Big Splash: Introducing the SML Insiders’ Magazine

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Since 1998, the Smith Mountain Lake Insiders’ Guide has been the #1 online source for information on Smith Mountain Lake. In internet years, our site is ancient!

And now, we’re thrilled to announce we’re taking things to an entirely new level.

The inaugural SML Insiders’ Magazine is set to hit the stands in May, just in time for the busy summer season!

In this blog post, I’ll dive into what readers can expect from our new publication!

Coming Summer 2024: New Smith Mountain Lake Magazine

After assuming ownership of SML Insiders in 2021, my co-owner Jennifer Church and I have worked hard to elevate the design and structure of SML Insiders, continually adding fresh and engaging content and ramping up the social media presence.

Every day, thousands of visitors use our platform to find the most comprehensive information on SML events, restaurants, activities, vacation planning resources and more. 

The new print publication will be a vibrant, full-color magazine bursting with true insider tips, expert advice, breathtaking photography and authentic local stories that showcase the unparalleled beauty and charm of our lake home. 

With an exceptional team of writers, photographers and designers onboard, we’re committed to delivering top-notch content, design and production quality.

Our aim is to create a magazine that not only captivates readers visually but also becomes an indispensable companion for residents, visitors and anyone considering a vacation or relocation to Smith Mountain Lake. 

To enrich the experience further, we’ll extend each article beyond the printed pages with additional online content, including interactive maps, videos, extended stories and additional photos.

Circulation, Distribution and Content

We’ll be publishing quarterly and distributing 10,000 copies for free in all four seasons. Look for them at popular spots like Bridgewater Plaza and Westlake Corner, as well as grocery stores, libraries, hotels, resorts, vacation rental homes and other key business locations.

Our inaugural issue will be a celebration of all things summer, featuring details on the season’s top events and activities, plus our detailed Insiders’ Guide to SML Waterfront Restaurants updated for 2024. Trust me, it’s going to be amazing!

Stay tuned next week as we reveal mock covers and interior pages to give you a sneak peek at the magazine’s expected design. If you want to be the first to know about all the exciting developments, be sure to sign up for our email newsletter

If you’re interested in advertising opportunities we’ve put together a detailed media kit with print and digital options, as well as discounted bundles that allow businesses to establish a strong year-round presence in the Smith Mountain lake market. Request a copy by emailing [email protected].

Your unwavering enthusiasm and engagement have encouraged us into this exciting new chapter, and we’re immensely grateful.

Thank you all for joining us on this thrilling new adventure! We’re incredibly excited to bring you the Smith Mountain Lake Insiders’ Magazine and can’t wait for you to experience everything we have in store. 

Read more about our publishing experience here.

Andie Gibson

MANAGING PARTNER

Andie has been covering Smith Mountain Lake since 2000 for a variety of publications, including Smith Mountain Laker Magazine, The Roanoker, SML Visitor and Newcomer Guide, SML HOME Magazine and Life Outside. As a partner in G&C Ventures, LLC, she oversees all content for our suite of websites, including Smith-Mountain-Lake.com and LakeLubbers.com.

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