Kailash Maharaj (B.Ed., B.A.) and Shivana Maharaj (B.A.) are two very talented women. Two women with a passion for a magazine they founded called City Style and Living. Model Republic talked to the two co-editors-in-chief about the market in Calgary, making it in the world of magazine publishing and how to keep motivated in an industry that can be tough to newcomers.
Q: How did City Style and Living Magazine get its start?
A: Essentially, we are storytellers. K & S Media is a production and publishing company. We have been writing this magazine, and putting on plays our entire lives. People think we’re crazy when we say that, but we can remember getting in trouble for writing rather than playing in kindergarten- we can’t remember a time when we weren’t jotting something down or creating.
Q: What makes City Style and Living unique?
A: The mix of international and local content, the photography which brings to life the words, the attention to the practical and inspirational. Together, the photography, words, layout and design coupled with the energy and enthusiasm of our contributors creates something that is pure magic.
Q: Describe your magazines demographics.
A: We do not subscribe to the view that demographics determine readership. Instead, we describe our readers based on psychographics – their tastes, ideas, travels, experiences. This inevitably creates a wide range of people that we think are in tune with the ideals of City Style and Living.
Q: What sort of feedback have you had from your readers?
A: We are constantly amazed at the positive feedback from all over the world. Readers enjoy the interactive nature of the magazine, the informative articles and the breathtaking photography.
Q: What are the pros and cons of starting a new magazine in Calgary?
A: If we had considered the pros and cons we would not have started the magazine. We would still be wondering how it could be possible. During a photoshoot for the cover of a previous issue, our photographer sent us a quote, “boldness has power in it.” That sums it up nicely.
Q: Tell us about a little bit about your personal backgrounds and how you got started in the industry.
A: Between the two of us we have spent many, many years at university. Together with our managing editor we have six degrees, including a doctorate. Some of the best lessons we have learned though have come through our international travels. We have also spent several years as freelance writers and fashion stylists. Our magazine is devoted to food, fashion and travel, and those were not random choices. We love to cook and bake, and our parents were caterers. Our grandmother is an amazing seamstress and made many of our clothes when we were younger without patterns. Travelling, for us, is like breathing.
Q: What is your primary source of motivation and how do you keep yourselves inspired?
A: There is no one source for inspiration. It can be something as esoteric as a sunset or as specific as a quote from a literary genius. Many of the ideas we are now using, we have had since our childhoods. The beauty is to have an idea in mind and see it come to life.
Q: Finding talent can be challenging. How have you been so successful in attracting people to contribute?
A: We have been extremely fortunate to work with talented contributors. Certainly with photographers, there is an immediate emotional connection to their work. The aesthetic of our magazine seems to attract like minds.
Q: Attracting advertisers can be crucial to the success of a free publication. How have you been able to entice advertisers?
A: City Style and Living is the first digital lifestyle magazine using this technology in Western Canada. Every advertiser receives a digital link directly to their website. It is an active process because readers can immediately access more information relating to products they like. We also have a print run. Advertisers are therefore receiving online and print exposure. As our magazine is accessible from anywhere in the world advertisers also gain international exposure.
Q: Which is more important, the design (look and feel) of a magazine or the content?
A: They are inextricably linked. A wonderful story is enhanced by a beautiful layout and photographs; an impressive layout that is not supported by informative or inspiring words can leave readers feeling empty. City Style and Living is a balance of both.
Q: Working with photographers, models and makeup artists sounds very glamorous! Is it all fun and games?
A: There is a tremendous amount of work that goes into a successful photoshoot. It includes logistics, coordination and planning that takes place months in advance. We have been amazed at the positivity and professionalism of everyone we have worked with. However, fun is crucial - if we are not having fun, readers can detect this in the photos.
Q: Working in an industry with fast moving trends one must move quickly to keep pace. Do you ever feel the pressure to stay one step ahead? If so, how do you deal with it?
A: In our Spring 2008 issue we have a three page spread on Fashion inspiration. We thought that was the best way to phrase it. We are not interested in trends per se because they dissipate so quickly. Our readers are more engaged in life. They are interested in an insightful, cerebral approach to life, not solely dictated by trends. For example, there was a barrage of interest in Tunisia lately, naming it one of the top ten destinations for 2008. In our Spring issue we have an entire feature article devoted to this destination. It goes deeper than a top ten list. Also, there is nothing more frustrating than reading an article that claims “carrots are a ‘don’t’ for 2008”.
Q: What advice can you give to creative professionals seeking to become involved in the magazine industry?
A: We do not believe that there is one answer for everyone. We’re still figuring things out and we hope we always will be. However, being positive, persistent and patient is important. Remaining true to the ideals of your work is also imperative.
Q: How is the magazine industry changing? What trends should we be aware of?
A: City Style and Living is part of a new era in the magazine world. The digital magazine is interactive, with a unique format. As we are in the information age, our readers appreciate the ease of accessibility. City Style and Living is available from anywhere at any time.
Q: What publications do you read the most? Do you have any favorites?
A: The list is so long and diverse. Much of the impetus for our magazine comes from international publications which have a sophistication, global perspective, and eclecticism. International magazines do not try to be something they are not. They confidently speak to their readership with ideas and words readers relish.
Q: If you had to some up your experience running a magazine in one word, what would it be?
A: Serendipity
Visit City Style & Living Magazine at: www.citystyleandliving.com
Blog photo copyright: City Style & Living 2010
