Design Tips

The front page and back page of your church newsletter are prime real estate because those are the pages that most people see first. In magazines, the back cover is often the most expensive ad space. The back pages of many newsletters have a mailing panel on the top half and other information on the…

For most designers and editors, newsletter templates are a familiar, handy tool of the trade. As a church newsletter professional or volunteer, you likely already use a customized document for your publication’s front page, back page, left- and right-hand pages, calendar page, and so on. The same is probably true for your church bulletin and…

With USPS first-class mail prices on the rise again, church newsletter budgets that are already tiny — or nonexistent — are feeling the strain. Even if your church is pinching pennies, the newsletter still can stand out, thanks to many available low-cost options. Let’s explore money-saving tips for each production step.  CREATION  Tip 1: Find an inexpensive or free program.  Thankfully, you…

Featuring interesting profiles of church members, staff members, congregational leaders and volunteers helps people get acquainted or reacquainted with one another. Familiarity boosts communication and trust and encourages a family-like atmosphere throughout the church.  The list of potential profile subjects is extensive. Adapt and add to this list, according to your congregation:  senior and associate pastors  youth…

“There is no such thing as no design,” writes author Adam Judge. “The alternative to good design is always bad design.” That raises the question: How can church newsletter editors ensure that their publications avoid falling into the “bad design” category? The answer involves understanding the basic elements of any newsletter design — and then using those elements in eye-pleasing…