether you're at a party or just imagining yourself dancing your heart out at some killer club, this song will transport you right to that moment. Plus, it’s got that irresistible mix of euro-dance and pop that made it a global hit.

How to Play It:
Turn this up when you're getting ready for a night out, prepping for a party, or just want to get hyped up. It’s the ultimate pre-game song when you're about to hit the dancefloor or when you need that extra jolt of energy. Put it on your workout playlist, too—because let's be real, if this track doesn't make you feel like you could take on anything, nothing will.

Lyrics to Live By:
"Evacuate the dancefloor
I'm infected by the sound
Stop, this beat is killing me
Hate it or love it, but you can't ignore it!"

These lyrics are all about the electrifying, can't-stop-the-beat energy that takes over when you're on the dancefloor. It's the perfect anthem for letting go, feeling the music, and living in the moment. If you're looking for that track to get you pumped, this is it.

Fun Fact:

• "Evacuate the Dancefloor" was a massive international hit and reached the top of the charts in over 10 countries. Cascada’s mix of catchy euro-dance beats and club-ready energy made her a household name in the late 2000s, and this song is still a go-to for any throwback dance party.

Perfect For:

• When you need to get hyped before hitting a party or going out with friends.
• Dancing your heart out and forgetting about everything else.
• That “let's get this party started” vibe when you're just ready to have fun.

So next time you’re ready to dance like no one’s watching, throw on “Evacuate the Dancefloor” and feel the energy take over. Let the music control you and turn every moment into a party. 

That’s a wrap on SMACK’s second issue! We’ve covered so much nostalgia it’s practically spilling over.

Thank you for reading and sticking with us through all the laughs, memories, and quizzes. You, our readers, are the heart of SMACK, and we can’t wait to bring you more throwbacks, trends, and iconic moments in the next issue.

Until then, keep slaying, keep vibing, and don’t forget: the 2000s are forever in our hearts. Catch you next time! 

xoxo,