New websites emerge every day in the vibrant digital landscape, but only some resonate as deeply with their audience as www.so.gay has managed to do since its launch in April. Alex Hughes founded So.Gay as not just a website but a groundbreaking cultural destination, combining premium content with dynamic in-person events.
So.Gay brings gay culture to life: the online informational destination “created by gays, for gays.” With articles ranging from health to life to travel and entertainment, So.Gay also has exclusive interviews with individuals within the community: like their most recently headlines with pop culture journalist Gibson Johns, nightlife entrepreneur Charles Hughes, and writer Spencer Thomas.
Dive with us into our interview with Alex and his journey creating So.Gay:
A Vision Born from Passion
Alex embarked on creating So.Gay with a clear vision: to establish a space that is unequivocally by and for gay people. "So.Gay is a new cultural destination created by and for the gay community," Alex explains. “The platform pairs engaging original content with exciting in-person parties and activations, catering to a diverse audience seeking both digital and real-world connections.”
Recent articles on the site include How a gay journalist is redefining the face of queer Kentucky, , How to Get into Basement, NYC’s Best Techno Club, and a digital cover feature on designer Lucas Stowe. For every interest, passion, or question, So.Gay is striving to provide the best, most relevant content for their audience.
We asked Alex how he got his start - or rather, what he was looking for when he was first building So.Gay. His answer? Authenticity.
“So.Gay tells authentic stories that are of interest to a queer audience,” says Alex. “We’re focused on tastemakers – both people and brands – who are truly creating and impacting and shaping queer culture today. Those folks include Lucas Stowe whose designs are all over gay events and parties, Spencer Hoddeson who is bringing more queer-oriented products into traditional shopping spaces with Gay Water, and Charles Hughes who has built a new Black-owned nightlife empire in NYC.”
A Mission of Empowerment and Inclusion
So.Gay's mission is straightforward yet profound—to offer a space where Gay voices and stories are heard and celebrated. Alex articulates this mission enthusiastically: "I have launched this business independently, without raising capital, which is both rewarding and difficult. I am focused on efficiently scaling this business in a cost-conscious manner. Doing this independently really allows me to prioritize and focus on what will truly move the needle to help the business grow."
Among So.Gay's notable achievements, one moment stands out for Alex: "I'm so proud that in the first 24 hours of launch, we received over 25,000 likes and comments on our content on Instagram and Twitter." This overwhelming response validated the platform's relevance and underscored the community's hunger for such a dedicated space.
“We have a long list of amazing folks on our editorial calendar that we are working with, and I am so excited to release. We are always looking for the new, right stories as well!”
Words of Wisdom from the Founder
Alex offers simple yet powerful advice to those aspiring to make their mark: "Work hard, very hard, and don't doubt yourself!" His journey exemplifies the importance of perseverance and self-belief in the face of obstacles, encouraging others to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
“Ad tech is a very complex space, especially for new and independent publishers,” Alex told us, when we asked what he would do differently. “I would have kickstarted the Ad Tech components of the business sooner than I originally did.”
Why Choose a .Gay Domain?
The decision to use a .gay domain was strategic and symbolic. Alex shares, "It is and was the perfect fit for my LGBTQIA+ brand." This choice highlights the platform's identity and mission, making a clear statement in the digital realm about So.Gay's inclusivity and focus. The .gay domain serves as a beacon for Gay individuals and allies, signaling a safe and celebratory online environment.
Alex wholeheartedly recommends the .gay domain for other Queer-oriented businesses. Its “relevance and resonance within the community make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to establish a clear and impactful online presence in the LGBTQIA+ space.”
So.Gay stands as a testament to the power of community-focused digital spaces. With Alex at the helm, it continues to grow as a pivotal cultural hub for LGBTQIA+ communities, blending innovative content with meaningful engagement.
I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported us by reading us, following us on Instagram, and giving such amazing feedback. The .gay domain has been perfect for our brand, and I’m excited to see others launch and grow other .gay domains.
As we celebrate Pride, So.Gay reminds us of the importance of spaces that honor and uplift the diversity and vibrancy of LGBTQIA+ lives. Through www.so.gay, Alex captures the essence of the community and paves the way for a more inclusive and expressive future.