History[edit]
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.[1] The magazine covered music, theater, sports, fashion, personals, shopping and local events.[7] The magazine also held or sponsored events in the city ranging from balls to benefits for the homeless and children.[8]
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.[9] The publication was owned and operated by the Semonian family from its inception.[10]
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.[11]
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".[10]
