Sabrina L. Baker Author/Photographer
In a world flooded with negative headlines and endless streams of distressing news, Kevin and Derina Pyles have a different vision for their community. Tired of seeing discouraging stories at every turn, the couple made a bold decision in October 2023 to breathe new life into Surry Living Magazine – a local, family-owned publication with a mission to foster positivity and connection across Surry County.
When the magazine closed its doors in April 2023, it left a noticeable void. Recognizing this, the Pyles family felt a renewed purpose: to give back to the community they love by relaunching Surry Living Magazine as a free publication dedicated to shining a light on the good that surrounds us.
What sets Surry Living apart is its commitment to positivity. The magazine’s pages highlight the voices and stories that too often go unheard, sharing tales of resilience, achievement, and kindness. From small businesses that are the backbone of the local economy to inspiring individuals making a difference, Surry Living seeks to connect readers with everything that makes Surry County vibrant and resilient. Each story published is an opportunity to cultivate hope and build community pride.
As the only magazine local to Surry County, Surry Living holds a unique position. It is a touchpoint for residents who want to stay informed about local happenings, but are weary of the negativity that pervades other media. Kevin and Derina are adamant that their magazine is a platform for unity – a place where the community can come together and share in stories that lift spirits and celebrate local successes. And because Surry Living is free, every resident has access to this positive resource, no matter their financial situation.
The magazine’s creation is truly a family affair. Kevin and Derina oversee every aspect of the publication, from content selection to design, ensuring that each issue reflects their vision. All design is done in-house, adding a delicate touch that is often lost in larger media outlets. It is this mindfulness that makes Surry Living feel like a shared community project – something that belongs to Surry County residents, who contribute their own stories and ideas.
Connecting Business… Uplifting Community is more than just a tagline; it is the driving force behind every issue of Surry Living. By telling positive stories of local businesses, the magazine strengthens community ties and boosts the visibility of the small companies that play a critical role in the local economy. These businesses, in turn, contribute to the vitality and uniqueness of Surry County, reinforcing the magazine’s mission to connect and uplift.
To deepen community engagement, Surry Living also created interactive pages such as “Fur-ever Friends” and “Love is in the Air.” These sections invite readers to celebrate the pets and people they cherish by sharing photos and personal stories. These interactive elements go beyond traditional print, encouraging readers to connect on a personal level with each other and with the magazine itself. By highlighting the beloved pets and meaningful relationships that enrich the lives of Surry County residents, Surry Living strengthens the bonds within the community and brings a sense of joy and togetherness to its readers.
The magazine’s reach is growing as more people discover its refreshing approach, and Kevin and Derina are excited about the future. They believe that by choosing optimism and highlighting what is working well in the community, Surry Living can help counterbalance the weight of national news and remind people of the joy and connection right in their own backyard. “Our goal is to bring a positive outlook on life and tell uplifting stories,” They explain.
For them, every issue is an opportunity to remind readers that there is always something to celebrate, no matter how small.
Through thoughtful, heartwarming stories and a sincere focus on the positive, Surry Living Magazine has quickly become a cherished part of Surry County’s cultural landscape. In just a few short months since its relaunch, the magazine has reconnected with loyal readers and gained new fans who share the Pyles’ desire for a brighter, more optimistic future. Kevin and Derina’s dedication to this mission, combined with their passion for community and local pride, have set Surry Living on a path to become a lasting beacon of positivity for years to come.
In each free issue, Surry Living invites readers to join in its mission of spreading joy, celebrating local achievements, and strengthening connections. For Surry County residents, it is a reminder that positivity, even in small doses, has the power to bring people together and inspire real change.
