PRINTED MATERIALS

There is a process to producing printed publicity that is useful to understand so that it can be planned into your event preparation.

Firstly, you need to be clear on what you would like to spend on materials, as this will help you decide on leaflets, brochures and/or posters. If you have a complex programme of events over a longer period of time, you could send out and distribute leaflets that ask people to visit your website for the detailed information. You may want to print a glossy brochure as you feel it would suit your audience.

When you have decided on what you would like to produce, it is important that you are clear in your message about what you are trying to do. Telling people what the reason for your event is, and what you hope they will experience from attending is a good start. Then telling people what makes you stand out or unusual, and why you feel what you are offering is good will get them more interested. Remember, the basic information should cover: What, When, Where, Why, plus cost/ticket information and contact details.

Importantly, think about what you want to know when you're thinking of attending an event is a good approach. Make sure you include the details, like car parking, contact information, how to get tickets, accessibility information, map etc as this will make their experience a good one. Think about what they will need to know to go from picking up your leaflet to coming to your event.

Design & print
You could both design and print promotional material yourself or you could use a professional design company. Fees vary widely, so get quotes in advance. Alternatively, you could contact local colleges for help from graphic design students.

Consider the accessibility of your print material, so ensure that you use big enough font (minimum 12 points) and good colour contrasts.

Also, print your promotional material on environmentally friendly paper stock and ask your printers if they use vegetable inks.

Local printers include:
http://www.outofhand.co.uk/printing/flyers/index.php

Resources

• You can read a guide sheet called 'Writing words that work' from the Tourism North East Festivals and Events toolkit: http://www.tourismnortheast.co.uk/

• There has been a drive towards writing text for the public in as clear a way as possible. There is a free software programme promoted by Plain English that you can download to your computer to help you write text for flyers or your website clearly. www.plainenglish.co.uk/drivel_defence.html