App Showcase: Hobnob

What it does

Hobnob is an app designed to simplify the creation and distribution of stylish digital invitations. It allows users to plan events, from birthday parties to professional gatherings, by providing a large library of design templates. Users can customize these templates with their event details, select their own photos or videos, and manage guest responses through an integrated RSVP system.

Where it shines

Hobnob's strength lies in its combination of powerful customization and user-friendly design. The dynamic template preview system is a great example. As a user types their event details (00:54), the templates shown in the gallery update in real-time, giving immediate visual feedback. The process of using personal media is also seamless. After granting photo access, the app instantly generates previews of dozens of templates using the selected image (01:50), which is a powerful way to demonstrate value. Furthermore, the inclusion of event-planning utilities, like the integrated gift registry feature (03:20), elevates the app beyond a simple design tool.

UX highlights

• Dynamic Previews: Templates update automatically as event details are entered, showing the user exactly what their final invitation will look like.
• Contextual Actions: Instead of a static menu, options like creating an RSVP event versus an announcement appear in a contextual modal after the user initiates creation (00:48).
• Integrated Media Library: The app features a well-organized library of stock images categorized by theme (e.g., 'Birthday' at 04:58), helping users find suitable visuals quickly.
• Clear Upsell Path: Premium templates are clearly marked with a lock icon. Tapping one funnels the user into an account creation or upgrade flow (02:07), making monetization feel integrated rather than interruptive.
• Friction-Reducing Integrations: Features like the one-tap gift registry setup (03:17) solve adjacent user problems without forcing them to leave the app and search for solutions elsewhere.
• Safe Deletion: The app requires users to type 'DELETE' to confirm the deletion of an invitation (06:28), preventing accidental removal of their work.

Monetization & growth

The app operates on a freemium model. While many templates and features are free, a selection of premium designs and functionalities are locked. For example, selecting a premium template requires creating an account (02:07), which is the first step in the conversion funnel. Additionally, features like 'Collect Money From Guests' are explicitly marked as premium (03:06), prompting an upgrade. This strategy allows users to experience the core functionality for free while offering compelling reasons to pay for more advanced features or exclusive designs.

Who it’s for

Hobnob is for anyone planning a personal or small-scale professional event who wants a modern, mobile-first alternative to traditional paper invites or basic social media event pages. Its ease of use makes it suitable for casual party planners, while the variety of templates could appeal to small business owners or event organizers looking for a quick and polished solution.

Notes & opportunities

The app's mandatory sign-up right at the beginning (00:04) could be a point of friction. Some users may prefer to fully design an invitation before committing to creating an account. Allowing users to complete the design process in a guest mode and only requiring sign-up upon saving or sending could potentially increase the number of users who experience the app's core value.