“We’re essentially split into three main roles,” explains Emma. As the Senior Communications Editor, Emma focuses on outreach, ensuring Perennial reaches every corner of the Branksome community. “But we also work together on various projects,” she adds, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the magazine, including choosing the theme of last year’s print edition. “We’ve moved from a more grungy vibe to a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic,” Emma explains, referencing last year’s theme, “Accidental Renaissance,” which was about finding beauty and art in the apocalypse.

Perennial maintains a consistent publication schedule, releasing three online editions seasonally and a culminating print edition in the spring. “The print edition is traditionally a part of send-off gifts and celebrations for graduating year students,” Sylvia explains. Naomi adds, “It’s a time capsule that I think is important to preserve.”

The review process is thorough and thoughtful. “We collect submissions in a Google Form and create an anonymous compilation,” Emma explains. “We review each piece as a staff, highlighting them as accepted, rejected or for reconsideration.” While there aren’t rigid criteria, the team values collective opinion, with Sylvia and Naomi having the final say. Feedback is typically reserved for accepted pieces, offering a brief note of appreciation. They also provide submission guidelines on the website to help students prepare their pieces. 

Running Perennial does come with its challenges. Sylvia highlights the importance of attention to detail, especially in the print edition. “It’s our responsibility to ensure everything is correct,” she says, while Naomi notes the challenge of making final decisions when opinions are divided. “I find it difficult to make final calls on pieces that not everyone agrees on including. While a lot of it comes down to personal taste, it can be hard to decide to include one piece or another when the team is split on the issue.”

Ink-ubating Ideas

Recruiting and retaining staff is an ongoing process. Sylvia notes, “We start at Clubs Fair, but we also promote Perennial throughout the year.” The team focuses on promoting submission periods through school-wide emails and announcements. They are eager to expand Perennial's reach beyond publication. “We’re planning to host workshops in the near future,” Emma reveals. “Our supervisor, English teacher Mr. Labriola, is a writer and so we’re hoping to offer a creative writing workshop in the spring.”

Looking ahead to the next issue and beyond, the students are filled with excitement. “I’m excited to read and see the pieces we receive,” Sylvia says. Emma looks forward to curating the print edition, while Naomi is excited to see what Branksome’s students have been working on and want to submit to the magazine. “I love seeing new pieces and appreciating a side of students I don’t frequently see.” 

While all three editors will be graduating in May, working on Perennial has been a transformative experience for them. “It’s definitely raised my artistic sensibility,” Emma reflects. “I’ve learned how to properly critique and appreciate writing and art. It has also given me inspiration for my own work!” Sylvia emphasizes the importance of responsibility and respect, while Naomi sees the magazine as a catalyst for her creative growth.

Through their dedication and passion, the Perennial team ensures that Branksome Hall's creative spirit continues to flourish, having secured a new group of editors to carry on the publication in the fall. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Perennial or getting involved, please visit their website.