In regard to the magazine, I continuously learn through the submissions we receive from other dads who express their personal experience, especially when they are reconnecting with their children or establishing a relationship with their own father. I frequently apply their tips and advice to my relationship with my dad. It amazes me daily how many adults [still harbor pain and hurt] and other effects from having an absent parent. From these experiences, and from our own, we are able to come up with topics that are relevant to our readers.
How much capital did it take for you and your partner to get started, and how did you acquire it?
Dapper Dads magazine had humble beginnings. We depended on our own savings, the kindness of those who believed in us through crowdfunding, and the very few advertisers who were willing to pay for space in a niche magazine. So we did like anyone else would do and worked hard to raise capital to see our dreams come to fruition. We couldn’t afford a large staff, but we were able to get the right staff. We pushed social media, our website, pitched our media kit, attended events, networked like crazy, and have since been able to put out editions of the magazine that we are beyond proud of.
What do you want readers to take away from the publication?
Our next issue is coming out on Father’s Day and we focused on why black dads matter, showcasing how fathers have been on the front lines from the Civil Rights movement until now. We want our readers to understand that fatherhood is the new cool and essential in society, whether you are a biological father, mentor or community leader. We also want our readers to take away that fatherhood can be fashionable and should be a lifestyle that enhances [them as men].
Who are five of your favorite Dapper Dads?
- Barack Obama
- Idris Elba
- Malcolm X
- Brian White – He was in our second issue. A genuinely great dad, husband, actor and human being.
- Jamie Foxx
If I can add one more, definitely Stephen Curry. I love the relationship between him and his daughter Riley. They are definitely in sync and she is a daddy’s girl.