We are quickly approaching 7 years here at The Lakelander. As we’re gearing up for all the celebration, it’s been fun to reflect on how we’ve grown and changed as a publication in order to better tell the stories of our city.

Over the past year, our team has enjoyed taking on a more focused editorial direction for each of our issues by narrowing in on specific themes — which isn’t too unfamiliar with our longtime readers (throwback to our Weddings, Taste, and Lakelander Made issues of the magazine). 

But we also captured some firsts over the past year: highlighting our Hispanic/Latino culture in Cultura Hispana, the local music scene in our Music issue, and the spirit of our giving city in the Philanthropy issue. 

As we prepare for our 7th Anniversary issue, we wanted to continue on this streak of “first-evers” for the magazine. So we’re excited to give you a sneak peek on what to expect from our first-ever Men’s Issue of The Lakelander! 

The Men’s Issue: Sophisticated, Southern, and ambitious — this issue is a book of inspiration for the Lakeland gentleman.

In addition to another first-ever theme, we are also excited to bring on a guest editor for our 7th Anniversary issue. Tim Cox is the director of creative services for Publix Super Markets where he leads the in-house creative team on brand expression. He is also no stranger to our Lakelander pages. Tim and his wife, Becky, had their home featured in our inaugural issue of The Lakelander. Tim has even given our readers some of his expert style advice while providing us a peek at the wardrobe in his closet. 

We are so thankful for Tim’s voice not only at The Lakelander but in our community. We’re confident that his keen eye for design and style will make this a memorable issue. 

“I’m honored and excited to be guest editor on the Men’s Issue. I love The Lakelander, and I’m passionate about style. This is gonna be fun. Let’s go!” says Tim. 

Here is a sneak peek at some of what you’ll find in our Anniversary issue: 

• A Few Good Men

Profiles of men leading the way in business, creativity, and kindness

• Southern Style Update

A modern wardrobe with a nod to Southern tradition

• The Wish List

From the practical to the extravagant — recommended gifts and products for the man in your life

• Taste

A few recipes that will impress at the grill and behind the bar

 

In Metro

Sid Mashburn visits Lakeland • Men’s Health • Protoolreviews.com • Grooming Recommendations & more!

Plus a special look at the past, present, and future of The Lakelander

So, here’s to continuing to tell more stories of our city. Be sure to follow along on social media as our team produces #Lakelander7!