Monday, March 30, 2015

Yearbook Budget 101 - How to plan next year's budget

Like your school each Yearbook is unique. From the way the Yearbook is put together to the actual number of printed pages and copies getting a handle on your Yearbook budget does not need to be a difficult task. Here are three tips for #yearbooksuccess

First, start to get excited about the book that will be delivering in less than two months. Ask for distribution day materials to help get the school pumped and sell the 2016 book now- before the school year starts. These great "Sign my yearbook" pens are a fun way to get rolling.





Second, dream big! I encourage all customers to spend the end of the year and beginning of the fall dreaming. Ask questions like.. if budget is not a consideration our book would look like.... This is a crucial part of budgeting. Involve your Yearbook sales professional as well. Often we have tips on how to achieve the look you want with a minimum impact on budget. I like to propose three potential books, then when the book sale is final we can decide on which direction to go.

Third, the base pricing of a yearbook revolves around number of pages and copies. The more copies printed the lower the price. For example 500 yearbooks may be less than 300. Keep in mind that the number of copies and pages are just part of the equation. Involving your Yearbook sales professional is key. Far too many schools don't add enough "wiggle room" to the budget for the really important items like deadline parties, end of year editor dinners and of course any unexpected costs. I like to see schools ad $3-5 dollars to the sell price to cover the cost of a broken camera, replacing lost memory cards and have a celebration budget. Each deadline and yearbook staff birthday should also be celebrated.

Finally, remember we are not publishing a Yearbook, we are making history. What we do together this year and next has an incredible impact on school spirit and tells the story of all of the great things happening this year. You and your staff make a difference.

Life is good, Yearbooks are amazing and you are appreciated.

The Office of Matt & Mary Sloan
Yearbookplanet Inc.
Representing Herff Jones
905.605.1069



No comments:

Post a Comment