~ by Joanne Buhr, Yearbook Project Specialist
Are you a new yearbook advisor? Welcome to the wonderful world of yearbooks! You might be wondering where to begin or feel swamped with a million different ideas, but don’t worry, you’re not alone. At Friesens, we know the yearbook journey can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re new. That’s why we’re here to help you hit the ground running with four smart, time-saving tips that will make your life easier and your yearbook smarter and better. Let’s begin!
Start Strong with a Startup Meeting
Before you get swept up in page designs and photo deadlines, schedule a startup meeting with your Project Specialist. This one-on-one session is your golden ticket to understanding ConnectMe (our powerful yearbook platform), your production timeline, and all the tools at your fingertips. It’s also the perfect time to ask questions and get personalized advice. Think of it as your yearbook GPS, setting your course for a smooth ride ahead.
Reuse Last Year’s Page Ladder
Why start from scratch when you don’t have to? If your school used ConnectMe last year, you can import the previous page ladder…a ready-made outline of your yearbook’s content. It’s a great way to see what worked before and adjust it to fit this year’s vision. It’s like having a blueprint already drawn up…just tweak and go!
Bring Back Your Favourite Templates
Templates are your best friends. If your school had some winning layouts last year, bring them back into your new project. Not only does this save you time, but it also keeps your design consistent and polished. Plus, it helps maintain your school’s visual identity, something your readers will appreciate.
Choose a Themed Template That Matches Your Vibe
Not sure where to start with design? No problem! ConnectMe offers a wide range of themed templates, from sleek and modern to fun and funky. Pick one that fits your school’s personality, and you’ll instantly have a cohesive look that saves you hours of design decision-making. It’s like having a head start on creativity!
Being a new advisor doesn’t mean you have to figure it all out on your own. With Friesens, you’ve got a whole team behind you. Your Yearbook Print Consultant and Project Specialist are just a call or email away, ready to guide you through every step, from planning and design to printing and delivery. So, take a deep breath, grab your coffee (or favorite beverage!), and know that you’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
