(February 2012, the first page proof of Issue 1::SOIL)
It is with a very heavy heart that I share this update today. Issue 59::STITCH will be the last issue of Taproot Magazine. After twelve years, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to cease publication. Despite every effort and many, many attempts to “keep on keeping on” as a magazine, it has become clear that it is no longer a feasible possibility. The cost of production, printing, and shipping has continued to rise over the past three years to a point where - despite major restructuring and giant cuts in costs we can control - we no longer have the financial or physical resources to print another issue. It is time for Taproot to come to a close.
I understand that this news will not only disappoint many but also be a source of frustration, and for that, I am truly sorry. There is no easy or straightforward way to end a subscription-based magazine, and this ending comes without the grace that I had always wished our ending would have. I ask for your understanding and patience during this transition period. All orders as of 3/27/2024 have been shipped. If you are a subscriber or have pre-ordered Issue 60::LOVE, I assure you that I am doing everything possible to ensure a fair resolution. This will take time and guidance from legal counsel, and I apologize for any inconvenience caused while that process plays out.
These are indeed difficult words to write, and the process of saying goodbye to our beloved team and packing up memories from the past 12 years is equally challenging. Taproot, which I often refer to as my sixth child, has been a beacon of joy and inspiration in my life, and I believe, in the lives of others, too.
I have had the immense privilege of creating this magazine by collaborating with some of the most talented, creative, and thoughtful writers, photographers, and artists. It’s been a delight to connect with our beloved community of contributors and an honor to share their work. I’m grateful for their trust in us as we attempted to do their inspirational work justice on our pages.
Lastly, there is our team. A dynamite rockstar crew of mostly women who have worked so hard day in and day out to make a beautiful magazine, a lovely market, and a kind and fun place to work. Your dedication and creativity have been the backbone of Taproot, and I am deeply grateful for each one of you. Thank you, especially to Katie, Rachel, Amy, Caitlin, Bethany, Michelle, Jess, Ted, Jason and Tom (Dad). If you weren’t family already (and many of you are!), you’re family now. What a gift it’s been to share our days.
Nothing lasts forever, and endings are not always failures. In recent weeks, there have been so many more cliches in my mind and on my tongue as the ending has become more apparent and inevitable. There are so many emotions that it’s been difficult to find the words to write this letter. But as I’ve been doing the gut-wrenching work of packing up boxes and figuring out what steps I need to take next, the sadness is also accompanied by sweet memories and joy.
I’m sorry that this ending lacks grace. I’m grateful to you for your support. And I’m proud of what we’ve made together. Remember, friends…. Make. Do. Dream.
With enormous gratitude,
Amanda