From Page to Party
The Launch of Collective Magazine Issue 02
BY EMMA GEARY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CERI MCCAFFREY PHOTO & KATE BROWN
After months in the making, we are SO excited that Issue 02 of Collective Magazine is out in the world! The season of gathering is in full swing, and fittingly, this issue is all about connection.
To celebrate, we hosted two special launch events in our LAB Studio, and each was filled with conversation, creativity, and people who love supporting local. Our FAVORITE part of making this magazine we’ve worked on for months is sharing it with our community. There is a special type of magic that comes from connecting in person and holding a physical magazine in your hands.
We can’t wait to tell you all about it…
Art Comes to Life
All Friday Night photography by Ceri McCaffrey Photography.
The best way to kick off our celebration was to welcome those who brought Issue 02 to life. On Friday night, our writers, contributors, partners, artists, and the small businesses featured in Local Loves joined us on a golden October evening in Loring Park. The evening began with a cocktail hour in The Clubhouse, complete with cocktails from Du Nord Spirits and a spiced autumn mocktail from Lucille’s Bottle Shop. To make things even better, the brother duo behind Coccinella hosted an olive oil tasting, sampling a selection fresh from their family’s groves in Turkey.
And then, it was time for the artistry of the magazine to come to life. We moved into the LAB Studio, where the team at Chowgirls Catering created an edible art gallery inspired by the pages of Issue 02. Drenched in a fall sunset glow, the space was outfitted not only with framed photos from the magazine, but a host of edible artworks that guests could deconstruct and enjoy on their plates. It was truly breathtaking.
As guests arrived in the Studio, Ashtyn Sibinksi put her finishing touches on an edible painting, created with hummus, chimichurri spread, and more. We were encouraged to slide a slice of pita bread and vegetables through, adding our own unique additions to the abstract piece.
Studios Moss created a larger-than-life, ornate gold frame, which centered the focal piece of the event, a Renaissance-like spread of charcuterie come to life. The scene was complete with butter candles (!!!) and an overflowing array of cheese, charcuterie, seasonal fruits, and more.
As wine glasses were filled and snacks were shared, we clinked a glass and started our favorite part of the evening: introductions. Each attendee had the opportunity to share more about who they are and the work they’re passionate about. Carving out an intentional moment for every person at the event to share about who they are and what excites them is what made the evening unlike any other. Plus, it opened the door for meaningful conversations between fellow entrepreneurs, artists, and creators who all believe in the power of community.
The cake was cut, the hugs were given, and the leftovers were boxed up. We headed home with full hearts and even fuller stomachs, ready to do it all again the next day.
A Sweet Saturday
All Saturday photography by Kate Brown.
With hot coffee brewing and a cozy morning drizzle, the launch celebration continued on Saturday. Back by popular demand, Hola Coffee joined us again, serving fall drinks with their signature syrups for guests to warm up with when they arrived. Everyone was greeted with a goodie bag packed with local favorites, including products from Odele Beauty, Illume Candles, and even an entire full-sized olive oil and pomegranate paste from Cocinella! The room was buzzing as people flipped through the pages of the latest issue, and we had so much fun chatting with readers as they took it all in.
Using inspiration from our cover shoot and food waste from Friday night’s event, regenerative artist Lara Cornell led the most stunningly beautiful watercolor activation. The way she arranged the watercolor station, using a thoughtful mix of vintage pieces and vibrant pigments, was photo-worthy all on its own. She brought with her custom linocut prints inspired by the magazine that served as a canvas for their paintings, plus a few staged still lifes for those who preferred to start from scratch.
With full goodie bags, new connections, a coffee buzz, and a magazine packed with local stories, Saturday’s launch was a success.
Centering Connection
Once again, this weekend was a reminder that the Twin Cities are filled with so many thoughtful, creative people who appreciate great design, local businesses, and the power of community. While we love the discovery that comes from social media, there is something about the magic of gathering together in real life that truly can’t be beat. We’re already counting the days until Issue 03’s launch festivities, coming this spring!
To everyone who came, contributed, supported, and celebrated with us: thank you. Collective Magazine is for you—and because of you. We can’t wait to keep building this space together. Cheers to Issue 02!
Don’t forget, Issue 02 is available for *FREE* across the Twin Cities at local coffee shops, boutiques, and more. (Outside the metro area? We’ve got you!)
Photo by Ceri McCaffrey Photography.
Emma Geary
Emma is Collective Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief and LAB’s Brand + Editorial Manager. She loves getting lost in a story and is sharing her own on her Substack, Hot Girl Walk. Find her staring at the sun on her daily lap around Lake of the Isles.
