Idea File Fall 2024

HOW TO COM THEME P Consider this process:

I was shocked. I was horrified. I worked with several schools this past spring who had not even started their opening pages or theme copy, even though it was the beginning of March! What’s up with that? You may have a deadline structure that allows for this, but it’s not the best approach for introducing the story you are trying to tell and the look you want your entire book to have. So, what is the best approach? You need to create all your The most effective approach to planning and building your theme from the start

1 STEP ONE:

2 STEP TWO: Write Your Elevator Pitch Once you have discovered your theme words, write a short description of your theme, why you picked it and how it fits your school in this specific year. Writing this down from the start is very important as it reminds you of your process as the year progresses. If you work with a Walsworth cover artist, this will also help them understand your vision for the book. Design Your Cover The design of your cover is everything. It sets the tone for your entire book and elements that drive your coverage and design. Great yearbooks introduce three to five elements on the cover that help create a cohesive look throughout the book. Typography, colors, layering, embossing and debossing are a few ways to bring out the cover of your book. As you work with your rep, have them show you all that is available as your budget allows. Agree on Your Theme Words A great book always begins with the words. Remember, you are telling the story of this specific year at your specific school, and your theme phrase should create a mood and vibe that is the foundation of that story. Listen to what students say, pay attention to specific words and phrases on TV and commercials, take a field trip to Barnes & Noble or get on your local library website and flip through the magazines available there. Find a current theme phrase with a modern voice. Don’t settle for the first phrase you like. Come up with several and let them percolate. As Sabrina Schmitz would say, “Date them for a while. There’s no need to get married right away!” 3 STEP THREE:

opening section pages at the same time in a single document – cover, endsheets, title page, theme opening, dividers – at the beginning of the year, then make changes and improvements throughout the year. Here are six steps to help your team complete your theme package now.