DESCRIPTION
The Improper Bostonian was a glossy lifestyle magazine first published
in August 1991 "highlighting the people and places that make Boston a
world-class city."
After 28 years, publisher Wendy Semonian Eppich announced that the magazine ceased publication effective April 25, 2019.
The magazine came out bi-weekly and reported on the area trends in a
young and entertaining way. The magazine was a staple in Greater Boston,
distributed free at kiosks within city limits, and available via a
$29.95 annual subscription to people living outside the municipality.
The magazine covered music, theater, sports, fashion, personals,
shopping and local events. The magazine also held or sponsored events in
the city ranging from balls to benefits for the homeless and children.
When it was first published, it was a newsprint tabloid and—via several
upgrades—it changed format to a glossy. The Improper Bostonian was
founded by Mark Semonian in 1991. His sister, Wendy Semonian Eppich,
succeeded him as publisher in 2003. The publication was owned and
operated by the Semonian family from its inception.
In 2019, it was distributed to 274 newsboxes and 600 other locations
around Greater Boston, including colleges and restaurants, with the
magazine being delivered to 13,000 homes reaching 350,000 readers each
year.
On the magazine ceasing its publication in 2019, Eppich stated "I think
The Improper has become a part of the fabric of the city... I think we
brought some fun to the city for 28 years".
The print archives of The Improper Bostonian were donated to the Boston Public Library in 2019.