Digital Magazine

In life, there are times when we need to take stock and think about how we can change our home for the better as we transition into the next phase. Families change, a nursery turns into a home office, kids move out, Mom and Dad want to downsize, or kids move back in and the kitchen must accommodate growing groups of friends and family who congregate in our home. Over time, we see many changes take place under one roof.

The same is true in business. Here at WestCoast Media (the parent company of WestCoast magazine), we’ve been growing, testing new ideas, and changing over the last several years. In 2018, we’ll continue to refresh our company to best serve our mission, which hasn’t changed: To be the best publication that brings community and businesses together.

Our core product has always been our monthly print magazine, which is changing a bit with this issue: We’re moving from a monthly schedule to a bimonthly one. Instead of publishing 12 regular print issues each year, we’ll be creating six bigger, richer, better ones.

We heard you. Where you once relied on our print magazine as a source of community updates, you now consult our website. That’s why our online and social media audience continues to grow so rapidly – and we thank you for that! You told us that you want a richer, more thoughtful experience, one filled with unique ideas that add value to your lives. The great news is you like to share our articles, you attend our events, and you trust our advertisers – and we do, too! We also appreciate the wide audience reach you’ve provided, not only to us but also to all of our clients. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the best way possible, and we appreciate you being so straightforward when we ask for input.

Why now? Because spring is the perfect time to get revitalized, remodeled, and rethinking everything; it’s a time for new beginnings. When you’re in “The Zone” and you know it’s time to move, start by taking one step at a time, just like you do at home. Shedding old items and ideas makes sense when you have a vision for a well-thought-out, functional life.

This issue is full of ideas, advice, and updates for you. I personally feel anxious and guilty about clutter (which is not to say I don’t have any, but luckily for me it’s pretty much confined to my garage). There are a number of articles in this issue that tap into the mindset of a Japanese term called “Shibumi,” which centers on the notion that the things you surround yourself with have function, beauty, and meaning. Each piece has a story and a reason for being. The result can be wonderful and calming, with a real sense of timelessness as well.

This spring, I hope you’re in pursuit of renewal by keeping it simple without sacrificing what’s important to you. The common goal for all of us at home, at work, or at play is to add character, function, beauty, and comfort, without giving up anything meaningful but giving up everything that’s devoid of meaning.

I wish you a home where love resides, laughter is easy, family and friends feel at peace, and wonderful memories are made.

Thank you once again for allowing us into your home.