The Bitter Southerner
All The Right Ingredients
Sometimes the stars are perfectly aligned, or the timing is ideal for just the right partnership to flourish or a conversation to turn into a collaboration. Just add a dash of southern charm with a handful of positivity and everything can fall into place. This is the story of the ideal partnership that had all the right ingredients!
Since its founding in 2013, The Bitter Southerner has dedicated itself to uncovering the American South in all its truth and complexity. Their commitment to storytelling through their print magazines and books (under the BS Publishing imprint) resonates deeply with a wide audience. The Bitter Southerner is comprised of a small, passionate team of three, with one founder having a strong background in Georgia newspaper publications. Their mission to connect with a global community and strive to make the South, and America, a better place is truly inspiring.
The Challenge
Friesens’ path crossed with The Bitter Southerner through a timely referral at a local event in Athens, GA, where they were sharing challenges, they faced as an indie publisher. Struggling to get their aesthetic and timing right with their current printer for their periodical, and not entirely satisfied with their book printing options, they were in search of a partner who could truly understand their unique vibe and translate it perfectly in print. They needed a printer capable of handling a diverse range of publications. Hilary Brown from the Georgia Museum of Art, who has been a long-time partner of Friesens and has traveled with Friesens Southeast US Sales Rep Brandie Herrell to their Canadian plant for press checks, suggested that The Bitter Southerner reach out to her.
When The Bitter Southerner contacted Brandie about their magazine, a large (11 x 13.5), softcover, perfect bound book they publish and distribute three times a year, she could immediately see the areas where their current printer was falling short. They sent her a physical sample, and she noticed the issues they were grappling with.
The Solution
In response, Brandie suggested a switch to all uncoated stocks, using Sustana Opaque Smooth cover and offset text. These eco-friendly options print vibrantly with Friesens’ soy-based inks and perfectly capture the earthy, natural, homegrown vibe that BS Publishing is renowned for.
From the moment Brandie made these suggestions and praised their content, it was clear that The Bitter Southerner and Friesens were perfectly aligned. She understood their aesthetic and the beautiful representation of the South they desired to highlight. Moreover, she recognized their need for high-quality production, quick turnaround times, firm deadlines, and a focus on eco-friendly practices. These are precisely the areas where Friesens excels. Their relationship was even more solidified as they later explored the wide range of books The Bitter Southerner publishes, often pulling out all the stops with the finest in finishing effects. The fact that Friesens could also meet their needs for 3-piece cases, debossing, cloth covers, and spot UV made them even stronger publishing partners.
The End Result
The transformation of The Bitter Southerner periodical once Friesens took over the printing was nothing short of spectacular. The crisp white uncoated stocks and vibrant imagery brought their vision to life. They’ve had the privilege of featuring celebrities such as Jason Isbell, Kasey Musgraves, and Andre 3000 on the cover. Their collaboration led to the development of a streamlined four-week production cycle from file upload to delivery, allowing for more efficient distribution.
The All Women Issue, which Friesens submitted to the Canadian Printing Awards, won 1st place in the offset sheetfed category, adding to the long list of accolades that The Bitter Southerner has received in recent years. This same periodical is currently a finalist for the ASME National Magazine Award. Additionally, the founder of the Bitter Southerner was named among Time Magazine’s “31 People Changing the South” and the imprint won multiple James Beard Awards for their culinary publications.
In partnering with Friesens, The Bitter Southerner has found a dynamic ally that understands and elevates their unique vision. Their collaboration has not only addressed their printing challenges and need for high-quality publications but has also increased their ability to share the multifaceted stories of the South that resonate with their audience and the world.
The Last Word
Brandie Herrell and Friesens are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to be associated with such an extraordinary publisher. The Bitter Southerner, with its roots in Athens, GA, embodies a side of the South that is educated, loving, and deeply rooted in tradition. They celebrate the South as a melting pot of cultures, a place where family values are cherished, and social consciousness and responsibility are paramount. It is an honor to support their mission and contribute to their ongoing success. Together, they will bring compelling stories to life in print, allowing even more people to experience the richness and uniqueness of the South. The Bitter Southerner’s commitment to authenticity and excellence inspires Friesens, and they look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared accomplishments.
