Meet Kate Ivy of Queer Denver Living

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Ivy. 

Hi Kate, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised outside of Denver and my partner Taylor and I currently reside in Sunnyside (North West Denver). My sexuality has been a journey and I’ve only recently immersed myself in the queer community of Denver. As a photographer focusing on weddings, I wanted to explore how I could tell people’s stories on a different level here in Denver. Last June we did what we called the Pride Project – interviewing and photographing members of the queer community. Each couple or individual chose a color so the sessions were monochrome-themed. They each answered a few questions while also raising money for an organization of their choice. Hearing some of their stories and being able to get creative with it was so life-giving for us. 

Could we do this on a bigger scale and create a platform highlighting queer creatives, people’s stories, businesses that are queer-owned or allies, and talk about real-life things? Well, this is my hope for Queer Denver Living. I want this to be a space where people feel safe and heard and proud. Being a part of this community can feel like the best thing in the world and it can also feel like the loneliest. This is your reminder that you have a place here in Denver. Your chosen family. 

So, whether you are looking for the best spot for a first date or a marriage counselor – QDL is here for you. And is rooting you on to be your most authentic, fabulous self. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been helpful hiring my friend Lindsay Delong with City Living Network to help create the site. She created a course on how to build an online magazine from scratch. Some of the challenges have been figuring out the finances. Paying writers, editors, photographers, and site fees are obviously a priority but like any new business it will take a while to get to spot where there is income coming in. Eventually we hope allies and successful inclusive businesses will be paying for packages, photography branding sessions, featured articles and advertisements. Building a following is a challenge with any new business as well but we are already so excited about the community support we have received. There are some awesome LGBTQ+ groups that exist in Denver and we were excited to lift them up and support them! 

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Queer Denver Living?
At Queer Denver Living our aim is to be a safe place for the LGBTQ+ community, the curious, and their allies. By featuring the most inclusive gay and gay-friendly spots, providing essential resources, and opening up discussions not often talked about in mainstream media we hope to showcase the town that we love and the people who make up its heart. Queer Denver Living posts new content weekly and aims to highlight small businesses through custom content, professional photoshoots, and sleek design. 

We are a team of professional journalists, photographers, and graphic designers who have 20+ years’ experience in the marketing and journalism worlds. We specialize in producing content and brand strategy for small businesses that will establish online identity and grow your influence. We are founded by Kate Ivy, a multi-faceted creator with a passion for justice, photography, and all things queer. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t know if I believe in luck – dots can only be connected looking back. There is a story by Alan Watts – “The Story of a Chinese Farmer” that explains this well. So “luck” isn’t really a word I use often. But I do believe in privilege and racism and prejudices. I am a white, cis, straight-passing able-bodied woman who grew up in Arvada with white straight parents. This has made my journey and success in life and business easier. 

Pricing:

• We would love to highlight and lift up queer-owned businesses in Denver by featuring them for free! If you are an ally and able to collaborate to the magazine we would love to feature you as well, here are some options.
• Option A: Lifestyle Photoshoot and Article on QueerDenverLiving.com, a Month-Long Homepage Ad, Dedicated Newsletter Send, Newsletter Banner Ad, Inclusion in “Weekly Roundup,” Pinterest Graphic, Podcast Episode Sponsorship, and 2 Social Posts. (Cost: $1000 Valued at $1800)
• Option B: An Article on QueerDenverLiving.com, inclusion in “Weekly Roundup,” Newsletter Banner Ad, Pinterest Graphic, and 1 Social Post. (Cost $600 Valued at $1000.)

Contact Info:

• Email: hi@queerdenverliving.com
• Website: www.queerdenverliving.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/queerdenverliving/