The first test issue of HGTV Magazine, a new home/lifestyle publication, has hit newsstands nationwide.
A collaboration of Hearst and the Scripps-owned cable network, the magazine is targeted to homeowners, real-estate lovers, renovation aficionados, and HGTV fans with content providing access to HGTV's stars.
The initial distribution will be 350,000 copies and the cover price is $3.99. A second test issue is planned for February/March (on sale Jan. 17, 2012). Sara Peterson, formerly of Coastal Living, is the editor-in-chief. Jeanne Noonan Eckholdt, executive director, Hearst Home Group, will serve as acting publisher for the test issues.
Hearst and Scripps Networks Interactive, in 2009, successfully launched a magazine based on SNI's Food Network.
"Creating a home should make you feel happy," Peterson said in a released. "HGTV Magazine focuses on fun decorating, easy makeovers, and real-life household advice on everything from laundry to lightbulbs -- and we talk to homeowners in a lively, conversational way."
HGTV aired a behind-the-scenes special (hosted by designer Genevieve Gorder) about the making of the magazine's first issue on Saturday, Sept. 24. The special will re-air on Oct. 7 and Oct. 15 and will be available for viewing on HGTV.com.
"Hearst has done a spectacular job of bringing the HGTV brand to life in print," HGTV president Jim Samples said in the release. "This is a new kind of magazine for people who are passionate about their homes. All of us at HGTV, especially our star experts, are excited to participate in this project."
