5. What The Media Want - Kirstie Duhig - Editor - HomeStyle
34 minutes
Description
What the Media Wants – Episode: Inside Homestyle Magazine with Editor Kirsty Duhig
Hosted by: Nikki Snell, Founder of Press Loft
Guest: Kirsty Duhig, Editor of Homestyle Magazine
In this episode, Nikki sits down with Kirsty Duhig, editor of Homestyle Magazine, to explore what PRs need to know when pitching to the popular interiors title. With over 25 years in publishing and a passion for DIY, upcycling, and affordable design, Kirsty offers invaluable insight into how Homestyle works across print, Apple News, and social media.
In This Episode:
- Kirsty’s career journey from women’s weeklies in Bristol and Australia to her dream role editing Homestyle
- What it really means to be an editor—from content direction and team management to commissioning and design
- How Homestyle serves its audience with affordable, stylish interior inspiration
- Why Apple News has become a game-changer, reaching over 1 million readers per issue
- The difference between their print, Apple News, and social content strategies
- How PRs can get featured, including:
“101 Buys Under £21”
Tried and Tested reviews
Reader competitions and offers
- What makes a standout pitch, including the importance of high-res imagery, clear pricing, and good timing
- Lead times explained (Hint: pitch Christmas by May!)
- Ideal press release structure and pet peeves to avoid
- Upcoming focuses including Christmas trends, tablescaping, and investment pieces with sustainable appeal
- Personal touches: Kirsty’s love of lake swimming, live music, and her latest DIY project (an outdoor kitchen on a budget)
Key Tips for PRs:
- Get in early: Homestyle works 2–4 months ahead, especially for Christmas and seasonal content
- High-res images are essential—both cutouts and lifestyle shots in portrait and landscape
- Include pricing and key product details in your pitch
- Pre-launch exclusives are gold—avoid sending releases the day of launch
- Competitions and reader offers offer great editorial and multi-platform exposure
- Newsletters and Instagram support the print title—PRs can sponsor newsletters for added reach
- Want to pitch?
Avoid Mondays and weekends, keep emails clear and visual, and consider Homestyle’s readership focus on value, style, and trust.
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Sponsor:
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22 Jul 2025
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