Thread: Seeking Knowledge about Zines

Hello and thanks for reading my post. As you can see I'm a newbie and what led me to this site was my search for knowledge on starting a magazine. Thus leading to this post, lol.

I am starting a magazine as an e-zine first, than branching off into print. I'm currently doing all the leg work needed (biz plan, domain etc.) What I would like is some advice on how to get this off the ground.

I mean for example, I'm good with graphics but not so much with html. After reading some posts around here I've come to the conclusion having a neat and orderly website (domain) is better than just telling potential writers you have something and expecting them to just want to add thier hard earned work.

Also, I'm looking for a staff to help with the writing and overall creative process of the zine. It's a magazine dedicated to every type of woman in every type of situation. How can I go about securing this staff?

I hope this was understandable. Any and all advice is needed and loved.

Thanks!

too much to deal with in a post... you can email me if you want some help with this, coco...

love and hugs, maia
maia3maia@hotmail.com

Originally Posted by coco_kisses

I am starting a magazine as an e-zine first, than branching off into print. I'm currently doing all the leg work needed (biz plan, domain etc.) What I would like is some advice on how to get this off the ground.

Well a biz plan puts you head and shoulders above most people who start 'zines, so that's a good start.

I mean for example, I'm good with graphics but not so much with html.

Getting the website right is important, and can save you hassle too. If you're good with graphics, design the 'look' of the site on photoshop or suchlike, and look around for someone to do the code for you. Stick to your strengths. Don't use free hosting, DO get a relevant domain name. You can get by with just about anything, but a quality, professional looking site will attract quality, professional writing, which is what you need to establish a reputation and win readers.

Also, I'm looking for a staff to help with the writing and overall creative process of the zine. It's a magazine dedicated to every type of woman in every type of situation. How can I go about securing this staff?

People will fall over themselves to work for you, but 90% of them will be worse than nobody. Either recruit people whose work you admire, or advertise, read excerpts of their work, give them some slush samples to read and comment on, and give them a piece to proof-read. And don't be suprised if, once the gloss has worn off, they disappear!

hey thank you very much for the advice.