A future in magazines

Target publication: ELLE

Target audience: The chic, smart, independent woman age 18-49 with a median household income of $82,104. About 75% of readers have attended college and are currently employed.

Sample stories:
The short story about the opening of the new Ralph Lauren store in NYC would be included in my magazine because it’s a short, easy read that, with the help of several great photos of the store, will draw in a variety of readers. A story such as a lavish store opening is generic enough for everyone, yet interesting enough for the woman that ideally fits the target audience.

A reflection story about the legacy Alexander McQueen left behind when he passed away earlier this year will work well with the true followers of the fashion world. Also, the emotional aspect of the story will capture the casual reader as well by mildly pulling on a heart string. Nothing sells better than a dead celebrity.

How-to articles are incredibly popular. I would probably put this article on the cover of the magazine, possibly in an issue devoted entirely to being ecological. A 21-day challenge will entice those who strive to be more ecological, and those who have less of an interest in the subject may read the article just to see what “challenges” the article presents to readers.

This article would work perfectly in an autumn issue for the “Living” section of the magazine. Tasty treats for the fall months appeal to readers’ taste buds, and luscious photographs make for a visually attractive page. Food and drink is a must for a magazine, adding a little spice that varies from the fashion pages.

A “Women in Power List” would definitely appeal to readers of the magazine, especially since the target audience is described as “chic, smart, and independent.” The women in the list would embody the target reader, providing the reader with someone well-known who they can relate to, making them feel confident. A feature piece that makes celebrities lives seem more real and down-to-earth will attract many readers from all walks of life. This would probably make the cover as well.