Over the past few days I’ve been contemplating a quote I read from Steve Jones on authenticity vs. perfection:
“We human beings are wonderfully imperfect creatures, and we can only relate and bond with other wonderfully imperfect creatures. We can’t possibly form a bond with something that has no flaws because flawlessness simply doesn’t exist. “
The context was framed in a blog post about branding your business on Fast Company.
These words really struck a chord with me as I embark on a new phase of my business here that I want to share with you. So in the name of authenticity, may I treat you to a virtual cup of coffee/tea and let you know more about the happenings here?
As I draw closer to my due date, I’ve been making changes in my business plan to enable me to be a working stay-at-home mom. With this said, there will be changes in the format of Gatherings Magazine starting with the Spring 2012 issue.
This will be our first ever subscription based issue viewable only here on HeatherSpriggs.com. The online version will be available for $.99 (like an itunes song) with print and digital downloads offered as well.
Over the course of the year, I have weighed my options for financing this dream project of mine. Your lovely responses to the first three issues enabled me to believe in Gatherings as something more than just a fun hobby. I have big plans for Gatherings, but my core mission remains the same:
To provide a virtual place to “gather” like minded individuals in order to inspire women to believe in their own creative giftings and encourage small businesses.
With that said, I plan to keep advertising costs at a minimum in order to feature/promote small creative businesses. I love the idea of us all staying connected as a community without being driven by more corporate advertisers. What do you think?
Won’t you join me in on this new adventure? I’d love to hear your thoughts, feedback, and reactions. We are in this together as friends. Would you be open to subscribing to an online magazine for 99 cents?
image: my inspiration board (photo by heather spriggs)
Absolutely! I think this is a fabulous idea. I will gladly pay a dollar to reap the (deep, calming, inspiring) benefits of perusing your lovely magazine.
So proud of you, dearest.
Love,
G
thanks dear friend! i appreciate your continued love and support! :)
Absolutely, yes, yes, yes to everything you have said!
I love your thoughts for keeping the community connected through your gorgeous magazine with community advertising and sponsorship, the perfect way to authenticity I think and very similar to thoughts I have been having for my own blog lately… :)
Emma, x
thank you emma. your words/thoughts mean so much to me. i love that you are part of my community. you continue to inspire my world!
Yes! Yes! and Yes! You are providing awesome content and beautiful inspiration and you deserve to be rewarded for your vision and hard work! Congrats! I am SO excited for you!!
xxHeather
I love your plan and can’t wait to see where your amazing ideas take you and all of us!
hi heather, we’ve been reading your beautiful magazine on line & yes would pay for each issue, it’s a lovely magazine.
we have a booth at the ‘bellevue antique mall’ & at ‘time and again’ in bellevue. we do painted furniture, lots of it! we have recently become the mid-tn retailers for ‘cece caldwells’ 100% naturally green chalk & clay paint. it’s non-toxic, no voc’s, even the cans are made from recycled plastic. we’re selling on-line & at our booth at ‘time and again’we would like to talk to you about possibly doing some advertising in ‘gatherings’ magazine. thank you
No question, Heather. That’s such a steal for such a beautiful product. All power to you! J x
Yes, I would Heather and I think its a fabulous idea…I was thinking about sending you an email about doing some writing for your publication…my time is limited, but, I am interested! ;-))
Yes, Sarah! Please do. You can email me at gatheringsmag@yahoo.com any ideas for future issues. I will contact you as well.
Yes, I would be willing to support you and your magazine. I have always loved your blog, your creative talents, your authenticity and your sweet soul. It’s hard being a mom and juggling business too.
I already buy your magazine for 1.00 on mag cloud so count me in…And I’d love to keep advertising. :)
YES! I’m in, too! I can’t wait to see your next issue!
I really like your blog:) Great pics and so much inspiration…I wish you a lovely weekend.
LOVE Maria at inredningsvis.se
(Sweden)
Fabulous idea and well worth it! I would even pay $4. like i have done with Toffee magazine. I would love to be involved with advertising in the future as I’m getting a big re design on the blog for my 2nd bloggy birthday ^_^ I do love you heather. I read your blog all the time, Im just very lazy about having to fill in my name, email and url every time i want to comment.
I am ashamed it has to be said
much love to you xo
Without a doubt — the content that you provide is lovely and worth so much more than $.99. I am thrilled at the chance to support you in your upcoming mission & plans. Can’t wait to hear & read more.
Good luck to you!!!
Regards,
Carrie
It sounds like you’ve hit upon a wonderful model! So excited for the next issue.