PRESSING QUESTIONS: OutClique magazine of South Florida
Interview with Publisher Steven Evans
by Joe Siegel
Geographic coverage area: Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties
Year founded: First issue dated December 2016
Staff size and breakdown: Approximately 12 staff writers, publisher/editor, videographer, on-camera talent, account manager, graphic designer, and director of digital and video enterprises
Physical dimensions of publication: 9” x 6”
Average page count: 96 pages
Print run: 7,500/month
Web site: www.OutClique.org
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PPQ: What feature or features of OutClique have been the most popular with readers?
Evans: Our arts and entertainment. We do a lot of exclusive interviews with talent that come to South Florida. We also feature local groups and shows. Additionally, our LGBTQ lifestyle section includes topics such as dating, wellness, fitness, fashion, spiritually, shopping, and South Florida as a travel destination.
PPQ: Who came up with the name and what is the inspiration for it?
Evans: We are always “out” on the town with events and what’s going on. “Clique” came from a group of people that have the same interest, it’s the sound a camera makes, and it’s the sound a mouse makes. So, it’s a triple entendre!PPQ: What challenge has your publication had to overcome since its inception?
Evans: Mostly, being new in the market.
PPQ: What challenge or challenges is OutClique facing now?
Evans:: Working to expand our horizons. Our print, website, mobile app, video, and social media have all expanded our reach.
PPQ: How has the magazine changed since it was first launched?
Evans: We have moved beyond being a traditional print magazine. We offer a complete marketing approach. Our digital, print, and video enterprises work together for our clients.
PPQ: What has been the biggest news story or stories OutClique has covered?
Evans: It’s hard to choose just one. But our cover story for December 2017 for Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts was an amazing display of what we can do. We did an original photoshoot for the cover, provided content in the magazine, shot and produced custom videos of the pre-show run, created a social media campaign, and promoted it online. It was an honor to be part of such a fantastic show and the Broward Center.
PPQ: On the Kinsey Scale of 0-6 [exclusively straight to totally gay], how gay is your publication?
Evans: We are about a 6. We are very “PG” in terms of content, which allows us to be in places like Starbucks. We appeal to the local gay reader and traveler, while still reaching a wider market.
PPQ: What’s the most surprising feedback you’ve received from a reader?
Evans: One reader said, “I keep your magazine in my bathroom.” Over and over I hear, “I actually read your publication.” Print is not dead. People are engaging with our content — and thus advertisers. They go to the shows. They buy the products. In the “short” time that we have been in production, our marketing efforts are working.
PPQ: What advice would you give to anyone who may want to launch their own LGBT publication?
Evans: Beef up on two things. One, your project management skills. There’s a lot of moving parts. And two, your people skills. Everyone will do business with you because of who you are first, and your product second.
PRESSING QUESTIONS
Volume 19
Issue 11
