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Vivian Hua, Editor-in-Chief
Vivian Hua of Redefine MagazineAt just the age of 22, Vivian Hua, is helping define the art and music scene. No, she's not in a band or an aspiring artist, but she is still very much an integral part of this society. As Editor-in-Chief of Redefine Magazine, Vivian helps connect her readershp (and perhaps future fans-to-be?) to the talents of those she spotlights. With a passion for the arts, a drive to be no one else's boss other than her own, and the superhuman powers to manage a full staff of 65, it's no surprise we couldn't wait to be able to put the spotlight on her efforts in this week's Young & Professional Profile!
Company
Redefine Media
Redefine Magazine
Website
www.redefinemag.com
Name
Vivian Hua, 22, Editor-in-Chief
Hometown
Livermore, California
Current residence
Seattle, Washington
Education
University of Washington, BA Sociology (2005)
Work experience
O2 Magazine, Rubber Stamp Management
Ethnicity
Chinese-American
About the company
Redefine Media Inc. is the company, and Redefine Magazine is the name of the game! To put it simply, Redefine Magazine is a publication dedicated to showcasing talented musicians and artists who do not get the attention that they deserve due to lack of money, connections, or otherwise.
What are your responsibilities?
I am the Editor-in-Chief -- I handle a lot of the PR stuff, oversee my writers and artists, figure out which bands or artists to cover, what stories to feature, harass people about advertising, etc. I am also the graphic designer, and I design both the print and web layouts for Redefine! Basically, I do all of the unhappy, grueling work. But that's alright.
Most notable milestones
Most recently, Redefine threw a Spring 2005 issue launch event with three bands and two artists; the turnout was a lot more than the 300 we were expecting, and was near 500. It was actually the venue's biggest event to date and our first show ever, so it worked out pretty well.
What's your niche?
Music and art publications are everywhere, but they are mostly governed by money, to put it simply. Art publications do generally support smaller artists and independent ventures a little more, but these publications are rarely affordable, what with their full-color glossy pages and what not. Music publications very often base feature stories and selections on what advertisements they can get; for larger publications, you can go through and match up each story with each advertisement. It seems less about talent than about who can fork out the cash. We're trying to build a publication that supports smaller artists and musicians, yet does it in an honest way. If they don't have money, we'll support them still, if they seem to be deserving.
What's in store for the future?
The next issue of Redefine is going to be the biggest and best issue so far, and we will be promoting it at a few large festivals this summer. We're hoping to secure a distribution deal at some point, so that we can bring our idea to the nation... or beyond? I am also working with a couple people to start up a sushi website with tutorials, directories, and how-to's at www.SushiMonsters.com, so I have big hopes for that venture as well!
Unexpected learnings along the way
I've never really cared much for money, because I've never thought it to be that important beyond the basic needs and necessities. But let me just say now that if you want to work for yourself, budgeting your money wisely is (unfortunately) probably the most important thing.
Who would you like to be contacted by?
Anyone and everyone!
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Best way to stay ahead
Drink milk. Or... think things through before you jump into them, I guess.
Guiding principle in life
Don't let the world get you down. I can't say I follow this all the time, though, but it's a nice thought.
Goal yet to be achieved
Having an office is one thing I'd really like in the near future. I've always been obsessed with painted walls, and I can already picture what an office of mine would be like. Of course, having an office goes hand in hand with making a living off of your business, so I guess that's another goal!
Best practical advice
Sometimes negative criticism is useful... even though listening to it sucks.
Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture
I don't have an exact quote, but I've had people tell me that they are impressed and thrilled for me that I am attempting to follow my dreams of working for myself.
Most memorable business experience
Working in the magazine industry, there really are just so many amazing experiences. From my first interview to the first time getting a press pass -- nearly everything is something that I will remember for a long time to come. But above all, working with amazing, passionate people who truly believe in your cause -- it's really something else.
What motivates you for success?
To put it simply, how much I do not enjoy working for other people? Haha.
“"...above all, working with amazing, passionate people who truly believe in your cause -- it's really something else"” Like best about what you do
There really are a lot of perks - getting to meet people who are really doing what they love, getting free tickets to shows and movies, getting to experience what life is like on the other side of the stage, understanding how things work behind the scenes - the list is never-ending, and I like it this way.
Like least about what you do
I get dozens of promotional envelopes per week, and sifting through them all does get tiring at times. No matter how much you love music, it IS possible to get tired of it sometimes.
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I don't really remember, actually! Something along the lines of an interior designer, maybe?
Biggest pastimes outside of work
Lately, just listening to music, relaxing, and not thinking too hard. I've been working way too much!
Person most interested in meeting
Limiting this to one person is quite harsh, but I think I'd go with Brandon Boyd from Incubus. Incubus as a band has been one that I have liked for years upon years, and although Brandon Boyd doesn't have the greatest singing voice ever, he writes amazing lyrics and is a fantastic artist. So definitely him, because he combines my three loves together so well. He's been a hero of mine for a long time. Him or writer David Sedaris! Oops, I chose two.
Leader in business most interested in meeting
To be honest, I like running a business, but I don't consider myself a business person. I really don't have many idols to look up to in the business world, because my impression of a lot of businessmen and women is that they are so determined to further their causes that they trample others. This, of course, is not all businessmen and women, so if you know of any awesome people to introduce me to, then by all means.
Three interesting facts about yourself
1) I've learned many languages, including Spanish, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.
2) I've ridden an elephant before.
3) The apartment I'm currently living in with my roommates houses seven different videogame consoles (and about ten computers)! Yeah!
Three characteristics that describe you
Determined, honest, weird.
Three greatest passions
Music, art, and writing... which I think I've mentioned!
Favorite books
Wind-Up Bird Chronicles by Haruki Murakami,
Barrel Fever by David Sedaris,
Choke by Chuck Palanhiuk
Favorite cause
Anything that is based on passion is just fine by me.
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