What is a wedding newspaper?
It is a real newspaper, printed on newsprint, about the two of you and your wedding day. Guests usually find a copy on their chair or table. It tells the story of how you met, sets out the running order, introduces the wedding party and gives people something to read and laugh at in the quiet parts of the day.
Do we have to write anything ourselves?
No. I interview you both for up to an hour and write every word from that conversation. You supply photographs and practical details such as timings and the menu. If you want to include something you have written, such as a poem or a note to guests, that is welcome.
How far ahead should we book?
Eight weeks before the wedding is the comfortable minimum. That leaves time for the interview, the first proof, your round of changes, a printed test copy and delivery two weeks before the day. If you have less time, ask anyway. A rush job is sometimes possible for an extra £150.
How does the interview work?
It is a relaxed video call with both of you, lasting 45 minutes to an hour. I send a few questions beforehand so nothing comes as a surprise. I record the call so that I can quote you accurately, and I delete the recording once the paper has been printed.
What do we need to send you?
Photographs, the names of the wedding party, the timings for the day and anything else you want printed, such as the menu or the table plan. Phone photographs are fine for most pages. The front page and the centre spread need the largest files you have.
How many changes can we make?
One full round of revisions is included. You read the first proof, send me every change in one list, and I send back a corrected proof for you to approve. Further rounds are £60 each. Fixing my own mistakes never counts as a round.
How many copies should we order?
One copy for every two guests is enough if the papers go on tables. Order one each if they go on chairs at the ceremony or in welcome bags. Add ten spare copies for parents, grandparents and your own keepsake box. Print is charged at cost, so extra copies are cheap once the paper exists.
What size is the paper and what is it printed on?
It is a tabloid, 289mm wide and 380mm tall, which is the size of a typical compact daily newspaper. It is printed in full colour on 55gsm newsprint, so it looks and feels like a paper from a newsagent.
Where is it delivered?
The papers go by tracked courier to one UK address of your choice, which can be your home, a parent's house or the venue. Delivery is included in the print cost. Delivery outside the UK is possible and is quoted separately.
Can it stay a surprise for our guests, or for my partner?
Guests almost never know it is coming. A surprise for your partner is harder, because the paper is written from an interview with both of you. It can be done with help from friends and family, so ask and we can work out a plan.
Can you make a newspaper after the wedding instead?
Yes. A report of the day itself, with the real photographs, speeches and best moments, makes a good thank-you to post to guests. It follows the same process and prices, with the interview held after the honeymoon.
How do we pay?
Half of the writing and design fee secures your slot. The balance and the print cost are due when you approve the final proof, before the paper goes to press. You will get an invoice each time and can pay by bank transfer or card.