About

Welcome to Raising Astoria

Hi, I’m Shirley Snider — and I’m really glad you’re here. Raising Astoria started as a small personal space to share everyday stories and grew into what it is today: a trusted destination for honest product reviews, real-world insights, and thoughtful buying advice. Whether you’re upgrading your home, choosing a new gadget, or simply trying to spend your money wisely, I’m here to make that journey a little easier.

My Story

I graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois and spent nearly ten years working in product sourcing and quality assurance for an e-commerce company. During those years, I learned how to separate marketing promises from genuine performance — what makes a product truly reliable, practical, and worth the investment.

Shirley Snider
Shirley Snider

What I Do Today

I now live just outside Nashville, where I write, test, and review from home — often with a cup of coffee and two curious dogs by my side. Every item I feature here is something I’ve personally used or thoroughly researched. I focus on everyday functionality, durability, and comfort because I believe good products should make life simpler, not more complicated.

What You’ll Find Here

On Raising Astoria, you’ll find detailed reviews of home, lifestyle, and tech products, all written from real experience. I value transparency, so every recommendation comes with open disclosure and genuine impressions — no scripted endorsements, no hidden agenda. My aim is to share what actually works and help readers feel confident about what they bring into their lives.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of this growing community. I hope you’ll find something here that truly adds value to yours.

Author Profile

Shirley Snider
Shirley Snider
Shirley Snider is the founder and voice behind Raising Astoria, a trusted Amazon Affiliate product review blog focused on everyday essentials, home upgrades, and lifestyle gadgets. With a degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois and nearly a decade of experience in product sourcing and quality assurance, Shirley brings a professional eye to the world of consumer goods. Her background allows her to evaluate items not just for appearance, but for long-term performance, usability, and value.

Based in Nashville, Shirley now works independently, blending her analytical mindset with an honest, down-to-earth approach to reviewing. She believes readers deserve more than polished marketing—they deserve clarity and truth from real-world experience. When she’s not testing a new product or refining a review, you’ll likely find her enjoying quiet moments at home with her two dogs, a notebook full of ideas, and a good cup of coffee.
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