What this app is

Wizard Skin is a self-hosted messaging and community app. Think of it like running your own private neighborhood chat space: you control who can join, what gets shared, and where your data lives.

• You can run direct messages, small groups, posts, and notifications in one place.
• It is designed for trusted circles (family, friends, teams, local communities), not open public growth.
• People without an account can still read public pages, but messaging and private areas require signing in.

Basic stack (non-technical version)

• Server app: Python + Flask powers pages, logins, and APIs.
• Database: PostgreSQL stores accounts, posts, messages, and settings.
• Real-time layer: WebSockets (Socket.IO) deliver live chat updates.
• Web front end: Bootstrap + HTMX + Alpine.js handle responsive UI behavior.
• Storage: uploads can be kept on local disk or object storage (S3/R2-compatible).

What you need to run it

• A server (cloud VM, VPS, or home lab) that can run Python apps 24/7.
• A PostgreSQL database reachable by the app server.
• A domain + HTTPS certificate for secure sign-in and browser features.
• Optional services: Redis (background jobs), object storage (media), and push keys (notifications).

No managed "Wizard Skin cloud" is required — this project is meant to be run by the owner of the community.

Save Wizard Skin to your home screen (PWA install)

Installing the app gives you faster access and is required for push notifications on iOS.

• iOS (Safari): Tap Share → Add to Home Screen. Open the app from the home screen before enabling push.
• Android (Chrome): Tap the install prompt or menu → Install app.
• Desktop (Chrome/Edge): Click the install icon in the address bar or menu.