We’ve all heard the adage: “Enjoy the journey, not the destination.” These days, entrepreneurs are doing both.
After finding her calling in the world of publishing, after college, Jennifer Stein diligently trained in every facet of the discipline – from circulation and editorial to marketing, production and design.
While working alongside her business partner, Destination Media, was launched as a go-to destination wedding magazine to cater to forward-thinking trendsetters.
The magazine idea stemmed from her personal desire to have a destination wedding. When she began to plan her own perfect day, she noticed there was not a single magazine on the newsstand covering the subject.
Immediately, Destination I Do Magazine was born. Since then, the magazine has grown from a small, glossy publication sold around the US to a sophisticated coffee-table worthy product found on newsstands in all 50 states and 14 countries around the world.
With more than 15 years of business and publishing experience, Jennifer has experienced international growth of her Scottsdale-based publication. Stein was recently hailed as a one of the “Top 35 Entrepreneurs Under 35″ by Arizona Republic.
With a substantial client list, talented contributors and a growing amount of celebrity coverage––Destination I Do Magazine has become a recognizable brand within the wedding and travel industries.
Company: Destination I Do Magazine
Founder/Age: Jennifer Stein, 32
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Startup Year: 2004
Startup Costs: $100,000
How I Got Started
Being an avid traveler and assistant wedding planner through college, I knew the ins and outs of planning a wedding, plus planning my own destination wedding led to the research and development for the magazine.
Best Success Story
Our very first issue was accepted by buyers at Barnes & Noble for nationwide distribution. When we got word that the magazine had hit shelves, my business partner and I rushed down to our local store and made a scene: jumping up and down, hugging each other and squealing like two 16-year-olds who were just told by the judges of American Idol that they were “going to Hollywood!”
We even took a picture of the check-out guy holding the magazine. Looking back, I still get butterflies recalling the high we felt.
Tips for Entrepreneurs
Never be apathetic. Hard work and being in the people business will get you farther than being in the money making business. Constantly worrying about how much money you made (or didn’t make) will take your eye off your purpose.
Also, pay attention to your competition, but don’t obsess… you’ll go a lot further if you just keep your head down and pay attention to what you’re doing and making that great.
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