What Running a Magazine Taught Me About Writing Websites

In 2013, I started Memoirs of a Virtuous Woman as a blog. I wanted to create a space where women could share their stories and find support walking the narrow path in Christ.

The blog took off, and by 2016 it grew into a quarterly print/digital magazine with contributors. And get this? It also had its own app! I ran everything while working as a TV news reporter at the time. Then 2017 hit hard. My mom passed away, and I had to stop publishing the magazine. It was a tough season of reflection and change. But even though the quarterly magazine ended, I never lost my passion for uplifting women.

I kept the site running, and then a few years later, I rebranded it as The Virtuous Creative. The focus slightly shifted. Now the mission is to help Christian women creatives in business show up boldly while giving God all the glory. I still have contributors who submit blog posts for the site. And who knows? Maybe the quarterly magazine in print and digital will happen again someday.

Now, running both the magazine and The Virtuous Creative has taught me so much about writing websites people actually connect with:

Catch Attention Fast

Magazine covers have to make people stop and look. Your website headline needs to do the same thing. It’s the first thing visitors see, and it tells them if they should stick around. A great headline talks directly to your audience. It should be clear and show them they’re in the right place.

Every Word Matters

With only four magazine issues a year, we couldn’t waste space. Our contributors put their whole hearts into their work. Nothing made it to print unless it really helped our readers. Your website content should work the same way. Each section needs to guide visitors toward taking action. Cut out the fluff and keep them interested.

Know Who You’re Talking To

The mission of Memoirs of a Virtuous Woman was clear. We helped women choose the narrow path in Christ. I understood what my readers needed, and every issue reflected that. Knowing your audience changes everything. Talk about their challenges, show them solutions, and help them see how you fit into their story.

Make Design Work for You

Creating the magazine showed me how design and content need to work together. The fonts, images, and layouts helped readers follow the story. Your website needs the same clear flow. Good design supports your content and helps visitors find what they need without getting frustrated.

Tell People What to Do Next

In the magazine, we always gave readers clear next steps. Subscribe, share your story, look forward to the next issue. We never made them guess what to do next. Your website needs those same clear directions. Show people exactly what to do. Maybe it’s booking a call, joining your email list, or buying something. Clear steps help people make confident decisions.

Stay Consistent

Readers came back to the magazine because they trusted us. They knew each issue would bring uplifting stories and helpful insights. Websites that keep a consistent voice build that same trust. When your ideal client or customers know what to expect, they stick around, come back, and take action.

Your website can grow your business and bring in more clients or customers if you have these elements. Since 2019, I’ve written content for businesses that converts browsers into buyers and lurkers into leads.

Your website deserves to do more than sit there looking cute. It should grab attention, keep visitors scrolling, and make them excited to work with you.

If you’re ready to have a website that does more than look cute, then book a discovery call with me. On the call, we’ll:

• Chat about your business goals and what kind of content you need.
• Figure out what’s missing to make your website stand out.
• I’ll walk you through my process, so you know exactly how I’ll bring your ideas to life.

Click here now to book your discovery call. Your dream website is closer than you think m website is closer than you think.